In this series, we’re asking the women in our MentorHER community for their reflections on the programme.
Here’s the third instalment, and the first from a Mentee, from IMS’s Bekki Walker.
“From the moment I joined, I felt a renewed sense of hope and determination to break down barriers and make my mark in the tech industry.”
Empowering Growth and Breaking Barriers: My MentorHer Journey in the Tech Industry
As a mentee in this incredible initiative, I’d like to share my positive and inspiring experience so far that has not only transformed my career but also my perspective on the limitless possibilities within the tech world.
The tech industry has long been dominated by a gender imbalance, with women often underrepresented in key roles. However, the MentorHer program aims to change this narrative by pairing women mentees with experienced mentors who guide, inspire, and empower them to shatter the glass ceiling. From the moment I joined, I felt a renewed sense of hope and determination to break down barriers and make my mark in the tech industry.
One of the most striking aspects of my MentorHer experience so far is the calibre of my mentor. She is a seasoned professional with an impressive track record in the tech world. Our initial conversations were filled with wisdom, advice, and a genuine passion for helping me succeed. She encouraged me to dream big, set ambitious goals, and gave me the tools to achieve them. Her guidance wasn’t just about technical skills but also about building a strong network, honing my leadership abilities, and gaining confidence in my abilities.
One of the standout features of the MentorHer program is the customisation it offers. My mentor doesn’t just provide generic advice but tailored her guidance to my specific career aspirations. I wanted a really well-structured approach, and she went away and put so much thought into this. She helps me to identify my strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. This personalised approach makes me feel valued and empowered to take ownership of my future.
Confidence is often a challenge for women in the tech industry, especially when they find themselves in male-dominated environments. My mentor plays a pivotal role in helping me build the self-assurance I need to navigate these spaces with grace and assertiveness. She shares stories of her own challenges and triumphs, reminding me that success is attainable through hard work and resilience. With her unwavering support, I can begin to see my potential in a whole new light.
So far, I think one of the biggest things I can take from this is wanting to pay this forward! As my mentor shares her time, knowledge, and experiences with me, I feel an increasing urge to pay it forward. The MentorHer program instilled in me a sense of responsibility to support and mentor future generations of women in tech. I am now actively involved in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in the industry, inspired by the positive change I’ve experienced first-hand.
As I continue this incredible journey that has so far empowered me to dream bigger, work harder, and break through barriers I once thought were insurmountable, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and guidance of my mentor. It is her mentorship that has been the driving force behind my transformation within the tech industry.
Written by Bekki Walker