Maryann Maina, Co-Founder & Director, Whizmo shares, ‘Accelerate Action’ serves as a compelling call to move beyond rhetoric and drive measurable, systemic change in realizing diversity and inclusion
What are your views on this year’s IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, how can we truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Maryann Maina: In my opinion, the theme ‘Accelerate Action’ serves as a compelling call to move beyond rhetoric and drive measurable, systemic change in realizing diversity and inclusion. To me, it emphasizes the urgency of transitioning from intentions to tangible impact—creating an environment where every individual, regardless of background, feels valued and heard. This goes beyond policies and necessitates a profound cultural shift within organizations.
Achieving genuine inclusivity begins with cultivating awareness and education, particularly in recognizing and addressing unconscious biases. These biases, if unchecked, can deeply affect hiring, promotions, and key decision-making processes. Leadership is central to this transformation—not merely in endorsing DEI initiatives, but in embedding these values into the organization’s very DNA, ensuring that accountability is woven into the fabric of the business.
Mentorship also plays a pivotal role in accelerating progress too. It ensures that diverse talent receives the guidance, visibility, and opportunities necessary to thrive, facilitating equitable career trajectories. Equally crucial is the creation of psychological safety, where employees can bring their whole, authentic selves to work, free from fear of exclusion or bias.
Our focus at Whizmo also lies in transforming aspirations into reality, powered by the expertise and contributions of our diverse, global workforce, both women and men. We set clear, measurable goals, continuously track progress, and ensure that the very essence of inclusion becomes integral to our day-to-day operations. I firmly believe that building harmonious workplaces requires sustained, intentional effort. It is not a one-time initiative but an ongoing, essential commitment to reflect the diverse world we inhabit.
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this, where did it all start?
Maryann Maina: My entry into the tech world was fueled by a profound interest in strategic business development and human resources, which ignited my passion for finding innovative solutions to organizational challenges. This foundation in nurturing human potential naturally led me to recognize technology’s transformative role in enhancing efficiency and fostering meaningful connections.
What truly inspired me was seeing technology not just as a tool for advancement but as a catalyst for change. This realization led me to leverage digital innovations, leading to the creation of ‘Whizmo—an all-in-one financial app’ designed to make financial management more accessible, secure, and convenient for individuals and businesses alike.
At Whizmo, we built more than just a transactional platform; we created an ecosystem that empowers users with complete control over their money. Designed for speed, security, and reliability, our intuitive app seamlessly supports local and international transfers, bill payments, mobile recharge, merchant transactions, savings, and more.
Who would you consider your role model, someone who constantly inspires you and why?
Maryann Maina: My mother was my greatest role model—her wisdom, resilience, and unwavering integrity shaped the person I am today. She had an extraordinary ability to navigate challenges with grace, always leading with both strength and kindness. She believed in the power of persistence, often reminding me that success is not just about ambition but also about character and purpose. Her influence continues to guide me in the way I lead, make decisions, and approach both opportunities and obstacles. In countless ways, her enduring legacy continues to shape my values, guiding the principles I uphold in my daily life.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more)
- Dinner with a famous personality, who would it be? Melinda French Gates
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly? Learning new languages
- Android or Apple? Definitely Apple
- WhatsApp or Telegram? – WhatsApp
- Phone call or text message/email? Phone calls
- Beaches or Mountains? Beaches
- Coffee or Tea? Both
- Early Bird or Night Owl? Night Owl
- Books or Movies? Books
- Winter or Summer? Summer
- Online shopping or in-store shopping? In-store shopping
What advice would you give to women starting off their careers, aspiring to enter the tech/business field?
Maryann Maina: As the Co-Founder and Director of Whizmo, I am deeply passionate about the vast potential and opportunities that lie ahead for women in the tech and business sectors. My advice to those embarking on their careers is straightforward yet essential: trust in your abilities and believe in your unique value. The path may not always be linear, but perseverance, a commitment to continuous learning, and the courage to forge meaningful connections will be your greatest assets.
Surround yourself with mentors who not only guide you but challenge you to grow and evolve. Take calculated risks—embracing opportunities to step outside your comfort zone is often where the most significant growth occurs.
In the realm of technology, and particularly in the fintech space, innovation thrives through the courage to think differently. Whizmo, for example, was born from the ambition to disrupt traditional financial interactions, offering an intuitive, secure, and user-centric solution. As a woman in tech, your unique perspective is not just valuable—it is transformative. Embrace it, push the boundaries of what’s possible, and never underestimate the profound impact you can have.
In our organization, we have witnessed firsthand how diverse voices contribute meaningfully to the organization’s growth and success. I am excited to see women continue to shape the future of technology and business, breaking barriers and redefining what’s achievable. With dedication, passion, and self-belief, the possibilities are limitless.
