IWD 2024: Recognizing International Women’s Day 2024
In celebration of International Women’s Day 2024 (IWD2024), we are honored to spotlight Nur Aniza Immam Ali and Wendy Chua Xing Zhao, two exceptional women leading the charge at SRKK in the male-dominated IT industry.
Aligned with this year’s IWD2024 theme, ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress,’ and the #InspireInclusion initiative, we feature our Microsoft Certified Professionals, reflecting our commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering community where our women feel valued, nurtured, and celebrated for their contributions to the tech industry.
Nur Aniza’s journey into technology began early, fuelled by her cousin’s passion. Her meteoric rise from intern to Consulting Director exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and dedication that has made her a driving force in SRKK. With a diverse skill set spanning in SharePoint, automation and Content AI, Aniza has spearheaded projects for prestigious organizations like Khazanah Nasional Berhad, facilitating automation processes and workflow streamlining.
Similar to Aniza, Wendy has always been at the forefront of the latest gadgets and technologies from a young age. Her transition from the finance industry to BI Consultant of SRKK Data showcases her unwavering commitment to innovation and growth. With a background in statistics, Wendy has helped many companies build dashboards to improve operational efficiency, cashflow and net profit through data-driven decisions and real-time data insights.
As recently reported by The Star, industry experts have long acknowledged that bringing women into the tech industry and investing in their futures is a core part of building a skilled workforce that can help further advance the field.
At SRKK, we believe in levelling the playing field for women in the tech industry. Join us as we explore Aniza and Wendy’s journeys, where they share their experiences advocating for themselves and overcoming challenges along the way.
1. As a woman in a male-dominated field, have you experienced any stereotypes about women in the IT industry?
Aniza: “Within the company, I wouldn’t say so. I’ve been with SRKK for over 10 years, and I have always seen everyone been treated fairly. I’ve never experienced discrimination because of my gender. From day one, I’ve felt supported and been given the safe space to express myself openly. We can just walk in the CEO room to address some issues or concerns and receive feedback. With that safe space also comes with the good relationships I have with my colleagues. We would give each other advice freely and provide a space for heart-to-heart talks.
I think having quite a number of female leaders in the company, including my boss, also contributes to this inclusive culture. I could see how they would present themselves as a leader and that earned them a lot of respect from our peers and clients. Somehow they are inspiring me day to day, and I look up to them a lot. I am proud to work alongside these exceptional female leaders. While I cannot say for certain how things would be with a male supervisor, but I am glad for the opportunity to work alongside such incredible female leaders.”
Wendy: “Even though I am the only female in a team full of men, they are very supportive. We’re all given equal opportunities to do what we want, and it feels as though there’s no gender indifference. This solidifies the idea we have as a team that “As long as you’re human, you can work with us.” I love that.
In SRKK, I also find it relatively easy to voice out my ideas and concerns to not only my colleagues but also the leaders, and they will listen and provide me the space to grow. As long as you’re keen to learn, you’ll be given the opportunities for professional development and growth. Especially among the youths like me, we are all eager to grow and learn, so it’s great that I’ve been given this platform.
Perhaps in the 80s or 90s, people have stereotypes about women in the workplace. But in this generation, everyone focuses on diversity and inclusion by supporting one another’s dreams. I do think that the stereotypes about women’s technical abilities and leadership skills have long been abolished, and their capabilities are more being recognized. ”
2. In general, have you ever heard or noticed stereotypes revolving around working women? How can organizations break the gender bias and practice inclusion to make women feel supported?
Aniza: “I’ve heard stories from a friend of mine where organizations can be hesitant to employ married women and mothers. Just because of our biological factors, it shouldn’t be a barrier for women to find jobs. Companies really need to change this bias towards women who are trying to start a family. Instead of solely relying on these stereotypes to judge if they can perform well, companies should evaluate women based on their experience and expertise, not stereotypes.
To inspire inclusion for women, I really hope companies who have not started to start creating an environment that prioritizes on women’s rights. I know that many women lack the privilege to express themselves and feel safe within the company, so they feel demotivated in their roles. So, I would suggest improvement to the environment and policies that benefit all workers, where everyone’s achievements and contributions are valued! This includes offering equal opportunities, benefits, and support for returning to work after marriage or childbirth, such as flexible hours, remote work options, childcare support, and maternity leave policies. Some women are afraid to come back to the workforce after giving birth and need to be encouraged.”
