Restarting Strong: From Maternity Leave to STEM Readiness
Hosted by Akamai Technologies
Hosted by WomenTech Network
February 04, 2026
10:00:00
Virtual Event
Returning to work after maternity leave can be both an exciting and challenging transition. In this session, Anna will share her firsthand experience of navigating this journey and the lessons she learned along the way.
The session will also introduce the Akamai Technical Academy (ATA) Program, which equips learners with foundation-level STEM knowledge to support their return to the workforce and prepare them for technical career pathways.
Key takeaways from this session:
- Inspire Confidence in Workforce Re-Entry
To encourage and reassure women returning from maternity leave by sharing a real-life experience of navigating challenges, building confidence, and successfully re-entering the workforce. - Provide Practical Insights and Guidance
To offer practical tips, lessons learned, and strategies for managing the transition back to work, including personal, professional, and emotional considerations. - Raise Awareness of STEM Re-Skilling Opportunities
To introduce participants to structured learning pathways, such as the Akamai Technical Academy (ATA) Program, that provide foundation-level STEM knowledge. - Support Career Readiness and Skill Refresh
To help participants understand how they can refresh existing skills or acquire new technical foundations to stay competitive in today’s workforce. (Scholarship offered).
Agenda
Speakers
Anna Desousa
Emerging Talent Manager - Akamai
Leading a global team of recruiters, I partner with business leaders at a major tech company to organize early talent strategy. I oversee a worldwide program which brings in over 200 hires per year and provides comprehensive training for students and recent graduates. I also drive program expansion into new regions and recruit our talent partners. I am passionate about leveraging emerging talent programs to help teams diversify and innovate, and to drive meaningful change in the workforce.
Jamie Ng
ATA Program Manager - Akamai
Training Program Manager with over 10 years of experience, focusing on Learning & Development initiatives for stakeholders. Advised and recommended learning programs to bridge talent gaps in a constantly changing business environment. Promoted talent programs in alignment to corporate goals.
