Women at the Forefront of Payments: Shaping the Future of Fintech
In the dynamic landscape of payments and fintech, women are not just participants; they are leaders, innovators, and change-makers. The "Women at the Forefront of Payments" series highlights the journeys of remarkable women who are reshaping the industry with their insights, experiences, and leadership philosophies. This initiative serves as a reminder that while International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate, the call for diversity and inclusion in fintech should echo every day.
Breaking Barriers and Shaping Futures
The payments and fintech industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and women are at the helm of this transformation. Through a series of candid conversations, we have explored the paths of various women leaders who have navigated the complexities of a male-dominated field. Their stories are filled with resilience, innovation, and a commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces.
Insights from Industry Leaders
The series features interviews with influential women such as Eline Blomme, Ugnė Buračienė, Marjan Delatinne, Bridget Hall, Lena Hackelöer, Silvia Mensdorff-Pouilly, Merima Mahmutović, and Vanita Pandey. Each leader shares their unique experiences, challenges, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Vanita Pandey, Caf
In her conversation, Vanita Pandey emphasizes the importance of authenticity and empathy in leadership. As a woman in the financial services sector, she has faced challenges such as being the only diversity voice in boardrooms. Vanita encourages women to embrace non-linear career paths, build networks, and lead with humility. She also addresses workplace issues like "weaponized incompetence" and the invisible labor often shouldered by women, advocating for environments where all voices are valued. Her insights highlight the significance of authentic leadership and continuous learning in today’s workplace.
Watch Vanita’s full discussion here.
Ugnė Buračienė, payabl.
Ugnė Buračienė’s journey into fintech was unexpected, yet it has become a fulfilling career. She shares her experience of growing payabl. from a small team to a thriving company serving over 1,000 merchants across Europe. Ugnė’s leadership philosophy revolves around living her values, staying curious, and prioritizing well-being. Her story serves as a reminder that success often comes from embracing the unexpected and supporting the growth of others.
Watch Ugnė’s full discussion here.
Eline Blomme, Acquired.com
Eline Blomme offers practical advice for women in fintech, stressing the importance of taking ownership of one’s career. She encourages women to be proactive, embrace uncertainty, and challenge gender biases in the workplace. Eline’s insights on work-life integration and the value of mentorship highlight the need for women to advocate for themselves and seek out supportive networks.
Watch Eline’s full discussion here.
Bridget Hall, ACI Worldwide
Recognized as one of American Banker’s Most Influential Women in Payments, Bridget Hall shares her journey and the importance of adaptability in the fast-evolving payments space. She emphasizes the need for self-awareness to combat imposter syndrome and the value of building relationships with male colleagues. Bridget’s passion for mentorship encourages women to cultivate a diverse network of advocates throughout their careers.
Watch Bridget’s full discussion here.
Silvia Mensdorff-Pouilly and Merima Mahmutović, EWPN
In a collaborative discussion, Silvia and Merima highlight the significance of diversity and inclusion in fintech. They share practical strategies for promoting inclusive workplaces, such as gender-neutral language in job postings and supportive hiring practices. Their message resonates with aspiring professionals: “If it’s not okay, it’s not the end. Keep being brave and speaking out.”
Watch Silvia and Merima’s full discussion here.
Lena Hackelöer, Brite Payments
Lena Hackelöer’s journey into fintech was serendipitous, leading her to launch Brite Payments as a solo founder. She emphasizes the importance of mindset and purpose in overcoming challenges. Lena encourages women to seek out organizations with strong female leadership and supportive managers, reinforcing the notion that the right environment can foster growth and innovation.
Watch Lena’s full discussion here.
Marjan Delatinne, Digital Asset
Marjan Delatinne shares her perspective on leadership and personal development, emphasizing that professional growth is a continuous journey. She advocates for empowering diverse teams and actively listening to clients to create real value. Marjan’s approach to challenges as opportunities reflects a solution-focused mindset that is essential in the rapidly changing fintech landscape.
Watch Marjan’s full discussion here.
The Power of Representation
The "Women at the Forefront of Payments" series not only showcases the achievements of women in fintech but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation. Each leader’s story is a testament to the resilience and innovation that women bring to the industry. By sharing their experiences, these women inspire the next generation of leaders to embrace their journeys, challenge the status quo, and foster inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.
About Oana Ifrim
Oana Ifrim is the Lead Editor and content strategy enthusiast on The Paypers’ Banking and Fintech team. With a focus on fintech, banking, and payments, she drives the editorial vision for cutting-edge topics. Oana engages with industry experts, conducts interviews, and leads thought leadership initiatives, ensuring that the voices of women in fintech are heard and celebrated.
For more insights and to connect with Oana, reach out via email at oana@thepaypers.com or connect on LinkedIn.