Women in Fintech: Breaking Barriers and Leading the Charge

This week’s podcast, hosted by Gina Clarke, Editor-in-Chief of The Fintech Times, shines a spotlight on the remarkable women leading the charge in the fintech industry. With guests like Ghela Boskovich, Eileen Burbidge, Joanne Dewar, and Marieke Flament, the discussion delves into the unique journeys these powerful leaders have taken, the challenges they’ve faced, and the barriers they’ve broken.

The Journey to Fintech Leadership

Most professionals in fintech admit that their careers often took unexpected turns. For many women, the path to leadership has been particularly winding, filled with obstacles that require resilience and determination. The podcast features stories of women who have not only navigated these challenges but have thrived in an industry that has historically been male-dominated.

Ghela Boskovich, Founder & Global Ambassador at Femtech Global, shares her experiences of entering the fintech space and the importance of creating networks that support women. Her insights highlight how mentorship and community can empower women to take bold steps in their careers.

Overcoming Challenges

One of the key themes discussed is the prolonged path many women face in fintech. Factors such as a lack of flexible working arrangements and a culture that often glorifies long hours can create significant barriers for women, particularly those balancing primary caregiving responsibilities.

Eileen Burbidge, the UK Treasury’s Special Envoy for Fintech and Partner at Passion Capital, emphasizes the need for systemic changes within organizations. She advocates for policies that promote work-life balance, which can help retain talented women in the industry. Her perspective underscores the importance of creating environments where women can thrive without sacrificing their personal lives.

The Role of Culture in Fintech

The podcast also touches on the cultural aspects of fintech that can hinder women’s progress. Joanne Dewar, CEO at Global Processing Services (GPS), discusses how the traditional corporate culture often overlooks the contributions of women. She shares her journey of breaking through these cultural barriers and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where diverse voices are heard and valued.

Marieke Flament, CEO at Mettle, adds to this conversation by highlighting the significance of representation. She believes that having women in leadership roles not only inspires the next generation but also drives innovation and creativity within organizations. Her insights reflect a growing recognition of the need for diverse leadership in fintech.

Strategies for Success

Throughout the podcast, the guests share practical strategies that have helped them succeed in their careers. Networking, continuous learning, and seeking mentorship are recurring themes. Ghela Boskovich emphasizes the importance of building a strong support network, while Eileen Burbidge encourages women to advocate for themselves and seek out opportunities that align with their goals.

Joanne Dewar shares her approach to leadership, which involves empowering her team and fostering a culture of collaboration. Marieke Flament discusses the value of adaptability and being open to new experiences, which can lead to unexpected opportunities.

The Future of Women in Fintech

As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that the future of women in fintech is bright, albeit with challenges still to overcome. The podcast serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience, community, and advocacy in paving the way for future leaders.

By sharing their stories, these women not only inspire others but also contribute to a larger movement aimed at transforming the fintech landscape. Their experiences highlight the need for ongoing dialogue and action to create a more inclusive and equitable industry.

For those interested in exploring these themes further, the full podcast is available for listening below. It’s a compelling discussion that not only celebrates the achievements of women in fintech but also serves as a call to action for continued progress in the industry.