Focus Friday - Fintech, Finance and Female
Hey everyone! So we have decided to start something new at F For Female, and it's something that I do for myself as well. I'm always trying to read up on new technology or any developments which can impact our future, and I think it help's to talk about these topics to other people who are also interested in it, as it allows you to discuss idea's and maybe even come up with some of your own! So to kick off, this post is just a quick introduction to fintech, which is NOT a NEW development but it constantly changing and many people may not know exactly how it works, so here goes:
Some of us may be fintech guru’s by now, whereas others may know very little about fintechs and how the development of these types of technology has impacted our financial environment.
Fintech is essentially financial technology, and it impacts predominantly the banking sector, as services which used to be provided by banks can now be provided via technology-which we know is faster and more efficient. However, it also allows for new avenues of financial services to exist, such as the trend surrounding blockchain and cryptocurrencies-all those things form a part of fintech. So, I’m not sure how much you all know about bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, if you are a newbie here is a link to a great video explanation:
UCT has also just launched their own fintech degree, the very first in South Africa, which just goes to show fintech industries are on the rise. Kungela , who is a member of this small class (only 13 students) says that she thinks there is a big opportunity for women to engage in the industry. “I think finance is connected to people and a lot of the systems put in place have neglected the people aspect. The processes are not designed to help you grow as a person/community. There's something called innovative finance which asks people to look at finance from another perspective. I believe we would have done that a long time ago, had women been involved in the processes because we are better able to think for the masses and think with the community in mind. You build a woman you build the whole community.”
“Money makes the world go round. How can a whole sector operate without women? Makes no sense. we don't want a repeat of the global financial crisis “.
Why is this relevant to us females, females in finance is the future! Women are underrepresented in the financial market more than in any other market, and this industry is booming! Surely, we shouldn’t step back and allow our powerful ideas to go to waste. Step into your purpose today !
Let me know if you have any thoughts or comments-let's discuss this.
