S1 Ep26 - Say Yes to Success: How Natasha Barker Became One of Retail Tech's Rising Stars and Elevate Women in Tech

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Michael Kwarteng, co-founder of Halzak and the Elevate Women in Tech community, for a powerful International Men's Day special episode about breaking the silence around prostate cancer. In this unique men's takeover episode, Michael bravely shares his journey as a prostate cancer survivor at age 47, transforming his experience into vital advocacy for men's health. Key highlights: The shocking reality of prostate cancer statistics in the UK - 12,000 men die yearly, one every 45 minutes Breaking down the barriers around men's health discussions and medical examinations How one man's diagnosis led to early detection for others in his community The heightened risk for Black men - 1 in 4 vs 1 in 8 in the general population The importance of challenging age assumptions for prostate cancer screening The power of friendship networks in health advocacy and recovery Why early detection through regular screening is crucial for survival The impact on families and the importance of support systems Practical advice for recognizing early warning signs many men ignore Michael offers candid insights about his journey from diagnosis through recovery, sharing both the physical and emotional challenges of his experience. His story demonstrates why health advocacy knows no gender and how breaking silence saves lives. Whether you're a man over 40, have a family history of cancer, or want to support the men in your life, this episode provides crucial information about prostate cancer awareness and the importance of early detection. Support our cause: We're raising £250 for Prostate Cancer UK to help support families facing this challenge. Every donation helps provide vital support services and advance research. Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/elevatewit-173038854001?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Felevatewit-173038854001&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share Useful resource links: Connect with Michael Kwarteng - LinkedIn Prostate Cancer UK Helpline: 0800 074 8383 Risk checker tool: https://prostatecanceruk.org/risk-checker NHS Prostate Cancer Information: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/ International Mens Day: https://internationalmensday.com/ Contact Prostate Cancer UK: Visit: prostatecanceruk.org Call: 0800 074 8383 Email: [email protected] Be sure to Follow Elevate- Women in Tech on: LinkedIn Instagram Newsletter Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak Connecting diverse talent with inclusive tech companies DM me if you would like to: Be a future guest on the show Suggest topics for coverage Support our Prostate Cancer UK fundraiser Discuss how we can help break down health barriers together This special episode demonstrates how when we empower any group to take charge of their health, we all rise together. Let's continue breaking down barriers and supporting each other, regardless of gender.

Join host ⁠⁠Kellie Kwarteng⁠ ⁠and guest ⁠Natasha Barker⁠, Domain Architect at Matalan and Drapers 30 Under 30 honoree, for an inspiring conversation about building confidence, breaking barriers, and thriving in tech leadership. From graduating as a junior infrastructure architect to becoming a influential domain architect, Natasha shares her journey of transformation and the power of saying "yes" to opportunities. Key highlights: Breaking through imposter syndrome and owning your space in male-dominated environments How to transition from being "the only woman in the room" to confidently leading technical discussions The importance of being less modest and showcasing your achievements Leveraging professional recognition to accelerate your tech career Why expanding your comfort zone is crucial for career growth The vast range of roles available in tech beyond coding and project management Practical tips for mentoring and supporting the next generation of tech talent Natasha offers candid insights about her transformation from an unconfident graduate to a respected technical leader, sharing practical strategies for career advancement and the importance of building professional networks. Whether you're starting your tech career, looking to step into leadership, or wanting to boost your professional confidence, this episode provides actionable advice for breaking through barriers and achieving your goals. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 ⁠BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT⁠. Join BCS to apply for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) - the only Chartered IT registration validating your technical expertise and accountability in tech. Find out more at ⁠bcs.org/trustyou⁠ Useful resource links: Connect with Natasha Barker - ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ British Computing Society (BCS) - ⁠Professional Registration⁠ ⁠Drapers 30 Under 30 Class of 2024⁠ Be sure to Follow Elevate- Women in Tech on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀 Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Joanne Monk OBE, an independent consultant and LGBTQ+ advocate, for a powerful episode exploring transgender identity and workplace inclusion. This candid conversation follows Joanne's inspiring journey of transition and her dedication to creating more inclusive environments for the transgender community. Key highlights: Joanne's moving personal story of transitioning from David to Joanne after 58 years The powerful tree analogy explaining gender identity and transition Understanding the crucial importance of workplace acceptance and allyship Breaking down the ALLY framework: Awareness, Listen & Learn, Leverage privilege, and You The challenges transgender individuals face in the workplace, with 49% not feeling comfortable coming out How organizations can move beyond data to create truly inclusive environments The importance of CEO-led diversity initiatives and year-round LGBTQ+ support Practical advice for handling pronoun usage and correcting mistakes respectfully Joanne shares invaluable insights on supporting transgender employees, creating inclusive workplace policies, and the importance of belonging in organizational culture. Whether you're a member of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or an employer, this episode offers practical guidance for fostering truly inclusive environments. Be sure to Follow Elevate- Women in Tech on⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Newsletter⁠ Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Robert Baker, board member of UN Women and European Women on Boards, as they explore the crucial role of male allyship in creating a more inclusive tech industry. This insightful episode unpacks