Celebrating Women in Fintech: Insights and Advice from Trailblazers

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 fintech workforce, 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 inspiring leaders like Chermaine Hu, Annalise Dragic, Bettina Hosp, Angélica Valle, Nimia Amaya, Lili Metodieva, and Amabel Polglase, who share their insights on managing financial goals and personal expectations.

Chermaine Hu, CFO and Co-founder at Episode Six

Chermaine Hu’s journey began in investment banking, but her parents instilled in her the importance of financial stability through home ownership. “Climbing the ‘property ladder’ was my first real financial goal,” she recalls. Upon receiving her first paycheck, she meticulously tracked her expenses, allowing her to save for her dream apartment just three years after university.

Chermaine emphasizes the importance of discipline and ambition: “I still use the same spreadsheet to track my expenses. It serves as a reminder of the importance of setting ambitious goals.” She highlights how financial stability has provided her with options in both her personal and professional life, allowing her to explore various cities and ultimately start her own company. Her advice? “Be grounded while aiming high and stay focused.”

Annalise Dragic, Principal at Sapphire Ventures

Annalise Dragic addresses the gender pay gap, urging women to be proactive in their careers. “The gender pay gap is real, and it’s essential to understand your market value,” she advises. Drawing from her MBA experience at Stanford, she encourages women to prepare thoroughly for salary negotiations.

While she hasn’t yet become a mother, Annalise values the mentorship of women who share their experiences balancing personal and professional lives. “Support is crucial,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of learning from those who have navigated similar challenges.

Bettina Hosp, VP of Operations at Cake DeFi

Bettina Hosp advocates for setting clear targets and smaller milestones. “Celebrate every milestone you achieve,” she says, as it brings you closer to your overall goal. She also stresses the importance of blocking out distractions that can derail your focus. “Stay determined to reach your target; anything is possible,” she asserts.

Angélica Valle, Mexican Ecosystem Lead at Celo

Angélica Valle encourages women to engage with the finance and technology sectors actively. “Attend forums, ask questions, and do your research,” she advises. She believes that understanding the landscape is crucial for women looking to enter the field. “Never be afraid to ask,” she adds, emphasizing that curiosity often leads to the best insights.

Nimia Amaya, Senior Marketing Director at Yooz USA

Nimia Amaya’s journey is one of resilience. As a single mother and first-generation immigrant, she faced numerous challenges. “Don’t be afraid to change your life,” she encourages. After becoming a single mom at 25, she shifted her perspective and embraced her circumstances.

Nimia’s success in fintech began when she prepared thoroughly for a job interview, despite feeling unqualified. “You are capable,” she reassures women who hesitate to apply for jobs. Her story illustrates that determination and preparation can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Lili Metodieva, MD at Monneo

Lili Metodieva emphasizes the importance of planning in both business and personal life. “Know exactly what you are working towards,” she advises. As a busy working mother, she acknowledges the challenge of balancing work and family. “Creating a viable work-life balance can be extremely challenging,” she admits, but stresses the importance of adaptability and recognizing achievements along the way.

Amabel Polglase, Chief Marketing Officer at Zilch

Amabel Polglase reflects on her experiences as a working mother in a less accommodating workplace. “Park the guilt,” she advises, emphasizing that career success can benefit the family in various ways. She also encourages women to let go of perfectionism and seek support from networks of like-minded individuals.

“Have fun along the way,” she concludes, reminding us that stress isn’t productive and that family time is essential for overall well-being.

These women exemplify resilience, ambition, and the power of community in the fintech industry. Their insights not only inspire but also provide practical advice for navigating the complexities of career and personal life.