MRC Vegas 2025 Women in Payments & Fraud Luncheon: Inclusivity in the Face of Change
The MRC Women in Payments & Fraud Luncheon at Vegas 2025 was a timely and empowering event that explored the evolving role of inclusivity in a rapidly changing corporate landscape. As companies and governments scale back on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, the onus falls increasingly on individuals and communities to foster a more inclusive environment. The luncheon emphasized that true allyship in the eCommerce space—where innovation thrives on diverse perspectives—requires ongoing, meaningful action.
Key Themes and Insights
The luncheon’s discussion highlighted the importance of being an active ally in the workplace, especially in eCommerce, where diverse voices are essential for driving growth and market expansion. True allyship, the speakers stressed, goes beyond surface-level gestures. It involves consistent, intentional efforts to amplify the voices of DEI champions, advocate for equitable practices, and embed inclusivity into every level of business decision-making.
Speakers included:
- Katie Franklin, Director of Payment Acceptance at Walmart
- Kimberly Sutherland, Vice President of Fraud & Identity Strategy at LexisNexis Risk Solutions
- Lam Van Lund, Director of Business Development at Mastercard
- Rebekah Moody, VP of Marketing at Darwinium
These leaders brought valuable perspectives on how DEI can be championed within organizations, offering both personal stories and actionable advice for creating an inclusive work environment.
Key Takeaways from the Luncheon
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Resources for Professional and Personal Growth
Attendees were provided with an array of materials, including books, blogs, and other valuable documents designed to support women in both their professional and personal lives. These resources aim to provide continuous learning and empowerment. -
Public Speaking and Communication Skills
Public speaking is a crucial skill for career development, and the luncheon emphasized its importance. Many struggle with public speaking, yet it remains a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. The speakers shared tips on building confidence and learning to speak effectively without preparation, a skill that pays off in any leadership or advocacy role. -
The Core of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The conversation dove deep into DEI, defining the terms and discussing their application in the workplace. Diversity is recognizing differences, inclusion is ensuring everyone is welcomed, and equity ensures equal opportunities for all. The panel acknowledged that DEI efforts vary greatly by company and region and that some companies are cutting back on these initiatives. -
Challenges Women Face in the Workplace
One of the most poignant points discussed was how women often hesitate to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification, whereas men tend to apply even if they meet only some. This reflects a larger issue of confidence and mentorship, which is crucial in overcoming self-doubt. The luncheon also touched on the ways hiring practices unintentionally favor men, offering insights into how job descriptions and hiring processes can be adjusted to be more inclusive. -
Building Inclusive Workplaces
Creating a workplace where everyone feels included is fundamental. The speakers underscored the importance of diverse hiring practices and cultivating a work environment that fosters inclusion. A robust DEI culture, they noted, not only attracts but also retains diverse talent. However, there remains a significant gender gap in leadership roles, something that companies must address to create more equitable opportunities. -
Personal Experiences and Mentorship
The panelists shared their personal journeys, discussing challenges they faced in advancing their careers, particularly in male-dominated spaces. They also offered invaluable advice on mentoring young women, encouraging confidence in their professional paths, and fostering a supportive environment in leadership roles. -
Shifting DEI Trends in Companies
There was concern that some organizations are rolling back their DEI efforts, rebranding them under terms like "culture and belonging." The luncheon highlighted the risks of DEI becoming less of a priority in corporate strategies and stressed the importance of maintaining these efforts, especially in challenging times.
Conclusion
The MRC Women in Payments & Fraud Luncheon was an essential conversation about the future of DEI in the workplace. As we face shifting corporate priorities, the event reinforced the idea that allyship must go beyond gestures and be deeply embedded in every facet of business. The speakers called for mentorship, the building of confidence, and the creation of inclusive hiring practices to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, has access to the same opportunities. By taking consistent action, we can make real strides in creating equitable workplaces for all.
This event was a powerful reminder that in eCommerce and beyond, the power of diversity, inclusion, and equity remains critical—both for the individuals who drive innovation and the companies that stand to benefit from it.
MRC Women in Payments and Fraud Resources
Podcasts
Books
- GRIT: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth
- Pockets of Happiness by Katie Britcliffe
Newsletters
Other Resources
