Advocate for yourself and find a strong support network to find your voice
Leadership, to me, is about creating an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute and grow. Throughout my 25+ years in the technology industry, I’ve observed how gender bias can shape the hiring process and influence career trajectories for women. Too often, unconscious bias impacts how we are perceived—whether it’s assumptions about our capabilities or our commitment to career advancement. It takes intentionality to overcome these barriers, both by changing the system and by mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Women still face the glass ceiling, but it’s evolving. While many industries have made strides, there are still moments where I’ve had to push harder to be heard or taken seriously. The best advice I received was to keep advocating for myself—never waiting for permission to take a seat at the table. Breaking through requires resilience, but also the right support networks. I’ve found that sharing our stories and encouraging others to rise is one way to collectively chip away at that ceiling.
For women of color, the challenge is even greater as gender and racial bias often intersect. It’s why I’m so passionate about my work with the BUiLT (Blacks United in Legal Technology) community, where we focus on expanding access to opportunities and elevating diverse voices in legal tech. There’s an incredible pool of talent out there, and I believe it’s our responsibility as leaders to foster environments where everyone can thrive.
One of the challenges I faced early in my career was navigating an industry that didn’t have many people who looked like me. There were moments of self-doubt, but I leaned on mentors who pushed me to believe in my abilities and find my unique voice. It’s a challenge that shaped my passion for leadership and the importance of diversity in business.
Ultimately, what drives me is creating impact—whether it’s through supporting diverse talent, shaping inclusive teams, or driving innovation within the legal technology space. I’m most passionate about lifting others as I climb, making sure that my journey opens doors for those coming behind me. The factors that influenced my career choice stemmed from my desire to work at the intersection of technology and law, and to make a difference. I want to continue creating spaces where people are valued for their unique perspectives, breaking down the barriers that limit our collective potential.
