She Moved to Australia With $1k in Her Bank Account
Feb 16, 2025
auto_awesome
Natasha Nabinunga-Bamblet, a proud Yorta Yorta, Kurnai, Walpuri, and Awadjuri woman, shares her incredible journey from Brazil to Australia with just $1,000. She lived creatively on a boat for two years, embracing financial challenges and launching a successful side hustle that empowers women with curly hair. Natasha discusses the importance of community support, navigating financial mindsets, and her ambitions for homeownership while highlighting personal growth and the thrill of bold life changes.
The individual's journey from Brazil to Australia demonstrates the power of resourcefulness and determination in overcoming financial challenges and achieving personal goals.
Shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance through budgeting and financial literacy significantly impacted her approach to money and life choices.
Deep dives
Journey of Resilience
The individual’s journey from Brazil to Australia began with limited resources, arriving with only a thousand dollars. To save money in a new country, she adopted unconventional living arrangements, including staying on a sailing boat for over two years. Despite financial constraints, she focused on self-empowerment and resilience, eventually launching a side hustle dedicated to promoting the beauty of curly hair. This journey exemplifies how resourcefulness and determination can lead to significant life changes and achievements.
Cultural Shifts and Financial Awareness
Coming from a background where discussing money was taboo, she learned to confront her financial anxieties head-on. Growing up with a scarcity mindset, she transitioned to a mindset of abundance through budgeting and diligent saving strategies. Her experience attending a private school with a scholarship helped foster connections and broaden her opportunities. Emphasizing the importance of financial literacy, she actively sought to understand budgeting, investing, and handling money competently.
Navigating Relationships and Expenses
The relationship developed during her time living on the sailing boat brought both companionship and challenges. As they navigated life together, their bond grew, yet the demands of adult responsibilities and financial obligations led to a separation when contrasting lifestyle choices became evident. Managing expenses became essential, especially as she transitioned to an independent life, and she learned to balance her financial goals with emotional spending triggers. This experience highlighted the complexities of blending relationships and financial decisions.
Future Goals and Financial Health
Currently, she is focused on purchasing her first unit, demonstrating her commitment to financial independence. Engaging in side gigs such as consultancy and translation work indicates her proactive approach to saving for a property deposit. Additionally, she has a keen awareness of the implications of debt, choosing to fund necessary medical procedures while planning to maintain financial stability. As she aims to improve her financial habits and investment strategies, the pursuit of her goals illustrates a growing confidence in managing her finances.
Imagine moving to a new country with just $1,000 to your name—no job, no safety net, and no real plan… except for a leap of faith. That’s exactly what this week’s Money Diarist did when she packed up her life in Brazil and landed in Australia. To save money, she lived on a boat for two years, traded a car for an electric bike, and built a life from the ground up. Now, she’s paid off her car, launched a side hustle, and is on track to buy her first property. If you’ve ever thought about making a bold life change (or just want to be inspired by someone who did), this one’s for you!
Ready to binge more relatable, inspiring, and downright juicy money stories? Check out our ultimate Money Diaries playlist. Listen now
Join our Facebook Group AKA the ultimate support network for money advice and inspiration. Ask questions, share tips, and celebrate your wins with a like-minded crew of 300,000+.
And follow us on Instagram for Q&As, bite-sized tips, daily money inspo... and relatable money memes that just get you.
The advice shared on She's On The Money is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. She's On The Money exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. If you do choose to buy a financial product, read the PDS, TMD and obtain appropriate financial advice tailored towards your needs. Victoria Devine and She's On The Money are authorised representatives of Money Sherpa PTY LTD ABN - 321649 27708, AFSL - 451289.