Exploring Centuro Global’s innovative approach to democratizing technology access for a borderless future.

Dec 13, 2023

In an era where technology knows no bounds and business ideas transcend geographical limits, diversity in the tech world has become a cornerstone for innovation and growth. The recent recognition of our founders; Asma Bashir and Zain Ali, in TechRound’s BAME50 list, underscores the pivotal role of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) entrepreneurs in shaping the global tech landscape. 

The State of Diversity in Tech 

The technology sector, renowned for its innovation and progress, still faces significant challenges when it comes to diversity, particularly in leadership and founder roles. A deeper dive into the statistics paints a clear picture. 

Representation of Ethnic Minorities

Recent studies indicate that ethnic minority groups are underrepresented in tech, especially at the founder and executive levels. For instance, a report by Extend Ventures (2020) revealed that Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) individuals in the UK only represent a small fraction of tech entrepreneurs receiving venture capital funding. 

Funding Disparities

The disparity becomes more evident in funding patterns. Data shows that BAME-led businesses receive significantly less venture capital funding compared to their counterparts. For example, a study highlighted that less than 1% of venture capital in the UK goes to Black entrepreneurs. 

Employment Statistics

In terms of employment, BAME individuals in the tech industry also face a disparity. According to a report by the British Computer Society (2021), only around 15% of the tech workforce in the UK is from a BAME background, which is not reflective of the general population diversity. 

Gender Diversity in Tech

Gender diversity is another crucial aspect. Women, particularly those from ethnic minority groups, are underrepresented in tech roles. The UK’s Tech Talent Charter reported that only about 26% of tech roles are filled by women, and the percentage is even lower for ethnic minority women. 

Impact of Diversity on Performance

On the brighter side, there’s growing evidence that diverse teams perform better. McKinsey’s report (2020) on diversity in the workplace found that companies with diverse executive teams are more likely to experience above-average profitability. 

Centuro Global recognises these challenges and is dedicated to addressing them. Our approach is not just about acknowledging the gaps but actively working to bridge them. We believe in the power of a diverse workforce to drive innovation, creativity, and business success. By fostering an inclusive environment and supporting diverse talent, we are not only contributing to a more equitable industry but also setting new standards for what tech companies can achieve. 

Our Founders: A Testament to Inclusivity 

Our founders, Asma Bashir and Zain Ali, embody the spirit of diversity and inclusion. Their unique backgrounds and vision have shaped Centuro Global’s ethos, creating a culture where different perspectives are not just welcomed but celebrated. 

Asma Bashir: A Trailblazer in Legal Innovation

Asma Bashir‘s illustrious career in legal services and her entrepreneurial journey with Newland Chase demonstrate her profound expertise in global legal frameworks. Her ability to guide businesses through growth and expansion into international markets is unmatched. Asma’s role in Centuro Global is pivotal, offering unparalleled insights and strategies to entrepreneurs and investors aiming for global reach. 

Zain Ali: Bridging Global Gaps

Zain Ali‘s journey from a lawyer aiding scale-ups and multinational companies to the founder of Centuro Global is a testament to his vision of a unified global business platform. His experiences in Argentina and Beijing enriched his understanding of cross-border challenges, inspiring him to establish a solution that simplifies global business complexities. Centuro Global, under Zain’s leadership, stands as a beacon for companies navigating the intricate world of international business. 

Centuro Global: Levelling the Playing Field 

At Centuro Global, we take pride in our diverse team, hailing from every continent and speaking a multitude of languages. This rich cultural diversity fuels our innovative thinking and enhances our understanding of global markets. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond race and ethnicity, as we actively strive to empower individuals regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability.  

With founders like Asma and Zain at the helm, we not only support SMEs and multinationals in their global ventures but also empower entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to dream without borders. 

Conclusion 

Thank you to TechRound and all the remarkable companies featured on the BAME50 list. The inclusion of Asma Bashir and Zain Ali in the BAME50 list is not just a personal achievement but a beacon of inspiration for ethnic minority entrepreneurs globally.  

As we look to the horizon of 2024, Centuro Global stands as a testament to the power of diversity in driving global innovation and progress, a home for dreamers and doers, and a movement reshaping the global business landscape. 

We invite you to join us in this journey of continuous transformation and shared success. Discover more about our inspiring journey, our innovations, and our vision for a connected global business community.