Personal and professional growth journey is never linear, but it is always transformational. As a woman entrepreneur in the fintech sector and an Executive MBA student at Warwick Business School (WBS),  Turkan Farzaliyeva, has embraced change as both a necessity and an opportunity. Here, she will share her reflections on leadership, impact, and the immense value of scholarships in unlocking one’s potential.

Who am I?

I am Turkan Farzaliyeva, the CEO and Co-Founder of Payriff, a leading fintech company that provides omni-channel payment solutions. Our footprint spans Azerbaijan and Pakistan, with ongoing expansions into UAE.. With a background in IT and marketing, my career trajectory has been fuelled by a desire to challenge norms and drive innovation. As a recipient of the WBS Inspiring Females Scholarship, I am honoured to be part of a global network of Change Makers?.

Motivation behind the scholarship

Scholarships, like the WBS Inspiring Females initiative, represent more than financial aid—they embody recognition and encouragement. Applying for this scholarship stemmed from my commitment to gender equality in tech. It symbolises resilience and a tool for levelling the playing field in traditionally male-dominated sectors like fintech. Receiving it validated my efforts and inspired me to aim even higher.

What the scholarship means to me

This scholarship has empowered me to focus on what truly matters: honing my entrepreneurial vision while engaging with a community of forward-thinkers. It reinforces the values of diversity and inclusion, pushing me to be a more impactful leader. Beyond academic achievements, it has opened doors to meaningful collaborations and thought-provoking discussions.

Championing equality and inclusion

Equality has been at the core of my professional ethos. At Payriff, I mentor women in tech and champion diverse leadership practices. Initiatives like the United Nations #HeForShe campaign allow me to extend this commitment to a broader audience. At Warwick, I actively contribute to creating inclusive spaces by sharing my experiences and fostering dialogues on equity.

Living the Change Maker values

At Warwick, the Change Maker ethos resonates deeply with me. Whether it’s breaking barriers or envisioning a sustainable future, I strive to lead with purpose. Under my leadership, Payriff has pioneered features like digital onboarding and instant settlements. These innovations are more than technical achievements—they are part of a larger vision to democratise financial services and drive societal change.

The Impact of the Scholarship on my goals

The scholarship has catalysed both my academic pursuits and my broader mission as an entrepreneur. It has enabled me to engage with cutting-edge research and connect with industry leaders. Personally, it has reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance and the importance of giving back. Every milestone achieved strengthens my resolve to make fintech more inclusive?.

Advice for aspiring scholarship applicants

To anyone considering a scholarship, my advice is simple: be authentic and visionary. Scholarships are about more than grades; they’re about impact. Share your story, highlight your aspirations, and show how you intend to drive change. Remember, the most compelling narratives are those rooted in passion and purpose.

Being a recipient of the Warwick Inspiring Females Scholarship is a privilege and a responsibility. It serves as a reminder that with determination, innovation, and inclusivity, we can challenge the norm and shape a better future. My journey is far from over, but with each step, I am reminded of the incredible power of opportunities like this.