As a female leader in digital innovation and technology, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your career?
One of the biggest challenges is that women remain underrepresented in senior levels, especially in male dominated leadership environments like STEM, which means you must constantly navigate what I call implicit bias. From being questioned more often, having to justify decisions to a higher extent, dealing with assumptions about technical or strategic capabilities to managing perceptions of authority, and stereotypes of not having the same level of dedication or being as technical. Navigating this requires resilience, confidence and building up self-assurance despite the challenges.
Another big challenge for female leaders is mastering the art of reaching balance. In my case, I am a mother of three beautiful children – being present in my children’s lives, finding a circle of support through constant moves, and leading major initiatives while managing significant caregiving responsibilities, is extremely important. This is an issue that many women face, and our ability to find that balance is often questioned and judged, still to this day.
How important is mentorship and what impact do you hope to have as a leader and for the next generation of women in STEM?
Due to a lack of female role models in my fields throughout my career, I often had to carve my own path and navigate some struggles on my own. I want to change this for future generations of women. I believe mentorship is not just important, it is crucial.
When I coach and mentor women of any fields, there are clear common patterns, like impostor syndrome and being a part of a male dominated field. Women also have the added struggle of conciliating a healthy work life balance, as they are expected to juggle much more in their personal life than men, as well as motherhood and maternity leave.
We face unique problems as women - from the biases above, to career stagnation, isolation, and underrepresentation. Mentoring can help break that isolation, help build confidence, and create role models that you can relate to, which ultimately helps diminish the feeling of lack of guidance or relatability that comes with impostor syndrome.
Mentorship from women is important as they can help you with relatable experiences and addressing similar challenges, but mentorship from men is equally important as they can and should be allies in this whole process. You can always learn something from someone.
I became a certified coach so that I can actively make a difference and support other women overcome challenges in the best ways possible, so they can shine, grow, and become those leaders we need today. I am also determined to empower not only senior women, but also those starting their career or thinking of embarking on one.
What advice would you give to young women and girls who aspire to build careers in STEM?
Own your expertise, and speak up – wherever you are, and even if you are the only woman in the room. Do this from early on, and challenge yourself to speak up in meetings, present your ideas, ask for opportunities where you can contribute. This can apply not only at work but also at university and school.
Build resilience and adaptability. Technology, and STEM in a wider perspective, requires constant learning, now faster than ever. Careers in STEM are not always going to be a straight path, and that is ok. Everything, including overcoming obstacles, mistakes, or dealing with resistance, builds strength and expertise.
Make others shine as you grow. Do not forget to lift others while you climb to the top. Not only senior positions are role models, colleagues around you who have navigated complex journeys are also important. Make sure you establish a big community and focus on empowering others as you grow.