Mwavi is based in Zambia and leads Risk and Compliance in the country. Mwavi joined Chipper as part of our acquisition of Zoona (including all services under the Tilt brand) in Q3 2023.
If you could have a coffee with any influential woman (dead or alive) who has made a mark in your world, who would it be and why?
I have a list!
- Margaret Thatcher: She was the Iron Lady who became one of the most powerful women in the world in a time of turmoil and in a serious mens’ club. I wonder what kind of woman she was really like behind the scenes, beyond the videos and the speeches.
- Sinéad O’Connor: I would like to know about the courage it took for her to take the stand she did, most likely knowing that it was at the risk of her career, of being ostracized and completely canceled.
Maya Angelou: she went from being a fry cook to a nightclub performer to being one of the voices of a generation whose career spanned over half a decade, includes dozens of awards, over 50 honorary degrees and attended speaking engagements into her 80s.
Angelique Kidjo: I enjoyed her music growing up. She was a force in African music and I would like to know what it took for her to become named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in 2021.
What advice would you give to a female starting out in their fintech career?
I think they have to be ready to work hard, willing to learn, and be flexible. The industry changes quickly and you need to be able to adapt and change with it. But I believe the most important thing anyone can do is to make themselves undeniable. You do this by being talented, qualified, smart, determined and hardworking.
In your opinion, what role can allies play in breaking down gender stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive workplace culture?
I believe allies can help pave the road for the women already in the industry, as well as those who want to work in it. We can act as mentors and cheerleaders for women, demonstrating to others that women are as talented and knowledgeable as the old-fashioned male stereotype.
We have a work playlist (Tunes from the Chipperverse). What's your go-to song that helps you power through a busy day? If it’s not already on our playlist, we’ll add it!
I have a varied palette and play music depending on how I’m feeling on a specific day. Right now some of the songs that get my head bopping without fail are:
- Do A Lot - JZAC
- Lose Control - Teddy Swims
- Poke It Out - Wale (ft. J. Cole)
- Jiggie Woogie - Baby Lawd (ft. D-Legend)
- Don’t Walk Away - Jade
- Water - Rema
What personal values do you hold dear and why?
I believe in one overarching value: “Treat people how you want them to treat you”. This covers several values but none more important than being honest, respectful, and just being a good person.
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