By Katharine Whittaker
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March 11, 2025
In the 1940’s, women dominated the early days of computing when ENIAC was built. ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was the first programmable, electronic, general-purpose computer. Then the personal computer was released in 1984, and it led to the rise of white male computing, so the number of women in technology rapidly declined. According to the Tech Council of Australia, women are twice as likely to enter the tech industry at the age of 25-30, as they are before age 25. This means tech is not the first step for many women – they are coming through alternate pathways. Last week, Derwent hosted a ´Women in Tech” breakfast to create a safe space for female leaders to share their challenges and discuss solutions that both executive search firms, like Derwent, and the community can implement to continue to promote and deliver diversity in executive hiring. Our conversation was led by guest speakers Kavita Mistry and Marigold Duncan , who shared their unique and diverse careers in tech. For Marigold, it was the allure of rapid growth, impactful work, and a collaborative culture, a stark contrast to her previous life in banking. Kavita, with a blend of artistic and mathematical influences, found her passion ignited by the logic and creativity inherent in technology. Their journeys, though diverse, highlight a common thread – tech offers a space for innovation and impact. However, the path to leadership isn't without its challenges. Both Marigold and Kavita spoke candidly about the hurdles women face, particularly in finding their voice and navigating leadership dynamics. Kavita emphasised the importance of speaking up, identifying and encouraging quieter voices, and leveraging female role models. Marigold shared her experiences leading international teams, learning to communicate assertively, and overcoming the unconscious biases that often shape decision-making. Mentorship and sponsorship emerged as crucial elements of their journeys. Both leaders emphasised the need for clarity in mentorship goals, the value of diverse perspectives, and the importance of nurturing long-term relationships. Kavita highlighted the distinction between mentorship (guidance) and sponsorship (advocacy), while Marigold stressed the value of seeking out mentors who understand your ambitions. So, how can women support other women in tech? Both leaders advocated for challenging unconscious biases in hiring, building strong networks, and providing coaching, particularly for interview preparation. They emphasised the importance of "watering and feeding" relationships, ensuring they are mutually beneficial and sustainable. Balancing work and family was another key topic. Marigold, a mother of three, acknowledged the constant effort required, emphasising the importance of self-awareness and adapting to changing needs. Kavita echoed this, highlighting the importance of prioritising energy, self-care, and aligning work commitments with life stages. Ultimately, the discussion offered valuable insights for women navigating the tech industry. It's a journey of continuous learning, resilience, and building strong networks. By embracing their unique perspectives, challenging biases, and supporting each other, women can not only thrive in tech but also shape its future. At Derwent, we are committed to long-term diversity through both assisting clients with inclusive hiring processes and attraction strategies, and fostering the next generation of female leaders.
