Celebrating Women in Fintech: A Spotlight on Diversity and Inclusion

This October, The Fintech Times is dedicating its platform to highlight the remarkable women making waves in the fintech industry. As we delve into their achievements, challenges, and the vital role they play in fostering women’s careers, it becomes clear that while strides have been made to bridge the gender gap, true representation and equality remain a work in progress.

The Importance of Diversity

Emma Kisby, CEO of Cogo EMEA, emphasizes that diversity extends beyond gender. “When we think about diversity, we should consider ethnicity, education, language, culture, and neurodiversity,” she states. Kisby points out that businesses are increasingly recognizing that diversity is crucial for success. Research indicates that companies with successful gender diversity are over 20% more profitable, and those that are ethnically and culturally diverse see an increase of over 30%. The unique perspectives brought by diverse teams can lead to innovative solutions and new opportunities.

Expanding the Diversity Conversation

Danielle Pepin, head of product at Dynamo Software, highlights the evolution of the diversity conversation. She notes that discussions around intersectionality—coined by Kimberle Crenshaw in the 90s—are essential. “Supporting women is inextricable from supporting other marginalized groups,” Pepin explains. She advocates for a shift in perspective, urging us to listen to the ongoing conversations within marginalized communities rather than imposing our narratives. This approach fosters a more inclusive dialogue and acknowledges the complexities of identity.

True Diversity in the Workplace

Aja Heise, Senior Compliance Officer at XBTO, reinforces the idea that diversity initiatives must encompass a broader spectrum of marginalized communities. “While gender diversity is crucial, it’s just one aspect of creating an inclusive workplace,” she asserts. Heise stresses the importance of recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals with intersecting identities. By fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, organizations can harness a wider range of perspectives, driving creativity and innovation.

Nurturing Talent Across Identities

Preetha Pulusani, CEO of DeepTarget, shares her belief in the importance of spotting and nurturing talent in all its forms. As a woman of color in fintech, she understands the significance of broadening diversity initiatives beyond gender. “Diversity encompasses many aspects of identity, including race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and more,” Pulusani explains. She argues that a diverse workplace not only leads to better decision-making but also enhances understanding of customer needs, ultimately benefiting the organization’s bottom line.

Knowledge and Opportunities for All

Jeannie Assimos, head of content/communications at Way.com, emphasizes the need for inclusivity at all societal levels. “Excluding anyone from any walk of life does a disservice not only to them but also to the industry,” she warns. Assimos believes that exposure to diverse communities and their business models can enrich the fintech sector, providing invaluable knowledge and opportunities for growth.

This October, as we celebrate the achievements of women in fintech, it’s essential to recognize that true progress lies in embracing a comprehensive approach to diversity. By fostering an inclusive environment that values all identities, the fintech industry can not only thrive but also pave the way for future generations of leaders.