Wendy: “Based on my observations, not every company provides women with the platform to be themselves and grow. I noticed that pregnant women are still being discriminated against and seen as a financial burden due to their perceived “lack of contribution” at work. As it is compulsory to give three months of maternity leave, I believe it wouldn’t create a huge impact on the business. Even during their recovery period, they should be treated fairly, as they may contribute new ideas for business improvement upon their return to work.
It is true that in this generation, there’s increasing promotion of diversity and gender equality as the world progresses. What we can actually do is to provide support and embrace these women to pursue what they believe is best for them. This not only further promotes inclusion in the workplace, but also reinforces the idea that women are equal to men. Providing such a platform will help them know their values and provide them the confidence they need to lead.
3. Tell us how you advocate for yourself in the IT industry.
Aniza: “When I first came in, it was only me and my manager in a very fast-paced environment, so I challenged myself to become a self-starter and research about technology on my own. There were no seniors to guide me. To adapt, I self-learnt from a lot from videos. I eventually took the lead for an average of 12 to 15 projects with the support of my team. It’s very challenging but with time, I learned that working in an environment with supportive colleagues allows me to ask the right questions and obtain the relevant information needed for my growth. I know the right person to ask the right question. For example, I can readily turn to Wai Yin who is our CTO for expert advice on complex issues.”
Wendy: “Being a woman in the tech industry comes with its own set of challenges, particularly to keep yourself updated with the latest technologies in which you have to be open minded and curious to learn. So, I prioritize continuous upskilling through obtaining professional certificates like Microsoft, given their status as one of SRKK’s strategic partners. Sometimes during my leisure time, I will engage in discussions with my friends on technology so we would be in the know about the ever-evolving trends and help others to venture into the industry with my experiences and honest reviews. These conversations not only expand my knowledge but also provide an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. “
4. In celebration of Women’s Day, is there a female leader that you look up to?
Aniza: “To be frank, I look up to all the lady bosses here in SRKK, like Pam and Peng Fong to name a few. It’s quite fascinating seeing them lead their teams while being devoted family people. Whenever there’s information that I lack, they are the kind of people whom you can approach to indulge yourself in their vast knowledge and expertise. “
Wendy: “In general, I look up to Michelle Obama, who profoundly inspire me a lot with one of her quotes, “There’s no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish”.
But in the tech industry, Datin Ts. Habsah Nordin, Chief Data Officer of Petronas, is a female leader I aspire to become. Looking at her background alone, she has been named the finalist for Data Leader of the Year and Women Leader of the Year for IT Awards Asia 2023. Not only that she has made her mark by becoming a President of DAMA Malaysia but also contributed so much of her knowledge and expertise in this field. These women are the reason why I always strive to achieve greater heights in IT.”
5. Lastly, what motto and advice would you give to women to pursue their dreams?
Aniza: ““If you are tired, rest, not quit.” This is the motto I’ve practiced myself and shared with my team members at times when they were experiencing a burnout. Of course, feeling drained is normal, especially with all the happenings in your life, particularly in your career. However, remember to take a break first so you can try again and give your best. If the tech industry is what you really want to venture in, then go for it! Don’t hesitate! If I can love my job due to my passion for tech, so can you.”
Wendy: ““If you believe you can, you can.”, is a motto I hold close to my heart. First, don’t be afraid to pursue your passion. Challenges are always there. But if you’re passionate in the field of technology, let’s embrace it as an opportunity to grow. Second, never stop learning because there’s always something new to learn and you can seek guidance from your mentors along the way. This is the reason I decided to pursue my Master in Data Science. Lastly, networking is just as important, so you have a group of people to share your knowledge with and learn from.”
It is evident that investing in women and practicing inclusion are vital steps towards creating a supportive ecosystem where every individual thrives. By breaking down gender biases and fostering an environment of equality and support, organizations can empower women to reach their full potential in the tech industry and beyond. Let us continue working hand in hand to champion inclusivity and create opportunities for women to shine. Together, we accelerate progress and pave the way for a brighter future for all.
