BI student Melissa Heiska is one of the people behind the Women’s Investment Club (WIC). She aims to inspire other women interested in finance.
“Our goal is to increase female representation in finance roles and create an environment where women feel confident choosing a career in finance,” says Melissa.
The goal is to build a strong network of female students at both Norwegian and international schools, where members can connect and share experiences.
“Many finance-related student organizations are male-dominated, which can be intimidating for women. WIC wants to lower the barrier to participation and create an inclusive environment.”
Melissa is currently studying for a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a specialization in finance. She has always enjoyed working with numbers and finds it especially exciting to see how finance constantly evolves.
"Important and inspiring"
“Gender equality in the finance industry enhances economic growth, financial stability, and reduces income inequality. I am happy and proud that our students are involved in such an important and inspiring initiative,” says BI President Karen Spens.
BI has already established a scholarship for women in finance and launched a mentorship program for women in the finance industry in collaboration with ABG Sundal Collier.
“Through the Women’s Investment Club, the most important people in the room – the students themselves – get their own platform to increase engagement and attention around this crucial work,” says Spens.
NBIM wants more female colleagues
Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM) is financially supporting the initiative by allocating funds for the establishment of the various clubs. They are also encouraging other businesses to contribute to the project and hope the launch will be a success.
“We want more young women to discover how incredibly fun and exciting finance is! With WIC, we aim to create a safe environment where women can network, learn about finance on their terms, and build competence and confidence,” says Marte Skaar, Communications Director at NBIM.
NBIM will also support the clubs by providing lectures, company visits, and guidance.
“For our summer internship program in 2024, only one in five applicants were women. Diversity strengthens our organization, and we believe a more balanced gender distribution will provide us with broader perspectives, increase creativity, and facilitate better decision-making.”
Facts about WIC:
- The Women’s Investment Club targets female students interested in finance.
- The clubs are to be run by and for students, offering learning opportunities through events, workshops, and other activities.
- Together with NBIM, schools like BI, NTNU, NHH, NMBU, UiO, OsloMet, and the student organization ANSA, are part of the new initiative.
