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To create a workplace where everyone thrives, it’s vital to build a space where people are comfortable being themselves. Because only when employees feel they can bring their own unique identities, experiences, and backgrounds, will they perform at the highest level.
Celebrating diversity with communities
At Checkout.com, we run a high-performance culture. We amplify and strengthen our colleagues’ voices, embedding our values and purpose. We represent over 80 nationalities here at Checkout.com – and an environment where diversity, community impact, transparency, and collaboration are expected and celebrated.
We believe in fair opportunities and work as one team – wherever we come from and however we identify. Our colleague-created communities from Black and Latine to Pride and Ability+ play an important role in this. They celebrate, educate, and provide support to our colleagues. And they provide feedback on where we’re doing well and where there’s room for improvement. But ultimately, they create powerful connections and a deep sense of belonging.
The Women’s Community at Checkout.com
A community I am personally passionate about is the Women’s Community. This year’s International Women’s Day theme of “Accelerate Action” felt particularly relevant given the backdrop of DEI rollbacks in the US. Driving equality for underrepresented or marginalized groups requires sustained effort. As women in technology, we are just that – underrepresented. In fact, women make up only 30% of the fintech sector. With women making up half of the global population, we all need to accelerate action now, not slow down or be satisfied with our progress, to ensure we build inclusive hiring practices, company cultures, and career paths.
At Checkout.com we set a goal in 2023 for all new hires to be at least 40% female or non-binary. I’m pleased to say we crushed that goal in 2024.
Paving the way for the next generation as a female leader in business
As I look ahead to 2025 and how we create opportunities for junior members of staff to become the next generation of leaders, I recognize the importance of bringing my own authenticity into the room. As a female leader in the business, I have an important role to play in setting the tone for future leaders. There is such an incredible power in being who you truly are and sharing that with your colleagues. Leaders who are comfortable and courageous to be their authentic selves will help others in the future to feel empowered to do the same.
I’ll also be looking to my male allies. As a working mother, I’ve always found it powerful to hear my male peers speak openly about their children and parenting responsibilities. These conversations go a long way in breaking down the stigma that being a working parent is a female issue. By watching how being a parent is part of their unique identity, I feel more comfortable owning that identity for myself. As leaders, we have a responsibility to make sure that future generations face fewer barriers than we did and are more open-minded and curious. Committing to truly being ourselves in the workplace, and setting the tone to those around us, will play a critical role in this.
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