Some advice I wish that I could have told my younger self?

I would tell my younger self that there was a place for her in this world, and to not be disheartened if it wasn’t immediately obvious where and what that place was. We grow up with such a linear representation of what career growth and success looks like, whereas in reality, true growth and development is achieved by having the bravery and tenacity to test out a variety of opportunities and pathways.

What do you think is one of the most significant barriers to female leadership?

After 15 years in the digital and advertising landscape, and running a female focussed organisation for 9 of those years, I have seen (and experienced) first hand the impact of the imposter syndrome and confidence gap. We often lack the confidence in ourselves to put ourselves forward, seize opportunities or believe that we're worthy. I've been surprised to see many women through my career who I see as extremely successful, also exhibit these same challenges.

It's an important barrier that we need to keep breaking down. Continuing to empower women to see their value, help connect them with opportunities and push them in the direction of possibility. Ultimately, everyone is their own best advocate, and we need to believe in ourselves and get comfortable being uncomfortable. But everyone in a workplace has an active role to play in helping advocate, sponsor, and help drive equality and diversity.

What advice would you give to young women trying to break into tech?

We should first acknowledge it's not a simple feat to feel comfortable as a woman in such a male dominated space. I encourage us to play to our strengths, and to not be discouraged by the imbalance, but instead be an ally to this change. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that our achievements have been given based on gender and not merit; or perhaps this whole tech thing is way over our heads but don’t let that negative mindset get the best of you. Most importantly I encourage everyone to be true to yourself and never feel like you need to change to fit the mould. Diversity brings different ideas and experiences to the table, and we should celebrate that.

Tell us about any inspiring women leaders and what you have learnt from them?

The women that inspire me the most are the ones who are actively redefining what being ‘woman’ or ‘female’ means. Particularly our trans, non binary and queer communities and also many of the female musicians out there today. Their ‘womanness’ is often questioned or commented on which is something many of us don’t have to deal with. Not only do they build their own confidence and self worth but they’re constantly encouraging others to do the same. ICONIC.

If you could start all over again, what would you do differently?

Absolutely nothing - every decision and choice I’ve made in my career and personal life has led me to this point and I am really happy with who I am, what I do and how I do it! If there was anything I would do differently it would be to have had even greater intention and confidence; spending 10 years in the very male dominated industry of sports I wish I’d had more belief in myself and not let the perception of inequality and imposter syndrome get the better of me, because there ain’t nothing more powerful than a woman that believes in herself.