A program spearheaded by a young Virgin Islands entrepreneur has inspired renewed hope for incarcerated individuals seeking a second chance. Kyle Sexius, CEO and owner of Credible Source Consulting Firm, aims to transform lives through the Credit to Inmates Program, designed to equip inmates with financial literacy skills and the tools to rebuild their futures. While his groundbreaking program takes root in the territory’s correctional facilities, Mr. Sexius is also introducing his highly anticipated Wealth Building Gala to St. Croix on December 8, expanding his mission to uplift communities through financial empowerment.

The Credit to Inmates Program addresses a critical need for meaningful rehabilitation by teaching inmates how to build credit, manage finances, and start businesses once they re-enter society, Mr. Sexius said. Recognizing the challenges felons face in securing employment, he emphasized the importance of financial independence to break the cycle of crime and incarceration. “If they can’t make enough to make an honest living, they may feel forced to make a dishonest one,” Mr. Sexius told the Consortium. 

He launched the program on November 19, 2024, at the St. Thomas Correctional Facility, where 14 inmates attended the inaugural class. Despite initial hurdles in securing funding, the program received approval through the efforts of Tanesha Russell, a Case Management Planner for the V.I. Bureau of Corrections, who advocated for its value. To ensure the program’s implementation,  Mr. Sexius offered to provide the services free of charge, a move that paved the way for the pilot class.

The session was a success, with inmates actively engaging, asking questions, and sharing their concerns, according to Mr. Sexius. One inmate, who had been incarcerated since the age of 17, expressed doubt about his ability to start over at 24.  “I’ve never owned a bank account because I’ve been in here since I was 17 years old. Now I’m 24 and don’t know where to start,” he said. Mr. Sexius reassured him with actionable guidance on opening a bank account, building credit with a secured card, and managing finances. “As long as you have life and your freedom back, it’s never too late,” he told the inmate.

Kyle Sexius interacts with inmates during the Credit to Inmates program at the Bureau of Corrections in St. Thomas on Nov. 19, 2024. (Credit: Kyle Sexius)

Building on this success, Mr. Sexius is in discussions to expand the program to St. Croix, with plans to replicate the positive impact it has had in St. Thomas. He sees the initiative not only as a tool for rehabilitation but as a means to strengthen the community and reduce recidivism.

Financial Literacy Takes Center Stage at the Wealth Building Gala

While his efforts in correctional facilities aim to break barriers, Mr. Sexius is also focusing on empowering Virgin Islanders through financial education with the Wealth Building Gala. The event, scheduled for Sunday, December 8, at the Sydney E. Lee Event Center in St. Croix, promises to be an elegant yet educational experience for attendees. The gala follows a successful debut in St. Thomas earlier this year, where tickets sold out, and participants left with actionable strategies to build wealth.

Mr. Sexius highlighted the lack of access to financial literacy in the Virgin Islands, noting the importance of events like the gala in addressing this gap. Determined to provide residents with the knowledge they need, he has assembled a team of experts who will cover topics ranging from building personal and business credit to investing in local and off-island real estate, stocks, bonds, and life insurance.

The entrepreneur envisions the gala as more than just a seminar. “This is going to be an upscale and sophisticated but fun environment where we’ll eat, drink, laugh, and most importantly, learn how to build wealth,” he said. The event’s goal is to inspire attendees to take actionable steps toward financial independence and generational wealth.

Tickets are limited, and demand is high. Those interested are encouraged to secure their spots early by visiting the event’s ticket page.