In Her Words: Neha, Senior Data Engineer at Flow Traders

How did your Tech career begin?

I grew up in a village of around 5,000 people in India. At the age of ten, I left home to study at Banasthali Vidyapeeth (India), which marked the beginning of my independent journey. I did not grow up speaking English, nor did I have exposure to global careers, but I was determined to build a life through hard work and learning. I began my career at Tata Consultancy Services in India, consistently performed well, and gradually took on opportunities that allowed me to work across different countries. Each move came with challenges: Cultural, personal, and professional but resilience helped me navigate them.

Who has been your biggest role model throughout your career (or life), and how has their influence shaped your approach to work?

I did not grow up with a clear role model. Over time, I found inspiration in leaders such as Indra Nooyi, not only for her achievements but also for the way she carried herself with confidence and clarity. That said, my strongest motivation has always been to become a version of myself that is independent, confident, and capable of standing on her own.

If you could point to one skill that has been the most valuable in your career, what would it be, and how did you develop it?

The ability to communicate clearly about what I want. From expressing my interest in onsite roles at Tata Consultancy Services to navigating opportunities abroad, I learned early that clarity and initiative matter. I also learned to say “yes” to challenges even when I did not feel fully prepared, trusting myself to learn along the way.

What do you think is the biggest myth or misconception about working in tech?

A common misconception is that certifications alone are enough. In reality, hands-on experience, curiosity, and continuous learning matter far more. For women in particular, there is often a belief that one must be fully ready before taking opportunities. My experience has shown that learning often happens after you step into the role.

If you could give your younger self one piece of professional advice before starting your career, what would it be and why?

Focus on mastering one skill deeply. Having a strong foundation in one area builds confidence and opens doors to new opportunities.

What’s one unexpected piece of advice you would give to someone who dreams of being in your shoes one day, especially in terms of personal growth and career fulfillment?

Self-doubt is normal, but it does not have to be visible at all times. There were many moments when I struggled internally, but I continued to show up with confidence (It's never easy but trust me it is possible). Sometimes confidence grows only after you step forward.

Do you think there’s a specific quality or mindset that has helped you thrive as a woman in tech, and how can tech graduates cultivate that early on?

Resilience. I never approached my career thinking about limitations. I focused on learning, asking questions, working sincerely, and communicating openly. That mindset helped me move from a small village in India to building a global career. My journey has not been easy, but it has been deeply rewarding. Everything I have built, my career, my independence, and my confidence, came from perseverance and the belief that I could figure things out. I hope my story encourages young women to take that first step, even when the path ahead feels uncertain.