Celebrating Women in Action: Marco’s Commitment to Gender Equity and Inclusion

As March 8th approaches, International Women’s Day, we at Marco are proud to launch a campaign that not only celebrates the achievements of women but also reflects on the progress weve made—and the work still ahead—in building a truly inclusive workplace. This year, we’re shining a light on the incredible women who are driving change, breaking barriers, and redefining what it means to lead in industries traditionally dominated by men.

At Marco, we believe that gender equity isn’t just a value; it’s a competitive advantage. It’s about creating a culture where everyone, regardless of gender, feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. But how do we turn this belief into action? How do we ensure that our commitment to inclusion is more than just words?

Find here a series of stories of the women who make Marco what it is today. Through their experiences, we hope to inspire, educate, and challenge the status quo.

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‍The Women of Marco’s Ops Team: Leading with Resilience and Expertise
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Our Ops team is a testament to the power of diversity in driving innovation and building trust. Érica Pugliese and Paulina Gutiérrez, two of Marco’s standout professionals, shared their insights on what it means to thrive in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment—and how they’re paving the way for future generations of women.

Promoting Gender Equity in Day-to-Day Work

Érica emphasized the importance of fairness, respect, and active listening in every interaction, whether with clients or colleagues. At Marco, we don’t just talk about inclusion; we live it. By encouraging diverse perspectives and ensuring every voice is heard, we create decisions that are thoughtful, well-rounded, and reflective of the world we serve.

Balancing Work and Personal Life

For many women, balancing professional and personal responsibilities is a daily challenge. Érica highlighted how Marco’s flexible work arrangements, unlimited vacation policies, and culture of open communication empower women to prioritize their well-being without compromising their careers. It’s about creating an environment where people can bring their best selves to work—and to their lives outside of it.

Making Quick Decisions in Critical Moments

Paulina shared a powerful example of how she navigated a high-pressure situation to meet a client’s urgent financing needs. By collaborating with her team and maintaining transparent communication with the client, she not only solved the problem but also reinforced trust—a cornerstone of Marco’s values.

Advice for Women in Male-Dominated Roles

Paulina’s advice to women aspiring to grow in credit operations or account management is simple yet profound: trust your instincts, believe in your abilities, and surround yourself with mentors who support your development. At Marco, we’re committed to creating opportunities for women to lead, learn, and thrive.

Why This Matters

These stories are more than just anecdotes; they’re a reflection of Marco’s commitment to building a workplace where gender equity is the norm, not the exception. By celebrating the achievements of women like Érica and Paulina, we’re not only honoring their contributions but also inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we invite you to join us in this journey. Share your stories, amplify the voices of women in your network, and let’s continue to challenge stereotypes and break barriers together.

At Marco, we’re not just building a company; we’re building a legacy—one where gender equity is so ingrained that we no longer need to talk about it. Until then, we’ll keep pushing forward, one story at a time.

Breaking Barriers in Tech: Jimena Mignaco on Diversity, Leadership, and the Future of Women in Technology

At Marco, we believe that diversity drives innovation—and nowhere is this more evident than in our Tech team. We’re thrilled to share the story of Jimena Mignaco, a trailblazer in a field traditionally dominated by men. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, authenticity, and the transformative impact of gender diversity in technology.

Promoting Gender Diversity in Tech

When we asked Jimena how Marco promotes gender diversity in technology, her response was both insightful and inspiring. “Although tech is often associated with men, there are many women in the field,” she shared. “I’ve worked in teams where I was the only woman, but the environment has always been positive. The truth is, there’s space for everyone—and the more diverse the ideas, the better the results.”

Jimena also highlighted the importance of initiatives like “Women in Tech” events, which aim to motivate young women to pursue careers in technology. “It’s about showing them that they belong here,” she explained. “When we create opportunities for women to see themselves in these roles, we’re not just changing their lives—we’re changing the future of the industry.”

Mentorship and Growth: Learning from Other Women

For Jimena, mentorship has been a cornerstone of her career. “I’ve always tried to surround myself with women from whom I can learn,” she said. “I’ve been fortunate to work with brilliant women who’ve shown me different ways to lead and tackle challenges.”

From colleagues who approach their work with sensitivity and kindness to those who lead with determination and ambition, Jimena has seen firsthand how diverse leadership styles can drive success. “Each woman, in her unique way, brings something indispensable to the team,” she reflected. “They’ve taught me that staying true to yourself is the key to making a meaningful impact.”

