PalmPay's Purple Woman Program Empowers 10 Future Fintech Leaders

PalmPay Nigeria has taken steps to boost the number of women in fintech leadership roles. Through its Purple Woman program, the company has already supported around 250 young women over the past three years. The latest initiative, a masterclass led by Nneka Okekearu, aims to build confidence and professional skills among female participants.

The 2026 Purple Woman Masterclass attracted over 1,000 applicants, with 100 shortlisted for further consideration. From these, 10 women were chosen for a six-month internship across key departments, including marketing, human resources, and product development. The program offers mentorship and practical training to prepare them for careers in fintech.

Nneka Okekearu, director of the enterprise development centre at Pan-Atlantic University, led the masterclass. She focused on self-worth, confidence, and self-awareness—skills she described as critical for women navigating career challenges. Okekearu also addressed the 'missing middle' problem, where many women exit the workforce during pivotal career stages due to family demands. Chika Nwosu, managing director of PalmPay Nigeria, launched the Purple Woman initiative to tackle the low representation of women in tech and fintech. The program aligns with PalmPay's broader mission to foster an inclusive digital economy. By equipping women with technology-driven skills, the company hopes to create a more balanced industry.

The 10 selected interns will now undergo six months of hands-on training and mentorship. PalmPay's commitment to increasing female participation in fintech includes both skill development and leadership opportunities. The Purple Woman program continues to expand, aiming to empower more women in the sector over time.