A Financial Education Program for Women in the Workshop

Awareness, independence, financial management, and the prevention of economic abuse: these are a few of the themes that were prevalent in this financial literacy program, created through a partnership with Soroptimist Club Milano alla Scala and the Bank of Italy. The women at the heart of the sessions are the women of Spazio 3R.

A Program Designed Around Women's Needs

“International research shows that, on average, women are less informed, less confident, and more hesitant than others when it comes to talking about money,” explains Alessandra Mori from the Bank of Italy. “That’s exactly why the ‘Le donne contano!’ (Women Count!) program was created. The Bank of Italy has expanded it by joining forces with Soroptimist International, which has long been committed to strengthening women’s financial literacy. “The Soroptimist Club Milano alla Scala, among its many on-the-ground initiatives,” added President Francesca Ricci, “created a series of short videos – three minutes each – available on the YouTube page @SoroptimistClubMilanoallaScala, specifically to provide quick, easy-to-access information for everyone.” In addition to the President, several club members took part in the lessons, including Emma Panzarella, Chiara Riveruzzi, Laura Rivolta, and Marina Topini. 

Recognizing the value of having full control over your finances is the first step toward independence, and that’s exactly what we’re focusing on in these meetings. The program is structured into five sessions, one per month, covering topics from budget planning and managing a checking account to staying safe online. “The goals are to learn how to plan a household budget, use payment cards and online accounts calmly and securely, protect yourself from scams, and request a loan carefully and without fear,” Alessandra continues. During the program, “it became clear that financial education now goes hand in hand with digital education, and that it’s important to protect yourself from scams online and on everyday devices,” Francesca Ricci adds.

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A Space for Open Conversation and Shared Learning

“The women at Spazio 3R experienced these lessons as anything but boring,” says Francesca Ricci. “They saw them as something genuinely useful, something needed to understand how everyday life works.” The meetings began in November, and from the very start the seamstresses, the Soroptimist members, and the young interns taking part have shown real interest and engagement. “Many of the questions we received were very practical,” says Alessia Musco from the Bank of Italy, “and they focused on issues that come up in daily life such as opening a bank account and understanding its costs, making instant transfers, or withdrawing cash at an ATM.” One of the most meaningful aspects of the program is its women-led design and delivery, and its ability to hone in on other women’s needs. From the first session, it brought a warm and welcoming environment, where participants felt comfortable sharing doubts and bringing questions to the experts.

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Financial Education as a Tool to Prevent Economic Abuse

“A woman’s day-to-day life can change significantly when she takes part in a financial education program,” says Giorgia La Sala from the Bank of Italy, “because it helps her make more informed choices about the financial decisions that affect her and her family.” She adds, “One particularly important impact is that it can help prevent situations of economic abuse within a family.” Economic abuse is one of the most hidden forms of violence, yet it affects many women. Being able to manage your own finances is essential for true independence and empowerment.

The program will conclude in March with a session dedicated to debt and borrowing. In the final meeting, guided by psychologist and psychotherapist Laura Rivolta, we’ll reflect together on how these sessions have changed the way we think about money.

We’re looking forward to wrapping up a project that, on one hand, strengthens our collaboration with Soroptimist Club Milano alla Scala, and on the other, opens the door to a new connection with the Bank of Italy.