Welcome to the third feature in the IWD Spotlight series, where women in the science and tech industry share their journey and advice for others walking the same path.

What are some of the challenges you’ve personally encountered or seen women face in the tech industry? 

It has been quite positive for me ever since I took the first step into the tech industry in Singapore. I have heard and seen many women in the tech industry who have become successful leaders and entrepreneurs, paving the way for others to follow in their footsteps. Women-led startups and tech companies are increasing in number and gaining more recognition.

Diversity brings unique perspectives and experiences to the tech industry, which can lead to innovative ideas and solutions. Diverse teams are more likely to come up with creative and practical solutions to complex problems.

Take my example – I’m one of many others who were welcomed at Tribe Accelerator, despite coming from a vastly different professional background. Each person brings their unique skills and perspectives to the table. By collaborating smoothly and leveraging each other’s strengths, we can generate value for both the blockchain industry and our portfolio companies. Our team’s strength lies in the diversity we bring to the group, making it a powerful tool for success.

What can society do to ensure gender equity in a male-dominated industry? 

Ensuring that women have access to the skills and knowledge required for success in any field is essential. To achieve this, we can support initiatives that provide education and training opportunities, particularly for underrepresented groups. By promoting such efforts, we can create a more equitable society where everyone has the chance to fulfill their potential.

What advice would you give to your younger self when starting out? 

The first thing would be to maintain a strong appetite for knowledge and nurture my curiosity through more interactions with like-minded people from the industry. Often, it can be challenging to find the right platforms to do so. The blockchain sector is ever-changing, so it’s imperative to continuously learn new things and enhance our skills.

Also, I’d advise myself to strategically expand my network. Seeking out platforms and events where you can connect with people who share your interests is important. Engage in conversations with individuals from diverse backgrounds to gain fresh perspectives and broaden your outlook. Ultimately, don’t hesitate to pursue your passion and make a professional switch if that’s what you truly desire.

What kind of workplace/industry changes do you hope to see in the next five years or so? 

I hope to see more breakthrough innovations in the blockchain space that can solve real-world problems.

With the new generation of the internet, Web3 evolving at a fast pace, with many creative and promising startups on the rise that can push its growth to the next level. One of Tribe Accelerator’s alumni, Mighty Jaxx, a Singapore-based integrated future culture platform that designs and produces digital and phygital collectibles, is driving the future of collectibles.

For more innovation, talents are a must. There needs to be a greater emphasis on continuous learning and development in the industry. Startups are looking for promising talents in the blockchain space, and we help bridge them to these talents as we continue to support upskilling and open innovation programs.

I also hope to see a growing commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry. Many people are advocating for increased representation of underrepresented groups in tech roles and leadership positions, and for the creation of inclusive work environments where everyone feels valued and supported.