Bio


Variny-about

About Variny

Variny Yim is a first generation, Cambodian-American author. In 2008, Variny collaborated on her first book with Jessica Blatt (Press) entitled, The Teen Girl’s Gotta-Have-It Guide to Money (Watson-Guptill/Penguin Random House). It was selected as a “Color of Money” Book Club recommendation by The Washington Post’s personal finance columnist, Michelle Singletary. Variny has worked as a journalist for USA TODAY and NBC, and blogged for Forbes.com. She has also been cited in numerous media outlets including: The Washington Post; San Francisco Chronicle; The Sacramento Bee; Teen Vogue; More; KGO-TV; NBC’s Momtourage.com; etc. Born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Variny and her family immigrated to the U.S. in 1975. Variny’s first novel, The Immigrant Princess, will be released June 2016.

Professional Background

Variny Yim is an author and independent consultant who brings over 20 years of experience in the fields of communications, nonprofit management, and financial education. Currently, she is the Regional Director of Western States for the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy, where she manages and oversees 20 Jump$tart state coalitions (including Alaska and Hawaii). Additionally, Variny has served as a Financial Literacy Trainer for Visa Inc. where she has worked various conferences and exhibits, keynoted events, and blogged for their Practical Money Skills for Life website. She also blogged for the Money Wise Women forum on Forbes.com

Previously, Variny was Director of three national financial education programs for the nonprofit, Washington, DC-based Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) including the American Savings Education Council (ASEC), Choose to Save® campaign, and the Retirement Confidence Survey. Variny began her career as a print and broadcast journalist at USA WEEKEND, USA TODAY, and NBC. Later, she did public relations for high-profile companies such as Maxis/Electronic Arts, Starbucks Coffee Company, and 24 Hour Fitness.

A graduate of Wellesley College, Variny collaborated with Jessica Blatt (Press) on a personal finance book entitled, The Teen Girl’s Gotta-Have-It Guide to Money (Watson-Guptill/Penguin Random House, 2008). The Immigrant Princess is her first novel.

Consulting Services

  • Advise on Financial Education and Communications Strategies
  • Build Coalitions and Strategic Partnerships
  • Writing/Blogging/Editing
  • Project Management
  • Marketing/Branding
  • Training/Public Speaking

*References upon request.