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 representing only about 30% of the workforce in this dynamic field, many are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Here, we gather insights and advice from influential women in fintech, including Eve Picker, Mariana Bulic, Melissa Frakman, and Chanelle Pattinson, who share their experiences and guidance for aspiring women in the sector.
Eve Picker: Founder at Small Change
Eve Picker, the visionary founder of Small Change, emphasizes the importance of realism in entrepreneurship. She candidly addresses the challenges women face, particularly in securing funding. With only 2-3% of venture capital funds allocated to women, the path can be daunting. However, Eve encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to view these obstacles as opportunities for resilience.
“Building a business is an incredible journey,” she notes. “It’s about creating something that is not only innovative but also future-oriented. Fintech is the future, and so are women.” Her message is clear: persistence is key. By refusing to give up, women can become trailblazers, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
Mariana Bulic: Product Owner at Zumo
Mariana Bulic, a product owner at Zumo, advocates for curiosity and active engagement in the learning process. She advises aspiring women in fintech to ask questions and assert their voices. “Knowledge isn’t just handed to you,” she explains. “In a rapidly evolving field like fintech, it’s essential to take the initiative to learn and grow.”
Mariana encourages women to embrace their journey wholeheartedly. “Go for it and be part of something great!” she urges. Her enthusiasm for the industry is infectious, reminding women that their contributions are vital to the fintech landscape.
Melissa Frakman: CEO and Founding Partner at Emphasis Ventures
Melissa Frakman, the CEO and founding partner at Emphasis Ventures, shares a hands-on approach to entering the fintech world. She suggests that aspiring women roll up their sleeves and actively engage with the industry. “Identify five fintech companies you admire and find ways to support their teams,” she advises. This could start with a simple cold email.
Melissa reflects on her own journey, recalling how her career began with an internship that involved supporting the launch of Asia’s first handheld mobile ATM. “Those early experiences shaped my understanding of the industry,” she says. Her advice underscores the importance of practical experience and proactive involvement in building a successful career in fintech.
Chanelle Pattinson: Co-founder and Chartered Financial Planner at Money Means
Chanelle Pattinson, co-founder and chartered financial planner at Money Means, emphasizes authenticity as a cornerstone of success. “Be yourself,” she advises. “I spent too long trying to fit in, but once I embraced my true self, my career accelerated.”
Chanelle also encourages women to seize opportunities as they arise. “You never know where they may lead,” she says, highlighting the unpredictable nature of career paths in fintech. Her perspective serves as a reminder that embracing one’s individuality can lead to unexpected and rewarding experiences.
The Path Forward
The insights shared by these influential women in fintech illustrate the diverse experiences and perspectives within the industry. Their advice serves as a beacon for aspiring women, encouraging them to embrace challenges, seek knowledge, and remain true to themselves. As the fintech landscape continues to evolve, the contributions of women will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.