International Women’s Day 2025

This International Women’s Day, I’ve been reflecting on how we often overlook giving ourselves the credit we deserve. It’s easy to stay focused on building towards our goals without pausing to acknowledge how far we’ve come. But when we finally reach that place we’ve been striving for, it’s important to take a moment and appreciate the journey.

Entec Si is at the place I always knew that we would reach, with exceptional people, clients and culture, but a realisation only hit me recently during a simple household task. As my mind wandered, I suddenly recognised – I’m here. The place I once dreamed of and the career milestones I worked so hard to achieve, I’ve reached them.

I also thought back to my early career, attending events where industry experts shared their insights, admiring their voices in meaningful conversations. Now, a few years later, my own inbox is filled with invitations to speak at conferences, give lectures and participate in panel discussions, contributing my expertise on digital transformation, people and culture change, and modern leadership.

It’s an incredible shift, moving from observer to contributor. Of course, my ambitions don’t stop here, but I’m deeply grateful for how far I’ve come.

As a woman from an ethnic minority background, the road hasn’t been easy. Barriers and biases could have knocked me back, but instead, they fuelled my determination. Each challenge has been an opportunity for growth and proving my worth – both to others and to myself – has been a powerful part of the journey.

We, as women, must shed the instinct to downplay our successes. Instead, we should celebrate them, share them, and own the value we bring to the table. Representation matters and seeing relatable role models helps pave the way for others. That’s why using our voices to elevate other women is just as important as achieving our own goals.

Through my role in the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) council, and other regional bodies and networks, I’m committed to ensuring more women’s experiences are heard and understood.

This moment of reflection has been a gift, reminding me to embrace gratitude and pride in all I’ve accomplished. There’s still so much more to do, but from now on, I’ll make sure to acknowledge the wins along the way.