Ahead of International Women’s Day (IWD) this weekend, Ryta Zasiekina, founder of CONCRYT, reveals how gender disparity in the technology and fintech sectors can be tackled – and why it is the responsibility of both individual women and companies to make a difference.
Gender disparity in the technology industry remains clear and undisputable, especially for women looking to build their careers. Recent research shows that nearly 80% of women have considered leaving the tech sector due to a lack of recognition and career growth. This is reflected in fintech, where women hold only around 10% of all board seats and represent less than 20% of company executives.
For women working in fintech and payments, the power of reciprocity and support should not be undervalued. While gender should not determine one’s opportunities, the reality is that challenges related to resources, recognition and advancement are often compounded for women in our industry by systemic biases and historical inequalities.
In an ideal world, every person working in fintech and payments would be treated based on their professionalism, skills and contributions, not their gender. A professional, capable woman should be able to thrive without having to fight extra battles for equal footing. However, structural changes and cultural shifts are still necessary for to remove these persistent barriers.
For women navigating the workplace, self-advocacy is essential. Too often, women accept salaries below market value or hesitate to negotiate for what they deserve. Being informed, networking within the industry and confidently negotiating compensation are all important steps toward financial and professional equity. If you feel undervalued, address it, just as any professional should.
Importantly, progress requires both individual action and systemic reform. It is critical for fintech and payments companies to foster an environment where fair pay and opportunities are standard, rather than leaving the burden of change solely on individuals. They must actively dismantle barriers and create truly inclusive workplaces where talent and effort determine success.
Real change happens when both individuals and institutions commit to it. A system that naturally “self-balances” will only do so when the right structures are in place to support true equality. By fostering a culture where women’s voices are heard, respected, and valued, we can drive meaningful and lasting change.
