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What inspired you to pursue a career in technology?
As a child, I always loved mathematics and applied mathematics. At my school, computer science was introduced as an optional subject. Out of curiosity, I signed up for it, and that shaped the next phase of my education and academics. I was in an all-girls school and only three of us signed up for computer science! From there, I went on to study computer science and engineering for my bachelor’s degree and then began my career in the technology sector.
When you first started your professional career in technology, did you find an imbalance in terms of gender representation?
Yes, absolutely. The tech industry isn’t very gender-diverse; it’s often male-dominated. Most of the time, I was the only woman on the team. It wasn’t always easy, but that’s just how it was. However, I see challenges as opportunities. When I found myself as the only woman or one of just a few, I focused on the shared goals of the team. I didn’t view my colleagues as men or women but as individuals working together toward a common purpose.
Why do you think more women aren’t pursuing careers in this field?
From my perspective, there shouldn’t be any barriers, but I think there’s a myth that mathematics and technology aren’t for girls. It starts early, in school. At school, I noticed many girls feared maths or didn’t enjoy it, whereas boys were often encouraged to excel in it.
I have also observed that boys who dislike maths are often pushed to do it because “they’re boys,” but girls don’t always receive the same encouragement. That needs to change. In fact, girls are often better at maths than boys when given equal opportunities. Today, initiatives like coding camps and summer programmes are helping, but we need to start even earlier, giving all children the tools and exposure they need. With the right support, this gap can be closed.
Is there anything you’ve seen in organisations you’ve worked with that helps women progress their careers and expand their skill sets once they’re working in a technology role?
Yes, absolutely. These days, many organisations are introducing initiatives focused on gender balance, particularly aimed at women in technology. Through these programmes, organisations actively encourage more women to enter technology roles.
Once someone is in a technology career, there are various paths they can pursue within the tech field itself. This is an excellent time to take advantage of these opportunities, whether it’s online courses, professional meetups, or community-driven learning platforms.
Organisations are also introducing “return-to-work” programmes designed for women who have taken a career break for personal reasons. These initiatives are specifically tailored to help women re-enter the workforce. I think this is a fantastic development, and there are so many opportunities out there now – it’s all about recognising and seizing them.
What advice would you give to young women already working in the technology field who are interested in taking on leadership roles?
In the technology industry, leadership can take two forms: leading a technology initiative or leading a team. It’s essential to identify your passion, listen to your inner voice, and understand your strengths. Once you know which direction you want to pursue, start exploring opportunities within or beyond your organisation.
To me, leadership is fundamentally about empowerment – empowering yourself and the people around you. Focus on developing the skills you need and seek out mentorship programmes within your organisation. Many reputed universities also offer courses specifically designed for working professionals—take advantage of these. Leadership is a continuous journey, and building confidence comes from preparation, learning, and persistence.
How would you inspire a classroom of young girls who lack interest in mathematics or computer science?
I would start with something they’re familiar with—social media platforms like TikTok. Young people see the fun videos, how quickly they’re shared with friends, and how certain content always seems to appear in their feeds. I’d then explain the “magic” behind it all—how algorithms make it happen.
By framing it as magic initially, I believe they’d be drawn in, but then I’d reveal that it’s not magic at all—it’s mathematics and applied science in action. Something as seemingly simple as 2 + 2 = 4 is at the heart of these processes. Once they realise this, they might feel inspired to learn more and explore the underlying science behind technology. It’s about breaking down complex concepts into relatable ideas. Technology might seem abstract or intimidating at first, but when you connect it to everyday life, like social media algorithms, it becomes accessible.
Do you admire any female leaders in technology?
Sheryl Sandberg been a great inspiration to me. She often speaks about the importance of “sitting at the table.” Her words resonate deeply with me, as I’m still learning how to claim my place at the table. It’s a message I’d like to share with others. Women should feel empowered to make their presence known and contribute meaningfully to every sphere, including technology.
A final piece of advice?
I’d like to emphasise the importance of community and support, especially for women in technology. Regardless of your field, we can all inspire and uplift one another. Technology is interconnected with so many other disciplines, so collaboration and shared inspiration are key.
I also believe women are naturally skilled in areas like mathematics and finance, even if they don’t always realise it. For example, many women manage household budgets effortlessly, using mental calculations daily. This shows they already have the aptitude for technology and leadership roles—it’s just a matter of recognising and nurturing these strengths.
If we consciously support women on their journeys into technology and leadership, we will create a stronger, more inclusive community. The more we lean into each other for support and encouragement, the more progress we’ll make together.