SWiT Inspirational Woman of the Year 2024

A couple of week's ago, I stood on stage at the Scotland Women in Technology Awards, overwhelmed as I received the Inspirational Woman of the Year award.

It was an incredible moment, but I’ll admit, I had a twinge of regret for not preparing a speech. If I could go back, I’d have said something like this:

Being recognised among such talented women is a reminder of how far we’ve come, but also how far we still have to go. The journey for women in tech is often filled with challenges, and I’ve been advocating for change since I was 19. This award isn’t just about me, it’s about all of us who are working to make tech more inclusive, supportive, and empowering for women.

The Power of Representation

Hearing from Liz Krause of Morgan Stanley during the awards ceremony was inspiring. Her journey highlighted the importance of representation and mentorship in tech. Seeing women at every level of leadership reminds us that our voices matter, and our presence at the table isn’t optional, it’s absolutely essential.

As someone with a seat at that table, I feel a deep responsibility to use my position to make space for more women to join and thrive. Whether it’s mentoring, advocating for inclusivity, or challenging outdated norms, I’m committed to pushing for change.

To Women in Tech: Own Your Space

To the brilliant women making their mark in tech:

• Push past the obstacles.

• Stand up for yourself and others.

• Remember the power you hold and the difference you can make.

You belong here, and your voice is needed. Own your space, even when it feels challenging, because your presence is paving the way for others.

Celebrating Our Community

A huge thank you to the SWiT team for organising such an inclusive and inspiring event at the Radisson Blu, and to the Zühlke Group for sponsoring my award. The work you do is making a real difference for women in tech, and it’s a privilege to be part of this community.

Congratulations to all the winners and shortlisted women. Each of you is making waves in your own way, and together, we’re creating a stronger, more inclusive tech landscape.

Let’s keep pushing for a better future. Whether it’s speaking up for inclusive cultures, mentoring the next generation, or fighting for equitable opportunities, we all have a role to play. The road isn’t always easy, but the impact we can have is immeasurable. Here’s to a tech industry where everyone, can thrive, innovate, and succeed.