100WF CEO Amanda Pullinger speaks on Africa expansion

100 Women in Finance (100WF) has officially launched its first location on the African continent, marking a significant step towards expanding its global footprint. The CEO of 100WF, Amanda Pullinger, spoke with CNBC Africa's Tania Habimana at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange about the organization's plans for Africa and the impact it aims to make on the financial industry in the region. Pullinger expressed her excitement about bringing 100WF to Africa, highlighting the continent's potential and the wealth of talent present in the financial sector. She emphasized that Africa is often overlooked or misrepresented in the global investment landscape and that it is crucial to include the continent in the conversation. The move to establish a presence in South Africa, the organization's 30th location globally, signifies a commitment to empowering women in finance at all career stages and inspiring the next generation of female leaders. Pullinger underscored the importance of visibility for women in leadership roles within the financial industry, pointing out that Africa can offer valuable insights on gender representation and leadership. During her travels to Kenya and Nigeria, Pullinger discovered a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in the financial sector, with women taking on prominent roles in leadership positions. She commended the entrepreneurial nature of finance in Kenya and the market opportunities in Nigeria, noting the presence of female leaders in key positions within the industry. In South Africa, Pullinger recognized the country's mature financial services market and its potential to attract global investors. She highlighted the familiarity of South Africa's operating environment, making it an appealing entry point for international investors seeking opportunities in the region. One of the key initiatives of 100WF is the 'Jumpstart' program, aimed at engaging female university students worldwide in the finance industry. The program offers a pre-internship mini-course to educate students on various aspects of finance, including private equity, hedge funds, and FinTech. By showcasing successful women in the industry and providing guidance on securing internships, 100WF seeks to encourage more young women to consider careers in finance. Overall, the launch of 100 Women in Finance in Africa represents a significant milestone in the organization's mission to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the global financial sector. By empowering female leaders and inspiring the next generation of women in finance, 100WF is paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative industry.