Championing Women in Fintech: Breaking the Glass Ceiling

This October, The Fintech Times is shining a spotlight on the remarkable women in the fintech industry. With women making up only about 30% of the workforce in this sector, it’s crucial to recognize those who have not only reached the top but have also paved the way for others. Here, we hear from four inspiring leaders—Amelie Arras, Ivy Lu, Adriana Pirela, and Helen Hodges—who share their journeys of smashing the glass ceiling.

Amelie Arras: Marketing Director at Zumo

Amelie Arras, the Marketing Director at Zumo, reflects on her journey of overcoming self-doubt. “I believe that I’ve smashed my own personal glass ceiling by beating that little negative voice in my head,” she shares. This voice often held her back from seizing opportunities that could propel her career forward.

Amelie credits her growth to the support she received from mentors like Peter Coyle at Ad Astra and Ali Paterson, who encouraged her to take on challenging roles. “When I decided to ask for help, that was when I found so many supportive people,” she explains. Her mission is to make fintech and crypto accessible and enjoyable, a passion that has led to her recognition in The Fintech Times’ ‘Rising Women in Crypto Power List’ and winning the ‘Rising Star of the Year’ at the UK Fintech Awards.

Amelie also emphasizes the importance of sustainability in her work at Zumo, highlighting their partnership with WasteAid and commitment to the Crypto Climate Accord. “There is a glass ceiling we all need to break through when it comes to taking better care of our planet,” she asserts, aiming to inspire future generations of women to do just that.

Ivy Lu: Chief Data Scientist at Oxygen

Ivy Lu, Chief Data Scientist at Oxygen, believes her role in a male-dominated sector is a testament to her breaking the glass ceiling. “The path may not always have been easy, but I strongly believe in pursuing passions regardless of the challenges,” she states. As the sole female on the executive committee, Ivy ensures diverse perspectives are included in decision-making processes.

She has played a pivotal role in designing a hiring process that attracts diverse talent, advocating for the importance of inclusivity in the tech industry. “Diversity is a strategic advantage,” she notes, highlighting the support she receives from her CEO and executive team.

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of Ivy’s success. She emphasizes the significance of having strong women leaders in her life who have guided her along the way. “I believe that leaders are made and not born,” she says, advocating for the importance of mentorship in developing future leaders. Ivy also gives back to the community through her involvement with the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing, where she supports young professionals in advancing their careers.

Adriana Pirela: Chief Marketing Officer at Digicel Group

Adriana Pirela’s journey is unique, marked by her experience as a young immigrant woman in a foreign country. “I had to build a career and a reputation in a purely English market with a Venezuelan degree,” she explains. Starting from ground zero in a male-oriented technology industry, Adriana felt she was opening doors not just for herself but for other women and immigrants.

Her ability to navigate challenges and build a career in a second language has been a testament to her resilience. “The smashing of the glass ceiling has occurred when people look beyond traditional perceptions to see the value I bring,” she shares. Adriana’s story serves as an inspiration for many, proving that determination and hard work can lead to success, regardless of the obstacles faced.

Helen Hodges: Chief of Staff and Operations at Urban Jungle

Helen Hodges considers herself fortunate to have faced little direct resistance in her career. “I grew up in an environment where education was highly valued, and the best answers mattered more than who provided them,” she reflects. This ethos is something she fosters at Urban Jungle, where collaboration and innovation are encouraged.

However, Helen acknowledges her struggle with confidence in expressing her opinions in a loud environment. “A transformational manager helped me find a coach who guided me in bringing my confidence to my communication style,” she explains. This shift has empowered her to make her voice heard.

Helen credits her success to the excellent managers and mentors she has had throughout her career. “I believe in paying it forward,” she states, emphasizing the importance of mentoring women at the early stages of their careers. Her commitment to creating a positive impact for both customers and her team aligns with Urban Jungle’s philosophy of redefining success and fostering a fairer world.

These stories of Amelie, Ivy, Adriana, and Helen illustrate the incredible journeys of women in fintech who have not only broken barriers but are also committed to paving the way for future generations. Their experiences highlight the importance of mentorship, inclusivity, and the relentless pursuit of passion in overcoming challenges within the industry.