FinTech's DEI Discussions – Powered by Harrington Starr Nadia Edwards-Dashti

“Fintech is an action-orientated industry. What actions are we taking here? So I would really encourage everyone to step back and think, what are you doing?”

On this latest episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Rianna Kelly, Senior Manager— Data Modeling & Analytics Engineering at Zepz.
In this episode, Rianna details her transition from traditional financial services to her current role in fintech, where she focuses on digital and financial inclusion in emerging markets. 
She discusses the critical need for gender inclusivity and the impactful roles women can play in fintech sectors like payments and remittance, which align with global sustainability efforts.
Rianna also delves into the strategies that foster an inclusive workplace, highlighting the importance of embedding inclusion into business models rather than treating it as an afterthought.

On this latest episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Oya Celiktemur, Sales Director at Jacobi Asset Management.


In this episode, Oya shares her journey highlighting the contrasts between structured corporate environments and the vigorous, unpredictable nature of startups.


The conversation explores significant challenges Oya has overcome, including transitions during critical market upheavals and advocating for parental flexibility in the workplace. 


Oya emphasises the importance of true inclusion within the fintech sector, critiquing performative measures and advocating for substantive, actionable changes.


She also touches on the vital roles of mentorship and supportive networks in fostering professional growth and personal resilience, advocating for more accessible and relatable mentor relationships.

On this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Amber Skinner-Jozefson, CEO of e.pop.

Amber shares her journey from journalism to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the transformative impact of her education at Howard University. Delving into workplace dynamics, she highlights the challenges faced by minorities and the liberation found in entrepreneurship. 

The conversation navigates through the importance of representation, the fearless spirit of the next generation, and actionable steps for genuine workplace inclusion. 

Tune in for insights on mentoring, diverse entrepreneurship, and the collective responsibility to drive meaningful change.

For more episodes of FinTech's DEI Discussions, please visit www.harringtonstarr.com

On this latest episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Tanya Ziv, Strategic Operations Executive.


In this episode, Tanya shares her journey from legal expertise to leading pivotal roles in prominent FinTech companies, highlighting how her diverse background fuels innovation and progressive strategies in a traditionally tech-dominated field.


Tanya advocates for leadership that not only drives operational excellence but also champions a supportive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute their best.


Discussing the nuanced dynamics of inclusion, Tanya argues that genuine diversity extends beyond mere statistics, requiring leaders to actively engage with and understand their teams' unique perspectives and needs. She offers insightful advice on nurturing an inclusive culture through attentive leadership and the strategic development of core values that resonate across all levels of an organisation.

On this latest episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by JB Benjamin, Founder and CEO of Kryotech.


In this episode, we delve into JB's journey from concept to execution and showcase the innovative approaches to encryption and user empowerment in the fintech industry.


The conversation takes a deep dive into the societal impacts of technology, especially in terms of inclusivity and ethical practices. JB critiques the homogeneity in tech leadership and calls for a broader spectrum of diversity, not just in demographics but in thought and culture, to enrich technology's development and application. 


JB challenges the industry to reevaluate its definitions of diversity and inclusion, advocating for practices that truly accommodate the myriad dimensions of human difference.

"You can't be a feminist if you are not looking at how to help other disenfranchised communities. And I know there are different strains of feminism, but I believe if you're helping one community, it has to really help the others."

In this episode of #WomenOfFinTech, we spotlight the transformative journey and insights of Lisa Leid, Fintech PR and Communications Expert and Innovate Finance power listee. 

With a passion for diversity and inclusion, Lisa shares her unique path into the financial technology industry, highlighting the importance of authentic representation, male advocacy, and the power of storytelling in driving industry-wide change. 

She delves into the critical need for action beyond dialogue to bridge the gender pay gap and elevate women and underrepresented communities to leadership positions. 

Lisa's impactful work, including initiatives like the FinTech Guide for Advancing, Cultivating and Elevating your Black Talent (in collaboration with us at Harrington Starr), showcases her commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable Fintech ecosystem.