30572_Kao Data Critical Careers_Pages - Flipbook - Page 25
What were the pivotal moments that encouraged you to stay in the
industry?
his is the only industry I’ve ever stayed in.
Initially, my career pattern was to dive into a new
industry, absorb as much as I could for a couple
of years, and then move on once I felt I had learned
what I needed. However, the digital infrastructure
industry has captivated my imagination. It’s complex,
constantly evolving, and the pace of change is both
immense and exhilarating. It is addictive for someone
like me who thrives on continuous learning and
dynamic shifts in the landscape.
T
One other aspect of this industry that I think is truly
unique is the incredible support among women.
I’ve worked in ten different industries, and I’ve never
experienced such a focused effort from women helping
other women.
It’s not just refreshing but actually quite motivating.
When I 昀椀rst joined this industry and attended events in
London, I noticed a different vibe—women went out
of their way to welcome newcomers, learn their names,
and include them in conversations and activities.
The events themselves showcased an increasing
number of female speakers who brought diverse
perspectives and made the conversations more
engaging than the more homogeneous panels I had
seen elsewhere. Despite this, I still observed frustrating
limitations. Even as more women took the stage, the
increments were small, and often, men still dominated
the most in昀氀uential panels.
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his was kind of a lightbulb moment for me
and I wanted to do something to change
that. I created panel practice sessions aimed
at getting more women on stage at these industry
events. These sessions were designed to make it
easy for women to say yes to opportunities that
they may have turned down in the past. As women
we have a bad habit of saying no because of a
self-imposed sense that we’re not ready. So, we
give women a chance to practice panel discussions
and hone their public speaking skills, each with
the support of a different industry expert offering
guidance. The secondary bene昀椀t is that we are
creating and sharing a ready-made list of female
speakers for industry event organisers.
T
This initiative has not only helped many women
昀椀nd their voice in the industry but also connected
me with some of the most passionate and driven
individuals, both women and men, who are
committed to fostering diversity and dynamism
within the digital infrastructure sector. Engaging with
such motivated and like-minded professionals has
solidi昀椀ed my love for this fast-paced, ever-changing
industry. I’m not just building a career; I’m actively
participating in reshaping the industry’s culture,
making it a place where everyone can thrive
and contribute.
I can’t imagine leaving now—I’m having way too
much fun!
