By Bounce Black Team
“In this economy…?” is more than just a meme now. It’s a question, a cry, and a reality check all in one. Prices are up, wages aren’t, and plantain deals are becoming more scam-like by the day.
For Black students and professionals, the cost-of-living crisis isn’t just a financial issue, it’s layered with the realities of racial wealth gaps, intergenerational support, and the invisible tax of being Black in predominantly white spaces.
At Bounce Black, we’re all about helping our community bounce back and thrive — in wellbeing, in work, and yes, even in our wallets. So, whether you’re studying hard, job hunting, supporting family, or juggling all of the above, here are some down-to-earth, culturally relevant tips to help you save in this economy without losing your joy or your peace. Let’s get into it!
1. Make Budgeting a Ritual, Not a Reaction
Instead of only checking your bank app when your heart tells you it’s time, turn budgeting into a regular act of self-respect.
We know! It’s hard! But hear us out.
Try a monthly Money Date with yourself (or with a trusted friend) — light a candle, put on your “Money Affirmation” playlist, and review your income, outgoings, and goals. Make it fun and engaging. Just do something that makes it more enjoyable and less of a dreadful chore.
Apps like Emma, Monzo, or YNAB (You Need A Budget) can help, but sometimes a spreadsheet and a clear head are all you need. The key? Consistency and compassion. Budgeting isn’t punishment; it’s preparation. Be kind to yourself, but not blind to your money habits.
2. Protect the Soft Life, Strategically
Living soft doesn’t mean living beyond your means. It’s about honouring your need for rest, beauty, and joy — without draining your future.
Build a “soft life fund” into your budget — for massages, weekend getaways, or candles that smell like “Black Girl Luxury” or “Black Boy Joy”.
Set spending limits in advance. Use cashback sites like TopCashback and browser extensions like Honey or Coupert to find deals on your soft-life splurges.
3. Group Economics Is the Vibe
There is power in the collective. From family WhatsApp groups doing bulk buying at Costco to Black professionals forming accountability money pods, our community has always known how to make the most with the least together.
Start a group chat where folks can share deals, financial wins, or even trade services. Maybe you design CVs and your friend’s a pro at meal prep.
Trade. Build. Multiply.
4. Free Is Still for Me
You don’t always have to pay to play.
Local libraries offer free Wi-Fi, coworking space, books, and sometimes even workshops.
Cultural institutions often have free events, and apps like Eventbrite, Time Out, Treatwell, Groupon and DICE can help you find free or pay-what-you-can experiences near you.
Follow Black-owned platforms that curate affordable joy: from fitness classes to poetry nights, the (affordable) richness is often right under our noses.
5. Invest in You, Intentionally
Saving isn’t just about cutting back, it’s also about planting seeds. Investing in your skillset, wellbeing, and networks can have long-term payoffs.
Look for scholarships and bursaries, as well as our events and programmes that are designed with you in mind.
Think of learning and healing as investments. Therapy, coaching, mentoring, and upskilling don’t just pay back — they pay forward.
6. Unlearn the Hustle Guilt
You don’t have to monetise every hobby or side hustle every skill.
Rest is resistance. Not every moment has to be productive to be valuable.
In a system that tells Black folks we have to work twice as hard just to stay afloat, intentional rest is a radical act of financial (and spiritual) self-preservation.
TL;DR: Save, But Don’t Shrink
In this economy, survival is valid. But thriving is still the goal. You deserve softness, safety, and sustainability — even on a budget.
Let your financial decisions reflect not just your reality, but your worth.
You are not behind. You are building.
And Bounce Black is with you every step of the way.
Got money-saving tips or financial wins to share with the community? Leave a comment below, we’d love to hear how you’re thriving in this economy.
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