Welcome back First Gens! As we get through the third week of November, we are continuing our conversation on this month’s theme, Culture as a First Gen. This week, we welcome Nessa Cartagena, a financial planner who is passionate about helping first-generation individuals and families tackle their financial challenges. Our conversation revealed just how much finances, in most cultures, are treated like Tio Bruno from Encanto, we don’t talk about it. But for many of us, breaking the silence is the first step toward breaking the cycle.
Nessa shares with us a powerful story about her assistant, Kevin, who came to the U.S. from Colombia five years ago. At just 26, he became the primary breadwinner for his family, working three jobs while taking on six college courses to support his mom and sister. Kevin’s story is something many of us are used to, of that survival mode many of us experience. In many first-gen communities, it’s not unusual for younger generations to shoulder the financial burdens of entire families. The pressure can feel overwhelming, especially when every paycheck is stretched thin just to meet everyone’s needs.
Nessa Cartagena
Nessa also shares with us her story of how finances were talked about growing up and how she knew at an early age that she wanted to make changes. We also talk about the mental and emotional toll of financial trauma. I open up about my own experience with debt and how, even after paying it off, the fear of slipping back into that place still lingers. It’s a financial PTSD that many first gens can relate to. We feel we are stuck in survival mode even when things have gotten better.
Nessa explains how she approaches clients struggling with financial trauma, stressing the importance of starting where you are. She compares it to building a house. You start with your foundation, like an emergency fund, insurance, and paying down debt, before you can move on to savings and growing those funds. Nessa also encourages us and tells us that just showing up for such a difficult conversation is a huge step. She reassures her clients that everyone starts somewhere, and there’s no shame in beginning the journey late. The fact that you’re willing to take action already sets you apart.
Culture as a First Gen
For first gens, Nessa’s advice is to use your resources and don’t let embarrassment stop you from asking questions. Whether it’s getting professional help or relying on community programs, taking small steps can create lasting change. She also makes note that it’s important to not trust everything you see. There’s a lot of misinformation on the Internet, especially when it comes to social media. Use your resources and find yourself someone trustworthy that knows what they’re doing and don’t be afraid to ask for help!
As first gens, we have the opportunity to create new paths for ourselves and our families. By breaking the silence and supporting each other, we can move beyond survival mode and start building the future we deserve.
The First Gen Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to the needs of the client.
Join Sara, The First Gen Madrina, for individual coaching and/or group coaching. The journey can often feel lonely but that does not mean that you are alone! Check out the Our Services tab on our website for more information! http://thefirstgenmadrina.com
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
In conclusion, stay tuned to meet amazing first-generation guests for the podcast, endless topics related to the first-gen experience and transformational coaching! Sara is your go to Madrina for all things first gen!
¡Hasta pronto!
Sara, The First Gen Madrina
