#InspireInclusion
International Women’s Day 2024
When GBTech invited me to write this article, I felt honoured.
It is not a trivial thing for a Latina immigrant woman and mother, like me, to receive an invitation to share experience and challenges with the wider community.
I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute to amplifying women's voices and sharing insights into this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme: inspiring inclusion.
My journey in the technology and Digital – Agile Transformation space has been an exciting and challenging one. As a woman, I have faced a series of obstacles along the way, but I have also found incredible opportunities for growth and impact, and for supporting other women and minorities on their journeys.
For many years, I have been passionate about Agile and its ability to drive innovation, collaboration, and value delivery to customers quickly and effectively. Applying this knowledge specifically in the fintech industry, has allowed me to see firsthand how Digital - Agile Transformation can revolutionize how these organizations operate and meet customer needs in a highly regulated and ever-changing environment.
While leading transformations, I have learned that success is not only about adopting Agile mindset, values, principles and practices. It is also about cultural change, teaching, coaching, mentoring and empowering people.
As a woman in a predominantly male field, I have faced the additional challenge of gaining credibility and influence, but I have found that my unique perspective and collaborative approach have been valuable assets in driving change and building high-performing agile teams.
A pivotal lesson I've learned along the years, is the importance of authenticity and confidence in oneself, coupled with a curiosity to listen and learn from others. By embracing my identity as a woman and a leader, I've been able to inspire and empower fellow women in the industry to carve their own paths and excel in fields often dominated by men.
As a working mother of three children, three dogs, and two cats, and as an immigrant in a country without familial support, I've realized that my problem-solving, improvisation, conflict management, and stakeholder expectation management skills are indispensable in any organization. And I haven't hesitated to use these skills in the enterprises I've worked in!
In terms of Agile Transformation, I have found that success often depends on the ability to adapt and evolve continuously, and on carefully selecting the battles worth fighting for. Financial companies face unique challenges, from stringent regulatory requirements to complex organizational structures, and it is essential to find approaches that align with their specific needs and corporate culture.
Furthermore, inclusion and diversity play a key role in building successful teams. By fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued, and that different routines and needs are respected and included, companies can gain the benefits of a variety of perspectives and experiences, driving innovation and growth.
As a woman in an ever-evolving industry, I am excited about the progress we are making towards gender equality and inclusion. However, there is still much work to be done, and I am committed to continuing to fight for a future where all women, immigrants, mothers and minorities can thrive and reach their full potential.
I look forward to sharing more insights and experiences, and I hope that my story can inspire and empower other women to pursue their own dreams and make a difference in this constant changing world. Together, we can create a more equitable and inclusive future for all.