One female innovator in tech that I greatly admire is Ginni Rometty, the former CEO of IBM. In 2015-2016, while working at a WPP international advertising agency, I was responsible for managing marketing channels, including social media, for one of IBM’s local divisions. During this time, I encountered a significant amount of English-language content about IBM Watson, which was developed to assist in areas such as cancer research — something that resonated deeply with me due to a personal experience with cancer in my family.

I was completely fascinated by Watson’s applications in healthcare and artificial intelligence, and as I worked on localizing these materials, I also learned about Ginni Rometty, who was leading IBM at that time and who was instrumental in promoting IBM’s Watson strategy, positioning Watson as a central part of IBM’s future in AI and cloud computing. I admired her strategic vision and her ability to drive technological advancements, particularly in AI, which were key to the company’s transformation.

Although I wasn’t in STEM back then, Ginni’s leadership and advocacy for women in business and technology inspired me. Her ability to balance business strategy with a commitment to gender diversity was something that left a lasting impression. She was not only shaping IBM’s future but also working to change the role of women in the tech industry.

Now, years later, I’m working in IT (cybersecurity) and AI myself, as part of two startups. In 2022, I joined the Women in Tech Russia team, where I now serve as Director of Partnerships and Community, working to empower more women to enter STEM fields. Ginni Rometty’s example continues to inspire me in both my personal and professional journey, especially in advocating for diversity and inclusion in the tech world.

I truly hope that things will continue to change for the better, driven by the movements and communities that are already making an impact. For example, the Women in Tech Global Movement is working hard to close the gender gap and help women embrace technology, with a mission to empower 5 million women and girls by 2030 through education, business, and mentorship. This global initiative has 54 chapters and supports over 200,000 women across the tech industry.

Additionally, there are numerous smaller communities that play an equally important role, such as Women’s Startup Hub, Hacker in Heels, She Loves Tech, and Ladies who Tech. These groups aim to empower women, for instance in fields like cybersecurity or IT Startups, and help them find their place in technology, recognizing their strength and potential.

Mentorship is one of the most powerful ways we can drive this change. At Women in Tech Russia (1 of the 54 chapters), we organize an annual mentorship program, and this year we received several thousand applications. The number grows each year, reflecting the increasing interest from mentees eager to learn and mentors willing to share their expertise. Through mentorship, we see real transformation — women gaining confidence, advancing in their careers, and stepping into leadership roles. This growing interest from both sides is a sign that mentorship will continue to be a key driver of progress in the tech industry.

For young women entering the tech industry, my advice is to embrace lifelong learning, seek mentors, and build a strong support network. Don’t be afraid to take on challenges or face failure — it’s all part of growth. Communities like Women in Tech can provide valuable connections and guidance.

One piece of advice: make it a habit to connect with another woman in tech each week. You can become a mentor, a mentee, or simply make new connections with women from related fields. By sharing experiences within a particular topic, you’ll grow your community and create a support system, exchanging knowledge and offering encouragement to each other.