“Where Are They Now?” – Life After Winning an Omaze Prize
From luxury homes in the English countryside to supercars and million-pound checks, Omaze has made headlines for its over-the-top prize giveaways while also contributing to charitable causes.
But once the cameras stop rolling and the oversized checks are handed over, what happens next?
We have researched past Omaze winners to find out how their lives have changed – or not – since hitting the jackpot.
From Everyday Life to Dream Living
Lisa Morgan, an NHS nurse from Merseyside, won a £4.5 million waterfront mansion in Cornwall through an Omaze draw.
Despite this incredible win, Lisa continued her nursing duties, clocking in for an 11-hour shift shortly after her win.
She and her husband, Andy, had been diligently paying off their mortgage, and they never could have expected to suddenly be the owners of an incredible coastal property.
As if that wasn’t enough, they also received £250,000 in cash in addition to the mansion.
Supercars and Super Realities
Not all winners keep their prizes. Carlos, a software engineer from California, won a custom Lamborghini but opted to take the cash alternative.
“As cool as the car was, the tax implications and maintenance costs didn’t make sense for me,” he shared.
With the money, he paid off his student loans and invested in a tech startup. “Winning gave me a jumpstart, not just a joyride.”
Giving Back After Getting Lucky
One recurring theme among winners is a renewed interest in charity. Alexa H., from Atlanta, Georgia, won $1 million through an Omaze draw supporting cancer research. “The cause hit home for me,” she said, “my sister is a survivor.”
Alexa donated part of her winnings to a local cancer centre and started a foundation to help single moms in crisis, “I see it as a responsibility. Omaze gave me a platform to do something meaningful.”
The Reality Check
While most winners describe the experience as overwhelmingly positive, the sudden spotlight can be jarring. Some winners have faced scepticism or even resentment from friends or extended family.
Others talk about the emotional pressure that comes with newfound wealth. “It’s not like winning the lottery and disappearing,” said one anonymous winner, “people expect you to stay grounded, generous, and grateful – all at once.”
It is also worth mentioning that, although some of the above examples are from past winners based in the United States, Omaze ceased to operate in the USA as of 2023. However, it still remains active in the UK, meaning there are still draws to be entered and prizes to potentially win.
Just remember, if you do choose to take part, to always play responsibly and maintain realistic expectations.
What Life After an Omaze Win is Really Like
Life after an Omaze win isn’t all glitz and glamour; it largely depends on the circumstances of the individual who wins, as well as the nature of the prize.
Many winners use the opportunity to build security, explore new ventures, or amplify their impact on the world.
Winning such a prize may be the start of something meaningful, but it could also present its own unique set of issues. This is why it’s important to not only participate responsibly and maintain realistic expectations around the chances of winning, but also to consider the wider implications of winning such a prize.