Do you remember the rush of seeing your first proper salary land in your bank account? That heart-skip moment when you think, wait, this is mine? For women in their 20s navigating Dubai — a city of branded skyscrapers, sky-high rent and even higher lifestyle expectations — that first “big girl” paycheck hits different.
We spoke to seven women in their 20’s, across various races and professions, from stylists to entrepreneurs, who told us exactly what they spent it on, what it meant to them, and how that first ka-ching shaped the way they see money today.
*Spoiler* not everyone ran to buy a designer bag (but yes, one or two did).
Yulia Kem, Photographer, Producer & Founder of FEATURED Agency
CosmoME: When did you get your first “big girl pay cheque” and how did it feel?
I earned it on a project where I was trusted to shape a complete fashion brand story — from the look book to multi-season campaigns. I was so immersed in the vision that the money felt almost secondary, but when it arrived, it was quiet proof that art could also be my livelihood. What made me proud was the ability to transform a brand through my lens and the perseverance this craft has taught me — the belief that even if one shoot falls short, the next can exceed every expectation.
CosmoME: What did it take you to get there?
In my early 20s in Moscow, I taught myself photography, videography and design before moving to Dubai with no network, just determination. Starting from scratch meant 14-hour shoot days, late-night edits and learning to adapt fast. Those years shaped me from photographer to producer, and eventually into the founder of FEATURED Agency.
CosmoME: What did you spend it on, and what did that mean to you?
I invested it straight back into my craft — buying the camera I had once only dreamed of, the one I used to rent for shoots. I added new lenses and enrolled in a fashion photography course that opened the door to my next chapter. It wasn’t just about equipment or education; it was about giving myself permission to grow and to take this path seriously. That first paycheck became a promise to never stop learning, and to let every milestone fuel the next leap.
Thongti Naro, Yoga Teacher
CosmoME: When did you get your first “big girl pay cheque” and how did it feel?
I started working at 17 as a make-up artist before becoming a yoga teacher. My first paycheck was 8,000 INR (around 380 AED), and I felt pure joy — it wasn’t just money, it was freedom and independence. I went shopping, finally ate what I liked and explored Delhi — those simple joys made me feel alive.
The story of what it took you to get there
The journey wasn’t easy. I grew up in an abusive environment and faced rejection for being too young, but I never gave up. With courage, self-discipline and commitment to my values, I created a new life. Alongside yoga, I built Naroflame, my candle brand, and began writing poetry to channel creativity and calm.
What you spent it on and what that meant to you
Over time, I saved from that first paycheck to sponsor family trips, taking my parents and sisters on holidays and creating memories we never had before. In 2023, I flew my parents to Dubai, personally accompanying them both ways. Recently, I sponsored my little sister’s travels too — not because I am wealthy, but because I want to give them the opportunities I never had. That first paycheck, and the journey it began, has always been about freedom, love and building a better life for my family.
Noor Ul Ain Mehdi, Founder of Qismat Moments
CosmoME: When did you get your first “big girl pay cheque” and how did it feel?
I received my first paycheck over five years ago, and I remember feeling so proud. All I wanted was to rush home, share the moment with my family and celebrate. After all they were the ones that saw my lowest days.
The story of what it took you to get there
Trusting the process. Working in social media was tough at times, but seeing my efforts translate into real results kept me going.
What you spent it on and what that meant to you
And my first purchase? Drumroll please… an iPhone 11. At the time, I had just begun experimenting with storytelling through short video edits. Buying that phone wasn’t just about the camera; it was about believing in my ability to grow, create and take my dreams seriously.
Tamara Vasilenko, Artist / Gallery & Exhibition Support
CosmoME: When did you get your first “big girl pay cheque” and how did it feel?
I received mine at 22 — earnings entirely from my own paintings. It was a quiet yet transformative moment, proving I could sustain myself through art. I felt a new inner strength, clarity and confidence. Suddenly, ambitious projects didn’t intimidate me — they inspired me.
The story of what it took you to get there
Art has always been my manifesto. I’ve explored, experimented and always returned to self-expression, even when I tried “ordinary” jobs. Recognition matters, but connecting with people who share my values matters more. My direction is still the same: towards dialogue, depth and art.
What you spent it on and what that meant to you
I hardly remember what I spent it on — some went into savings, the rest on simple pleasures. What mattered was the awareness that my work was recognised. It gave me new hobbies, energy and a clear mind.
Dominique Jackson, Fashion stylist
CosmoME: When did you get your first “big girl pay cheque” and how did it feel?
My first paycheck as a creative stylist for a fashion e-commerce brand made me feel official and grown up. I was finally becoming the woman I’d always dreamed of being. Growing up, I had pictures of Victoria Beckham pinned on my bedroom wall, so this was a huge deal.
The story of what it took you to get there
I studied in Dubai and did my Masters in Italy. After that, I interned and assisted at countless fashion companies, doing anything I could to get my foot in the door until I was finally recruited for that role.
What you spent it on and what that meant to you
I saved and used it for a beach holiday with friends in Krabi, Thailand. It was freeing and satisfying to spend on experiences — a trip that made all the hard work worth it.
Zeddle Anne Briones, Senior Luxury Fashion and Beauty PR Executive
CosmoME: When did you get your first “big girl pay cheque” and how did it feel?
I was 20 when I received my first “big girl pay cheque” as a PR assistant in the luxury fashion and beauty industry I had always prayed for. After a year of interning and learning across different sectors, I was giddy when the amount hit my account. Beyond the number, I felt a genuine sense of gratitude to be doing what I love and getting paid for it. It symbolised my humble beginnings and the first step to bigger opportunities.
CosmoME: What did it take you to get there?
Getting there wasn’t easy. It took persistence, late nights and a lot of self-initiative. While studying full-time at university, I took on a part-time internship to get my foot in the door. I even built my own website as a portfolio, showcasing articles and projects I had worked on since high school. I emailed every PR agency I could find and even explored industries like Web3 and Crypto, which pushed me to adapt quickly and think differently. Every challenge felt like part of the journey to where I am now, a Senior Executive.
CosmoME: What did you spend it on and what did that mean to you?
I saved 10% of my paycheque and spent the rest on gifts for my parents — a new handbag for my mum and a new phone for my dad. Dedicating most of my salary to them was my way of showing gratitude for their hard work and sacrifices, especially knowing how difficult life as expats can be. It was also my quiet promise to keep making them proud.