International Women’s Day – The Women Powering iProov

It’s International Women’s Day and we decided to celebrate by hearing from some of the  talented women that work here at iProov. We asked them two questions:

1. What’s your favourite thing about working in the technology industry?
2. What advice would you give to young women starting out in their career? 

1: What’s your favourite thing about working in the technology industry?

Sital: The technology industry is incredibly fast-paced. At iProov we’re on the bleeding edge of technology innovation – what we’re doing has a material impact on keeping my friends and family safe online. We make something incredibly powerful and sophisticated easy to use for those that aren’t so tech-savvy. It also means that I get to work with incredibly talented people in domains I never knew existed.

Susannah: I’m exposed to job functions that I wouldn’t usually come across in my day to day life. I love being surrounded by innovation and intelligence which fuels my creativity as a marketer.

Freya: There is an amazing community of technology professionals. Though women aren’t equally represented (yet) in all areas of tech, the strength of them is mighty. They’re always willing to share their stories, experiences, and insights to help others. 

Bilyana: The technology industry is focused on breaking new ground and it’s the place where new inventive ideas and things are created. It’s exciting working in an environment full of variety, challenge, growth and advancement. 

Lynne: Technology underpins so much of what we do in the world. Being part of something meaningful and that can have a material impact on everyone’s daily lives is hugely exciting.

Martina: Every day is a new challenge and a good opportunity to learn something new. It’s great to work in such an innovative and fast-paced environment where everyone supports each other to solve problems and achieve goals.

Reena: It’s the way forwards. To know that I am a part of this fast paced and innovative industry excites me and makes me even more passionate about my contributions and the value my role adds.

Mirielle: No two days are the same. There’s always new technology and innovations around the corner that fuel my ideas. It’s great being on a journey where you are contributing to making a difference on how people interact with technology in their everyday lives.

Sarah: The technology industry is full of very bright people, which means that you’re challenged (in a positive way) every single day. 

Trupti: I’m the only person in tech and science from my banking family. I enjoy working in tech as well as teaching. My interest began in tech and teaching more when I trained visually impaired students with customised ORCA in 2009. Working in tech is making someone’s life better with innovation. I like attending meetups and I was an active volunteer for PyLadies Mumbai and Drupal meetups. Lockdown did not stop me – I organised and conducted the first online PyLadies meetup in March 2020. I always keep myself updated in tech by reading, listening to healthy debates and keeping myself open to learning from everyone around me.

Aarti: Technology is one of the very few industries that shifts the way the world lives and people behave. Technology work environments are often cradles for new concepts to take shape. It touches many other sectors. You can work in technology and play a part in healthcare or agriculture or entertainment! The variety, constant evolution and an opportunity to leave a good legacy behind are some of the reasons why I love working in tech!

2: What advice would you give to a young woman starting out their career today?

Sital: Do something that you enjoy and plays to your skills, as career choices today are much wider and varied. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t doubt your capabilities.

Susannah: Believe in yourself and your capabilities. Trust your instincts and use your voice. There’s a place for you at the table – take a seat and join us! 

Freya: Take your time and trust yourself. You absolutely don’t have to know what you want to do or feel like you’re behind because you’re not an expert by age 25. And don’t be afraid to ask questions (yes, even the ones that you feel stupid asking); you’re learning, it’s allowed.

Bilyana: Try to learn as much as you can, don’t be shy to ask questions and show confidence in your work. Life is full of obstacles that you will overcome but also with opportunities to be taken. 

Lynne: Learn as much as you can about whatever type of work you choose to do. Look for inspiring people and learn from them. Be curious, interested and passionate and be prepared to get things wrong and learn from your mistakes. 

Martina: Don’t be shy! Express yourself. A positive and passionate mindset is the key to success.

Reena: Don’t let anyone hold you back. You can do and be whatever you want. Believe in yourself, set realistic goals, network with others, ask questions, learn from your mistakes and those of others. Write down your strengths and achievements in a book and keep adding to this over the years. If you ever find yourself doubting yourself or just feel like it’s becoming too much to handle, go back to that book and remind yourself of what you have achieved and your success so far. Keep going.

Mirielle: Determination to succeed. Don’t be afraid to share your ideas no matter how insignificant you think they are. Work with your colleagues to build on those ideas and create something amazing!

Sarah: There’s a famous quotation – “Whether you think you can or can’t, you’re right” – so be courageous and believe in yourself. And always work for a good boss. 

Trupti: Just be yourself, enjoy your work and never compare.

Aarti:  Adapt, pivot, learn, grow!  There is no such thing as “career for life”.  Don’t be afraid to change career tracks. Never second guess yourself!  Trust your instincts and follow your vision 🙂