“The Blueprint” is a powerful story about breaking cycles and building financial freedom through knowledge, access, and community. His message is clear: wealth isn’t just about money—it’s about access, ownership, and passing the blueprint forward. This talk challenges us all to stop waiting for change and start writing the blueprint for the next generation AJ Stephens is a business strategist, certified financial educator, and founder of The Kaizen Agency—a consulting firm focused on transforming underserved communities through entrepreneurship, access to capital, and business development. A Birmingham native, AJ started as a part-time bank teller in 2020 and rose to Vice President of Community Lending at Valley Bank by 2023, breaking racial barriers in Alabama’s banking industry. He has helped clients secure over $2.5 million in funding and delivers financial education in schools, churches, housing communities, and Fortune 100 firms. A thought leader and Birmingham Business Journal contributor, AJ shares insights on business growth and financial literacy. He serves on multiple nonprofit boards and is a NextGenBHM honoree. Through Kaizen, he collaborates with nonprofits and agencies to create equity-centered, outcome-driven programs. AJ proves that when communities gain financial tools, they gain futures. 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
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