Celebrating Women in Fintech: Insights and Advice from Industry Leaders

This October, The Fintech Times shines a spotlight on the remarkable women making waves in the fintech industry. Despite women comprising only about 30% of the workforce in this sector, many are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. As we explore their journeys, we also gather invaluable advice from influential figures who are committed to fostering change and empowering aspiring women in fintech.

Einat Steklov: Embrace Risk and Build Your Network

Einat Steklov, the founder and CEO of Kashable, a financial wellness company, emphasizes the importance of self-belief. “It’s easy for doubt to be cast on women—believe in yourself and what you’re doing!” she advises. Steklov encourages women to dive into their endeavors without needing every detail meticulously planned.

She highlights the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals who genuinely believe in your potential. “Join clubs to meet other women in the fintech industry, find a mentor who understands the market, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice,” she suggests. Steklov’s message is clear: take risks, embrace challenges, and learn as you go.

Marina Goche: Seek Growth Through Diversity

Marina Goche, CEO of Sentifi, an alternative data analytics provider, points out the stark contrast between the global female population and the representation of women in leadership roles within fintech. “Women make up approximately 50% of the world’s population, yet only 6% of fintechs have female CEOs,” she notes.

Goche encourages women to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth. “Don’t hesitate to take on new challenges; great growth comes from being uncomfortable,” she states. She also advocates for diverse experiences, suggesting that exposure to different cultures and perspectives enriches problem-solving and innovation. “Embrace diversity to formulate richer solutions,” she adds, emphasizing the importance of varied viewpoints in driving progress.

Katarina Andersson: Be Brave and Listen

Katarina Andersson, Senior Vice President of AI and Capture Solutions at Medius, urges women to be courageous. “Never be afraid to speak your mind, especially in industries like technology and fintech,” she says, reflecting on her own experiences in a male-dominated field.

Andersson believes that companies are beginning to recognize the unique contributions women bring to the table. “Utilize your cultural differences to be a change-maker,” she advises. However, she also stresses the importance of listening. “If you’re talking all the time, you can miss out on knowledge,” she warns, highlighting that listening is a crucial skill for learning and understanding the environment around you.

Lisa Gold Schier: Foster Diverse Perspectives

Lisa Gold Schier, Chief Strategy Officer at ASA Technologies, underscores the value of diverse viewpoints in decision-making. “Never forget the importance of having diverse views around the table,” she states. Schier encourages women to proactively seek out different perspectives and create networks that support one another.

“Don’t be afraid to reach out to other women in the industry, junior or senior, to share advice and insights,” she suggests. Schier believes in the power of women supporting women, advocating for collaboration through speaking engagements, nominations for opportunities, and social media support.

Janthana Kaenprakhamroy: Find Mentorship and Expand Your Knowledge

Janthana Kaenprakhamroy, founder and CEO of Tapoly, an on-demand insurance provider, emphasizes the importance of mentorship. “Finding a mentor within the industry who can support you with your aspirations will definitely help,” she advises. Mentors can provide invaluable insights and support during challenging times.

Kaenprakhamroy also encourages women to broaden their knowledge of the sector. “Read articles, listen to podcasts, and attend industry events,” she suggests, noting that networking can lead to unexpected opportunities. Her final piece of advice is to reject the notion that gender can hold you back. “Don’t ever believe that your gender will be a barrier to your fintech career,” she asserts, reminding women to pursue their passions fearlessly.

This October, as we celebrate the achievements of women in fintech, their insights serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring professionals. By embracing risk, fostering diversity, and supporting one another, women can continue to break barriers and redefine the landscape of the fintech industry.