Last fall, Canadian youth were challenged to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the world of saving and investing through this second annual national contest. The goal of the essay contest is to encourage Canadians from 14 to 18 years of age to learn more about investing. To participate, young people must submit a 500 to 750-word essay in English or French answering the following question:

It’s your future. So how are you going to pay for it?

“This contest was designed to encourage young Canadians to learn about investing for their future financial well-being and I am pleased to see the interest it has generated among young people in PEI,” said Attorney General Ballem. “It is my pleasure to congratulate Graham on an insightful and interesting winning essay. Through this essay, it is evident that Graham is on his way to a financially successful future.”

Graham’s essay, My Money, My Future stresses the importance of financial planning and getting started early. Through his essay, Graham discusses those around him who peaked his interest in investing, where he seeks investment advice and the importance of research.

The PEI Securities Office contest is part of a national competition sponsored by all the Securities Regulatory Authorities in the provinces and territories, known as the Canadian Securities Administrators. Graham’s essay will now be put forward to the national judging panel where the national winning essay will be awarded an additional $2,500. The national grand prize of $2,500 will be announced in May 2004.

Anyone interested in obtaining educational material geared toward teaching youth about saving and investing is encouraged to contact the PEI Securities Office at 368-4550.