Navigating Challenges: Leading with Authenticity

Jimena’s career hasn’t been without its challenges. She recalled a particularly difficult project where she was the only woman on a team of men who were twice her age and far more experienced. “The bureaucratic environment required a way of negotiating that was completely new to me,” she shared. “At first, it was hard to adapt.”

But Jimena leaned into her strengths: simplicity and authenticity. “Over time, I realized that being myself was my greatest asset,” she said. “By building genuine connections and staying confident, I was able to earn their trust and respect. It was a powerful reminder that perseverance and self-belief can open any door.”

The Future of Women in Tech: A Cultural Shift

When asked about the future of women in technology, Jimena was optimistic but realistic. “The future is promising, but there’s still a lot of work to do,” she said. “Programming, for example, is a job where the person behind the code is rarely seen. It’s harder for girls to visualize themselves in that role when most of the famous ‘tech geniuses’ they see are men.”

Jimena believes that representation is key. “We need more examples of women in tech—role models who can inspire the next generation,” she emphasized. “Imagine a world where every family has a ‘programmer cousin’ or an ‘engineer aunt’ to show young girls that this path is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding.”

Why Jimena’s Story Matters

Jimena’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity, mentorship, and authenticity in driving innovation. At Marco, we’re committed to creating a workplace where women like Jimena can thrive, lead, and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we invite you to join us in championing gender equity in technology and beyond. Together, we can break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and build a future where everyone—regardless of gender—has the opportunity to succeed.

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Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: How Melissa and Niki Are Driving Global Growth

Now, it’s time to hear from our Business Development team: Melissa Aguilar and Nicole Arrosa.

Their work goes beyond providing financial solutions; it’s about creating opportunities, fostering confidence, and building a future where women-led businesses can compete and succeed in international markets.

Supporting Women Entrepreneurs: Melissa’s Approach

When we asked Melissa how she supports women entrepreneurs, her answer was clear: “It’s about giving them the tools they need to grow.” Through Marco, Melissa provides access to financial solutions like factoring, which improves cash flow and enables businesses to operate with greater stability. “Factoring allows women entrepreneurs to seize international opportunities without being held back by payment delays,” she explained.

But Melissa’s support doesn’t stop there. She also focuses on sharing knowledge, connecting women with networks of entrepreneurs, and creating spaces where they can learn and strengthen their skills in business and finance. “It’s about empowering them to take control of their growth,” she said. “When women succeed, we all succeed.”

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Melissa’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. “One of the biggest hurdles has been proving my knowledge and leadership in a sector that’s still predominantly male,” she shared. “There were times when I had to work twice as hard to be taken seriously.”

But Melissa turned these challenges into opportunities. By building her confidence, honing her skills, and delivering results, she not only earned respect but also became a role model for other women. “Today, I use my experience to inspire and support more women in their professional development,” she said. “It’s a reminder that we’re capable of achieving anything—no matter the obstacles.”

Helping Women Go Global: Niki’s Impact

Niki’s work at Marco focuses on helping women-led businesses expand internationally. “We provide tools like factoring to give entrepreneurs immediate liquidity, so they don’t have to wait for their clients’ payment terms,” she explained. “This allows them to invest in growth, take on more orders, and compete in global markets with confidence.”

But Marco’s support goes beyond financing. Niki also helps entrepreneurs form LLCs in the U.S., open global multi-currency accounts, and manage compliance and accounting. “These tools simplify international expansion, so women can focus on what they do best—growing their businesses,” she said.

The impact has been profound. “We’ve seen women scale their operations, diversify their exports, and strengthen their presence in global trade,” Niki shared. “It’s proof that with the right support, there are no limits to what women can achieve.”

Advice for Women in Business Development

When asked what advice she’d give to women pursuing careers in business development, Niki emphasized the importance of vision, resilience, and continuous learning. “Trust your instincts, build a strong support network, and never stop learning,” she said. “Business development requires adaptability and a strategic mindset to identify opportunities and turn them into growth.”

Melissa echoed this sentiment, adding, “Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your vision. And remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow.”

Why Their Work Matters

Melissa and Niki’s stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, collaboration, and innovation. At Marco, we’re committed to creating a world where women entrepreneurs have the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed—not just locally, but globally.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we invite you to join us in championing gender equity in business and beyond. Together, we can break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and build a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.

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Promoting Gender Equity Through Action

First of all we sincerely appreciate you taking the time to read through this extensive piece. 

Now, it’s time to hear from Rocío Dartayete, a key member of Marco’s HR team. Rocío’s work is a testament to the power of intentional leadership and the importance of creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

When we asked Rocío about the steps Marco is taking to promote gender equity, her response was clear: “Equity isn’t just a goal—it’s a daily practice.” At Marco, this means implementing inclusive recruitment policies to ensure a diverse and talented team, as well as guaranteeing fair compensation practices. “Talent has no gender,” Rocío emphasized.

But it doesn’t stop there. Marco also prioritizes creating a safe and respectful work environment. “Every person deserves to feel valued and protected,” she said. “For us, equity is not just a word; it’s a constant action.”

Overcoming Recruitment and Retention Challenges

Recruiting and retaining female talent comes with its own set of challenges, but Rocío approaches them with a clear strategy. “Bias-free selection processes are crucial,” she explained. “Interviewers must be trained to avoid biases or questions that could lead to discomfort. The questions should be the same for everyone to ensure fairness.”

When it comes to retention, Rocío highlighted the importance of flexibility and growth opportunities. “We implement policies that promote work-life balance and ensure equitable opportunities for advancement,” she said. “It’s about creating an environment where women can thrive both personally and professionally.”

Fostering a Supportive Work Environment

For Rocío, building an inclusive workplace starts with open communication and safe spaces. “We encourage continuous feedback and dialogue,” she shared. “Employees should feel comfortable resolving difficulties, knowing they can rely on their leaders or the HR team for support.”

Team-building activities also play a key role. “These activities connect teams on a human level,” Rocío explained. “When women feel supported and valued, they give their best.”

Lessons in Leadership and Communication

Rocío’s career has taught her the importance of follow-up and clear communication. “Even if we don’t have an immediate answer, it’s crucial to let others know we’re working on a solution,” she said. “This builds trust and shows commitment.”

She also emphasized the value of asking questions and staying open to feedback. “Communication is fundamental, but it shouldn’t be taken for granted,” Rocío noted. “It requires effort from both sides to work well. This is the foundation for building strong relationships.”

Why Rocío’s Work Matters

Rocío’s dedication to equity and empowerment is a reflection of Marco’s commitment to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. Her leadership reminds us that true inclusion requires intentional action, open communication, and a culture of respect.

As we continue to celebrate International Women’s Day, we invite you to join us in championing gender equity in the workplace and beyond. Together, we can build a future where every woman feels empowered to achieve her full potential.

Empowering Women Through Authentic Storytelling: Insights from Marco’s Marketing Team

At Marco, we believe that marketing is more than just promoting products—it’s about telling stories that inspire, connect, and drive change. As part of our International Women’s Day campaign, we sat down with Luli Irureta and Tere Villanueva from our Marketing team to discuss how they integrate messages of female empowerment into their campaigns, ensure authentic representation, and balance the demands of their roles with personal well-being.

Empowerment Without Stereotypes

When it comes to promoting female empowerment, Luli and Tere are intentional about avoiding clichés and stereotypes. “At Marco, we focus on people, not gender,” Luli explained. “What matters most is how someone feels when they work with us and how they experience the authenticity of our solutions. We don’t label or categorize—we celebrate professionals creating value for other professionals.”

This approach allows Marco to normalize equity rather than treating it as an exception. “Empowerment isn’t about highlighting differences,” Tere added. “It’s about fostering genuine human connections and creating a space where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive.”

Authentic Representation in Campaigns

Ensuring that women’s voices are authentically represented is a cornerstone of Marco’s marketing strategy. “We don’t just talk about empowerment—we live it,” Luli shared. “Through webinars, events, and campaigns, we highlight the stories of female clients, partners, and entrepreneurs who are making waves in international trade.”

One of Marco’s key initiatives is showcasing women who have trusted the company to grow their businesses. “These stories aren’t just inspiring—they’re proof of how our solutions empower women to succeed in global markets,” Luli said.

Internally, Marco also empowers its female employees to lead these initiatives. “Representation starts from within,” Tere emphasized. “When women see themselves reflected in leadership roles, it sends a powerful message that their voices matter.”

Balancing Innovation and Well-Being

In the fast-paced world of marketing, balancing creativity with personal well-being can be a challenge. For Luli, the key is setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care. “We work to live, not live to work,” she said. “It’s essential to disconnect, recharge, and make time for personal moments, especially during high-pressure periods.”

Luli also highlighted the importance of listening to your body and mind. “Burnout doesn’t help anyone,” she noted. “By taking care of ourselves, we can bring our best selves to both our professional and personal lives.”

A Vision for the Future

When asked about her vision for the next decade, Tere shared a hopeful yet ambitious perspective. “Honestly, I wish that in ten years, we won’t even need to talk about gender equity,” she said. “I hope it becomes so ingrained in our society that it’s no longer a topic of discussion. My dream is for future generations of women to focus on growing, innovating, and leading without their gender ever being a barrier.”

Tere sees her legacy as contributing to this reality. “I want to help create a world where equity isn’t a goal—it’s the norm,” she said. “A world where women don’t have to face the same obstacles we’ve had to overcome.”

Why Their Work Matters

Luli and Tere’s commitment to authentic storytelling, inclusive representation, and personal well-being is a reflection of Marco’s broader mission to empower women in business. By celebrating women’s achievements and creating spaces where their voices can shine, they’re not just driving marketing success—they’re paving the way for a more equitable future.

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Driving Innovation with Empathy: Insights from Marco’s Growth and Product Team

At Marco, innovation and growth go hand in hand with empathy and inclusivity. As part of our International Women’s Day campaign, we’re excited to share the stories of Lau Díaz, Denu Temkin, and Mar Martinho from our Growth and Product team. These remarkable women are not only shaping the future of UX/UI design and product development but also leading with resilience, empathy, and a commitment to equity.

The Future of Women in UX/UI Design

Mar Martinho, a key member of the UX/UI design community, shared her vision for the future of women in the field. “I see a future full of opportunities for women in UX/UI design, but we’re still on the path to true equity,” she said. “While more women are entering the industry, we need to create inclusive and supportive environments where our voices and leadership are recognized.”

Mar emphasized the importance of visibility, mentorship, and collaboration. “Equity starts with access to opportunities and mutual support within the community,” she explained. “We need more women in decision-making roles, stronger mentorship programs, and a solid network that encourages growth. Only through collaboration and a commitment to diversity can we transform design into a space where all perspectives are heard.”

Balancing Innovation and Personal Well-Being

Denu Temkin, who leads initiatives in growth and innovation, shared her strategies for maintaining balance in a demanding role. “Managing innovation and growth while preserving personal well-being requires focus and clear strategies,” she said. “Every week, I set clear goals and prioritize tasks based on their impact. I also establish boundaries between work and personal time, which is essential for productivity.”

Denu also highlighted the importance of automation and efficiency. “By automating repetitive tasks, I can focus on adding value and dedicating time to continuous learning,” she explained. “Innovation and balance go hand in hand when you combine discipline, self-awareness, and the right tools.”

Leading with Empathy and Resilience

Lau Díaz, a leader in the Product team, shared the lessons she’s learned about empathy and resilience in a competitive environment. “Active listening has been key to my leadership style,” Lau said. “By genuinely paying attention to the needs and emotions of my team, I’ve been able to foster trust and collaboration.”

This approach not only strengthens the team but also enhances adaptability in the face of challenges. “Empathy helps us stay resilient in a competitive market,” Lau explained. “It also allows me to identify each team member’s strengths and contribute to their professional growth.”

Lau also emphasized the importance of flexibility, continuous learning, and clear communication. “Being adaptable and transparent builds trust and strengthens team commitment,” she said. “These are essential factors for success in high-pressure environments.”

A Shared Vision for Growth and Inclusion

Together, Lau, Denu, and Mar are driving innovation while championing equity and empathy. Their work is a testament to the power of diverse perspectives and inclusive leadership in shaping the future of product development and design.

At Marco, we’re proud to support women like them who are breaking barriers, leading with compassion, and creating a more equitable workplace.

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Empowering Women-Owned Businesses: Lumi Pauna on Growth, Inclusion, and Leadership

At Marco, we’re proud to support women-owned businesses as they grow and thrive in the global marketplace. As part of our International Women’s Day campaign, we sat down with Lumi Pauna from our Portfolio Management team to discuss the trends she’s seeing, the opportunities for growth, and her advice for women navigating male-dominated industries.

The Rise of Women-Owned Businesses

Lumi has noticed a significant uptick in the success of women-owned businesses within Marco’s client portfolio. “It’s inspiring to see how these businesses are thriving,” she shared. “There are a few key factors driving this growth.”

First, access to funding has improved. “More venture capital groups, investors, and even government programs are specifically targeting women-led startups,” Lumi explained. “This financial support is crucial for scaling their operations and innovating in their industries.”

Second, the rise of support networks and mentorship programs has been a game-changer. “Women entrepreneurs now have access to resources, advice, and communities that help them navigate challenges and seize opportunities,” she said.

Finally, Lumi highlighted the innovative ideas coming from women-led businesses. “From tech to manufacturing, women are addressing unmet needs and reshaping industries,” she noted. “Their fresh perspectives are driving real change.”

Trends in Diversity and Inclusion

Lumi also shared her observations on how diversity and inclusion are transforming the business landscape. “Companies are realizing that diversity isn’t just a social responsibility—it’s a competitive advantage,” she said. “Diverse teams perform better, and customers are increasingly drawn to businesses that reflect their values.”

She pointed to trends like supplier diversity programs, which prioritize partnerships with women- and minority-owned businesses, and corporate social responsibility initiatives that support diversity both within organizations and in their communities.

“These trends aren’t just good for business—they’re creating a more equitable world,” Lumi added. “And we’re seeing this shift reflected in Marco’s portfolio as well.”

How Marco Supports Women-Led Businesses

Lumi identified several ways Marco’s solutions can empower women entrepreneurs. “Our Banking and Formation packages, including cloud services and automated accounting tools, help women-owned businesses operate more efficiently,” she explained. “By streamlining their operations, we free up time for them to focus on growth and innovation.”

She also emphasized the importance of promoting diversity in tech. “By supporting programs that focus on inclusivity, Marco can help create a more welcoming environment for women in technology,” Lumi said.

Finally, she highlighted the power of networking. “Marco can connect women entrepreneurs with investors, partners, and other businesses that share their vision,” she shared. “These connections can lead to incredible opportunities for collaboration and growth.”

Advice for Women in Male-Dominated Industries

Drawing from her own experience, Lumi offered valuable advice for women looking to succeed in finance and other male-dominated fields.

1. Leverage Your Unique Strengths: “Women often bring empathy, collaboration, and innovative problem-solving to the table. Embrace these qualities—they’re your superpower.”
2. Build a Support Network: “Find mentors and allies who can guide you and advocate for you. And don’t forget to support other women along the way.”
3. Never Stop Learning: “The finance world evolves quickly. Stay curious, take on new challenges, and continuously develop your skills.”
4. Be Resilient and Assertive: “Stand up for yourself and your ideas. Don’t shy away from asking for what you deserve.”
5. Champion Diversity: “Be an advocate for inclusion, not just for yourself but for others. A more diverse workplace benefits everyone.”

Lumi also stressed the importance of balance. “High-pressure jobs can be overwhelming, so it’s crucial to set boundaries and prioritize self-care,” she said. “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

A Vision for the Future

Lumi’s work is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and collaboration. “At Marco, we’re not just supporting women-owned businesses—we’re helping to build a more inclusive and equitable future,” she said. “And that’s something worth celebrating.”

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At Marco, our Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) team isn’t just about numbers—it’s about using data to drive meaningful change. As part of our International Women’s Day campaign, we sat down with Juli Yornet, Belu Alonso, and Marti Artola to discuss how they’re leveraging financial insights to promote gender equity, overcome challenges, and inspire the next generation of women in finance.

Using Data to Build a More Equitable Workplace

Juli Yornet, a leader in the FP&A team, shared how financial analysis can be a catalyst for cultural transformation. “Financial analysis goes beyond numbers,” she explained. “When applied thoughtfully, it can promote a more equitable and sustainable work environment. At Marco, we ensure that our decisions not only drive economic returns but also foster inclusion.”

Juli highlighted the composition of her team as a reflection of this commitment. “Our FP&A team is 75% women and led by a woman,” she said. “We don’t just analyze data—we actively participate in strategic decision-making, identifying opportunities to create a workplace where talent, regardless of gender, can thrive.”

By taking a holistic approach to financial decisions, Juli and her team are helping to build a more equitable organization. “When we integrate equity into our financial strategies, we’re not just strengthening the business—we’re creating a culture where everyone has the opportunity to succeed,” she added.

Breaking Barriers: Promoting Women in Leadership

Belu Alonso shared her thoughts on what companies can do to include more women in leadership roles. “It starts at the very beginning—with unbiased and equitable recruitment processes,” she said. “Internally, we need to promote equal opportunities and pay equity. Women should have the same access to professional development programs as men.”

Belu also emphasized the importance of involving men in the conversation. “Men need to be active allies in promoting gender equality,” she explained. “By fostering collaboration and creating mixed teams, we can build a culture of empathy, respect, and support.”

She stressed the need for safe spaces where women feel empowered to speak up. “Women should feel safe to express their opinions, ask questions, and challenge the status quo without fear of repercussions,” Belu said. “That’s how we create real change.”

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience and Adaptability

Juli Yornet reflected on one of the biggest challenges in her career: building the FP&A function from scratch. “The challenge wasn’t just about establishing efficient processes—it was about adapting to the company’s growth, new products, and a constantly changing environment,” she shared.

The key to overcoming this challenge, Juli explained, was balancing strategic planning with flexibility. “We had to ensure that our team and processes could evolve alongside the company,” she said. “This experience taught me the importance of resilience, collaboration, and adaptability.”

Juli’s ability to navigate these challenges has not only strengthened the FP&A function but also prepared it for future growth. “It’s about building something that responds to today’s needs while staying ready for tomorrow’s challenges,” she added.

Advice for Women Starting in Finance

Marti Artola offered valuable advice for women looking to build a career in finance. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with women in leadership roles,” she shared. “These experiences taught me the importance of working in mixed teams and environments that promote gender equality.”

Marti’s advice is simple yet powerful: “Find mentors who inspire you, and don’t let challenges hold you back,” she said. “As women, we bring unique perspectives, empathy, and adaptability to the table—qualities that are essential for success in finance.”

She also emphasized the importance of resilience. “Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow,” Marti added. “Trust in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to take risks.”

Why Their Work Matters

Juli, Belu, and Marti are not just financial leaders—they’re advocates for equity and inclusion. By leveraging data, challenging norms, and supporting one another, they’re helping to create a workplace where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive.

At Marco, we’re proud to celebrate their contributions and continue building a future where gender equity is the norm, not the exception.

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Strategizing for Equity: How Marco’s Strategy Team Is Driving Change

At Marco, our Strategy team is at the forefront of shaping a more inclusive and equitable future. As part of our International Women’s Day campaign, we sat down with Islay F., Helen Gerstenfeld, and Julia Castiglia to discuss how they’re integrating a gender perspective into their strategies, promoting women’s leadership, and creating opportunities for women to thrive in competitive, male-dominated fields.

Embedding Gender Equity into Strategic Decision-Making

Islay F. shared how the Strategy team ensures that gender equity is a core component of every initiative. “Driving gender equity isn’t just a mission—it’s a strategy for success,” she explained. “In every strategy we develop, we prioritize inclusivity and actively seek opportunities to amplify women’s voices.”

This approach involves creating pathways for leadership and designing initiatives that address systemic barriers. “By embedding equity into our strategies, we’re not just creating better outcomes for women—we’re building a stronger, more innovative organization,” Islay added.

Turning Commitment into Action

Helen Gerstenfeld highlighted the initiatives she’s led to promote women’s leadership and gender equity in strategic financing, operations, and investor relations. “We’ve turned commitment into action,” she said. “From championing funding opportunities for female entrepreneurs to fostering collaboration inside and outside the organization, we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure women have a seat—and a voice—at the table.”

Helen emphasized the importance of inclusive deal-making and leadership advocacy. “It’s about creating spaces where women can thrive and lead,” she explained. “When women are empowered to make decisions, everyone benefits.”

Navigating Challenges and Creating Opportunities

As leaders in competitive, male-dominated fields, Helen and her colleagues are no strangers to challenges. “Success isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about building networks, fostering collaboration, and lifting others up,” Helen shared.

She believes in creating strong support systems through mentorship and sponsorship. “By promoting collaboration and challenging gender barriers in hiring and leadership, we can drive real change,” Helen said. “Empowered women empower women, and that’s how we create a ripple effect of progress.”