If you’re passionate about making a difference and would like to be a part of us, feel free to drop us an email at [email protected]. For any other inquiries, reach out to us here – https://www.srkk.com/contact-us/
IWD 2024: Recognizing International Women’s Day 2024
In celebration of International Women’s Day 2024 (IWD2024), we are honored to spotlight Nur Aniza Immam Ali and Wendy Chua Xing Zhao, two exceptional women leading the charge at SRKK in the male-dominated IT industry.
Aligned with this year’s IWD2024 theme, ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress,’ and the #InspireInclusion initiative, we feature our Microsoft Certified Professionals, reflecting our commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering community where our women feel valued, nurtured, and celebrated for their contributions to the tech industry.
Nur Aniza’s journey into technology began early, fuelled by her cousin’s passion. Her meteoric rise from intern to Consulting Director exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and dedication that has made her a driving force in SRKK. With a diverse skill set spanning in SharePoint, automation and Content AI, Aniza has spearheaded projects for prestigious organizations like Khazanah Nasional Berhad, facilitating automation processes and workflow streamlining.
Similar to Aniza, Wendy has always been at the forefront of the latest gadgets and technologies from a young age. Her transition from the finance industry to BI Consultant of SRKK Data showcases her unwavering commitment to innovation and growth. With a background in statistics, Wendy has helped many companies build dashboards to improve operational efficiency, cashflow and net profit through data-driven decisions and real-time data insights.
As recently reported by The Star, industry experts have long acknowledged that bringing women into the tech industry and investing in their futures is a core part of building a skilled workforce that can help further advance the field.
At SRKK, we believe in levelling the playing field for women in the tech industry. Join us as we explore Aniza and Wendy’s journeys, where they share their experiences advocating for themselves and overcoming challenges along the way.
1. As a woman in a male-dominated field, have you experienced any stereotypes about women in the IT industry?
Aniza: “Within the company, I wouldn’t say so. I’ve been with SRKK for over 10 years, and I have always seen everyone been treated fairly. I’ve never experienced discrimination because of my gender. From day one, I’ve felt supported and been given the safe space to express myself openly. We can just walk in the CEO room to address some issues or concerns and receive feedback. With that safe space also comes with the good relationships I have with my colleagues. We would give each other advice freely and provide a space for heart-to-heart talks.
I think having quite a number of female leaders in the company, including my boss, also contributes to this inclusive culture. I could see how they would present themselves as a leader and that earned them a lot of respect from our peers and clients. Somehow they are inspiring me day to day, and I look up to them a lot. I am proud to work alongside these exceptional female leaders. While I cannot say for certain how things would be with a male supervisor, but I am glad for the opportunity to work alongside such incredible female leaders.”
Wendy: “Even though I am the only female in a team full of men, they are very supportive. We’re all given equal opportunities to do what we want, and it feels as though there’s no gender indifference. This solidifies the idea we have as a team that “As long as you’re human, you can work with us.” I love that.
In SRKK, I also find it relatively easy to voice out my ideas and concerns to not only my colleagues but also the leaders, and they will listen and provide me the space to grow. As long as you’re keen to learn, you’ll be given the opportunities for professional development and growth. Especially among the youths like me, we are all eager to grow and learn, so it’s great that I’ve been given this platform.
Perhaps in the 80s or 90s, people have stereotypes about women in the workplace. But in this generation, everyone focuses on diversity and inclusion by supporting one another’s dreams. I do think that the stereotypes about women’s technical abilities and leadership skills have long been abolished, and their capabilities are more being recognized. ”
2. In general, have you ever heard or noticed stereotypes revolving around working women? How can organizations break the gender bias and practice inclusion to make women feel supported?
Aniza: “I’ve heard stories from a friend of mine where organizations can be hesitant to employ married women and mothers. Just because of our biological factors, it shouldn’t be a barrier for women to find jobs. Companies really need to change this bias towards women who are trying to start a family. Instead of solely relying on these stereotypes to judge if they can perform well, companies should evaluate women based on their experience and expertise, not stereotypes.
To inspire inclusion for women, I really hope companies who have not started to start creating an environment that prioritizes on women’s rights. I know that many women lack the privilege to express themselves and feel safe within the company, so they feel demotivated in their roles. So, I would suggest improvement to the environment and policies that benefit all workers, where everyone’s achievements and contributions are valued! This includes offering equal opportunities, benefits, and support for returning to work after marriage or childbirth, such as flexible hours, remote work options, childcare support, and maternity leave policies. Some women are afraid to come back to the workforce after giving birth and need to be encouraged.”
