Meet Zara, a 19-year-old with a bank balance that could humble your salary and an anxiety that won’t let her spend a dime. A certified social media girlie who finished uni at 18, Zara’s living the influencer-freelancer life—managing brands, creating content, and avoiding Lagos boys with ring lights and red flags.
But while the money is moneying, the fear of going broke haunts her. From a shady ajo group gone rogue to her cautious entry into crypto, she’s figuring out how to make her money grow without losing her mind. Or her funds.
So, you’re 19 and already out of uni. Please, how? Were you born in the staff room?
Zara: (Laughs) I was just focused. I finished at 18, and while some people were chasing relationships, I was chasing LinkedIn. I took digital marketing and social media management courses during my final year. Uni taught me how to survive. Google taught me how to cash out.
You’re a full-time social media manager now?
Zara: Yep. Social media manager, content creator, digital girl… I’m doing Instagram posts by 10AM, managing Telegram communities by 2PM, and reviewing brand briefs by 5PM. My screen time is 17 hours and my brain is always on low battery.
Be honest—how much are you making monthly?
Zara: If I tally the gigs, brand management retainers, and a sprinkle of influencer work, I’m walking into ₦800k or more every month.
A soft babe. So where’s all the luxury? The Bali trips? The “as per my last email” tote bags?
Zara: That’s the problem o. I don’t spend. I’m scared. I always think, “What if everything dries up?” I tried to be disciplined by joining ajo. Next thing, the girl running it relocated and carried my money to Canada.
She what?
Zara: She went for vanishing o. Left the group chat and posted that “welcome to a new dispensation” meme on her story.
So how did crypto get into the picture?
Zara: I was looking for safer ways to save and grow money that won’t run to Toronto overnight. A friend said, “Why not try crypto?” I was skeptical but I started small. Bought USDT, the dollar went up to 1800, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
How are you balancing this big girl lifestyle with, you know, being 19?
Zara: Honestly, I’m just trying not to date anybody that calls me “Big Woman.” That’s usually code for “let me come and finish your money.” I focus on my work, stack my coins, and stay emotionally unavailable—with sense.
What’s next for you?
Zara: I want to start my own agency eventually. Teach more girls how to monetise their skills early. And maybe—just maybe—I’ll go on that vacation I’ve been saving for since January.
Final words?
Zara: Make your money. Keep your money. And if you’re scared of spending like me, at least invest it. Just don’t join ajo (thrift savings) groups run by people with japa potential.
Note: This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and flow. Would you like to share your crypto stories or be our Quidaxian of the month? Fill out this form and we’ll be in touch.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and not financial advice. Please do your own research (DYOR) or speak to a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
