Meet Akshat Athale | Student and CEO/Founder of Saksham

We had the good fortune of connecting with Akshat Athale and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Akshat, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
As the CEO and founder of Saksham, our non-profit organization is dedicated to making a positive impact on the community and the world by providing financial literacy education to underserved teenagers, young adults with autism, and refugees in the DFW metroplex. Our mission is centered around equipping individuals with the essential knowledge and skills to navigate the complex world of personal finance, empowering them to make informed decisions and secure a more stable future.

In our community, many young people, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, face significant barriers when it comes to accessing financial education. This lack of knowledge can lead to financial insecurity, debt, and limited opportunities for growth. By addressing this critical gap, we aim to level the playing field and provide individuals with the tools they need to succeed financially.

Through interactive workshops and educational resources, we deliver comprehensive financial literacy programs that are tailored to the unique needs and challenges of our target groups. We recognize that teenagers, young adults with autism, and refugees may have different circumstances and require personalized support. By understanding their specific situations, we can provide them with the guidance and resources necessary to overcome their challenges and achieve financial well-being.

The impact of our work extends beyond the individuals we directly serve. By equipping teenagers with financial literacy skills, we empower them to make informed decisions about their education, career paths, and long-term financial goals. This not only helps break the cycle of poverty but also contributes to the overall economic resilience of our community.

Through our efforts, we believe we are making a significant and lasting impact on the lives of our participants and the broader community. By promoting financial literacy and empowerment, we are creating a more equitable and financially resilient society for all.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At Saksham, we are a teen-led non-profit organization dedicated to providing free financial literacy education to underserved students, people with autism, and refugees. What sets us apart from others is our unique approach of combining financial education with inclusivity, ensuring that everyone has access to the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions. We are incredibly proud of the impact we have made so far, empowering individuals who often face barriers to financial education. We believe that by equipping these individuals with the necessary skills, we can help them break the cycle of poverty and achieve financial independence.

Getting to where we are today has not been easy. We faced numerous challenges along the way, including limited resources, logistical hurdles, and the need to create tailored programs for different target groups. However, we overcame these challenges through perseverance, collaboration with like-minded individuals and organizations, and continuous adaptation and improvement of our curriculum and delivery methods.

The journey has taught us valuable lessons about the power of community and the importance of empathy and understanding. We have learned that by listening to the needs and experiences of the individuals we serve, we can better tailor our programs to meet their specific requirements. We have also discovered the transformative effect that financial education can have on individuals’ lives, instilling confidence, empowerment, and a sense of agency.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you’re in the mood for some shopping and entertainment, head over to the Bishop Arts District. This trendy area is filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. You can explore the eclectic mix of shops, enjoy a cup of coffee at Davis Street Espresso, and treat yourself to some delicious tacos at El Padrino.

Another must-visit spot is Klyde Warren Park. It’s a beautiful park built over a freeway, offering a great place to relax, play games, and enjoy the Dallas skyline. You can grab a bite from the food trucks parked nearby or visit the nearby Dallas Farmers Market for fresh produce and local treats.

If you’re a fan of museums, the Dallas Arts District is the place to be. The Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center are located here and showcase incredible collections of art. Afterward, you can have a classy dinner at one of the upscale restaurants like Flora Street Cafe or Tei-An.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Bernard Smith

Website: missionsaksham.org

Instagram: @mission_saksham

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mission-saksham-8a72a1261/