At PayIt, we believe that action drives progress. This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” serves as a reminder that meaningful change doesn’t happen by chance — it happens because individuals step up, speak out, and create opportunities.

What does accelerating action mean to the women of PayIt?

We’re proud to celebrate the incredible women of PayIt, whose leadership, mentorship, and advocacy empower those around them. To honor International Women’s Day, we asked some of the women of PayIt about the actions they’ve taken to uplift others, valuable steps women can take in their careers, and how their experiences outside of work have shaped their professional growth. Their insights serve as inspiration for all of us to take action to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

Michelle Cheung | Technical Integration Manager

What’s one thing you’ve done outside of work that has made a positive impact on your career?

The most influential moment in my career that directly impacted working at PayIt was participating in the Hack Midwest hackathons in 2022 and 2023, where our team secured first place in the Web3 category both years. This experience gently introduced me to CSS and JavaScript, thanks to the kind support of my software engineering friends. Without these opportunities, I might not have discovered a company that resonates so deeply with both my interests and my abilities.

What’s the most valuable action women can take in their careers?

Advocate for yourself and the women around you. Throughout my career in male-dominated industries, I’ve been inspired by women who listened with humility, made confident decisions, and provided thoughtful, holistic mentorship. When you focus on what you can control and gently nurture your own growth while uplifting those around you, everyone flourishes. And when you witness injustice, trust your voice and speak up. Women face enough challenges in the workplace, so let your quiet strength be the catalyst for positive change.

Mallory Klenda | Lead Product Manager

What is one action you’ve taken in your career to empower women around you?

The most empowering step I took at work was to embrace my true self. My confidence in embracing who I am at work has been pivotal, allowing me to recognize and leverage my unique contributions. Confidence is about more than just feeling sure of yourself; it’s about stepping up, owning your strengths, and encouraging other women to do the same. Because when we do, we build a powerful network of support.

Liza Perkins | Team Lead, Implementations

What’s a workplace practice or initiative that has helped you feel more included and empowered? 

Paid parental leave and wellness rooms at the office were crucial to balancing both motherhood and my career. 

What’s the most valuable action women can take in their careers? 

Seek out mentorship and friendship from women you admire. 

What’s one thing you’ve done outside of work that has made a positive impact on your career? 

I serve as a Board member of my neighborhood HOA, and it has helped me learn more about how our cities operate and how to effectively work toward common goals. 

To date, what’s been your favorite career development or learning opportunity?
Moving to another country for work taught me so much, both about myself and our business.

Emily Schrader | Senior Client Success Manager

What’s the most valuable action women can take in their careers?

Advocacy. Advocate for yourself, for others, and for thinking bigger. Speak up, champion your ideas, and support those around you — because progress thrives on collective empowerment. Support isn’t just helpful; it’s essential. 

What’s one thing you’ve done outside of work that has made a positive impact on your career?

Volunteering for conservation organizations outside of work has been a natural extension of my personal and professional passion. The skills, perspectives, and energy I gain from these experiences fuel my work, while my career insights enhance my impact on the causes I care about. This synergy keeps me inspired, growing, and deeply connected to both. 

To date, what’s been your favorite career development or learning opportunity?

Cross-training with colleagues and conservation partners has been one of the most valuable aspects of my career development. Learning from different perspectives has not only deepened my expertise but also reinforced my ability to support others, both directly and indirectly. It’s been a continuous source of motivation.

Jenny Sebree | Senior Product Manager

What’s the most valuable action women can take in their careers?

Own your ambition: Ask. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; create them. Seek mentors, pursue promotions, redefine your role. Ask for the development you deserve. And ask insightful questions: ‘How can I grow?’ ‘Where can I contribute more?’ Your voice is your most powerful tool. Use it.

What’s one thing you’ve done outside of work that has made a positive impact on your career?

Stepping outside my comfort zone and building genuine connections has been a game-changer for my career. I’m not a natural networker, but I’ve learned that it’s not about collecting business cards; it’s about building relationships. Whether it’s connecting on LinkedIn or attending a local industry event, putting yourself out there and engaging with others can open unexpected doors. It’s about finding your community and learning from each other.

Itasha Silvestre | Scrum Master

What is one action you’ve taken in your career to empower women around you?

I had the opportunity to help coordinate the Code2College Program, which is designed to prepare high school students (particularly those from underrepresented communities) for careers in STEM. Being part of this initiative was incredibly rewarding, as it provided students with the skills, mentorship, and confidence needed to pursue technical careers. There is truly nothing more empowering than giving back to young women and reinforcing that they not only belong in these spaces but also deserve a seat at the table.

What’s a workplace practice or initiative that has helped you feel more included and empowered?

I am actively encouraged to provide feedback and voice my opinion, which has fostered a sense of value and inclusion in decision-making processes. Knowing that my contributions are heard and considered has reinforced my confidence and engagement, allowing me to make a meaningful impact.

What’s the most valuable action women can take in their careers?

Network, network, NETWORK! Career advancement isn’t just about what you know — it’s also about who you know. Women should take control of their own career paths by actively seeking opportunities to connect, grow, and expand their professional circles. Never underestimate the power of networking and continuous learning — both are key to unlocking new opportunities and achieving long-term success.

What’s one thing you’ve done outside of work that has made a positive impact on your career?

I am a lifelong learner, always seeking opportunities to grow and expand my expertise. Last year, I earned my SAFe Advanced Scrum Master certification, further deepening my knowledge of agile methodologies. Continuing my education in project management and Scrum has not only enhanced my skill set but has also allowed me to connect with other professionals, exchange ideas, and stay current with industry trends in the tech world.

To date, what’s been your favorite career development or learning opportunity? 

Being part of the client delivery teams has been one of my most valuable learning experiences. While I typically work with software development teams, this opportunity allowed me to gain insight into another side of the business. It gave me a deeper understanding of how the work of the delivery teams directly impacts the development teams I collaborate with, strengthening my ability to bridge the gap between both functions.

Taking action beyond International Women’s Day

Accelerating action isn’t just a one-day commitment. At PayIt, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where women are empowered to lead, innovate, and drive change. Whether it’s through mentorship or advocacy, every step forward makes a difference. 

If you’re looking to join a company that values the advancement of its employees, check out the open roles at PayIt.