In this week’s blog, Kelda Style, Lifted Angel Investor, shares her honest reflections on stepping into angel investing for the first time through the Lifted Angel Network. From breaking down common myths to discovering the power of collaboration, Kelda opens up about what it’s really like to start this journey without a traditional finance background, and how being part of a supportive, women-led community has changed her perspective on investing, learning, and backing the next generation of founders.
Her story is a reminder that angel investing isn’t just about capital. It’s about people, purpose, and creating opportunities where they’ve been missing for far too long.
When I first stepped into angel investing, I’ll be honest – I knew nothing. I wasn’t from a finance background, and I certainly didn’t see myself as the “typical” angel investor. One of the biggest misconceptions I still encounter is that being an angel means you’re super‑wealthy or part of some exclusive inner circle.
The truth? It’s far more diverse, accessible, and human than people think.
What has made this journey truly meaningful for me is the collaboration. Working alongside brilliant women through the Lifted Ventures community – each bringing different skills, perspectives, and lived experience – has been transformative. This collaborative environment has not only supported founders, it has helped me understand so much more!
One thing I really value about Lifted is how welcoming it is. There’s no pressure to dive straight into investing – you’re encouraged to learn, observe, ask questions, and take your time. The education programme gives you the structure and knowledge you need, and there are countless opportunities to meet founders, operators, and other angels before you ever make a decision. It’s all down to the individual, and that creates a genuinely supportive space to grow.
Another incredibly rewarding part of this journey has been investing in female‑founded businesses. We all know the statistics: women founders have historically had far less access to venture capital. Being able to help shift that imbalance, even in a small way, has been one of the most meaningful aspects of becoming an angel.
What I’ve valued most:
- Learning at my own pace, supported by Lifted’s education programme
- Being part of a welcoming, collaborative network of women
- Supporting founders with experience, networks, and belief – not just capital
- Backing female‑led companies that deserve every opportunity to thrive
- Having so many opportunities to meet incredible founders and fellow investors
Angel investing isn’t just about money – it’s about community, perspective, and shared purpose.
If you’ve ever looked at angel investing and thought “that’s not for someone like me,” I’d really encourage you to look again. The future of investing – and supporting innovation – is collaborative, diverse, and open to people who want to learn, grow, and make a difference.