Reflecting on My Journey
As a Women in Tech Global Awards 2025 winner, what does this recognition mean to you, and how does it reflect your journey and impact in tech?
To begin with, this is my first international recognition at such a significant scale, so it will always remain a treasured milestone in my career. To me, it represents perseverance, choosing not to give up, staying true to my goals despite challenges, and learning to fail forward with purpose.
Growing up in Romania, a country known for having one of the highest proportions of women in STEM in Europe, I was surrounded by talented women pursuing technical careers. Yet I was also aware that true gender balance and wider diversity remain global challenges. After moving to the UK, where women are still significantly underrepresented in tech, a colleague once asked me why Romania has “so many women in STEM.” That question highlighted how deeply cultural context shapes opportunity and how crucial representation and visibility truly are.
This award strengthens my commitment to contributing to that progress. It reflects the resilience and growth that have shaped my journey, and the impact I aim to make through continuous learning, innovation, mentoring, and advocating for greater inclusion in the industry.
Tech Industry's Most Rewarding Aspects
In your experience, what is the most rewarding aspect of working in the tech industry, and how has it influenced your career path?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of working in tech has always been the people. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with incredibly talented and curious individuals who challenge, support, and inspire me. Being part of teams where knowledge is shared openly has not only accelerated my learning but also shaped how I show up at work and how I lead.
I also value the endless curiosity that the industry encourages. There is always something new to learn or explore, and that constant sense of discovery has kept me motivated throughout my career. It has pushed me to expand my skills and remain adaptable in an ever-evolving landscape.
Lastly, the diversity of roles, domains, and projects in tech has given me the freedom to grow and redefine my path over time. That variety has allowed me to build a career that feels both dynamic and meaningful.
My Tech Career Milestone
Could you share a defining moment or a key achievement in your tech career that has been particularly impactful or meaningful to you?
A defining moment in my tech career was resolving a long-standing bug in a large-scale service, an issue several experienced engineers had attempted to fix before me. I was still new to the company, navigating imposter syndrome, and often feeling the weight of my methodical approach to understanding ambiguous problems (a skill I owe to my brilliant high school maths teacher).
Solving that issue was more than a technical achievement; it transformed my mindset. It showed me that imposter syndrome may never fully disappear, but it can be channelled into focus, curiosity, and determination. That experience strengthened my confidence, validated my problem-solving style, and reinforced the value of thoughtful, steady work in tackling complex challenges. It also taught me to better discern when to iterate and prototype quickly and when to invest the time to deepen understanding, a balance that has become essential to how I approach engineering problems today.
Empowering Women in Tech: Real Stories, Career Advice, and Tips
From your experience, what essential advice and practical tips would you offer to women aspiring to establish a successful career in tech?
Cultivate both technical depth and strong interpersonal skills. Self-awareness, confidence, communication, compassion and the ability to give and receive feedback are just as essential as technical expertise. These capabilities not only improve collaboration but also empower you to advocate for yourself and navigate complex environments.
Be selective about your environment, seek workplaces that genuinely support your development, and have the courage to leave those that do not. The right culture can accelerate your growth, while the wrong one can limit your potential.
And above all, prioritise your mental health and psychological safety. These are as vital as salary, benefits, and work-life balance. Feeling safe, respected, and supported is foundational to doing meaningful work and sustaining a long-term, fulfilling career in tech.
Who would you recommend to join the WomenTech Network, and why?
I would recommend the WomenTech Network to everyone, not only women, but also allies, leaders, and anyone committed to building a more inclusive and innovative tech community. The network brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds who are dedicated to learning, supporting one another, and accelerating progress in the industry.
Whether you are beginning your journey or looking to expand your impact, WomenTech Network offers valuable connections, insights, and opportunities for growth.
Level Up Your Journey at the Women in Tech Global Conference 2026
If you enjoyed reading this interview and want to dive even deeper into inspiring stories, breakthrough ideas, and real-world leadership insights, you’ll love our Women in Tech Global Conference 2026. 🌍
Join us and hear from 650+ speakers shaping the future of tech, leadership, innovation, and impact.
Secure your spot today with a Global Conference ticket — or elevate your experience by joining as a Women in Tech Professional Member.