Inspiring Leadership: Tales from a Decade in Software Engineering
Before we delve into my perspective, I’m keen to hear your thoughts on the matter
Being a leader isn’t merely about decision-making and team guidance; it’s about empowering and supporting individuals, particularly women, to excel. Throughout my decade-long journey as a software engineer, I’ve encountered remarkable leaders who significantly influenced not only my professional growth but also my personal life.
And let me tell you, as a mother of two young kids — one four years old and the other two — when you’re balancing work deadlines with explaining to a toddler why pajamas aren’t for school, and playing catch at the same time, you really appreciate good leadership!
The Pregnant Programmer: A Supportive Leader
In many workplaces, the news of a woman’s pregnancy often triggers concerns about continuity and planning for her absence. During my first pregnancy, I wrestled with uncertainties about my future at work, questioning my ability to continue contributing meaningfully amidst impending motherhood. However, my experience shifted significantly during my second pregnancy, thanks to Furqan Aziz, a leader whose unwavering support and encouragement allowed me to stay engaged and motivated. His empathy and belief in my capabilities reassured me that pregnancy didn’t diminish my professional worth.
This supportive approach echoes the resilience depicted in “The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006), where unwavering support fuels Chris Gardner’s pursuit of a better life.
“The Pursuit of Happyness” tells the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son. Will Smith’s portrayal of Gardner showcased his ability to bring depth and vulnerability to a character, portraying the emotional journey of a man determined to create a better life for himself and his child. Smith’s performance in this breakout role demonstrated his range as an actor, proving that he could excel in both comedic and dramatic roles. His portrayal earned him critical acclaim and further established him as one of Hollywood’s leading actors.
Hammad Ur Rehman: The Box Builder
Since March 2024, I’ve had the privilege of working under Hammad Ur Rehman, the CTO of Dycoders. Hammad’s leadership style has profoundly shaped my approach to work. His encouragement to think creatively and his mantra, “Think outside the box. And if there is no box, build one, then think outside of it!” embodies his innovative leadership. His support and belief in my potential have empowered me to explore new ideas and take risks, mirroring the resilience portrayed in “The Pursuit of Happyness.” Hammad’s leadership fosters an environment where colleagues are encouraged to innovate and pursue their passions, illustrating his commitment to nurturing talent. Leadership and Empowerment for Women
Leadership and Empowerment for Women
My journey as a woman in the tech industry has been significantly influenced by supportive leadership. Leaders like Furqan Aziz and Hammad Ur Rehman exemplify the importance of creating inclusive environments where women can thrive. By understanding and addressing the unique challenges women face, these leaders ensure that every team member feels valued and capable of contributing their best.
Creating Inclusive Environments: True leaders recognize and address the unique challenges women face in the workplace. By fostering inclusive and supportive environments, they empower women to contribute fully.
As Sheryl Sandberg wisely stated, “In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders.”
Promoting Work-Life Balance: Effective leaders support work-life balance, enabling women to excel both professionally and personally. This flexibility is crucial for women juggling multiple roles, such as professional responsibilities and motherhood.
Anne-Marie Slaughter rightly noted, “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.”
Mentorship and Sponsorship: Having mentors and sponsors can significantly impact a woman’s career trajectory. These leaders not only provide guidance but also advocate for their mentees’ growth and development. As Oprah Winfrey aptly put it, “A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself.”
Challenging Stereotypes: True leaders challenge stereotypes and biases that hinder women’s progress. By offering equal opportunities for growth and advancement, regardless of gender, they unlock the potential of every team member.
Encouraging Resilience: Resilience is key to overcoming challenges, as depicted in “The Pursuit of Happyness”. Effective leaders cultivate resilience by supporting their team members through setbacks and encouraging them to learn from failures.
Maya Angelou’s insight captures this spirit: “I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.”
Conclusion
True leadership is about more than just managing tasks; it’s about inspiring and supporting people to achieve their best. The influence of great leaders has been instrumental in my growth as a software engineer and as an individual. By sharing these stories, I hope to highlight the importance of empathy, encouragement, and open communication in leadership. Just like the protagonist in “The Pursuit of Happyness,” I have been able to overcome challenges and achieve success, thanks to the unwavering support of these true leaders.
Moreover, their leadership has underscored the importance of empowering women in the workplace, ensuring that we have the support and opportunities needed to thrive. True leaders pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable work environment, where everyone, regardless of gender, can achieve their full potential. So, here’s to leaders who don’t just lead by example, but also know how to crack a joke and make the journey enjoyable!
And to all the working mothers out there juggling conference calls and carpool duty, remember: if you can handle a room full of kids hopped up on birthday cake, you can handle anything the corporate world throws at you!
As Marissa Mayer said, “I always did something I was a little not ready to do. I think that’s how you grow.”
