“They silenced me.”
“They didn’t value my work.”
“They ignored my contributions.”
I’ve heard these phrases throughout my 20+ years in B2B tech. Sometimes from colleagues. Sometimes in my own head.
I’m thankful that while these moments stand out, they don’t define my career. Most of my journey has been with supportive teams and inspiring leaders who helped me grow.
But those few key moments taught me the most.
The pressure cooker of tech doesn’t allow us to be our best selves. I wasn’t my best self either. I changed to fit in until I no longer recognized myself. I spoke less, took up less space, and buried parts of myself that made others uncomfortable.
I’ve sat in exec meetings where my ideas were overlooked until someone else repeated them.
I’ve watched diverse views treated as interesting but not useful.
I’ve felt the sting when speaking up was seen as “rocking the boat.”
The real shift came when I stopped trying to fit in where I had to shrink and started finding places where I could grow.
“I allowed them to silence me” → “I have the power to speak up.”
“I allowed my work to go unnoticed” → “I have the power to show my value.”
“I allowed myself to fit in” → “I have the power to find where I truly belong.”
This isn’t about blame. It’s about seeing when we give away our power and choosing differently.
My career has given me chances to make an impact and lift others in ways I never imagined. For that, I’m truly grateful.
The best lesson wasn’t how to push against barriers. It was finding the tables where my voice was welcomed rather than just tolerated.
In healthier situations, I’ve seen how good people can be. The same colleagues who seemed tough in high-stress settings often show their best selves when the context changes.
As I work in AI today, I see how important diverse voices are to ensure AI work for everyone, not just a select few. We can’t build tech for all without input from all.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is “Accelerate Action” because at this rate, full gender parity won’t arrive until 2158.
Progress isn’t certain. In some areas, we’re moving backward. But that’s exactly why owning our power matters now more than ever.
To every woman facing similar challenges:
Your unique voice isn’t something to hide. It’s your greatest asset.
Your ideas matter not because others say so, but because you bring them forward.
Your strength grows each time you choose to be fully yourself.
What small act of courage will you take today?
#InternationalWomensDay #WomenInTech #AccelerateAction #IWD #AI
