"We need girls and women to be part of the conversation for the sector to thrive."
When I first told my parents I wanted to study maths at university, they looked at me with an expression that asked: “Why?”
At that time, maths was a subject that men were confident in, but women would never be as confident or able to thrive in studying. At university, I’d say less than a third of the students on my course were women. This is still a problem now; according to a recent study by Engineering UK, 115k more girls would need to study maths or physicals at A Level to bridge the gender gap in higher education.
I chose maths because it was what I loved, what I was good at, and it was something I wanted to use in my career. The problem-solving aspect of maths was what I enjoyed - there is always a solution.
“It all goes back to problem solving.”
In my role as Chief Risk Officer at OneFamily, my experience as an actuary allows me to understand how the business works, whilst my expertise in maths allows me to think analytically. When I’m considering risk in business - and it could be anything from finance, cyber-attacks, or customer complaints - I’m able to think about it strategically because of my education. Sometimes it’s not just about stopping risk, it’s also considering if the business needs to be more opportunistic to meet targets.
I know firsthand how enjoyable it is to study maths and what a fulfilling career it can lead to. On the other hand, I understand why it can feel like a subject for men, relating to careers often male-dominated.
“Therefore, it’s vital that girls know maths is for everyone.”
Not only is achieving gender equality a good thing for women wanting a career in the sector, but it has a positive impact on the quality of work and success of businesses too.
Having a diverse team in any industry means varied viewpoints are brought to the table, which helps tackle complex problems in innovative ways. Diversity of thought leads to better decision-making; bringing different voices together is essential to producing well-rounded business strategies.
“We need girls and women to be part of the conversation for the sector to thrive.”
When young people see role models of all genders succeeding in maths and finance, it breaks down stereotypes and supports inclusivity. It makes them see that they can do it too. Maths4Girls is a charity that encourages professionals who work within maths-based sectors to speak in classrooms and inspire students to study the subject beyond the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE).
I first got involved with the charity after a discussion with the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFOA). I’ve since spoken to children in schools about my experience as an actuary. A lot of young people may not know what an actuary is, so to see a female role model is incredibly encouraging for them.
I love seeing girls engaged when we speak to them about our careers and the opportunities maths can offer. Students often talk to us during the sessions and ask questions to find out more, many of which hadn’t previously thought about maths as a potential career.
“It’s so hard for young people to decide which subjects to study at 16 years old, but my best advice is to do something you enjoy – you’re more likely to succeed.”
I believe maths-based sectors (including finance) are becoming environments where women feel they belong. But there is still a way to go in supporting and encouraging girls to reach their full potential.
We must ensure female role models in these sectors are visible to young people. I want to see more girls and young women choosing to study these subjects because they enjoy them, knowing finance is a place where they’re welcome and will thrive.