how men can effectively support and champion women in tech, while addressing the barriers that often hold them back. Key highlights: Why it will take 130 years to achieve gender equality and how to accelerate change The shocking statistic that 50% of women leave tech before age 35 How unconscious bias impacts women's career progression Practical steps for men to become effective allies Creating inclusive cultures that retain and empower women in tech The benefits of allyship for both men and women Robert shares valuable insights on transforming workplace culture, building trust, and creating environments where women want to stay and contribute. Whether you're a male ally, aspiring to be one, or a woman in tech looking to build stronger partnerships, this episode offers practical advice for fostering truly inclusive environments. Useful resource links: Connect with Robert Baker - LinkedIn Book: "Her Allies" by Hera Ali Book: "Good Guys" by Brad Johnson and David Smith Book: "Everyday Sexism" by Laura Bates Book: "The Authority Gap" by Mary Ann Sieghart Stronger Together Initiative Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join host Kellie Kwarteng and guest Louisa Hussey, menopause coach and women's health advocate, as they shatter the stigma surrounding menopause in the tech industry. This candid episode explores how perimenopause and menopause impact women's careers and why it's crucial to create supportive work environments. Key highlights: The surprising truth: menopause can start as early as your late 30s How brain fog and other symptoms affect work performance The alarming statistic that 23% of women consider resigning due to menopause symptoms Strategies for becoming your own advocate during this transition Best practices for creating menopause-friendly workplaces Louisa shares invaluable insights on managing symptoms, boosting confidence, and thriving in your career during menopause. Whether you're a woman in tech, a colleague, or an employer, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration for fostering truly inclusive environments. Discover how addressing menopause openly can transform company culture, retain top talent, and elevate women in tech leadership roles. Don't miss this crucial conversation on breaking down barriers and empowering women in the tech industry. Useful resource links: Connect with Louisa Hussey - LinkedIn Website: https://louisahussey.com/ Free Symptom Trackerhttps://louisahussey.myflodesk.com/symptomtracker Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisahusseyeft/ [Insert any relevant resources mentioned in the episode] Be sure to Follow Elevate- Women in Tech onLinkedInInstagramNewsletter Connect with your Host Kellie Kwarteng - Founder and CEO of Halzak - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join Kellie Kwarteng Elevate Women in Tech host for an inspiring conversation with Christina Villa, founder and CEO of Cledara - the first software intelligence platform for growing companies that gives you control and visibility of software spend. Christina shares her remarkable journey as a non-technical female founder, from validating her innovative idea to raising a $20 million Series A. Discover how Christina: Overcame challenges in the male-dominated tech world Navigated the difficult funding landscape for female founders Built a successful SaaS business without a technical background Expanded internationally from the UK to Europe and the US Get invaluable advice on: Validating your startup idea quickly Choosing the right investors Building a product customers actually want Giving opportunities to young talent Christina's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience and unwavering determination. Her insights will motivate and empower aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into thriving businesses. Whether you're a founder, investor, or tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with wisdom on building innovative products and scaling startups in today's competitive landscape. Useful resource links: To connect with ⁠⁠Cristina Cledara: Cledara gives you control and visibility of software spend - Get started free  Careers Opportunities at Cledara: https://www.cledara.com/careers This episode is sponsored by ⁠BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT,⁠ the professional body for the tech sector. They’re on a mission to build a trusted profession that can steer technology on a safe path and take on the big challenges facing the world today. They know that every time a girl drops computing at GCSE, or a female worker switches her career in tech to another path, it’s a major blow to the profession and our collective potential. That’s why BCS is using the power of their global community to bring about real change - reaching out across diverse communities, addressing bias, celebrating role models, supporting skills development and career opportunities.    When EDI in tech is the norm — in every lecture theatre, dev team and board meeting — that’s when we unlock a profession that takes us into a fairer digital future. If you’re a student, teacher, working in tech or a leader in tech, join forces with BCS and let’s make the vision a reality. To find out more about the work BCS is doing in the sector and how to join them on their mission, go to ⁠bcs.org/BringItOn  Be sure to Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elevate- Women in Tech⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with your Host ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kellie Kwarteng⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Founder and CEO of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Halzak⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

In this inspiring episode of Elevate Women in Tech, host Kellie Kwarteng chats with Bentina Terry President and CEO of Southern Link and Southern Telecom Inc. Bentina shares her unconventional journey from lawyer to tech executive, offering valuable insights for women navigating careers in tech and leadership. We delve into the challenges faced by women, particularly women of color, in male-dominated industries and provides strategies for overcoming these obstacles: 📍 Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome 📍 Navigating spaces where women are underrepresented 📍 Building diverse mentorship and sponsorship relationships 📍 Maintaining work-life balance in high-pressure roles The conversation also highlights the importance of self-advocacy, giving people grace, and managing through others' discomfort. Bentina shares her approach to creating a culture of work-life balance for herself and her team, emphasizing the value of personal time and family. Tune in to this empowering episode to uncover Bentina's top three pieces of advice for women in tech and leadership. Useful