South Asian Heritage Month (18 July to 17 August) started in 2020 to commemorate the people and cultures, and their impact on the UK. This year’s theme is ‘Roots to Routes’, paying homage to the journeys, connections and heritage that make people who they are.
Here, Mortgage Solutions is speaking to Tiba Raja, executive director at Market Financial Solutions.
How did you get into financial services?
My route into the financial services sector wasn’t exactly planned. I initially studied accountancy, which gave me a solid grounding in numbers and business. I then went on to run my own company, and during that time – like many people making their first move into property investment – I became an accidental landlord. That experience, combined with everything I’d learned along the way, sparked a deeper interest in the sector – particularly fund management. From there, I gradually immersed myself in the world of mortgages and lending.
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Did you always want to work in the sector?
I actually started my career in the marble and granite business. Financial services wasn’t even on the radar at the time. But life changes led me to focus more on property, and as a landlord, I naturally became more involved in the buy-to-let (BTL) space. That, in turn, pulled me towards property finance – and I’ve never looked back.
In what ways has your background or culture helped shape your career and drive?
I was brought up with discipline, taught to never be afraid of hard work, and to treat everyone with humility and respect. Those values have stayed with me throughout my career and have helped build trust and credibility within the industry. It may sound like a cliché, but relationships are everything in financial services – and being reliable, respectful, and willing to go the extra mile really does make a difference.
Why is it important to celebrate your heritage?
For me, heritage is about belonging. Being part of a community and holding on to strong family ties has given me an invisible mental strength throughout my career. It’s also a reminder of the support systems around me – from immediate family to wider cultural connections – that have shaped who I am. That’s something I truly value and never take for granted.
How does it feel to see other South Asians and people from minority backgrounds thriving in financial services?
I think it’s fabulous. I’m a firm believer that hard work, passion and a can-do attitude will deliver success in this industry, no matter what your background is. Seeing more South Asians and people from other minority communities making their mark in financial services is something I’m really proud of. I have met and seen some exceptionally talented people in this industry who are also giving back to the community. That kind of representation matters and sends a powerful message about what’s possible.
