Joel
Bailey-Wilson
Founder, Mortgage & Protection Broker
Meta Mortgages
Joel’s journey into financial services wasn’t straightforward. At school, he dreamed of becoming an actor, but a curiosity for how money and markets worked led him to study Business with Finance at the University of Brighton. While studying, he worked in sales at Carphone Warehouse, developing the communication skills and empathy that would later become his professional hallmark. After graduation, Joel found it difficult to break into financial advice without prior experience: but, undeterred, he pivoted toward mortgages after an interview with an estate agency led him to its in-house financial services team. It was there he discovered a career that perfectly combined people skills, problem-solving, and tangible impact, and four years later, he took a leap of faith and launched his own brokerage - Meta Mortgages - that’s since evolved into a thriving business.
2025
"Whether it’s hosting community fun days or taking on charity challenges, I aim to inspire others through action."
Breaking down barriers
for future buyers:
Joel's story so far...
Joel’s focus extends far beyond advice: through Meta Mortgages, he’s built a business dedicated to accessibility and education, reaching over 200,000 people across the UK through school talks, social media content, and community events, breaking down barriers to financial literacy and homeownership.
He’s provided work experience opportunities to more than 30 young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds - several of whom are now pursuing careers in the mortgage industry. Joel also runs an annual Meta Mortgages Fun Day, a community sports and networking event that brings together hundreds of people from diverse industries and backgrounds.
In 2025, he was a panel speaker at the Black Mortgage Professionals and Allies Event, where he shared insights on representation, entrepreneurship, and financial education. His charitable initiatives include completing the London to Brighton bike ride for Rocking Horse Charity and an upcoming fundraising walk for Cancer Research - efforts that have raised more than £1,000 so far.
Joel leads a growing team of five, mentoring brokers and administrators while embedding a culture of transparency with a simple ethos: financial services should feel human, empowering, and inclusive.
Joel's career highlights
- Founder and Managing Director of Meta Mortgages - leading a team of five.
- Reached 200,000+ people through education and outreach on mortgages and finance.
- Delivered school and community workshops promoting financial literacy and careers in finance.
- Provided work experience to 30+ young people, inspiring future industry entrants.
- Created the Meta Mortgages Fun Day, now an annual event uniting communities and professionals.
- Speaker at major events including Black Mortgage Professionals & Allies 2025.
- Fundraised for multiple charities including Rocking Horse Charity and Cancer Research.
Who else made the list?
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