Celebrating Women in Fintech: A Spotlight on Achievements and Opportunities
This October, The Fintech Times is dedicating its focus to the remarkable women making waves in the fintech industry. As we shine a spotlight on their achievements, challenges, and the pathways they are forging for future generations, it becomes clear that while progress has been made, the journey toward true gender equality in fintech is ongoing.
The Current Landscape of Women in Fintech
Despite strides toward reducing the gender gap, the fintech sector still has significant work ahead to achieve full representation and equality. According to the EY Women in Fintech Report 2023, the industry is slowly evolving, but many women still face barriers that hinder their professional growth. To address these challenges, we reached out to influential women leaders in fintech to gather insights on the support systems available for aspiring female professionals.
Advancing in the Industry
Jena Gruenebaum, Director of Client Advocacy at Marygold & Co., emphasizes the importance of global organizations that support women in tech. She highlights initiatives like She Loves Tech, Fintech Women, and the Female Innovators Lab by Barclays, which provide resources, networking opportunities, and funding for women-led startups. Gruenebaum also encourages women to explore local organizations, particularly in larger cities, where innovation labs and university programs can offer valuable training and networking experiences.
Equity in Finance
Misty Beaulieu, Head of Operations & Risk, North America, at Worldline, points to the Global Association of Women in Payments as a vital resource for women in the payments sector. This organization offers mentorship, educational programs, and networking opportunities that can significantly enhance career growth. Beaulieu also mentions 100 Women in Finance and Women in Capital Markets, both of which focus on increasing equity in finance through mentorship and professional development. She stresses the importance of internal programs within organizations, like those at Worldline, which provide access to online learning and professional development resources.
Staying Connected
Amanda Reierson, CMO at Avant, shares her perspective on the value of networking and community among women in fintech. She notes that many organizations are dedicated to promoting women in leadership roles, helping to create a supportive environment for women striving to advance their careers. Reierson emphasizes the importance of maintaining connections with colleagues and mentors, as well as seeking out media resources like podcasts that feature interviews with successful women in the industry. This approach not only provides inspiration but also facilitates continuous personal and professional growth.
Building a Community of Like-Minded Women
Lauren McCollom, Director of Banking-as-a-Service at Grasshopper Bank, highlights the importance of community among women in fintech. She mentions organizations such as SoGal Ventures, Elpha, and Golden Seeds, which cater to female founders and professionals. McCollom encourages women to seek out female leaders and colleagues who can provide support and guidance, rather than focusing solely on paid programs. She believes that sharing ideas and experiences within small groups can foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Engaging with Organizations
Carrie Colbert, CEO at Curate Capital, underscores the growing awareness of gender diversity in fintech. She encourages women to explore various resources and initiatives designed to support their career advancement. Colbert mentions communities like FemTech Leaders, fintech-focused incubators, and online platforms that facilitate networking and knowledge exchange. She also advocates for attending diversity and inclusion conferences, such as the Women in Fintech Forum, to connect with industry leaders and gain valuable insights.
Being Your Own Advocate
Meghan Holmes, COO at Advyzon Investment Management, stresses the importance of proactive engagement in career development. She recommends that women leverage platforms like LinkedIn to identify networking opportunities and connect with others in their field. Holmes encourages women to inquire about internal programs within their organizations and to take the initiative to create change if such programs do not exist. She also advises women to step outside their comfort zones and pursue opportunities that may not be exclusively female-focused, bringing other women along on their journey.
Conclusion
As we celebrate the achievements of women in fintech this October, it is essential to recognize the ongoing challenges they face and the resources available to support their growth. By fostering connections, advocating for themselves, and engaging with organizations dedicated to gender diversity, women can continue to make significant strides in the fintech industry. The collective efforts of these trailblazers not only pave the way for future generations but also contribute to a more equitable and inclusive fintech landscape.