Words to Wealth was founded by Mahi Patel, a passionate student from Fort Myers, Florida, who is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. Growing up with her parents and older brother, Mahi was deeply influenced by her family's values and the simple yet powerful financial lessons her father shared around the kitchen table. These early conversations sparked her interest in money management and helped her understand the importance of financial literacy from a young age.

In December 2024, during a trip to India, Mahi witnessed children bartering on the streets, learning how to exchange goods and negotiate not through formal instruction, but through trial and error. That experience left a lasting impression. She realized that while children are eager to learn, they often lack access to the financial education that could help them build more secure futures. This realization, coupled with her own upbringing, inspired Mahi to take action.

She began writing interactive children’s books designed to make financial literacy fun, simple, and accessible. She aimed to help children in underrepresented communities gain the foundational money skills they need to succeed. These books used the same playful, hands-on techniques her father once used with her, turning learning into an engaging experience.

What started as a personal project quickly grew into Words to Wealth. Today, the organization brings financial education directly into classrooms, teaching kids how to budget, save, understand credit, and make smart financial choices through engaging, story-based lessons.

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