Women driving the fintech revolution: banking challenges, opportunities, and next steps

Episode 39 of Banking Reinvented, recorded live at ENGAGE Dubai, brings together the women shaping the future of fintech across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond — sharing their insights on how inclusivity, resilience, and leadership can redefine the industry.

In this episode, panel host Heidi Custers (Backbase) sits down with inspiring banking leaders Likeleli Monyamane (Standard Bank Group), Ghazal AL Sakaal (Mashreq), Fatima Mansoor, (SICO Bank), and Sepo L. Haihambo (FNB Namibia). Together, they discuss the state of female leadership in fintech, the obstacles women continue to face, and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Tune in to hear how these experts are reimagining the future of finance — and why gender inclusivity is not just a social imperative, but a commercial one.

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-> Backbase

-> Heidi Custers

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-> Ghazal AL Sakaal

-> Fatima Mansoor

-> Sepo L. Haihambo

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Timestamps

(00:00) – Introduction to the panel

(04:06) – Cultural barriers in fintech

(06:00) – Breaking leadership stereotypes

(09:12) – Main challenges for female entrepreneurs

(10:04) – Why inclusion in fintech is essential

(14:04) – Investing in female-led ventures

(17:36) – Bank support and mentorship

(20:03) – The future of fintech in MEA

(25:11) – Breaking barriers in leadership

(32:12) – Empowering female investors

(37:06) – Final reflections and advice

(41:44) – Episode wrap up