Like so many Indian expatriates in the UAE, 34-year-old Vanessa Lena Crasta moved to the country as a child. However, when she turned 17, unlike others her age who focused on study and friends, Lena Carasta started working.
This introduction to the job market, she explains, helped shape her future relationship with money and wealth, empowering her to set up her own business. Today, she is the proud owner of the healthy meal delivery service CurryFit.
My relationship with money is simple — it’s a resource, not the goal. When I focus on creating something meaningful, money tends to follow.
How do you think this relationship was formed?
I’ve seen both sides of what happens when too much focus is put on money making. I’ve realised that when money becomes the goal, it holds you back. You don’t grow because you’re too afraid to take risks, worried about losing what you have. It creates a fear-driven mindset, and that’s not where real progress happens. That’s why I focus on growth and purpose, knowing that money
will follow when I’m not afraid to take those leaps.
What lessons about money management did you learn from your mother?
From my mother, I learned that money isn’t everything. My parents never focused on it — they taught me to enjoy life with whatever we had.
Who do you speak to about money or is it something you consider taboo?
I speak with my husband about money matters. We’re both planners, so we discuss everything in detail and even vote on what we should do. It’s not something I consider taboo at all — communication is key, especially when it comes to planning for the future and making financial decisions together.
What has been the most profound experience you’ve had so far in relation to money, and what has it taught you?
The most profound experience I’ve witnessed regarding money was seeing the damage caused by living on credit cards/loans and beyond one’s means. I observed the financial stress and anxiety it can create. This taught me the importance of using credit cards wisely. They should be a tool, not a crutch. I believe in paying before the due date, splitting payments into installments if needed, and taking advantage of points and cash back benefits.
If you could give your child or your younger self one piece of advice about money now what would that be?
It’s never too early to start saving and investing. Starting early can make a huge difference in building wealth over time.
What do you value spending money on?
I value spending money on travel and creating experiences for my kids.
Do you long-term plan your finances?
Yes, I long-term plan my finances by setting clear goals, creating a budget, and allocating money for savings and investments. I also revisit this every month and make adjustments when necessary.
What is your long-term goal or dream which is pegged to your finances?
My dream is to retire at 45 so I can travel and explore new places while having my businesses run successfully without too much involvement from me.
