Celebrating TBEN Women - Mary Agbesanwa

Mary Agbesanwa - Management Consultant for Fintechs

Why did you pursue a career in economics and your particular field?
I have always been fascinated by how money ultimately makes the world go round. Hearing my parents say things like 'Money doesn't grow on trees' and converting pounds to Naira growing up, I have always been intrigued by money and the economy. Studying economics at university I loved that the degree was so varied with very qualitative and quantitative modules. I absolutely adored econometrics!
 

What real-life economic impact have you had with your work? 
Now working in Management Consulting for fintechs, I see on a daily basis how fintechs are being built based on inefficiencies in incumbent organisations or directly addressing asymmetric information that the financial services industry used to thrive on. Over $40Billion was invested last year in FinTech worldwide. Working in Fintech is particularly exciting as it is a key industry of focus for the UK government post Brexit.

What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge has probably been self-confidence. I have overcome it by investing in myself, reducing the overthinking and letting go of perfectionism.

What is your current assessment of diversity in economics? Has this changed from when you first started? 
Economics unfortunately is still very pale, male and stale. I do my best to read and learn from diverse voices and figures such as Dambisa Moyo, Janet Yellen and Linda Yueh who have really inspired me.
 

What advice would you give to black female economists looking to progress in the field? 
Be the change you want to see. Join communities like TBEN to learn from others too.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself!
I run a community called the Now You're Talking Network helping women earn more and be more confident at work. We host networking events, side hustle showcases and career workshops. Join us! @NYTNetwork