Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico. October 21, 2024. At a crucial moment for the technology industry, where inclusion and gender equality play a decisive role, women leaders in technology are redefining the future of the industry and sharing their visions for empowering new generations.

This was the central theme during the second edition of NEOWoman, an event organized by the digital accelerator NEORIS, where women from the IT sector debated and analyzed the challenges and opportunities that women face in the short and long term.

During a series of presentations dedicated to delving into the role of professionals in business, attendees agreed that the industry is at a turning point.

Cristina Valles, Director of Operations and Business Support for EMEA at NEORIS, said that women in IT are challenging traditional models and are creating new, more inclusive and human ways of leading.

“We are seeing that the future requires not only technical skills, but also a diversity of perspectives that drive innovation. Women have a vital role in building that future and it is time to demand equal leadership opportunities to do so,” she said.

Commitment to equity and plurality of voices

Gabriela Mitri, founder of Speakhers, furthered this point as she highlighted the transformative power of sisterhood in the business world. Mitri stressed that solidarity among woman is not only about creating support networks, but also about enabling spaces where women can gain visibility, share knowledge and strengthen their leadership.

"True transformation happens when women collaborate and support each other. Together, we can break barriers and unite for a greater purpose by building great things that positively impact our industries and communities,” said Mitri.

What’s more, the renowned businesswoman and researcher, Yeudith Velázquez, together with Ana Lucía Cepeda, co-founder and director of Beyond Work, highlighted how women in the technology industry —as well as in other sectors— bring a unique vision of leadership that is distinguished by its focus on collaboration, empathy and collective growth.

Both emphasized that this style of leadership boosts the performance of organizations, while creating a more human and connected environment, where the success of one person translates into the success of the entire team.

In addition, the speakers highlighted the importance of finding a balance between professional projects and personal life, which is a constant challenge for many women in leadership roles. "Female leadership is not just about achieving professional goals, but doing so without losing sight of personal and family well-being. The ability to manage both spheres is what really strengthens leaders, allowing them to make more conscious and balanced decisions,” said Velázquez.

Breaking barriers, creating opportunities

More opportunities were pointed out by Myriam Ventura, Application Alignment Manager at the University of Monterrey, and Karina Guarecuco, Director of Corporate Finance for the North American Region at NEORIS, who both agreed on the urgent need to train new generations to face the challenges of a constantly changing technology industry.

With this in mind, the importance of mentoring programs within organizations and universities was emphasized, as women in leadership positions can provide new professionals with active role models to help them strengthen their skills and navigate the challenges that come with professional growth.

"Mentoring creates a safe space where young women can learn from those who have already walked that path. However, mentoring should not be limited to technical skills, but should also focus on soft skills, such as resilience, effective communication and time management, which will allow them to create stronger leaders, capable of facing challenges with courage and determination,” said Guarecuco.

Opening new pathways for women in the sector

NEOWoman 2024 is one of many diversity-focused initiatives at NEORIS, which not only sees inclusion and female empowerment as important goals, but also as drivers of transformation. Through its motto #RaiseYourVoice and the recent implementation of the Morada and Violeta Academies, the company has adopted a comprehensive approach to training women in technical skills and management competencies. These initiatives are designed to empower current female talents at all levels of the organization, as well as new generations being welcomed into the company.

“NEOWoman is a reflection of what we are as an organization: a place where female talent is empowered, where we celebrate diversity and where we seek to be agents of change. This initiative inspires us to continue working together, to continue connecting and to continue learning from each other’s shared experiences,” explained Martín Mendez, CEO of NEORIS.