Women in Data

Ambassadors work closely with Women in Data® to encourage women to set their sights high to achieve their professional and personal goals

What does it mean for you to be recognised as part of the 20 in Data & Tech?

Being part of the '20 in Data and Tech' means a lot to me, as I have found the network to be immensely valuable over the past decade of my career. It has helped me connect with inspiring and incredible women who have accomplished so much in their careers, and whose advice I have always valued. The network has played a crucial role in my personal growth and development, enabling me to progress in my career. Meeting other like-minded women has been a comfort, especially when working on projects as the only technical woman. I am incredibly humbled to have been selected.

Who has been your biggest inspiration?

My sisters have been my biggest inspiration. They both work in the STEM industry and taught me from a young age that it’s cool to like maths and science. They have always been supportive and led me to pursue professional qualifications in mathematical science and onto working in a technical role as a lead data scientist.

What was your breakthrough moment?

My breakthrough moment was during my first year of university, where I met fellow students who were just as passionate about learning and applying mathematics to real-world problems. Meeting like-minded people empowered me to pursue my career in data and use the mathematics I had learned to work in a technical role.

What is your superpower?

I would say my superpower is my dyslexia, as it gives me unique problem-solving skills and the ability to think outside the box. It has made me highly skilled at recognizing complex patterns and brilliant at mechanical and technical construction and design. It allows me to see the bigger picture and lets me focus on important elements without getting lost in the detail.

What has been the most significant barrier in your career?

I feel like my biggest barrier is building and maintaining confidence in my abilities and realizing that failure is a part of the learning curve.

What is some of the advice you’d share with your younger self?

I would tell myself to be patient and to pace myself. Rushing for everything to happen at once will only set you up for failure.

What was your career ambition when you were a teenager?

It was my ambition to be either a mathematician or an artist. When I finished school and applied to university, I selected fine art degrees and maths degrees.

What needs to change in the next 10 years for women in data and tech?

Data and tech careers need to be more visible to empower girls at a young age to choose STEM courses. Platforms such as these are incredibly important to assist in this.