Financial Wellness with Lamide #AWI

How Lámidé Elizabeth Built Financial Freedom Before 25 And How You Can Too

Lámidé’s money journey started over 8 years ago. She made one bold decision to take control of her future.

After studying at the London School of Economics, she landed jobs at two big investment banks: JP Morgan and Citi. That’s where she learned how money really works not just for rich people, but for everyday people too.

Just six months after finishing university, she bought her first property. And by 24, she owned another one, this time abroad. Today, she moves freely between the UK, UAE, and South Africa, building the life she once dreamed of.

She didn’t start with loads of money. She started small, and stayed consistent.

During our session, Lámidé shared honest, practical tips on how we especially as young women can become more intentional with our financial habits. Whether you're just getting started or trying to level up, these tips are about helping you scale with confidence and control.

Step 1: Understand Your Credit Score

One of the first things Lámidé talked about was your credit score. It’s basically your financial reputation. It shows how reliable you are when it comes to paying back money.

It doesn’t matter how much you earn, what matters is how well you manage what you’ve got. Lenders (like banks) want to see that you’re consistent and trustworthy with money.

Step 2: Build Your Credit File - One Step at a Time

You can start building your credit by doing simple things. Lámidé started with a Netflix subscription. She paid it on time, every month, through her own bank account. That helped her build a track record.

Other easy ways to start:

• Get a SIM-only phone plan in your name.

• Pay for a gym membership through direct debit.

• Register to vote, it helps confirm your identity to banks.

• Keep all bills and bank accounts linked to your permanent home address.

All these steps show lenders that you’re responsible.

Step 3: Avoid Buy Now, Pay Later Traps

Lámidé made one thing super clear: avoid apps like Klarna and Clearpay. They make it easy to spend money you don’t have, which can get you into trouble fast.

Instead, build habits that help you spend within your limits. When she finally got a credit card, she only used it for things she could already afford,  like booking travel and paid it back in full each month.

Credit isn’t free money. It’s a tool. Use it wisely.

Step 4: Don’t Chase a Perfect Score

A lot of people think they need a “perfect” credit score. Lámidé explained that this isn’t true. What banks care about more is your behaviour:

• Do you pay on time?

• Have you had accounts for a long time?

• Are you using too much credit?

As long as your score is in the green, you’re good.

And never, ever let someone borrow money in your name, not even family. If they don’t pay it back, your name (and score) takes the hit.

Step 5: If Your Score’s Low — Don’t Panic

If your credit score is already low, don’t stress. Start by checking your credit report. Make sure everything’s accurate. If something looks wrong or unfamiliar, it could be fraud.

Then begin rebuilding:

• Set up a small direct debit.

• Pay it on time every month.

• Keep doing it, even if it’s just a few pounds.

It takes time, but it works.

Step 6: Budget With Purpose

It’s not just about credit. Lámidé talked a lot about budgeting too. She recommended giving every pound a purpose - rent, food, savings, fun. That way, your money doesn’t disappear without you knowing where it went.

Use reminders and auto-pay features to make your life easier. The goal is to take control before your money controls you.

Step 7: Save With Clear Goals

Instead of saving for “the future,” Lámidé suggests saving for real, clear things:

• First property

• Legal fees

• A flight

• Furniture for your new space

Use saving pots in your bank app or even envelopes and name them. It makes your goals feel real and keeps you motivated.

Step 8: Track Your Net Worth

This one might sound “finance-y,” but it’s simple.

Net worth = what you own – what you owe.

The Big Takeaway

Lámidé didn’t start with millions. She started with small habits, smart moves, and a clear vision. She built trust with herself and made money work for her, not the other way around.

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start.

Recap article beautifully written by Fathiat Olawuwo - Programme Participant