How Do We Create More Inclusive Fintech Companies?
As part of our coverage of MPE in Berlin, we spoke to some of the speakers to find out what’s getting them excited and hear some great insights whilst we’re at it.
In this video, we caught Claire Maslen, an independent consultant, based in the Middle East but working with financial organizations such as Osmodal Group, in the area of mobile payments and digital wallets. She had earlier hosted a roundtable discussion at the conference, bringing together other key female voices in the industry to discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion and what can be done to make the industry more appealing and accessible for women.
We asked her about that and also what else she’s excited about in the world of payments.
During her roundtable session, Maslen delved into the pressing issue of gender diversity within the industry. She emphasized the importance of fostering an environment where women feel supported but also talked about why meaningful change is needed. Ultimately if we are serving a wide range of customers, that needs to be reflected in the staff and boards of the companies creating those products.
How we get there entails a multifaceted approach. Here, she advocates for a combination of legislative measures, organizational policies, and a culture of authenticity within companies. Together this will actually deliver commercial value for the reasons stated above.
The conversation expanded to address broader societal trends, such as the declining interest among young people in sectors like payments. Maslen emphasized the need for proactive measures to attract and retain talent, particularly from underrepresented demographics.
When asked what trends she’s really excited about (apart from AI obviously) Maslen expressed her enthusiasm for the potential of digital wallets to revolutionize financial services. This is an increasingly important topic that is possibly going under the radar with some of the hype around AI. She believes that the industry is only beginning to explore the vast capabilities of digital wallets, which extend beyond simple transactions. Maslen envisioned digital wallets as a tool for promoting financial inclusion, enhancing financial literacy, and providing consumers with a seamless purchasing experience.
And of course we asked her about the conference itself which Maslen says has grown significantly over the last few years, incorporating new elements such as round tables and discussions on diversity and inclusion (D+I).
It’s a very interesting chat with a key voice in the industry and we hope to catch her again soon.
