Honoring Visionaries: Financial Literacy and Inclusion on Juneteenth

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Celebrating Juneteenth: Honoring Financial Equity and Leadership

Juneteenth is a federal holiday that commemorates the emancipation of African American slaves and encourages reflection on its lasting impact. Although slavery ended over a century ago, its legacy continues to influence financial equity today. For generations, African Americans have faced barriers to wealth-building opportunities, contributing to the current wealth gap.

In honor of Juneteenth, O1ne Mortgage is proud to highlight leaders in the Black community who have pioneered initiatives, developed programs, and provided services to dismantle financial barriers and support underserved communities. For any mortgage service needs, call us at 213-732-3074. We are here to assist you.

Bill Cheeks: A Pioneer in Financial Literacy

With over 40 years in the insurance and financial education sectors, Bill Cheeks is a trailblazer in modern financial literacy. He has collaborated with organizations like the Rev. Jesse Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition and the Urban League to advance financial literacy in the Black community. Cheeks has also been a key member of the Experian Consumer Council, advising on best practices for consumer financial education.

Cheeks held various roles at Equifax, where he launched the company’s first financial education program in the 1990s. From 1995 to 2001, he served as Equifax’s vice president of consumer education, leading outreach programs that taught essential financial skills. Cheeks has also held leadership roles at Experian, eCredable, Homefree-USA, and the Jump$tart Coalition for Financial Literacy.

Jacqueline “JaQ” Campbell: Championing Diversity in Wealth Management

Jacqueline “JaQ” Campbell has had a distinguished career in financial advising, from working at a bank in high school to managing a $1.8 billion investment team. Campbell has faced challenges as a Black woman in a predominantly white male industry but has made it her mission to open doors for others.

At JPMorgan Chase & Co., Campbell addressed high attrition rates and low engagement among Black talent by creating a diversity, equity, and inclusion plan. She later founded Alexander Legacy Private Wealth, focusing on working with philanthropists and visionaries. Campbell is also involved with organizations promoting financial independence and diversity.

John Hope Bryant: Empowering Through Economic Justice

John Hope Bryant is a renowned founder, entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist. After the 1992 Los Angeles riots, Bryant founded Operation Hope to address social injustice through economic empowerment. Operation Hope has educated millions, helped thousands become homeowners, and supported over 169,000 business owners.

Operation Hope’s initiatives include the HOPE Community Credit Score Index, which tracks financial health across America. Bryant is also the chairman and CEO of John Hope Bryant Holdings, Bryant Group Ventures, and The Promise Homes Company.

Nicole Elam: Leading Minority Banks to Success

Nicole A. Elam, Esq., is the president and CEO of the National Bankers Association (NBA), a trade association supporting minority banks. Elam oversees programs and policies that uplift minority banks and create partnerships to modernize and strengthen them.

One of NBA’s main focuses is technology. Through the MDI ConnectTech initiative, minority banks are digitizing their operations to increase lending capacity and serve underserved customers. Elam’s work is crucial for the longevity and stability of minority banks.

Kevin Matthews II: Inspiring Financial Literacy

Kevin Matthews is an award-winning financial educator and former financial advisor who founded BuildingBread in 2010. He has authored two books and uses social media to make financial news accessible. Matthews’ work focuses on simplifying complex financial concepts for everyone.

Matthews has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Financial Advisors by Investopedia and has won multiple Plutus Awards for his contributions to financial education.

Rahkim Sabree: Bridging Wealth and Mental Health

Rahkim Sabree is a financial consultant, coach, columnist, and podcaster who explores the intersection of wealth, mental health, and race. Through his newsletter and podcast “Overcoming Financial Trauma,” Sabree normalizes conversations about money trauma and financial therapy.

Sabree’s coaching approach aligns financial goals with personal values, helping clients create personalized financial plans that honor what’s important to them.

Sandy Smith: Pioneering Financial Education

Sandy Smith is a financial educator and community builder who started her blog, Yes, I Am Cheap, in 2009. Smith’s transparency about her financial journey has engaged her audience in meaningful conversations about money.

Smith founded the Elevate Community, a group for financial influencers of color, and has hosted several Elevate Influencer conferences. She also sits on the board of the Plutus Foundation and has won numerous awards for her impact.

Reason to Celebrate

Join O1ne Mortgage in honoring these visionary leaders and others who promote financial literacy, equality, and inclusion. For any mortgage service needs, call us at 213-732-3074. We are here to help you achieve your financial goals.

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