Success Secrets with Nadia Edwards-Dashti: Reframing Confidence through System Reform

In a recent episode of the "Success Secrets" podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nadia Edwards-Dashti , the co-founder of Harrington Starr , a leading fintech recruitment firm. Nadia is a trailblazer in the fintech industry, advocating for gender equality and inclusion. Her book, "Fintech Woman Walk the Talk," is a testament to her commitment to these issues.?

In this article, I capture the highlights, key takeaways, and additional resources covered during this enlightening conversation.??

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Nadia's Success Journey?

Journey into Fintech?

Nadia began her fintech journey in 2005, shortly after completing her master's degree. She entered the world of recruitment and technology by chance and quickly recognized the potential in focusing on the finance sector. Nadia was present during the 2008 financial crisis and saw the rise of fintech companies, which she found captivating.?

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The Birth of Harrington Star?

Founded in 2010, Harrington Star aims to address challenges in the recruitment sector, including the skills gap, talent retention, and lack of inclusion. The company has grown to 65 employees across London, Belfast, and New York, each specializing in a specific technology or sales skill set.?

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The Evolution of the Industry?

Nadia has observed the fintech industry evolve rapidly, noting the rise of technologists in boardrooms and a shift from a rigid recruitment model to one that values potential and capability. She believes that inclusion and high performance are interlinked, contributing to business longevity.?

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Impacting the Fintech Industry?

The Business Case for Diversity and Inclusion?

Nadia argues that diversity and inclusion are not just ethical imperatives but also have a strong business case. Multiple reports corroborate that more inclusive businesses are likely to have better business outcomes.?

The Role of Mentorship?

Nadia introduces the concept of upward mentoring, where younger women mentor older male executives, offering fresh perspectives. She challenges traditional notions of mentoring, emphasizing that it's not just about building confidence in women but “It's actually women feeling confident that in those around them, that those people will be confident in them” and changing systemic issues.?

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The Importance of Networking?

Building a Diverse Network?

Nadia advises women in fintech to extend their network beyond their immediate workplace, learning from people in competing businesses and even entirely different industries.?

Finding Your Tribe?

Nadia discusses the concept of finding your tribe, emphasizing that a diverse tribe can offer different perspectives and solutions to similar challenges.?

Learning from Unlikely Sources?

Nadia shares her experience of gaining valuable insights from her best friend in the fitness industry, highlighting that challenges can be similar across different fields.?

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Challenges, Lessons, Work-Life Balance, and the Future?

Resilience in Business?

Nadia adopts a "fintech state of mind," viewing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. She also addresses the issue of unconscious bias and inequalities in the workplace.?

Biggest Lessons?

Nadia's biggest lesson is the importance of perseverance and being one's authentic self, without seeking universal approval.?

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Balancing Work and Personal Life?

Nadia talks about the challenges of balancing work and family life, especially after becoming a mother. She stresses the importance of productivity and self-care.?

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Future Plans and Projects?

Nadia is excited about expanding her business in the U.S. and her gender equality programs, including the "Advocate Series," a video series addressing common challenges like unfair pay and promotion.?

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Q&A: Nadia's Top Picks?

Favorite Book: "Invisible Women" by Caroline Criado Perez.?

Favorite Food: Machboos, the national dish of Bahrain.?

Favorite Quote: A quote by Henry Ford emphasizing self-belief.?

Most Inspiring Person: Stella Creasy, a UK Member of Parliament.?

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Additional Resources?

• Fintech Woman Walk the Talk - Book by Nadia Edwards-Dashti?
• The Financial Technologist - Magazine by Harrington Star?
• FinTech Focus TV - Video blogging series by Harrington Star?
• DEI Discussions - Podcast series on diversity, equity, and inclusion in fintech?

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Final Thoughts?

Nadia Edwards-Dashti is a force to be reckoned with in the fintech industry. Her insights on diversity, inclusion, and mentorship are not just thought-provoking but actionable. As we continue to navigate the complexities of the fintech world, voices like Nadia's are essential in guiding us toward a more inclusive and equitable future.?

Don't miss out on the full conversation with Nadia Edwards-Dashti, where she delves even deeper into these critical topics. Click the link below to listen to the complete episode of “Success Secrets" and gain invaluable insights that could transform your perspective on fintech, diversity, and leadership.?

?? https://rss.com/podcasts/success-secrets/ ?

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Our podcast, powered by Capitalixe , releases new episodes bi-weekly on Wednesdays. We have an exciting lineup of distinguished guests for upcoming episodes, so make sure to stay tuned!?

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