Ramona da Gama, a British business growth strategist, has resided in Ras al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate, for the past two years. Her career boasts the establishment and management of three ventures: a media sales consultancy, a jazz club in Kensington, and a coaching practice. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role in the business strategies of major organizations, collaborating with influential figures like Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou and Rupert Murdoch, and companies such as Virgin Atlantic. At 60, she acknowledges that discussing finances remains a taboo but dispels credit misconceptions while revealing the keys to her success.
Describing her relationship with money as a means to an end, Ramona has used her wealth to achieve various goals, including starting a business, purchasing properties, aiding charities, and supporting less fortunate individuals. She also enjoys traveling and maintaining her lifestyle.
From her mother, Ramona learned the importance of financial independence and saving from a young age. However, her mother's aversion to credit, believing one should only buy what they can afford, was both a blessing and a hindrance in today's credit-dependent society.
Ramona confides in her accountant of 20 years for financial advice and considers discussing finances a taboo, sharing such details only with a select few business associates.
Her late husband, whom she met at 21, was her primary teacher in financial management. He introduced her to the benefits of credit and the strategic use of loans and overdrafts for business growth. Thanks to his guidance, she successfully launched her business and has maintained its sustainability for 30 years.
If she could offer advice to her younger self, Ramona would emphasize the necessity of hard work for financial success, the importance of saving for the future, investing in property, and responsibly managing credit.
She values spending her money on travel, personal indulgences, bespoke clothing, and philanthropy.
Her biggest financial regret was selling two of three apartments after her husband's sudden death, wishing she had kept two instead.
