Success was once a solitary pursuit for me — a mountain to climb alone. I believed that the view from the top would validate my worth as I reached new heights in my career. Before my tenure as Chief Strategy Officer at Bitsmedia Pte Ltd, the company behind Muslim Pro, the world’s most popular Muslim app, my professional life was driven by aggressive targets and relentless competition.
Shifting perspectives through motherhood
Motherhood brought a profound shift in perspective. The relentless pursuit of professional milestones became less critical as I began to see success as a holistic concept encompassing both professional achievements and personal growth. I wanted to set an example for my daughters, showing them that women can simultaneously pursue their dreams and nurture their families. This realisation has driven me to foster a culture at Bitsmedia where personal and professional development is equally valued.
Mastering work-life balance
Balancing a demanding career and the needs of three children is a constant challenge, often accompanied by the infamous mom guilt. I remember a particular weekend when I faced a tough choice between attending an important networking session or my daughter’s recital. As much as I knew the networking session could benefit my career, I chose to attend the recital because being present for my children is a top priority.
By being ruthless with my time and prioritising what truly matters, I’ve learned to manage these demands more effectively. This discipline has made me more efficient and reinforced my commitment to both my family and career. This approach has naturally flowed into my professional life, reshaping my leadership style to be more understanding and mindful. Gone are the days of blunt-force leadership. Now, I aim to build bridges instead of walls.
Creating an inclusive workplace in tech
At Bitsmedia, we have cultivated an environment where everyone, especially mothers, can thrive without sacrificing family for a career. Our flexible work arrangements and leave policies are designed to ensure that our employees feel valued and supported. These initiatives are not just about accommodating personal needs; they are integral to our strategy for fostering a more inclusive workplace.
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These efforts have yielded significant results. For instance, women comprise almost half of our team, significantly ahead of the tech industry’s average of 29 per cent. This diversity has enriched our workplace culture and helped dispel the myth that working mothers are less productive. By empowering our team members to balance their personal and professional lives, we have created an environment where everyone can contribute effectively and feel appreciated.
Challenges and advocacy in the tech industry
Navigating the tech industry as a visible female minority (in a hijab, no less) in a leadership role presents unique challenges. There is often a need to prove myself twice as much. However, this has motivated me to push harder and speak louder. My personal experiences highlight the broader reality of the industry, which, despite progress, remains largely a boys’ club. Women in leadership are still battling the “diversity hire” label and often must be twice as good, if not more, to be heard.
Inspiring future female tech leaders
It is essential to challenge these norms and advocate for greater representation. I want my daughters and all young women to know they can chase their dreams without losing a piece of their hearts. Being a mom should not mean sacrificing your passions. Women can build empires and loving families, making choices based on their interests and aspirations, not societal expectations.
My journey at Bitsmedia is about more than just climbing the corporate ladder. It is about building an environment where having it all is not just a possibility but a reality for those who choose it. By sharing our experiences and strategies, we hope to inspire other leaders and organisations to foster inclusive and supportive environments that empower everyone to succeed.
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This article was first published on July 25, 2024
The post Rewriting the narrative about motherhood and career: Insights from a female tech leader appeared first on e27.