Accelerating action for gender equality: Taskize celebrates International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a powerful reminder of the progress made toward gender equality and the work still ahead. This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, calls on us to drive meaningful change collectively. 

To celebrate IWD, we sat down with six of our employees to hear their thoughts on what the day means to them, the women who inspire them, and the advice they would give to the next generation of women in fintech. 

What does International Women’s Day mean to you? 

Nikki Radu, Account Manager: 

IWD is about recognising the hard work that women put in every day, especially those balancing full-time careers and childcare. It’s a moment to reflect on the barriers that have been broken by strong women in the past and those who continue to fight for gender equality today. 

Isobel Graham, Software Engineer: 

IWD is about increasing awareness and visibility of the extra hurdles and challenges that women face in the workplace compared to their male colleagues. It’s also an opportunity for everyone to understand concepts such as their own unconscious bias, and what they can do about it. 

Helena Pichler, Senior Technical Writer: 

IWD is a time for reflection – both on the achievements of women and the challenges that still remain. It’s an opportunity to draw inspiration from past successes and think about how we can continue to create meaningful change. 

Soozhin Parham, Business Administration Lead: 

For me, IWD is a day to reflect on the progress made in women’s rights, recognise the ongoing challenges, and celebrate the advancements. It’s also the day that Taskize host a celebration! 

Tara Costello, Sales Specialist: 

IWD is the day that celebrates the achievements of women and their vital importance in all industries and serves as a reminder that women’s fundamental traits and skills are as important as men’s in the achievement of new and groundbreaking developments. 

Kerry Alvarez, Account Management Lead: 

IWD highlights the real challenges women continue to face due to gender inequality, while celebrating achievements and drawing inspiration from trailblazing women who have paved the way. 

Who is a woman (inside or outside the workplace) that inspires you and why? 

Nikki: My mum. She raised me single-handedly after divorcing my dad, overcoming many obstacles to ensure I never went without. She empowered me to do my best, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. 

Helena: Ruby Payne-Scott (28 May 1912 – 25 May 1981), an Australian pioneer in radiophysics and radio astronomy. She was an accomplished scientist and researcher who worked on radar technology during wartime and is considered the first woman in radio astronomy. She was also a feminist and a champion of women’s rights. 

Soozhin: Rather than a single individual, I admire the countless women behind the men who achieved greatness. These women are just as smart and strong – if not more so – yet their names often go unrecognised. 

Tara: Francis Mary Buss, a British headmistress and pioneer of girls’ education in the 1800s. Her dedication to education helped pave the way for women’s access to learning and professional opportunities. 

Kerry: I have recently been incredibly inspired by my mentor, Leen Vermeersch. She has taught me in a very short time that you can do so much more than you think you can and that you are the one who can make the change for yourself. Believe in yourself and concentrate on things you are passionate about. Take chances. 

What advice would you give to the next generation of women in finance/tech? 

Nikki: Be strong and use your voice. Don’t let anyone discourage you from pursuing a career in an industry that is still, unfortunately, male-dominated. 

Isobel: Don’t feel the need to fit in by being “one of the guys.” Be you. Recognise your own strengths, lean into them, and don’t be afraid to sing your own praises and celebrate your successes. Advocate for other women around you as there is room for all of us to succeed together, and women really excel when we lift each other up. 

Helena: Go for it! Don’t listen to the naysayers. As the Barbie slogan says, “You can be anything.” 

Soozhin: For women in finance, the first challenge is passing professional exams, which demands persistence, dedication, and hard work. But that’s only the beginning. Stay committed to continuous learning, embrace every opportunity to grow, and never stop striving for excellence. Above all, stay positive, resilient, and don’t let your past mistakes define your present! 

Tara: Find the right women in the industry to mentor you. Having a strong network of female role models and supporters can make all the difference in your career. 

Kerry: Make sure you’re heard! Have confidence in your abilities and ensure your voice is recognised. You can achieve anything you set your mind to.