A Tribute To Women In Tech
Happy Women’s Month, South Africa. As we celebrate the achievements and progress we’ve made in supporting our women, we also acknowledge the work that lies ahead in building a more inclusive future for all. Embracing diversity has been shown to be more than just a moral imperative; it is a strategic advantage that drives innovation and fosters success.
According to research conducted by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and the Technical University of Munich, companies with the greatest gender diversity have reaped substantial benefits. Notably, about 34% of their revenues in the last three years were attributed to innovative products and services, proving the power of diverse perspectives in driving superior innovation.
At Platform45, we fully embrace this sentiment. As a company that values diversity and inclusivity, we recognise the significance of women’s contributions to the technology industry.
In this article, we aim to shine a spotlight on the incredible women of Platform45 and celebrate their achievements. We have had the privilege of gathering insights, wisdom, and experiences from these trailblazing women, providing an inspiring glimpse into their journeys and aspirations within the tech world.
Michelle Steenberg — Chief People Officer
Technology is an industry I’m very proud of being a part of. If more of us embrace our uniqueness, showcase our different perspectives and ultimately share our knowledge with one another, we will all be truly unstoppable. We must also not be afraid to experiment, life is after all about creating, testing and iterating until the best versions of ourselves emerge.
Leigh Josephs — Head of Product Delivery
As a woman with more than 20 years of experience in the Technology Industry, I have seen firsthand the value that women bring to the table. We are just as capable of succeeding in this field as men and we often bring a unique perspective that can be invaluable. According to a recent study by the World Bank, women make up only 25% of the global workforce in software development, and only 18% in Africa. However, a study by the African Development Bank found that women-led tech startups are more likely to be successful than male-led startups. This means that there is a huge untapped pool of talented women out there that can make a significant contribution to the future of technology.
So if you’re a woman who is thinking about a career in technology, I encourage you to go for it and join the legacy left for us by great women such as Ada Lovelace, who wrote the first Algorithm and is considered the first computer programmer, or Margaret Hamilton, who worked on the Apollo guidance computer which helped land the first humans on the moon. YOU have the potential to make a real difference!
Ashley Shore — SNR Back-end Engineer
There is no area of expertise, position, or level of performance that you cannot obtain. Each individual, regardless of their sex, brings different things to the table, and if you let your sex define your ability or what you think of yourself, you are setting yourself up for failure. Keep the people around who want to see you succeed; those are the people who will pick you up when you doubt yourself.
Natalia Delgado — Product Designer
Our path as women in tech is one of immense pride and progress, a testament to our determination to make our mark in the industry. We are creating a legacy that not only celebrates our achievements but also paves the way for an even more inclusive and empowering future.
Our products, born from the crucible of inclusivity, are bridges to previously uncharted territories. We’re not just building software or devices; we’re crafting opportunities and spaces that were once elusive. Every line of code we write, every pixel we place, is an embodiment of our commitment to ensuring everyone has a seat at the tech table.
As women, we possess an innate understanding of human emotions and experiences. The empathy we infuse into our creations makes our journey even more extraordinary. This empathy acts as a compass, guiding us to design products that resonate deeply with people from all walks of life. Our ability to envision the needs of diverse communities results in solutions that are not only functional but also profoundly meaningful.
Being a woman in tech is an exciting adventure, one that embraces our capacity to influence and uplift. Our voices echo through the digital landscape, touching lives and sparking change. It’s within this vibrant intersection of technology and empathy that our impact truly flourishes. We’re shaping experiences that weave together the threads of innovation and understanding, leaving a mark on the tech industry and beyond.
If you are thinking about a career in tech, know this: You are not just entering a field; you are becoming a catalyst for transformation. Embrace the challenges, relish the victories, and let your empathy drive your designs. Together, we are architects of an inclusive future, and the tech industry is our canvas. Let’s continue to build, create, and inspire — together.
Nicola Vandyar — Junior Software Engineer
They say life takes unexpected turns, and mine was no different. Being in my 30’s as a seasoned professional in the world of Human Resources and Finance, my journey into the realm of software engineering was an audacious leap of faith.
