What inspired you to start MoneyGirl?

I started MoneyGirl because I recognised the absolute importance of financial education, for everyone, but especially women. Having financial independence means having the freedom to make the choices YOU decide is the best for you, and not by anyone or anything else. Having financial independence means being able to leave a job you do not feel safe or happy in, leaving a relationship that is not healthy, and being confident that you can provide for yourself and your loved ones. One of the main reasons women do not leave relationships of domestic violence is because of financial security – and I’m on a mission to make this not a reality. Money has become such a taboo topic, causing unnecessary stress and uncertainty for many, so MoneyGirl wants to open up these conversations and make it fun and simple instead!

"Don’t be afraid of taking the road less taken, and don’t settle for just any life – you deserve a life with meaning."

Are there any particular moments/memories that stand out for you in your journey?

The most rewarding part of running MoneyGirl is hearing the stories of women who have taken our course, and how much it’s changed their lives. I feel so lucky There are very few jobs in the world that would make you misty-eyed when reading about the impact your work has directly had on someone’s life. My most notable one was when a young woman said that her family once told her that she should find a man who would look after her financially – but now after taking the course, she wants to be that person for herself. Talk about self-empowerment!

Since the halt of travelling for leisure, what hobbies or activities did you engage in instead?

My partner introduced me to skateboarding which I ended up falling in love with! I bought a board from Arbor – an incredibly sustainable brand that uses recycled materials and donates towards the restoration of forests. It’s a great hobby that gets me outdoors and exploring areas in my city for the next skateable path.

"Sometimes you will feel the pressure of society and your family to take the ‘safe’ path or the right path, but no one knows better than you what would make you feel fulfilled."

How do you like to unwind after a long day of work?

I find that cooking a healthy meal for myself is a great way to unwind after an intense day of work – it helps me clear my mind of everything except the ingredients I’m cooking with, and it’s also fantastic self-care! Recently, I’ve moved to eating vegetarian Monday to Friday, so it’s always fun finding new recipes – not to mention it’s saved a lot of money and is great for the environment too!

What is one piece of advice that you would like to give to the women in our #LBCommunity?

Don’t be afraid of taking the road less taken, and don’t settle for just any life – you deserve a life with meaning. Sometimes you will feel the pressure of society and your family to take the ‘safe’ path or the right path, but no one knows better than you what would make you feel fulfilled.