The creation of Independista: Our mission for financial freedom 💸✨
We are Maike and Lisa, two sisters with a shared vision: to empower women to take control of their finances and create a life on their own terms. Each of us brings our own unique perspective and story to Independista - and together we have a mission that fills our hearts.
Our Story – From Dream to Reality
Maike: After studying mechanical engineering and starting a classic 9-to-5 working life, I felt that I needed to change something. The move to Switzerland in 2019 was the turning point. I began to focus intensively on financial education so that I could not only save my money but also use it to achieve my dreams.
Lisa: As a working mother in Germany, I know how important financial independence is - especially when it comes to balancing family and career. Inspired by Maike's first steps, I began to look into my own finances. Our discussions laid the foundation for Independista.
Our Mission – Strong Together
Financial education is the key to a self-determined life. With Independista, we don't just want to inspire women, we also want to give them practical strategies and tools to confidently shape their financial future. Whether you're just starting out or already have experience - we'll accompany you on your journey.
Are you ready to start your journey to financial freedom? We are by your side. 💸🚀
What awaits you at Independista
✔ Practical solutions: Our approaches are suitable for everyday use and can be implemented.
✔ Community: Learn with other women in a supportive environment.
✔ Freedom: Let your money work for you so you can realize your dreams.
Hi, I'm Maike
Technical thinker, wealth advisor and passionate mentor for financial freedom
I am Maike, founder of Independista, department head in the construction industry and passionate advocate of financial independence for women.
My life has never been a straight path. In my 20s I studied mechanical engineering, travelled the world and worked as a diving instructor. It was an incredibly free time - I could live in the most beautiful places in the world and plan my day myself. But this freedom came at a price: financially I had almost nothing left and I quickly realised that this independence was not sustainable.
Back in the workforce and with a secure salary, I was suddenly in a completely different world. But there was something missing there too: my 9-to-5 job gave me financial stability, but I felt trapped. I wanted both - real freedom and financial security.
When I moved to Switzerland in 2019, my journey to financial independence began. I didn't just want to live for the moment, but rather create a solid foundation that would allow me to make free decisions in the long term - whether it was traveling around the world, changing my job or simply being independent of a partner or employer.
For me, financial independence means being in control of my life. It's about being able to make decisions without having to worry about money - whether that means living in a beach hut in Asia or starting a family in Switzerland.
In 2024, I completed my training as a certified financial advisor (IAF) and today I combine my knowledge with my own experience. With Independista, I want to show women how they can strategically build their finances to bring freedom and security into their lives.
I know what it feels like to be free and financially restricted at the same time - and what it's like to find the path to true financial independence. Now it's time for you to take this step too. 💸✨
Hi, I'm Lisa
Strategic thinker, adult educator and committed feminist
I am Lisa, management consultant, freelance trainer, mother and co-founder of Independista.
During my studies in cultural and political sciences, I was able to fully live out my passion for travel. Every euro I earned and saved was invested in unforgettable experiences - a time full of adventure, but without any focus on long-term financial goals. It was only when I got my first job after my master's degree and was inspired by my sister Maike that I began to think more deeply about the subject of finance.
What initially began as a personal challenge quickly became a passion. During the Corona pandemic, I founded a virtual women's get-together to exchange ideas with others about topics such as sustainable investments, money in relationships and career decisions. The discussions, some of which were with external guests from GLS Bank or Oikocredit, were very enriching and the circle grew ever larger.
It was at this time that Maike and I began to pass on our knowledge in workshops – and that’s how the idea for Independista was born.
As a young mother, I came into contact with many other financial issues: parental allowance, childcare costs, marriage and the compatibility of care and paid work. These experiences have shown me even more clearly how important it is for us women to approach our finances confidently and strategically. This is the only way we can meet the structural challenges facing society.
For me, financial freedom means creating a framework for myself and my family now and in the future in which we can meet our needs at any time.
In addition to my personal experience, I bring in-depth knowledge and years of didactic expertise from adult education to Independista. Due to my professional and family commitments, I am currently supporting Maike mainly in the background as a sparring partner.
I warmly invite you to become part of our community and take the first step towards financial freedom – for you and your future.
