While women have historically been underrepresented in tech, an increasing number of trailblazing leaders are reshaping the narrative, inspiring the next generation of women professionals to enter and thrive in this dynamic sector.
From breaking barriers to advocating for diversity, today’s women in tech are leading with resilience, innovation, and confidence. On International Women’s Day 2025, here are some insights from leading women voices from India’s tech sector on how to empower women techies to lead and succeed in their professional journey.
For Kalavathi GV, Executive Director & Head of the Global Development Center at Siemens Healthineers, the key to success lies in continuous learning. “My professional journey began three decades ago. The engineer in me was always driven, and coupled with my belief in servant leadership, I focused on building high-performing teams with a larger purpose,” she shares.
Her advice to aspiring women professionals is simple yet profound: never stop learning. Staying curious not only fosters professional growth but also keeps the mind young and adaptable. She also underscores the importance of trusting oneself, stating, “Never wait for external validation. Trust in yourself, follow your instincts, and stay true to who you are. Take the leap, and things will fall into place.”
Confidence and perseverance are vital attributes in a competitive field, as emphasised by Krithika Bhat, CIO of Pure Storage. She urges young women entering tech to embrace fearlessness and seek out mentors who can guide them through the complexities of the industry. “Be fearless. Seek mentors, build a strong support network, and never stop learning,” she advises.
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She further stresses the importance of self-advocacy and representation, adding, “The tech world thrives on diversity, and it’s important to challenge barriers, embrace your ambitions, and take your rightful place as future leaders in technology.” Her words reinforce the necessity of pushing boundaries and fostering inclusivity in an industry that continues to evolve.
For many women, navigating the tech sector means finding a balance between professional success and personal well-being. Archana Bajaj, Director of Software Engineering at Pegasystems, highlights the significance of cultivating confidence early in one’s career. “Believe in your abilities and pursue technology with passion,” she asserts. Equally crucial is the role of mentorship, which can help young professionals navigate challenges and unlock new opportunities.
Beyond career progression, she emphasises the importance of maintaining work-life balance. “Success is not just about professional milestones but also about maintaining well-being and nurturing personal relationships. A fulfilling career is one that allows you to grow while staying true to yourself,” she notes. Her perspective underlines the need for holistic success, where career growth does not come at the expense of personal happiness.
The tech industry is demanding and ever-changing, requiring professionals to stay ahead of trends. Sharmila Khan, Country Head of People Organization at Micron India, advises young women to develop resilience and invest in lifelong learning. “The tech industry is very demanding, and you need to constantly update yourself with the latest technology trends. Always keep learning,” she states.
She encourages women to take proactive steps in upgrading their skills, such as enrolling in courses and training programs. “Invest in yourself, find a mentor who can offer guidance and support in navigating the industry,” she adds. By committing to continuous learning, women can remain competitive and seize new opportunities in a fast-paced sector.
Anita Kapoor, Director – Legal at Lenovo India, reminds women professionals that technology now extends far beyond coding and product development. “The tech industry offers a host of opportunities. Gone are the days when tech positions were equated only with coding, product development, or UI,” she observes. She advocates for breaking conventional moulds and approaching the industry with a fresh perspective.
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“My advice is to break the mould and not be bound by the past. Think fresh, act fast! Continuously challenge yourself and learn every step of the way.” Kapoor’s insights highlight the diverse career paths available within technology, encouraging women to explore roles across various verticals, including legal, operations, and strategy.
For Jaya Vaidhyanathan, CEO of BCT Digital, success in technology is about harnessing innovation to drive meaningful change. “Technology and science are harbingers of meaningful change. They equip young girls and working women professionals with the tools and skills to look at challenges from a unique vantage point,” she states.
Her call to action for young women is bold: “Think Big or Go Home.” She believes that by analysing challenges and leveraging technological advancements, women can create transformative solutions that impact businesses, societies, and entire nations. Her words serve as a powerful reminder that ambition, coupled with innovation, can lead to groundbreaking achievements.
As the Indian tech landscape continues to evolve, the contributions of women professionals will play an increasingly vital role in shaping the industry’s future. As Kalavathi GV aptly puts it, “Take the leap, and things will fall into place.” With fearless ambition and unwavering determination, women will continue to rise as leaders, innovators, and changemakers in technology.
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