New Position, New Insights - Reflecting on the Representation of Women in Payments

What is your new position? Why is it a huge accomplishment to work within J.P.M? 

I recently accepted a Vice President Product Manager role on the Wholesale Payments, Global Clearing Market Management team at J.P.M. After accepting the offer, I wanted to reflect on the adventures that have led me to this pivotal moment. First, the cookie-cutter trajectory I imagined for my career path was quickly abandoned early after graduating college. Instead, I opted for a non-traditional career path that led me to India, New York, London, Morocco, South Africa, and more recently Uganda. I have been fortunate to work with different companies refining my adaptability to work in challenging spaces, flexibility to learn new concepts, honing my entrepreneurial mindset and so much more! One desire that remains static no matter where I go is my mission to generate impact on a global scale. I have spent years researching and studying to develop work experience in microfinance, impact investing, and financial publishing. These experiences are pulled together by the common thread of wanting to understand people and figure out how to add tangible value to their lives.

I am excited about my new position because I get to join an organization where I can participate in the financial service industry; an ever-evolving landscape where changes are happening in real-time. There will never be a dull moment! A facet I noticed in my new work environment was the diversity in leadership (there are quite a number of women in senior leadership roles on my team!). I look forward to working in an inclusive environment where I can have a voice, feel a sense of belonging, work collaboratively with teams, have access to resources, and feel valued. Lastly, I cannot forget the importance of representation. I am happy and humbled to serve as a reminder to young women who come from similar backgrounds. It is possible. Let no one tell you otherwise. 

When did you become passionate about the Payments space? Was there a specific moment or experience? 

My interest in the Payments industry began on a work trip to Europe several years ago. I  noticed the frequent use of contactless cards at grocery stores,  gas stations, restaurants, and shops. This new way of paying through this technology was brilliant!  I wondered why it wasn’t as widespread in other parts of the world. Fast forward to 2019, I traveled to Uganda on a Fulbright fellowship to learn about Ugandan women entrepreneurs’ access to investment opportunities. When the pandemic hit, almost all of the women I worked with had to close shop, which directly affected their livelihoods. I quickly mobilized a team and together we helped them pivot to utilizing contactless payments platforms to facilitate domestic and cross-border retail transactions and curb the spread of COVID-19. Over 300 women enrolled and were able to grow their businesses safely. That is when I knew I had found my calling. 

How do we increase representation in the financial services/fintech industry? 

During my intensive job search process, I received a lot of support from women in the Payments industry. I joined a network called, Women in Payments, a nonprofit which connects women in the Payments industry from all over the globe. Through the Women in Payments network, I built relationships and found mentors, including my current manager! I couldn’t have found my dream job without a strong support network comprised of the Women In Payments network and others outside of that network that championed me at every step. It was truly a community collaborative effort. My advice to others looking to land their dream job is to not be afraid to reach for high positions, connect with people who work in professions you are interested in. Ask questions. Be relentless in your pursuits and don’t give up until you accomplish your goals. On the flip side, people in positions of power and privilege should make it a priority to connect with and mentor people. It is very important, for women especially, to build and grow in communities that are supportive of their careers. 

Where do you hope to see yourself in five years? 

Floating on a boat in the Maldives with champagne in my left hand and my man on my right hip. 

***All opinions are my own and should not be taken as the opinions or beliefs of my employer***