HackerNoon editorial team has launched this interview series with women in tech to celebrate their achievements and share their struggles. We need more women in technology, and by sharing stories, we can encourage many girls to follow their dreams. Share your story today!
Tell us about yourself!
Rani: Absolutely! I'm Rani Roy, an English teacher and a Senior Brand Marketing Manager at News Coverage Agency. My journey has been a blend of my passion for education and marketing. As an English teacher, I've always been dedicated to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning. In the tech industry, I found a new dimension to apply my marketing skills and promote impactful tech-related news. Balancing both roles has been rewarding, and I'm excited to continue exploring the intersection of education and technology.
Why did you choose this field in the first place?
Rani: Education has always been close to my heart, and I chose to become an English teacher to make a positive impact on students' lives. The joy of seeing them grow and succeed is incredibly fulfilling. Simultaneously, I've been drawn to the dynamic nature of the tech industry, where innovation drives progress. Combining my passion for education and marketing, I found a perfect fit in the tech space to create meaningful content and engage with audiences.
What tech are you most excited/passionate about right now and why?
Rani: I'm most excited about the advancements in educational technology (EdTech). It has the potential to revolutionize the way we learn and teach. The integration of AI-powered learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and personalized content delivery ensures that students can learn at their own pace and style. EdTech empowers educators with innovative tools to enhance teaching methods, making learning more interactive and engaging.
What tech are you most worried about right now and why?
Rani: While technology has brought numerous benefits, the increasing reliance on automation and AI in various industries raises concerns about job displacement. As technology evolves, some traditional roles may become obsolete, impacting the workforce. It's crucial to strike a balance between technological advancement and ensuring equitable opportunities for all professionals in the face of these changes.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of tech?
Rani: Outside of tech and work, I enjoy reading literature, especially classic novels. Engaging with various literary works helps me unwind and gain new perspectives. I'm also passionate about cooking and experimenting with different cuisines. It's a creative outlet for me, and sharing meals with loved ones brings joy and connection.
Let's talk about breaking the glass ceiling. What were the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in tech, and how did you deal with them?
Rani: As a woman in tech, I've faced challenges related to gender bias and stereotyping. It's disheartening to encounter skepticism or skepticism about my abilities based on gender. To overcome these challenges, I focus on my skills, knowledge, and determination to prove my capabilities. I embrace opportunities for professional growth, seek mentorship, and connect with supportive networks of like-minded individuals.
Any questionable misogynistic story/situation you faced/handled and you want to share with the HackerNoon Fam?
Rani: While I haven't encountered any explicitly misogynistic incidents, there have been subtle instances of gender bias. In some situations, my contributions were overlooked or attributed to male colleagues. I've addressed such instances by confidently asserting my ideas and expertise. It's essential to challenge such biases and foster an inclusive environment where everyone's contributions are valued equally.
What was the biggest setback/failure that you faced, and how did you manage it?
Rani: One of the biggest setbacks I faced was during the initial stages of my tech career when I encountered multiple rejections while applying for jobs. However, I turned this setback into an opportunity for self-improvement. I focused on upskilling, building a strong portfolio, and networking within the industry. This perseverance eventually led me to secure a rewarding position that aligned with my passion for marketing.
What's your biggest achievement that you're really proud of?
Rani: One of my proudest achievements is creating a successful marketing campaign that significantly boosted brand visibility and engagement for a tech startup. Witnessing the positive impact of my efforts on the company's growth and success brought a great sense of accomplishment.
In your opinion, why do we see this huge gender gap in the tech industry, and how can we reduce it?
Rani: The gender gap in the tech industry can be attributed to various factors, including societal stereotypes, lack of representation, and unconscious bias. To reduce this gap, we need to encourage and support girls and women in pursuing STEM education and careers. Providing mentorship programs, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and raising awareness about gender biases are crucial steps in creating a more equitable tech industry.
Who is your tech idol? Why?
Rani: My tech idol is Reshma Saujani, the founder of Girls Who Code. Her dedication to empowering young girls and bridging the gender gap in tech through education and advocacy is truly inspiring.