Lena

I have been working globally within the financial technology services industry for over 15 years and spent most of that time on projects within investment management firms and banking consultancies.

In that time I developed a passion for learning how money functions through the banks and financial institutions and how individuals as well as these institutions use the multitude of instruments for financial gain and preservation. 

In a male dominated industry and working with mostly male colleagues, I noticed that their social conversations frequently involved discussions around money and finances, they gave each other advice, tips and where generally open when discussing their investments and money moves.

I realised very quickly that my financial proficiency was inadequate and what I assumed was only accessible to wealthy people was indeed accessible to everyone by simply having the know how.

I also questioned why my girlfriends and I rarely discussed money and finances, we have the same careers as men do, similar expenses and responsibilities, but introducing the money topic at brunch or afternoon tea seemed taboo and boring.

FOUNDING FEMVESTORS

Femvestors was an idea conceived when I moved to Paris. With a diverse group of friends both expat and local, we bonded together in our adventures getting integrated into French culture. At brunches, we would discuss everything to do with dating, relationships, family, careers and of course, the everyday challenges of life in a new country.

The only subject missed was Money and Finances, so my mission quickly became that of removing this stigma and making money discussions with my circle of friends a regular and positive inclusion to our brunch and dinner repertoire.

TESS

I have over 15 years of professional experience in the money management field, helping others make the best financial decisions for their business.

My passion for personal finance began with an interest of knowing how money works, how to account for it and most importantly how to avoid it to cause you stress.

I had always taken the conservative approach when it came to money by managing debt and saving after witnessing how mismanaging your money will not only hurt you in the short run but also in the long run.

Money tends to grow when it gets invested and when it gets saved it loses purchasing power. Today, I have a balance between the aggressive and conservative approach I focus on not only saving, but also now taking calculated risk by investing my money for a greater return.

On average many women shy away when it comes to investing, due to fear and lack of knowledge. My plan is to take out the fear and educate woman on becoming financially literate and making the best decisions to reach their personal finance goals when it comes to budgeting, saving, investing, and planning for financial stability.

I believe that “Personal finance remains personal; therefore, I strongly believe it is important to educate yourself and develop a financial plan that is tailored to your financial goals according to your values”