Little did I know that the click of a mouse on a free online coding course would trigger a transformation to a passionate career switch. I took a bold step forward, fueled by an unwavering determination to not only acquire software qualifications but to carve a niche in the tech universe.
My initiation as an intern, from the intricate world of Ruby and joining forces with the AI team for image segmentation, was both challenging and exciting. The path from intern to software engineer was a rugged terrain strewn with hurdles and doubts.
There were moments when the tech realm felt overwhelming, when imposter syndrome whispered its insidious doubts. But I never relented. It wasn’t easy; it was a dance with uncertainty, a tango with the unknown. But it was worth every stumble, every challenge and having to work alongside the brilliant women of Platform 45 was a privilege beyond words.
It was at Platform45 that I found the courage to take each step, to face each challenge head-on. They were more than colleagues; they were a tribe of trailblazers who shattered glass ceilings and left behind a trail of stardust.
From a career entrenched in HR and Finance to becoming a warrior in the world of software, my journey reflects the untamed spirit of women daring to be different. It’s a reminder that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the audacity to act despite it. To all the women venturing into uncharted territories, remember that your journey is a beacon of inspiration for others.
It’s about rewriting narratives, defying odds, and leaving footprints of empowerment for generations to come. In the realm of technology, we are architects of change, forging paths that inspire and empower.
So let’s continue to break barriers, dream without limits, and, most importantly, support each other every step of the way. Because when we rise, we elevate not just ourselves, but an entire generation.
Talifhani Tshifura — Junior Software Engineer
Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered challenges, but my hard work has always spoken for itself. I firmly believe that passion, determination, and perseverance are the keys to success in this field. As a woman in tech, it’s essential to recognise and embrace your unique perspective and strengths.
As a woman in the tech industry, I feel a responsibility to be a role model and pave the way for future generations. I hope that my journey and achievements inspire other women to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Together, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive and diverse tech community where everyone’s contributions are valued and celebrated.
Being a Junior Software Developer has taught me that hard work and passion are the driving forces behind success. As I continue to grow and excel in this industry, I hope to see more women joining and thriving in tech, contributing their unique perspectives, and making a lasting impact on the world through technology. Let’s empower each other and support one another, and together, we will shape the future of tech for the better.
Vivienne Watt — Product Designer
The magic in building great software solutions lies in collaboration. As a woman in tech, I believe we offer new perspectives and ways of thinking that allow us to tackle solutions from a different angle. It’s an industry where your voice can be heard and you can make a difference in the broader community.
Roxanne Brown — Junior Software Engineer
As someone who changed careers into the tech industry I can say that it was really scary but worth it. I am finally happy in my job and get challenged everyday. If you’re worried but want to make the change or you’re not sure if this is the direction for you, I can say that it was worth the fear of the unknown.
Amy Wium — Junior Product Designer
As a designer, I get to infuse a bit of myself into my designs, bringing my unique perspective and creativity to the table. I recently changed fields which is always a little scary, but I work with amazing people who never let me feel out of place.
Kiara White — Product Designer
As a product designer, I’ve discovered that we never stop learning, and it’s surprisingly humbling. Working alongside incredibly skilled individuals has truly transformed me into a better designer, even though it can be challenging. Growth often happens outside our comfort zones, and I’ve learned to embrace it for doing meaningful work.
In the rapidly changing tech landscape, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Look after yourself. Take a walk, touch some grass, and feel the sunshine. Those little things matter too.
For all the women venturing into the tech industry, my hope is that you find joy in continuous learning, build a supportive network, and embrace the unique contributions you bring to the table. But remember that our value extends far beyond technical abilities.
The stories shared by our remarkable women at Platform45 exemplify the strength, resilience, and courage that define the journey of women in the tech industry.
As we commemorate Women’s Month, let us recommit ourselves to fostering an environment that supports and uplifts women in technology. By celebrating their accomplishments and nurturing their talents, we can collectively work towards a future where diversity thrives. Together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future for women in tech and for our nation as a whole.
