Tessa Wijaya: A Trailblazer in Fintech
Tessa Wijaya, co-founder and Chief Operations Officer of Xendit, stands as a formidable figure in the predominantly male-dominated fintech industry. Hailing from a small village in Indonesia, she has transformed her humble beginnings into a remarkable journey, leading a $1 billion fintech startup that revolutionizes digital payments across Southeast Asia.
A Unicorn Among Unicorns
Describing herself as “a unicorn among unicorns among unicorns,” Wijaya embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience. Xendit, established in 2015, has rapidly evolved into a key player in the financial technology landscape, providing essential payment infrastructure in Indonesia and the Philippines. The company facilitates over 65 million transactions annually, amounting to a staggering $6.5 billion, enabling businesses to process payments, manage payroll, and access loans seamlessly.
Breaking Barriers for Women in Tech
In an industry where only seven percent of executive roles are occupied by women, Wijaya is on a mission to inspire a new generation of female leaders. Her journey reflects not just personal ambition but a broader goal of propelling a paradigm shift in a sector that has historically sidelined women. By sharing her experiences and advocating for inclusivity, she aims to encourage more women and girls to pursue careers in technology and finance.
The Roots of Resilience
Wijaya’s inspiration stems from her grandmother, who raised her and her cousins by running a small food business. This early exposure to entrepreneurship instilled in her a strong work ethic and a belief in the power of perseverance. Despite facing challenges as a minority in her field, she has consistently fought to have her voice heard, overcoming the biases that often accompany a lack of prestigious academic credentials.
Navigating the Fintech Landscape
Her entry into the fintech world began with an interview for an analyst position at a private equity fund in Jakarta. Lacking experience in traditional financial firms, Wijaya relied on her passion and intelligence to secure the role. This opportunity marked the beginning of her deep dive into the complexities of the industry, as she dedicated herself to learning beyond her working hours.
Identifying Opportunities
Recognizing a significant gap in the financial systems of Indonesia, Wijaya saw the potential for a robust payment infrastructure. While technology was advancing rapidly, the absence of reliable payment solutions hindered growth. Her breakthrough came when she connected with a group of students from the University of California, Berkeley, who were working on a similar project through the startup accelerator Y Combinator. This collaboration laid the groundwork for what would become Xendit.
Building a Thriving Company
Today, Xendit boasts a team of over 600 employees and has expanded its services beyond Indonesia to include markets in Malaysia and beyond. The company’s success story is a testament to Wijaya’s vision and determination, as she continues to lead the charge in transforming the fintech landscape in Southeast Asia.
A Vision for the Future
Tessa Wijaya’s journey is not just about personal success; it’s about paving the way for others. By challenging the status quo and advocating for diversity in the fintech sector, she is setting an example for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with passion, resilience, and a commitment to innovation, barriers can be broken, and dreams can be realized.