In Indian society, women making financial decisions often raises eyebrows. Challenging this long-standing perception, one woman has taken a bold step to redefine the narrative—firmly standing by the belief that financial independence is empowerment.
Meet Maitry Shah, the visionary Founder of LakshMe, a platform offering free personalized online sessions on financial literacy. Through LakshMe, she’s equipping women with the tools to make informed decisions and build secure financial futures. One of its flagship initiatives, the BFF Program (Buddy For Finance), is designed to guide participants step-by-step through the world of finance.
What sets LakshMe apart is its interactive approach. The workshops are engaging, featuring games, activities, and open Q&A sessions that encourage participation.
“Our aim is to empower women to take control of their finances. We focus on outreach, especially in areas where financial awareness is limited, and are continuously working to expand our geographical reach,” says Maitry.
The Vision Behind LakshMe
“Our belief is simple,” Maitry says, “An educated woman is a powerful ally.” She emphasises that true independence comes when women are financially literate and confident in managing their money. With this conviction, LakshMe works to ensure that women can contribute to and take charge of their families’ financial responsibilities with pride and knowledge.
The mission of LakshMe is clear: to boost financial literacy, awareness, and acumen among women from all walks of life, enabling them to become financially independent.
Overcoming Challenges
However, the journey is not without its hurdles. “Many women aren’t tech-savvy, and today, most investments happen via digital platforms. But we have tailored solutions for that,” Maitry explains. “Our BFF program begins with the basics—teaching women how to navigate the digital space confidently. For example, we recently conducted a session on how to read your Common Account Statement (CAS).”
LakshMe’s workshops and webinars cover crucial topics such as personal finance, investing, and goal planning. The BFF sessions—in-person meetups—are especially impactful, offering a space where women can connect, share experiences, and receive personalized guidance. “It’s a supportive community that helps women gain the confidence to take control of their financial lives,” she adds.
Reaching the Unreached
LakshMe doesn’t limit itself to urban audiences. “We take our workshops to regions where financial awareness is minimal,” says Maitry. “We use eye-catching posters and simple, relatable language to educate women about the importance of financial literacy and empowerment.”
The Story Behind LakshMe
The idea for LakshMe came from Maitry’s own professional journey. “While working in the sales team at Prudent Group, I observed how uncomfortable many women felt around financial matters. They often took a backseat, leaving decisions to their fathers or husbands,” she recalls.
Being financially independent herself, Maitry strongly believed that women must be more involved in managing finances—both personally and within their families. “That’s what inspired me to start LakshMe. I took it as my personal responsibility to help women across the globe understand, engage with, and take charge of their finances.”
Looking Ahead
LakshMe recognises that digital is the future—especially when it comes to connecting with millennial women. “Young minds are digital natives but are also bombarded with myths and misinformation,” Maitry notes. “Our goal is to cut through the noise and provide solid, reliable financial education.”
This insight led to the launch of the BFF (Buddy For Finance) program—offering one-on-one sessions tailored to the unique financial needs of each participant, she says.