[Alloy] Women in fintech: What fintech leaders are looking forward to at Money20/20 2023
Originally posted on Alloy.com
Money20/20 is just around the corner, and we’re getting excited for our annual Women in Fintech event. This year’s event, co-hosted with Mastercard, is at Bouchon in The Venetian on Monday, October 23rd, from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM.
Every year, we get together to honor and network with women and nonbinary people who are transforming the financial services industry for the better. As we get hyped for this year, we caught up with some prominent women in fintech who will be attending the event to learn about their experiences and ask them what they are excited about this year at Money20/20. Check it out below.
Emmalyn Shaw
Managing Partner, Flourish Ventures
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Every day, I wake up with the true privilege of working with some of the most talented, mission-based entrepreneurs whose companies are making measurable impact while driving incredible financial returns. The fintech ecosystem involves many critical stakeholders ranging from massive incumbents and the entrepreneurial community to our regulators and policymakers. The breadth of innovation and the speed with which our industry moves is intoxicating. As a venture capitalist for over twenty-two years, I’ve found the most rewarding experiences arise from my tenure building Flourish. I cherish the team and culture I have been fortunate to help create and strengthen based on a mission and objective that brings me immense pride.
What advice do you wish you could go back and give yourself 15 years ago about being a working mom?
Be kind to and forgiving of yourself along your journey. Recognize that it’s impractical to truly be exceptional in all facets of life all the time. Find the wisdom to appreciate that there is no single straight path toward leadership while being a working mom. There may be times to take a more measured work path and even explore flexible work to focus more completely on raising your children. During those times, continue to remain active in the workforce, abreast of the innovations, and excited by the professional enrichment.
Find the right opportunities to lean back in full force, prioritize work, and realize significant professional growth. Taking a path less traveled to integrate leadership and motherhood is perfectly acceptable and might afford a semblance of “balance” in your journey as a working parent. And you will find great reward in leading by example, providing a rewarding environment for others who understand your commitment to their journeys.