KUALA LUMPUR: In the dynamic landscape of financial technology (fintech), Boost Bank may have stood out as a beacon of women empowerment and inclusivity.
Chief executive officer Fozia Amanulla underscores the digital bank's existing culture, which champions empowerment and inclusivity, recognising and valuing the tapestry of perspectives that women contribute.
"I feel that women bring unique perspectives, and there is a certain uniqueness. These experiences contribute significantly to the decision-making process, representing a key strength that women bring to the table," she noted.
Fozia, with over 20 years of experience in the industry, highlighted that women possess valuable insights and perspectives beyond just fintech.
"We also have a special sensitivity towards empathy, and an inner strength for us to thrive in a crisis, and we have to get things done," she added.
The diversity fosters an environment conducive to generating more ideas and driving innovation.
"That itself is serving as a catalyst for them to ensure that they are diverse," she added.
However, Fozia emphasised that Boost Bank prioritises diversity, extending beyond just gender representation.
"I mean, you see women holding key positions as well, but also across ethnicity, geographical and also personal backgrounds. We also bring in different kinds of individuals, so that we can all collaborate and see who has the best idea or just churn out the best for FinTech itself," Fozia told Business Times.
She said the importance of diversity in work within fintech and digital banking, particularly in pioneering innovative solutions aimed at fostering financial inclusion for the underserved and unserved communities.
Women in Boost
Fozia said there is a minimum of 30 per cent female representation across all organisational levels, including senior leadership and the board.
"In my personal experience, it has been a pleasure to spearhead the digital bank team as the CEO of Boost Bank. I am also privileged to be working alongside inspiring women leaders as part of the Boost leadership team who have been inspiring role models.
"The visibility of these successful women in leadership roles serves as inspiration and motivation for others. Examples include Ungku Liza, who serves as the CEO of Boost Life, alongside Diana Boo, who holds the position of chief marketing officer, and Naziatul Shafeenaz, who serves as the chief people officer, among numerous other inspiring women leaders within the organisation," she added.
She advocates for increasing the representation of women to 50 per cent.
"Many lenders target financing women-led businesses because of their perceived reliability in timely repayments and smooth business operations, a trend evidenced within lending organisations," she noted
To achieve this increase, she highlighted the growing number of women pursuing higher education and acquiring qualifications, which should lead to more opportunities in suitable roles.
Additionally, Fozia observed a supportive trend among spouses, enabling women to pursue employment and contribute to their families.
She emphasised the importance of a robust support system, including accessible childcare, in facilitating women's participation in the workforce.