Gen Z in Business: Bold Stories from the Next Generation of Leaders is a new feature series spotlighting the ideas, ambition, and impact of the generation reshaping business and leadership.

Finance can feel intimidating—but it becomes human when paired with storytelling, community, and confidence. In this installment, we sit down with Simran Kaur, founder of Friends That Invest, a multi-million-dollar money media company. Through her story and insights, we explore how Gen Z women are learning to invest, take control of their wealth, and reshape their relationship with money.

You have worn so many hats, from founder to columnist and community builder. Which version of yourself do you think your younger self would be most surprised to see?

My younger self would be most surprised to see me as someone who is financially free and using that freedom to lead. Not in the traditional sense, but as someone who speaks openly about money, builds community, and stands confidently in her values. Growing up, I was curious and driven, but I didn’t always see myself as someone who would take up space or have a voice that others listened to. The idea that financial freedom could give me both independence and the ability to help thousands of people feel more confident with investing would have felt almost unbelievable.

Was there a specific moment when you realized that your work was growing into a global movement rather than just a passion project? What did that moment feel like for you?

I love taking something complex and making it feel relatable, because that’s often the moment people realise, “I can do this too.”

There wasn’t one single moment, but there was a shift. I remember opening messages from people in completely different countries saying they had started investing for the first time because of something I shared. That’s when it clicked that this was bigger than me. It felt equal parts grounding and overwhelming. A real sense of responsibility, but also deep gratitude. It made me want to do the work even more thoughtfully.

Your work blends finance, storytelling, and culture in a way that feels fresh and approachable. Which part of that mix brings you the most joy in your day-to-day life?

Storytelling, without a doubt. Finance can feel cold or intimidating, but when you wrap it in real stories, personal experiences, cultural context, and everyday language, it becomes human. I love taking something complex and making it feel relatable, because that’s often the moment people realise, “I can do this too.”

Many young people feel intimidated by investing. What is one belief about money or wealth building that you wish every Gen Z woman could instantly rewrite?

That investing is only for people who already have money, confidence, or special knowledge. I wish every Gen Z woman could rewrite that belief and understand that investing is a learned skill, not a personality trait. You don’t need to be fearless or wealthy; you just need access to information and the belief that you’re allowed to start.

You have created communities that feel welcoming and empowering. Can you share a light or uplifting story from your audience that reminds you why you love doing this work?

We get messages every day, but one that always stands out to me is when women share that they finally feel like they can be part of financial conversations. Whether that’s understanding what they’re seeing online or feeling confident engaging with money topics in their day-to-day lives. We hear so many amazing stories of women building financial confidence and either becoming financially free or actively working towards it. Those moments are a constant reminder that this work isn’t really about numbers; it’s about confidence, autonomy, and people seeing themselves differently.

Your platforms have helped thousands of people understand investing more clearly and humanly. What has this journey taught you about leadership and using your voice with intention?

It’s taught me that leadership doesn’t have to be loud or perfect. It’s about consistency, honesty, and being willing to say, “I’m still learning too.” Using your voice with intention means understanding the impact your words can have, especially when people are looking to you for guidance.

If a close friend told you they wanted to start something meaningful but didn’t know where to begin, what honest and unfiltered advice would you give them?

Start before you feel ready. Clarity comes from action, not overthinking. You don’t need the full plan; you just need the first step. And be prepared for it to evolve. Most meaningful things don’t look polished at the beginning, and that’s not a flaw; it’s part of the process.

As you think about the next chapter for yourself and your community, what is one big or unconventional dream you hope to bring to life?

I’d love to build something that supports financial confidence at every stage of life, not just starting to invest, but navigating careers, building wealth sustainably, and feeling empowered long term. The dream is to keep expanding the conversation around money so it feels normal, inclusive, and human, no matter where you’re starting from.

Executive Profile

SimranWith only 15–25% of women investing, recognised angel and venture investor Simran Kaur founded Friends That Invest, a multi-million dollar money media company. Host of the world’s #1 investing podcast for women, Forbes 30 Under 30 alum, and 2024 Young New Zealander of the Year, Simran’s mission is simple: put money into women’s hands.

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