The Undervalued Problem | Andrea Perez-Meneses | TEDxUConn

In a world where money shapes opportunity, security, and freedom, financial literacy remains inaccessible to far too many people, even while being in front of our very own eyes. In this talk, Andrea Perez-Meneses explores how gaps in financial knowledge are not accidental, but systemic, and how reclaiming that knowledge can be a powerful tool for individual and generational transformation. Drawing from her work in financial education, leadership, and advocacy, she challenges the idea that wealth is reserved for the few and reframes from money as a skill that can be learned, taught, and shared. This talk is a call to rethink our relationship with money, build confidence around financial decision-making, and take intentional steps toward long-term empowerment, for ourselves and for those who come after us. Andrea Perez-Meneses is an economics student and campus leader at the University of Connecticut with a strong focus on financial literacy and long-term empowerment. Her work centers on helping individuals better understand money, credit, and opportunity through education and intentional structure. Through her leadership and advocacy, Andrea challenges the idea that financial security is reserved for a select few. Instead, she emphasizes that stability and generational wealth are built through accessible knowledge, disciplined systems, and informed decision-making. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx