In the world of fintech, innovation and entrepreneurship often go hand in hand, and one name that stands out in this dynamic landscape is Fatma El Shenawy. As the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Khazna, a fintech startup based in Egypt, she has been instrumental in driving financial inclusion and making a significant impact on the industry.The Birth of KhaznaFounded in 2019 by Fatma El Shenawy and her co-founders, Omar Saleh, Ahmed Wagueeh, and Omar Salah, Khazna is a fintech platform that provides online financial inclusion solutions to more than 150,000 users. The app’s mission is clear: to empower individuals by giving them access to financial tools and resources that can help improve their lives.A Vision for Financial InclusionFatma El Shenawy’s journey in fintech is guided by a vision of financial inclusion. She and her co-founders recognized the importance of bridging the gap between traditional financial services and the underserved population. Khazna was born out of a commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to essential financial services.
A Remarkable Funding JourneyOne of the significant milestones in Khazna’s journey came in March 2022 when the startup raised an impressive $38 million in a funding round led by Quona Capital. This funding round also saw participation from esteemed investors like Speedinvest, Nclude, Khawarizmi Ventures, Algebra Ventures, Accion Venture Lab, Disruptech, Arab Bank’s AB Accelerator, and CVentures. This substantial investment was a testament to Khazna’s potential and the confidence that investors had in its mission.As of April 2022, Khazna had successfully raised a total of $47 million in funding, solidifying its position as a rising star in the fintech industry.A Role Model for Women in TechFatma El Shenawy’s achievements in the fintech industry extend beyond entrepreneurship. She is a role model for women in tech, breaking barriers and inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
Her presence on Forbes Middle East’s list of “20 Women Behind Middle Eastern Tech Brands 2022,” where she ranked 5th, highlights her status as a trailblazer in the field.ConclusionFatma El Shenawy’s journey in fintech exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship when driven by a vision of positive change. Through Khazna, she has not only created a successful fintech platform but has also contributed to advancing financial inclusion in Egypt and beyond. Her dedication to empowering individuals and her role as an inspiration for women in tech make her a true leader in the industry. Fatma El Shenawy’s story serves as a testament to the incredible impact that entrepreneurship can have on reshaping the world of finance and improving lives.