Charis: A Trailblazer in Fintech and Financial Inclusion
In the rapidly evolving world of finance and technology, few leaders stand out as prominently as Charis, a business leader with over 20 years of experience in fintech, banking, and finance. Co-founder of SDAX Financial, Charis is on a mission to advance financial inclusion by empowering investors with access to institutional-grade global investment opportunities. In 2023, her digital investment platform achieved remarkable milestones, surpassing $1 billion in listings and raising over $500 million.
The Seeds of Entrepreneurship
Charis’s journey into the world of fintech began unexpectedly during her time at Nanyang Business School (NBS). Reflecting on her final year project, she recalls how her exploration of WAP technology laid the groundwork for her future endeavors. What started as a curious academic pursuit transformed into a lifelong mission to leverage digital innovation for financial inclusion.
Looking back, Charis acknowledges the uncertainty that marked her career path. “I did not set out to start a business, let alone a tech business,” she admits. After graduating, she spent over a decade in banking and corporate consultancy, never imagining she would venture into the tech space, especially without a computer science degree. However, the idea of building a digital financial ecosystem emerged when she recognized the potential for alternative investments. Her passion for innovation and commitment to financial inclusion became the driving forces behind SDAX Financial’s growth.
Celebrating Career Achievements
Charis’s career is adorned with accolades that reflect her influence in the fintech sector. She has been recognized on Aspire’s 2024 “Future of Finance 50” list and was named one of “Singapore’s 100 Women in Tech” by the Singapore Computer Society and Infocomm Media Development Authority in 2021. Additionally, she earned titles such as “Top 12 FinTech Leader” and “Top 5 Women in FinTech” from the Singapore FinTech Association in 2020.
Yet, beyond the awards, Charis finds deeper meaning in her contributions to society. One of her proudest achievements was her involvement in launching the first SME Help Fund in Singapore during the COVID-19 pandemic. This innovative scheme, funded by family offices and corporations, provided essential financial assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) facing liquidity challenges. By safeguarding jobs and preserving livelihoods, Charis played a pivotal role in bolstering economic resilience during a crisis.
Advice for the Next Generation
For current NBS students and young alumni navigating the early stages of their careers, Charis offers valuable insights:
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Pursue Your Passion with Purpose: Charis emphasizes the importance of aligning one’s career with personal interests and values. “Make a meaningful impact and pursue a purposeful career,” she advises. This intrinsic motivation can sustain individuals through challenges and drive long-term success.
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Stay Curious: Curiosity is a powerful catalyst for growth. Charis encourages young professionals to view challenges as opportunities for learning. “Actively seek out projects that stretch your boundaries,” she suggests, highlighting that curiosity fosters innovation and creativity.
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: In a world where technology evolves at an unprecedented pace, staying ahead requires continuous learning. Charis stresses the need to actively pursue new knowledge and skills to adapt and creatively solve problems.
The Impact of NBS Alumni Network
Being an NBS alumna has significantly contributed to Charis’s career growth. As an active member of the NBS Alumni Advisory Board, she remains engaged with the school’s initiatives and shares her experiences through panels and student interactions. This involvement has allowed her to connect with a powerful network of professionals, business leaders, and innovators across various industries. “This cross-pollination of ideas continuously allows me to learn and gain insights beyond my immediate field,” she explains.
Balancing Professional and Personal Life
In her pursuit of success, Charis has also mastered the art of balancing professional responsibilities with personal commitments. She utilizes scheduling tools to manage her time effectively and emphasizes the importance of setting clear boundaries. “Sometimes, this means having to respectfully decline certain commitments,” she notes. However, she believes that flexibility and intentionality are key to achieving harmony in both work and personal life.
Charis’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, purpose, and perseverance. Her story inspires aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals to embrace their unique paths, pursue their passions, and contribute meaningfully to society.
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