Nana Luz, Chapter Leader of 85 Broads in Mumbai, leads an interesting life. She has lived in four countries, suffered great financial hardship and recovered from it, and raised a special-needs child, who inspired her to take the entrepreneurial route, which she has never looked back from.

Nana is originally from the Philippines, but her family moved to Canada when she was young. Though her family, led by her architect father, enjoyed the good life in the Philippines, they had to leave for political reasons. What once was a comfortable existence, soon turned to struggle — Nana’s mother and father constantly struggled financially, which culminated in the family having to sell some of their most valued possessions, including art and jewelry. But this sacrifice led to opportunity. Nana’s parents saw to it that their children receive great educations – Nana went on to attend Stanford University.

From her difficult childhood, Nana learned the value of saving and planning for the future. Her mother, who was particularly good at this, created a fund that would help her children when needed, but in a loan capacity that charges interest. Additionally, the family decided to pursue a joint investment between the mother and children, which has grown significantly, but has not yet been realized.

With the Mumbai Women in Business Conference (“Investing for Long-Term Financial Security” [womeninvestmumbai.com]) days away, Nana, who spear-headed the effort, has some advice for young women looking to stand on their own two feet: “Be prudent.” Nana advises that young women save a portion of their salary each month and downsize their lives – figure out what is really necessary and important – and then cut out the rest.

She gave her own life as an example, “We still live like students,” in reference to her and her husband. With this life philosophy, the Luz’s have traveled the world, given their children private educations and been able to start two successful entrepreneurial ventures.

With a special needs son, Nana has pursued a career that allows her to make her own hours – entrepreneurship. In her next effort, she has drawn inspiration from her son and is working towards a goal of creating societies for special needs people that will help them get jobs, instill dignity, and allow them to have a long-term plan.

I didn’t know much about Nana when I called her to have this interview, but what I came away with was an inspiring story that colored my own view of the world. I found Nana to be a terrific resource for young women. I believe her efforts with 85 Broads Mumbai will certainly help young women realize their own potential and help them live a life they can sustain and can be proud of.

For more information on the Mumbai Chapter’s “Investing for Long Term Financial Security” Conference: [womeninvestmumbai.com]