Remitly, a key player in the global remittance industry, has been awarded the Best International Money Transfer Award 2024 at the recently concluded UK-Zimbabwe Business Expo, held at the Bethel Convention Centre in Birmingham, United Kingdom. This accolade highlights the company’s unparalleled commitment to providing secure, efficient, and affordable financial solutions for Zimbabweans living abroad and their families back home.
The award underscores Remitly’s leading position within the highly competitive international money transfer sector, particularly for its innovative approach in simplifying cross-border transactions for diaspora communities. The recognition was based on Remitly’s focus on reliability, transparency, and user-friendly platforms that cater to the specific needs of people who rely on remittances to support their loved ones and communities.
The award was collected by Jan Paul, Remitly’s community representative, who hails from Mutare, Zimbabwe. Paul, whose personal journey has been shaped by his Zimbabwean roots, expressed immense pride in accepting the award. In his acceptance speech, he gave an impassioned reflection on his background and the significance of this achievement not only for Remilty but also for the broader Zimbabwean community.
“First and foremost, I’m a proud Mutarean and a proud Zimbabwean. Rooted in the vibrant culture and rich history of my hometown, I carry with me the spirit of a community that has shaped my values and aspirations. The landscapes of Mutare, with their breathtaking views and warm-hearted people, have instilled in me a profound sense of belonging and identity. As I navigate through life, I carry the essence of Zimbabwe within me—its resilience, beauty, and unwavering potential.”
Paul’s comments struck a chord with many at the expo, particularly among the Zimbabwean diaspora who see remittances as a lifeline to their families and as an essential contributor to the country’s economy. His remarks were not only a personal testament to his origins but also a tribute to the broader purpose that Remilty serves within the diaspora community.
He continued, “I am humbled and very grateful to receive the award for Best International Money Transfer. This recognition is not just a personal achievement; it reflects the hard work and dedication of my entire team, who share the same vision of fostering connectivity and facilitating opportunities for our communities, both near and far. Winning this award reinforces my commitment to serving our people and supporting financial inclusivity, allowing those in Zimbabwe and beyond to access essential resources and financial services. It is a reminder that when we unite our efforts and talents, we can create meaningful impact and contribute to the growth of our nation.”
Remitly’s impact is especially noteworthy given the importance of remittances to Zimbabwe’s economy. Remittances have become a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s financial ecosystem, with over $1.8 billion sent back to the country in 2023, an increase of 13% from the previous year. These funds are often used to cover basic needs such as education, healthcare, and housing, making money transfer services like Remitly critical in supporting the day-to-day lives of many Zimbabweans.
The UK-Zimbabwe Business Expo, organised by the Zimbabweans in Diaspora Organisation (ZIDO) in partnership with Zimbabwe’s Embassy in the United Kingdom, provided the ideal platform for Remitly to be recognised for its role. The event, which brought together over 35 businesses from both Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom, was hailed as one of the largest gatherings of Zimbabwean entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate leaders in the UK. With over 1,000 attendees, the expo served as a vital networking opportunity for businesses and government representatives aiming to deepen economic ties between the UK and Zimbabwe.
Remitly’s success at the awards is a reflection of the company’s continued focus on innovation and customer-centric solutions. The company has consistently worked to develop platforms that are accessible to all, ensuring ease of use while maintaining the highest levels of security. Remitly’s digital-first approach has enabled Zimbabweans in the diaspora to send money back home swiftly and securely, all while keeping transaction costs low, a crucial factor for those supporting families in economically challenging environments.
Paul’s acceptance speech also highlighted the broader role of remittance companies in fostering financial inclusion. “Access to financial services is a fundamental need in today’s interconnected world. Remitly is proud to be part of the solution, providing people with the tools they need to support their families and build a better future.”
As a community representative, Paul’s connection to both the diaspora and Zimbabwean communities has been invaluable in shaping Remitly’s mission. His pride in his heritage, coupled with his belief in the transformative power of remittances, was evident as he accepted the award on behalf of the entire Remilty team.
The Best International Money Transfer Award 2024 marks a significant milestone in Remitly’s journey, solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner for Zimbabweans living abroad. It also serves as a reminder of the critical role remittances play in the lives of many and the importance of building efficient, inclusive financial systems that benefit everyone, particularly in countries like Zimbabwe where such contributions are vital to economic stability.