Wendy: “Based on my observations, not every company provides women with the platform to be themselves and grow. I noticed that pregnant women are still being discriminated against and seen as a financial burden due to their perceived “lack of contribution” at work. As it is compulsory to give three months of maternity leave, I believe it wouldn’t create a huge impact on the business. Even during their recovery period, they should be treated fairly, as they may contribute new ideas for business improvement upon their return to work.
It is true that in this generation, there’s increasing promotion of diversity and gender equality as the world progresses. What we can actually do is to provide support and embrace these women to pursue what they believe is best for them. This not only further promotes inclusion in the workplace, but also reinforces the idea that women are equal to men. Providing such a platform will help them know their values and provide them the confidence they need to lead.
3. Tell us how you advocate for yourself in the IT industry.
Aniza: “When I first came in, it was only me and my manager in a very fast-paced environment, so I challenged myself to become a self-starter and research about technology on my own. There were no seniors to guide me. To adapt, I self-learnt from a lot from videos. I eventually took the lead for an average of 12 to 15 projects with the support of my team. It’s very challenging but with time, I learned that working in an environment with supportive colleagues allows me to ask the right questions and obtain the relevant information needed for my growth. I know the right person to ask the right question. For example, I can readily turn to Wai Yin who is our CTO for expert advice on complex issues.”
Wendy: “Being a woman in the tech industry comes with its own set of challenges, particularly to keep yourself updated with the latest technologies in which you have to be open minded and curious to learn. So, I prioritize continuous upskilling through obtaining professional certificates like Microsoft, given their status as one of SRKK’s strategic partners. Sometimes during my leisure time, I will engage in discussions with my friends on technology so we would be in the know about the ever-evolving trends and help others to venture into the industry with my experiences and honest reviews. These conversations not only expand my knowledge but also provide an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. “
4. In celebration of Women’s Day, is there a female leader that you look up to?
Aniza: “To be frank, I look up to all the lady bosses here in SRKK, like Pam and Peng Fong to name a few. It’s quite fascinating seeing them lead their teams while being devoted family people. Whenever there’s information that I lack, they are the kind of people whom you can approach to indulge yourself in their vast knowledge and expertise. “
Wendy: “In general, I look up to Michelle Obama, who profoundly inspire me a lot with one of her quotes, “There’s no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish”.
But in the tech industry, Datin Ts. Habsah Nordin, Chief Data Officer of Petronas, is a female leader I aspire to become. Looking at her background alone, she has been named the finalist for Data Leader of the Year and Women Leader of the Year for IT Awards Asia 2023. Not only that she has made her mark by becoming a President of DAMA Malaysia but also contributed so much of her knowledge and expertise in this field. These women are the reason why I always strive to achieve greater heights in IT.”
5. Lastly, what motto and advice would you give to women to pursue their dreams?
Aniza: ““If you are tired, rest, not quit.” This is the motto I’ve practiced myself and shared with my team members at times when they were experiencing a burnout. Of course, feeling drained is normal, especially with all the happenings in your life, particularly in your career. However, remember to take a break first so you can try again and give your best. If the tech industry is what you really want to venture in, then go for it! Don’t hesitate! If I can love my job due to my passion for tech, so can you.”
Wendy: ““If you believe you can, you can.”, is a motto I hold close to my heart. First, don’t be afraid to pursue your passion. Challenges are always there. But if you’re passionate in the field of technology, let’s embrace it as an opportunity to grow. Second, never stop learning because there’s always something new to learn and you can seek guidance from your mentors along the way. This is the reason I decided to pursue my Master in Data Science. Lastly, networking is just as important, so you have a group of people to share your knowledge with and learn from.”
It is evident that investing in women and practicing inclusion are vital steps towards creating a supportive ecosystem where every individual thrives. By breaking down gender biases and fostering an environment of equality and support, organizations can empower women to reach their full potential in the tech industry and beyond. Let us continue working hand in hand to champion inclusivity and create opportunities for women to shine. Together, we accelerate progress and pave the way for a brighter future for all.
If you’re passionate about making a difference and would like to be a part of us, feel free to drop us an email at [email protected]. For any other inquiries, reach out to us here – https://www.srkk.com/contact-us/