resource links: To connect with ⁠Bentina Terry Be sure to Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elevate- Women in Tech⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Newsletter⁠ Connect with your Host ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kellie Kwarteng⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Founder and CEO of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Halzak⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join host Kellie and guest Sophie Creese, co-founder of Heyflow and Motherboard, as they tackle the taboo topic of women's reproductive health in the tech industry. This eye-opening episode explores how menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause impact women's careers and contribute to the gender pay gap. Key highlights: The shocking statistic that 50% of women leave tech by age 35 How reproductive health challenges affect 85% of women in the workplace Strategies for creating inclusive policies that support women's career progression The critical role of leadership in normalizing conversations about women's health Sophie shares invaluable insights on closing the gender pay gap, retaining female talent, and fostering truly inclusive tech environments. Whether you're a woman in STEM, a tech leader, or passionate about gender equality in the workplace, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration for driving change. Discover how addressing reproductive health openly can transform company culture, boost innovation, and elevate women in tech leadership roles. Don't miss this crucial conversation on breaking down barriers and empowering women in the tech industry. Useful resource links: Connect with Sophie Creese HeyFlow MotherBoard (motherboardmovement.co.uk) The Realities of Mums In Tech (office.com) // Overcoming The Motherhood Penalty (techtalentcharter.co.uk) Be sure to Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elevate- Women in Tech⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with your Host ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kellie Kwarteng⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Founder and CEO of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Halzak⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

Join Kellie Kwarteng for a candid conversation with Oana Pasalau Cioaba, a tech professional and parental burnout coach, as she shares her powerful journey through premature menopause, IVF, and motherhood while balancing a demanding career in clinical data management. This eye-opening episode tackles the often-silenced struggles faced by women in STEM, from fertility challenges to postpartum difficulties. Oana provides invaluable insights for tech leaders and HR professionals on creating supportive workplaces that address women's health needs. Key topics include: Coping with premature menopause diagnosis in your 30s Navigating IVF treatments while maintaining a high-pressure tech role Debunking the harmful "Superwoman Myth" in tech and leadership roles Overcoming parental burnout as a new mother during the pandemic Practical advice for women in leadership facing reproductive health challenges Strategies for tech companies to better support employees' work-life balance Oana courageously dismantles the Superwoman Myth, highlighting how unrealistic expectations of perfection in both career and personal life can lead to burnout and mental health struggles for women in tech. Learn why it's crucial to set realistic expectations and prioritise self-care. Whether you're a woman in tech facing similar hurdles, a manager looking to foster an inclusive environment, or simply seeking to understand these critical issues, this episode offers frank discussion and actionable takeaways. Join us as we work to break taboos and empower women in technology and leadership roles. Useful resource links: To connect with ⁠Oana Pasalau Cioaba Be sure to Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elevate- Women in Tech⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Newsletter⁠ Connect with your Host ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kellie Kwarteng⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Founder and CEO of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Halzak⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Elevate Women in Tech podcast, host Kellie Kwarteng chats with Grace Oleyinka, a trailblazing Tech Lead at Niyo Group and passionate advocate for diversity in STEM fields. Buckle up for an illuminating discussion on the transformative potential of emerging technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR). As a software engineer, author, and mentor, Grace offers invaluable insights into the opportunities and challenges women face in these cutting-edge domains. From demystifying AI bias to unlocking blockchain's data security prowess, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for tech enthusiasts and professionals alike. Key Takeaways: 🔐 Unraveling AI Bias: Grace debunks common myths surrounding bias in AI systems, emphasizing the pivotal role of diverse data and inclusive development teams in mitigating algorithmic discrimination. 🔗 Blockchain's Transformative Power: Explore the revolutionary use cases of blockchain technology, with a focus on enhanced data security, identity protection, and its potential to disrupt sectors like healthcare. 🔮 Immersive Experiences with AR/VR: Dive into the fascinating world of augmented and virtual reality, where Grace unpacks beneficial applications ranging from virtual try-ons to immersive educational experiences tailored for women. 🚀 Empowering Advice for Rising Women in Tech: Gain invaluable insights on building confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, and celebrating small wins – essential strategies for women to thrive in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that equips listeners with a deeper understanding of emerging technologies and practical strategies for women to excel in STEM careers. Tune in now for Grace's empowering wisdom and pioneering perspectives! Useful resource links: To connect with Grace Olayinka Be sure to Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elevate- Women in Tech⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ Newsletter Connect with your Host ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kellie Kwarteng⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Founder and CEO of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Halzak⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Connecting companies with diverse technical talent Feel free to DM me if you would like to be a future guest of the show, have a topic you would like covered, or would like a free strategy call to discuss any hiring goals/challenges for your Tech Team.