#IWD2025
further limit their career advancement, so it’s even more essential to cultivate environments where women feel empowered and valued. What would improve opportunities and prospects for women looking for a career in this sector? Considering a career in tech you can choose from a variety of roles, ranging from deeply technical to commercially focused, not technical at all. Soft skills are just as important as technical skills, so aim to be a “learn-it-all” rather than a “know-it-all”. Reframe imposter syndrome as a sign of growth; adopt a learning attitude. Talk to people who have taken various paths, whether through degrees or apprenticeships. Finding passion makes work more fulfilling. Know that change is ok. Careers don’t have to be linear - constant learning and evolving are key. What blind spots are men missing when it comes to female empowerment? The authority gap. Many men may not fully recognise the extent to which women have to continuously prove their expertise, often more than their male peers. This can lead to exclusion from key projects, overlooked promotions and diminished confidence levels, ultimately hindering career progression. Gender equality is not solely a women’s issue. True progress requires active male allyship, where men not only support but champion change by advocating for women, challenging biases, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Addressing these blind spots through education, awareness and meaningful engagement is essential to achieving impactful change in the industry. What does the future hold for women in this sector in 10 years’ time? I would love to see more women embracing and celebrating their authentic selves. Whether you’re career-driven, ambitious or juggling multiple roles, it’s crucial to stay true to who you are. I’m ambitious and a mother of two young boys; I have strong morals and values that I do not compromise on, even as
mentorship and encouragement to the next generation. I took on my first mentee and became a career coach in my current role, discovering a passionate community focused on women in technology. What have you learned along the way as a woman in a male- dominated environment? The power of authenticity. Staying true to my values, embracing my strengths, bringing my whole self to work has been key to building credibility, resilience, impact and strengthens my personal brand. I’ve also learned the importance of: n Addressing bias and microaggressions: Women often face the authority gap, where their expertise is undervalued compared to their male counterparts. I’ve worked to challenge this by speaking up, leading workshops, and educating both men and women on this issue. n Building a strong network of like- minded individuals has been crucial for navigating challenges and finding new opportunities. n Resilience and self-belief: Earlier in my career, I struggled with self- doubt and imposter syndrome, but I’ve learned to reframe those feelings as opportunities for growth. I actively create safe spaces for women to share their experiences, find mentorship and gain the confidence they need to thrive in the industry. What are the main challenges for women in the industry? Women in tech continue to face challenges that can hinder their progress and success in the industry. The authority gap is compounded by a lack of representation; few women in senior roles makes it difficult for aspiring professionals to envision their own career progression. Microaggressions, like being interrupted in meetings or having assumptions made about their technical abilities add to this. These challenges not only affect individual careers but also impact the broader efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable tech industry. I see many women struggle to balance the demands of work and personal life, and inflexible work environments can
Sheena Prema Multi-cloud specialist, PWC
What first attracted you to this industry and how did you get into the business? I studied Computing and Business Maths at university, igniting my passion for technology. I started as an IT helpdesk analyst at a small IT reseller, discovering a love for problem-solving and customer support. Technology’s dynamic nature and ability to drive business transformation has always fascinated me. I thrive in fast- paced environments where innovation, creativity, and continuous learning are at the forefront. Over time I became increasingly committed to diversity and inclusion which led me to co-chair PwC’s Her Tech Talent in Cloud initiative. This experience has reinforced my belief that technology should be accessible, inclusive and welcoming to all, ensuring that more women have the opportunity to thrive in this industry. What, if any, mentors helped you along the way? I have been fortunate to have many mentors, even if they weren’t officially called that at the time. They were friends, peers, and managers who supported me, guided me and had my back when I needed it most. I have worked with amazing, inspirational men and women, whose advice, encouragement and shared experiences have shaped my career. I have always believed in the power of a strong network. These relationships have reinforced my passion for supporting others, ensuring that I can provide the same level of
MARCH 2025 Volume 47 No.1
83
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker