Amanda Oakley

My family moved around a lot when I was growing up. Living in different countries and being forced to adjust to the local customs of each place (not to mention the new schools) taught me some valuable life lessons. Add to the fact that I’m the product of an Egyptian mother and an Australian father, all fuelled a sense that I was constantly switching between cultures.

I’d like to think this slightly nomadic upbringing has given me some perspective and appreciation of the many freedoms and opportunities we enjoy (and sometimes take for granted), particularly as educated western women. Eventually, our family settled long enough for me to complete my secondary and university studies in Melbourne and embark on a career in investment banking. Like most new recruits, I loved the buzz of working in such a fast- paced environment and the high profile deals that made the pages of the
financial press. 

After a family career break, I’ve spent the last few years investing in and advising early-stage companies, seeing first-hand the relentless dedication and passion it takes to build a successful company. I’ve spent much of my career helping companies to tell their story – to investors, analysts, and the financial media – and Lucy certainly has a great story to tell. It is truly unique in its global mission to harness the untapped potential of working women and business owners and support them to achieve their goals.

But let’s be realistic – Lucy’s mission is incredibly ambitious. There’s a reason why the finance industry hasn’t done this already. Because building and scaling a financial institution focused on addressing the issues that real women face is hard to do. So I’m proud to join the Lucy team and take up this challenge – and be part of the journey towards a more equitable world for women entrepreneurs.

Artist: Katya, from Russia