Promoting Funding for Women-Led Businesses

Julia Castiglia focuses on using her role to promote funding for women-led businesses and initiatives that advance gender equity. “In my role, I foster partnerships with organizations like the Inter-American Development Bank to expand access to capital for underserved communities,” she explained.

Julia also collaborates with Marco’s marketing and sales teams on educational initiatives, such as webinars tailored for women-owned businesses. “These efforts equip women with the knowledge and resources they need to secure funding and scale their operations,” she said. “By reducing financial barriers, we’re empowering more women entrepreneurs to succeed in global trade.”

Why Their Work Matters

Islay, Helen, and Julia are not just strategists—they’re advocates for equity and inclusion. By integrating a gender perspective into their strategies, promoting women’s leadership, and creating opportunities for women to thrive, they’re helping to build a more equitable and innovative future.

At Marco, we’re proud to celebrate their contributions and continue driving change that benefits everyone.

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Leading with Resilience: Romi Rossi on Advocacy, Equity, and Legal Innovation

At Marco, we’re proud to have women like Romi Rossi leading the way in our Legal team. As part of our International Women’s Day campaign, Romi shared her insights on resilience, advocacy, and how she’s working to promote gender equality in the legal field. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of challenging norms, creating safe spaces, and using one’s voice to drive change.

Finding Joy in the Challenge

When asked about the most important lesson she’s learned in her career, Romi turned to the words of Albert Camus: “The greatest act of rebellion is to find joy in your supposed punishment.” For Romi, this quote encapsulates her approach to overcoming challenges.

“True resilience isn’t just about defying circumstances—it’s about how we choose to perceive them,” she explained. “In a predominantly male environment, it’s essential to shift our perspective on gender equality challenges. By finding confidence in our abilities, we can transform our surroundings and help reshape society’s perception of women’s roles.”

Romi’s ability to reframe challenges as opportunities has been a driving force in her career. “It’s about creating joy and purpose in the face of adversity,” she said. “That’s how we make lasting change.”

Supporting Women Through Advocacy

Romi is passionate about supporting other women in her field. “My goal is to create safe spaces where women can be heard and supported,” she shared. “I strive to promote my ideals and defend them, but I also focus on making a tangible impact.”

She acknowledged the unique challenges women face in the business world. “It’s a complex environment, and it can be even more daunting for women,” Romi said. “My advice is to lose the fear of speaking up. Even in situations where your voice feels small, it’s important to stand firm in your convictions.”

Romi’s commitment to advocacy extends beyond words. “I want to empower women to take ownership of their voices and their roles,” she added. “When we support each other, we create a ripple effect that benefits everyone.”

Promoting Gender Equality in Law

The legal field has historically been male-dominated, but Romi is optimistic about the progress being made. “At Marco, our Legal team has been predominantly led by women, and at times, it’s been entirely composed of women,” she noted. “This is a reflection of our commitment to gender equality.”

Externally, Romi and her team focus on negotiations that promote diversity, equality, and fair conditions for all parties. “We partner with clients and allies who share these values,” she explained. “By aligning with like-minded organizations, we can amplify our impact.”

Romi also highlighted areas for improvement. “We need to continue pushing for more women in leadership roles and ensure that mentorship and development opportunities are accessible to all,” she said. “Equality isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating a culture where everyone can thrive.”

Why Romi’s Work Matters

Romi’s leadership is a testament to the power of resilience, advocacy, and intentional action. By challenging norms, creating safe spaces, and promoting gender equality, she’s not only transforming the legal field but also inspiring others to do the same.

At Marco, we’re proud to support women like Romi who are breaking barriers and building a more equitable future.

From Strategy to Legal, Business Development to Tech, Portfolio Management to HR, and Marketing, the women of Marco are redefining what it means to lead with resilience, empathy, and innovation. Each of these remarkable women—Islay, Julia, Helen, Romi, Melissa, Niki, Jime, Lumi, Ro, Luli, and Tere—has shared her unique journey, challenges, and triumphs, proving that gender equity isn’t just a goal but a daily practice.

Whether it’s through data-driven decisions, strategic partnerships, authentic storytelling, or creating safe spaces for growth, these women are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for future generations. Their stories remind us that true progress is built on collaboration, courage, and a shared commitment to lifting others up.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we honor their contributions and reaffirm our commitment to building a future where gender equity is the norm, not the exception. Together, we’re not just changing the narrative—we’re creating a legacy of empowerment that will inspire women for decades to come.

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