What does a typical day look like for you?

My day typically begins bright and early with training and meditation. Following the morning rush of preparing lunches and getting my kids ready for school, I transition into my workday by carefully planning my schedule. I take a few moments to jot down a to-do list and prioritise tasks that need immediate attention.

As a Development Manager, the bulk of my day is occupied by meetings. These engagements typically revolve around project deliveries, updates with customers, and catch-ups with people within my portfolio. Through these interactions, I stay informed about project progress, address any concerns, and maintain strong connections with both customers and team members.

What motivated or inspired you to pursue a career in software development?

I was steered into software development by my mother, so it wasn’t initially my choice. But over time, I discovered my passion for problem-solving and working with teams to implement solutions. This has kept me motivated to continuously grow in the field despite my initial resistance.

What unique perspectives or approaches do you think you bring to your team and Entelect, as well as our customers?

I strive to bring diversity of thought to the table, as our clients come from diverse backgrounds and industries, each with their own unique challenges and perspectives. By leveraging my own diverse background and experiences, I can better understand and address their needs which has helped in building authentic relationships.

My leadership style naturally incorporates inclusivity and encourages open dialogue, allowing everyone to feel heard and valued.

What obstacles or biases have you faced in your career journey, and how did you overcome them?

I've encountered various obstacles and biases, particularly as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. One significant challenge has been the feeling of isolation or discomfort when I find myself as the only woman in the room. I've learned to overcome these feelings by reminding myself of my capabilities and the fact that I've earned my place at the table through hard work and expertise.

Maintaining self-belief has been crucial in overcoming biases and stereotypes. I've learned to focus on my skills, knowledge, and contributions rather than being preoccupied with gender dynamics. Additionally, I've stayed true to myself and embraced my uniqueness rather than trying to conform to traditional expectations or norms. By being authentic, I've been able to build confidence and gain respect from my peers and colleagues.

What advice would you give to other women aspiring to leadership roles in male-dominated fields?

Firstly, believe in yourself, recognise your worth and capabilities. Trust that you deserve to be where you are based on your skills and achievements.

I also encourage women to seek out mentors, allies, and networks that can offer guidance, encouragement, and solidarity. Surround yourself with individuals who champion diversity and inclusion.

Speak up and don't be afraid to voice your opinions, ideas, and concerns. Your perspective is valuable, and speaking up can help challenge biases and drive positive change.

Embrace your uniqueness. Your diversity of thought and experience is an asset. By staying true to yourself, believing in your capabilities, and advocating for inclusivity and diversity, you can pave the way for success and inspire others to do the same.

Finally, what do you envision for the future of women in leadership positions in the tech industry, and what role do you hope to play in shaping that future?

My hope is for a significant increase in the number of women striving for success and occupying seats at the table. I believe achieving gender balance in leadership is essential for fostering diverse perspectives and driving innovation.

Personally, I aspire to play a pivotal role in shaping this future by actively coaching and mentoring women within my sphere of influence. By sharing my journey and emphasising the importance of a growth mindset over solely technical skills, I aim to empower the next generation of women to enter the field with confidence and determination.