Women Leaders in FinTech.
2026 Honorary Luncheon
Honoring the women leading the future of payments
Women are building the infrastructure, driving the strategy, and closing the deals that power the global payments economy — and they deserve to be celebrated, not just behind the scenes.
Optimized Payments launched the FinTech Honorary Event to create a dedicated moment of recognition and connection for the trailblazers shaping our industry. Every year, we gather payments and finance professionals from across the ecosystem to celebrate those who show up, contribute, and push the industry forward.
“We launched this event to celebrate the incredible women shaping the payments space — not just with innovation, but with integrity, vision, and leadership.”
Ashleigh Nails, Director of Marketing, Optimized Payments
Meet our keynote speaker
Founder & CEO, Burgos Consulting Group, Inc.
Dr. Gail Burgos is the CEO of PayTech Women, the premier organization supporting the advancement of women across the payments industry. With more than 25 years of leadership in financial services and DEI, she brings a bold vision and deep commitment to building inclusive, impactful communities for women in fintech.
Prior to PayTech Women, Dr. Burgos served as Senior Diversity and Inclusion Officer at TSYS and SVP of DEI at 1st Sentry. She founded Burgos Consulting Group to advise corporate clients on sustainable, inclusive workplace cultures. She is also the visionary behind Project Cookie Jar, a financial literacy initiative developed in partnership with Girls Inc. to educate and empower young girls in Columbus and Atlanta.
A recognized thought leader, Dr. Burgos has been featured at Money 20/20, the Leaders in Payments Podcast, and the Columbus State University Diversity Forum.
An afternoon unlike any other industry event
From welcome cocktails to custom leather keepsakes, every detail is designed so honorees and guests feel celebrated, connected, and inspired.
Cocktail Reception
Start the afternoon with curated cocktails and the chance to connect with fellow payments professionals in a relaxed, welcoming setting before the ceremony begins.
Awards Luncheon
An elegant seated luncheon where we recognize remarkable women across categories spanning innovation, legacy, rising talent, and industry excellence.
Custom Leather Experience
A one-of-a-kind activation where attendees personalize their own leather goods — a lasting, tangible keepsake from a truly memorable afternoon.
Spa & Activities
Unwind and recharge with spa activities following the luncheon — the perfect close to an inspiring afternoon with your community.
Industry Networking
Connect across payment providers, platforms, and partners in a setting built around inclusion, appreciation, and genuine community — whether you are early in your career or a decades-long veteran.
Gaylord Opryland
Held in Nashville’s iconic Tennessee Ballroom — a stunning backdrop that matches the gravity and grandeur of the occasion.
Plan your visit to Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee
The afternoon at a glance
Seven awards. Seven stories worth telling.
From emerging stars to enduring legacies, our awards recognize the full spectrum of excellence across the payments industry.
What honorees are saying
Being recognized by peers in the payments space is incredibly meaningful — it reflects the hard work, collaboration, and resilience required to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. Elevating women in this space isn’t just about representation; it’s about bringing fresh perspectives to systems that power global commerce.
Being recognized by one’s peers is a means toward validating hard work and contributions — signifying that one’s expertise and input is valued. This sort of recognition fosters confidence to support continued excellence and a foundation for collaborative partnerships.
A look back at last year
Held ahead of the MAG Payments Conference — 100+ payments and finance professionals, 7 award categories, one unforgettable afternoon.
Don’t miss your seat at the table.
Spots are limited. Register now to join 100+ payments and finance professionals in Nashville this September for an afternoon of recognition, connection, and celebration.