NETFLIX: THE SMART MONEY WOMAN
Who is the ‘Smart Money Woman’?
“She is the combination of the best part of the African women I respect. She has an entrepreneurial mind. She sits on several boards. She’s a pioneer of an industry. She creates jobs. She is financially fearless. She’s a woman whose hustle has purpose and has learned how to make money, keep money and grow money. She’s a master of her craft. She lives by her own playbook and is in the top 10% of her industry. Ultimately her net worth is more important than her wardrobe”
Netflix: The Smart Money Woman
Over the last few years, we have seen discussions concerning women and financial independence become increasingly common. If you have not yet watched The Smart Money Woman series on Netflix, I need you to schedule some time in this week to indulge in this informative, entertaining binge-worthy show and get your life together. I had a page open on Notion and was avidly taking notes whilst watching. The series is an adaptation on the best-selling book by Arese Ugwu, The Smart Money Woman (TSMW). The Smart Money Woman 7-episode series that follows the stories of five millennial women and their journey to taking control of the lives and finances. The women are bound by strong bonds of love and sisterhood and throughout the series, viewers are exposed to the challenges the different women face when it comes to their spending habits and financial awareness, and in some instances, lack thereof. The Smart Money Woman series is incredibly relatable and I am sure millennial can relate to at least one, if not all, of the the main characters: Zuri, played by Osas Ighodaro, Adesuwa played by Kemi Lala Akindoju, Tami played by Ini Dima Okojie, Lara played by Toni Tones and Ladun played by Ebenezer Eno. Now, the numerous, transferrable life lessons are what I loved about TSMW the most. In every single episode, there was a poignant theme that I am sure many women (and men!) can relate to but also necessary discourse amongst the friendship circle as well as the actionable solutions. There were so many themes that I personally enjoyed but my top three have to be discussing salaries and pay rises, finances in relationships and the great mantle eldest daughters carry. Let’s delve into the woman behind The Smart Money Woman before we discuss money in career and relationships.
Source: Arese Ugwu, Author, producer and financial literacy advocate
Behind the Scenes
On The Smart Money Africa YouTube Channel, Arese shares the ‘African Ambition: The Road to #TSMWSeries’ where she provides insight into into the creation of the series, building the business model, from the script to casting to managing the crew and team as well as pitching to brands. Often, we see the shiny new product and do not always hear about the journey, the trials and challenges from ideation to end product. I love the series, not just the title but Arese’s transparency. Arese consciously pulled from her network, women that were doing great things, women that believed in her vision and women worth giving an opportunity to, to become part of her team from scriptwriter and associate producer, Pearl Osibu, to scriptwriter Jola Ayeye and director Bunmi Ajakaiye. Community, community, community. I have taken so much away from following Arese from afar over the years but community is one of the main themes that runs true throughout her journey. There is indeed power in conversation and so many lessons that can be learnt when there is increased transparency.
Kemi Lala Akindoju playing Adesuwa, Conservative Lawyer
The Career Woman
Adesuwa, in the series is a studious, excellent lawyer who faces challenges and resistance from senior men in her workplace as well as insubordination from junior members of staff. The scene where Adesuwa met with Chika Uwazie, founder of The Career Queen was for me, so powerful. As women, we need to understand the value of relationships, notably that of mentors and coaches. As more of us occupy space within industries and sectors that have previously and/or still are predominantly Caucasian or male-dominated, we need to connect with those that have gone before us and those around us, to get the necessary tips and insight on how to navigate the world of work and challenging conversations. As women we also need to be bold and audacious. When it comes to career development, strategy is key and when it comes to negotiations, data and numbers are imperative. One thing I have learnt during my career in financial services is the importance of doing the work, adding value and documenting your work wins. I personally kept a monthly audit spreadsheet that allowed me to track tasks within and outside of my job remit, how long it took me to complete them as well as any feedback I received from my colleagues and senior management. This has been a great way for me to stay on top of my professional development, identify areas where I needed to upskill and acted as grounds for me to negotiate my salary and bonuses in performance review meetings. If you would like a template, feel free to email me.
Image: Zuri and Tsola
Finances in Relationships
First and foremost, message to my sisters reading, stop letting men rubbish you. I will say it again for those at the back, stop letting men rubbish you! Did you not see the embarrassment and humiliation that Zuri endured by virtue of a lack of clear communication and understanding on the status of their relationship? Let’s do better, ladies. If you are going through something similar at the moment, I am so sorry sis, but if Zuri could get out of her funk and level up, then so can you. Sometimes you may hit rock bottom but from there, the only way is up. Do the self-work, evaluate your present circumstances and take the necessary steps to level up, personally, mentally, physically, spiritually and financially. The key thing to take away from Zuri, Tami and Adesuwa and their various relationships is to have conversations about money with your partner. My advice - get your affairs in order and make sure that you have your own. What does this mean? Have savings, assets - tangible and intangible, as well as other investments for yourself. There is so much power and liberation that comes from acquiring these things for yourself. Zuri’s story (without spoiling it for those who are yet to watch it) took a turn for the better once she met Tsola. Word to the wise here, ensure you are with someone that wants you to level up and encourages you to do so.
When entering romantic relationships, it is necessary to have an in-depth conversation with your significant other about the ideas and beliefs they have around money. Note, Amos 3:3 ‘Shall two walk together except they have agreed?’ (AMP). Do you have an understanding on how they make financial decisions? What are your individual financial goals? What are your financial goals as a couple? How do you plan on managing your finances as a couple? In the words of Arese, ‘The smart woman doesn’t wait for financial surprises. She systematically saves towards her emergency fund because she knows that this is the foundation of her financial journey. Your bank statement should reflect your values and goals. Make sure the money you are earning is going in the direction you intended, not in the direction your friends, family or society are driving you in’.
Final Words:
So, who is the ‘Smart Money Woman’? Going back to the quote at the beginning of this post, the Smart Money Woman is you. Take control of that which pertains to you and focus on becoming the best version of you, for you. If that doesn't cause you to want to level up then I really do not know what will. As we approach the end of the year, do the needful to end the year strong and prime yourself for success in the next. Let us grow and glow together, sis. Get on Netflix and stream ‘The Smart Money Woman’, buy The Smart Money Woman book on Amazon and follow Arese on Instagram to keep up with all of her awesomeness and also listen to her podcast to hear from many more inspirational women within her network and across Africa also. In the spirit of female empowerment, I cannot leave you without sharing some incredible female-run resources that will help you with your finances. For my UK based readers, check out The Penny Pal and Finance Matters. For my readers in and across Africa, check out Shecluded, The Green Investment Club, HerVest, and Ndovu. Note that all of these platforms are fantastic within their own right and act as a starting point for you to get started on your financial journey or even take your current journey to the next level.
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