Inspiring Inclusion: A Conversation with our Women's Community Leaders

As International Women's Day approaches, the theme of #InspiringInclusion takes center stage. Inclusion goes beyond representation; it involves creating spaces where women can thrive, contribute, and be heard in all aspects of life. We spoke to Elodie Chevalier and Sophie Kumar, who spearhead the Women's community at Checkout.com. Elodie is a Senior Marketing Manager based in Paris and Sophie is a People Business Partner in our London office. Together, they share their insights on the significance of inclusion, the role of identity in community leadership, and advice for women in the industry.

The Essence of Community

To Sophie, a community is a shift from "I" to "we,".  It's all about fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration. To her, it's holding space for one another and building a supportive network that goes beyond individual achievements. It's all about collaboration and collective problem-solving, working towards a common goal.

Shaping Identity in Community Leadership

Leading the Women's community at Checkout.com, Elodie acknowledges how her identity as a woman has shaped her experience. Creating a judgment-free zone is her priority, emphasizing the importance of letting individuals share their thoughts openly. She understands the challenges, experiences, and needs women face at work and aims to create an environment where everyone's voice is not only heard but also valued.

#InspiringInclusion

For Sophie, a woman of mixed ethnicity, #InspiringInclusion isn't just a hashtag—it's her journey. Facing hurdles inside and outside the workplace, she champions the power of shared experiences. Like Elodie, her goal for the Women's community is about creating a safe space where everyone can share without judgment or repercussions.

Working in Payments

Elodie shares her excitement about working in the ever-evolving payments landscape. She highlights the unique opportunities within the payments space, where professionals can actively contribute to groundbreaking solutions and shape how people transact and interact financially across the world.

For women entering the payments industry, Elodie offers valuable advice shaped by her own experiences:

• Network and seek mentorship: Connect with industry peers and find mentors who can guide you.

• Be confident and assertive: In male-dominated spaces, it's important for women to assert themselves. Let your expertise shine.

• Stay informed and adapt: Adaptability and a willingness to learn are key to success in the fast-paced payments landscape.

• Support other women: As you progress in your career, pay it forward. Mentorship, sponsorship, and allyship can help foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in payments.

Celebrating International Women's Day

The Women's Community at Checkout.com is celebrating IWD with a series of events. From in-person workshops and Ted Talks to LinkedIn Live sessions, they're creating spaces for meaningful conversations.

Sophie and Elodie are at the forefront of building a community dedicated to positive change. They understand that celebrating women should be an ongoing commitment, not just a day a year. As they continue their efforts to champion equality and inclusion, they recognize there's much more work on the horizon.

The Women's Community is among several internal communities within Checkout.com. These communities function as internal employee networks, connecting individuals across Checkout who either identify with a shared identity or express a desire to be allies. Led by colleagues who volunteer their time, these communities aim to positively influence workplace culture and provide extra support for professional growth.

Stay tuned for more insights as we spotlight the communities within Checkout.com. Learn more about life at checkout here.