Breaking Barriers: Dipali Padia’s Journey in Fintech
“We as women need to fight a little harder to get that table in that room,” says Dipali Padia, the Director of Business Development at Neokred. Her words resonate deeply in an industry that is rapidly evolving yet remains fraught with challenges for women. Dipali’s journey from traditional banking to the dynamic world of fintech exemplifies the determination many women need to not only break into this sector but also thrive within it.
A Journey Through Banking and Fintech
Dipali’s career path is anything but linear. She began her professional journey in traditional banking, a sector known for its rigid structures and long-established norms. However, her curiosity about the technology behind financial transactions propelled her into the fintech space. After a stint in fintech, she returned to banking, only to re-enter the fintech arena once again. “I wanted to know how the architecture of payments works—from peer-to-peer to business-to-merchant transactions,” she shares, highlighting her relentless pursuit of knowledge in a field that is constantly evolving.
The Gender Gap in Leadership
Despite the promising advancements in fintech, Dipali is acutely aware of the gender disparities that persist. “Without gender equity, its impact is limited,” she states emphatically. In India, women constitute 43% of the STEM talent pool, yet only a mere 8% ascend to CXO positions, and just 14% hold executive-level roles. This stark contrast is not a reflection of women’s skills or ambitions but rather a result of systemic barriers that hinder their progress in leadership and financial independence.
The Economic Cost of Exclusion
The implications of this gender gap extend far beyond individual careers. Studies indicate that closing the gender gap in financial inclusion could potentially boost India’s GDP by a staggering $700 billion by 2025. Furthermore, fintech companies with diverse leadership are 21% more likely to outperform their competitors. Gender-balanced teams also drive 20% higher revenue in tech-related industries, underscoring the economic benefits of inclusivity.
A Call to Action
Dipali believes that the fintech industry must take immediate action to address these disparities. “Fintech must hire, mentor, and champion women. Eliminate bias. Create a culture where women can lead fearlessly,” she urges. Her call to action is not just about filling positions; it’s about fostering an environment where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the industry.
The Right to Lead
Her message is unequivocal: women don’t just belong in finance; they have every right to lead in technology too. “Give us the opportunity, and we will prove it,” she asserts, embodying the spirit of resilience and ambition that many women in the industry share. Dipali’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that with the right support and opportunities, women can break barriers and redefine the landscape of fintech.
Conclusion
Dipali Padia’s story is a testament to the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the fintech sector. Her insights shed light on the urgent need for gender equity and the immense potential that lies in embracing diversity. As the fintech industry continues to evolve, the call for inclusive leadership becomes ever more critical, paving the way for a future where women not only participate but lead with confidence and innovation.