In this episode of The Issuer Academy podcast, host Merusha Naidu is joined by Theo Kitshoff, CEO and Co-founder of Sticitt, and Drisha Kirkman, Head of Programme Management and Sustainability (MD South Africa) for Paymentology. Together, they explore the intersection of financial literacy and technological innovation.

What You’ll Learn:

How to design financial education tools that create lasting behavioural change, starting with children
Why partnerships between fintech and payment processors are crucial for scaling inclusive solutions
The “Mobile-First Framework” for building financial solutions in markets with limited infrastructure
How to integrate financial literacy into formal education systems through innovative payment solutions
Why embedded finance must be localised for African markets rather than copying global solutions
How to balance technological innovation with practical accessibility in developing markets

Theo Kitshoff is the CEO and Co-founder of Sticitt, a pioneering fintech company focused on reimagining financial literacy for children through innovative payment solutions. With a passion for building sustainable financial habits in young people, he has led the development of child-focused payment cards and recently authored a book on forming lasting financial habits. His work bridges the gap between financial access and education, making complex money concepts accessible to the next generation.

Drisha Kirkman is the Head of Programme Management and Sustainability (MD South Africa) for Paymentology, where she drives scalable payment solutions across Africa. With over 20 years of experience in the payments industry, she has been instrumental in powering major mobile money solutions for providers like Safaricom, Orange, and Vodacom. Her expertise in simplifying complex payment infrastructures has helped numerous fintechs navigate the challenges of launching inclusive financial services in emerging markets.

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Episode Resources:

Theo Kitshoff on LinkedIn
Drisha Kirkman on LinkedIn
Sticitt Website
Merusha Naidu on LinkedIn
Paymentology Website