An advice I would give to other women pursuing leadership careers
It may sound cliché, but feedback truly is a gift — even when it feels like receiving a pair of used socks for your birthday. Most people avoid giving candid feedback because it takes time, energy, and courage. So when someone offers it, pause and reflect. Say thank you. Even when it is imperfectly delivered or influenced by bias, there is still insight to be found.
I think women sometimes receive less direct and less frequent feedback because some people have a perception that it will be taken personally or feel they don’t know them well enough to give honest input. That means we must actively seek it out and create an environment where honesty feels safe for others.
At the same time, invest deeply in your craft. I went from being a girl who loved STEM to a woman navigating male‑dominated technical fields like data science, machine learning/AI, and digital experiences, including digital banking. I learned that credibility and respect must be earned — and they come through demonstrated competence. Technical fluency, rigorous preparation, staying on the cutting edge, and clear reasoning build respect, and respect builds influence.
For women in technical leadership paths: you don’t need to be the loudest voice, the smoothest communicator, or someone who “fits in with the guys.” Leadership and influence grow from self‑reflection, technical mastery, and adaptability.
What inspires me outside of work
My kids are my everyday motivation, but my large-scale inspiration comes from science fiction, especially Star Trek. While I enjoy the science and technology, what resonates most is its optimism and focus on human connection. It reflects a belief that complex problems can be solved through intelligence, cooperation, and hope.
Science fiction is, in many ways, a governance laboratory — a sandbox for exploring ethical dilemmas, technological disruption, and societal change. It reminds me that progress is rarely accidental; it requires intention, hard work, and teamwork.
