Breaking barriers: our alumnae pave the way for the next generation of women in tech

This imbalance feeds into the science and technology job market, where women are still significantly underrepresented and face barriers such as unconscious bias and lack of role models. Empowering women to study and work in STEM, especially within the tech sector, is crucial for fostering diversity and economic growth. 

Gender equity in tech is not only a matter of fairness; it’s essential for building a more innovative and competitive industry – and the more women join the field, the more representation and mentorship will be available to those who come after them. 

The University of London offers a range of industry-relevant courses which can help you break into a STEM career – including a new International Foundation Programme (IFP) for Computer Science, which provides students with the skills needed to undertake a full degree. 

Upon successful completion, students are automatically offered a place on our BSc Computer Science, with academic direction from experts at Goldsmiths, University of London. Both programmes can be studied flexibly online, making them realistic options for those in full-time work or with caring responsibilities. 

We sat down with two of our computing alumnae to find out more about their careers in tech, as well as the challenges – and opportunities – they encounter as women in the field. Asha Hardeo and Farah Saleh both graduated from the BSc Computing and Information Systems at the University of London (now BSc Computer Science). Each of them is at an exciting stage of their career, and they also offer support and guidance to current students as Alumni Ambassadors.  

Asha Hardeo graduated in 2010 and is now a Senior Project Manager with The National ICT Company of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as Director of her own business, Digitalis Consulting. 

“My path into the world of tech was sparked by a deep curiosity about how technology can change the landscape of how we do business and everyday tasks,” Asha explains.

Growing up, I was fascinated by how technology could connect people, solve complex problems, and drive innovation. 

“Pursuing a career in IT allowed me to merge this passion with a mission-driven approach. Working in the tech industry has given me the platform to directly impact private sector businesses and improve the lives of citizens through technology.” 

In any demanding career, it is important to have an overarching goal that drives you. Asha says she is “continually motivated by the rapid evolution of technology and its potential to transform how we live and work. Every project presents new challenges and opportunities to learn, adapt, and innovate. Additionally, I am driven by the opportunity to mentor and empower others by encouraging them to explore and thrive in this dynamic field.” 

The value of mentorship should not be underestimated: mentees can gain crucial insights from more experienced professionals, helping them to navigate challenges and develop key skills more quickly. Our network of Alumni Ambassadors fulfils this role within the University of London community. 

Reflecting on her career, Asha shares that “one of the primary challenges lies where technology implementations occur faster than organisational processes can adapt. There are often limitations on resources, compliance requirements, and structural constraints that can slow down the tech process.” 

It was the power of mentoring that helped her to navigate these obstacles: “I sought mentorship, built a supportive network, and worked diligently to develop a leadership style that was inclusive, confident, and focused on results.” 

As to the future of women in STEM, Asha is optimistic: “As awareness around diversity and inclusion grows, more organisations are actively creating pathways for women to thrive in technical roles and leadership positions. This means increased access to mentorship, scholarships, and professional development programmes specifically designed to support women in STEM. 

“With these opportunities,” Asha continues, “I believe we will see more women not only entering STEM fields but also advancing into decision-making roles, where they can drive change and inspire others."

Representation is key – when women see others like them in these spaces, it reinforces that they belong and can succeed.

Her advice to young girls is simple: “be curious, be bold, and believe in yourself. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and remember that failure is often just a stepping stone to success. Seek out mentors and role models who inspire you, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance – most people are more than willing to help. Lastly, build your skills and stay up to date with industry trends, but also develop resilience and confidence.” 

Singapore-based Farah Saleh graduated in 2013 and now works as a Business Architecture Lead at Accenture. Her choice of degree was influenced by her own mentor: "Twelve years ago, when I was about to apply for university, my late mentor suggested that I pursue computer science instead of engineering, as it would be the driving force of the future. I listened to him and that was the best decision I’ve ever made."

What motivates me the most is the ability to work and engage with good clients and colleagues, building teams and further contributing to the industry.

In an industry with a clear gender imbalance, women can face a variety of obstacles – from the more commonly discussed issues, like pay equity, to interpersonal communication. Farah says, “I have faced multiple challenges, such as understanding different technologies, tools and communication styles. I do ask myself, ‘what is causing the challenge? Is it due to lack of knowledge in a particular area, or is the way I communicate not adequate?’” 

However, Farah is already observing positive changes: “I see more women joining STEM fields, as we now have a lot more opportunities than before. This is due to multiple factors, such as governments implementing initiatives to motivate women to join the workforce. Also, in emerging technologies such as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), AI, and medical, there will be more opportunities that will motivate females to join the industry.” 

Reflecting on the University of London’s new IFP for Computer Science, Asha sees it as “essential. This feeder course will allow students to explore and build competence in diverse tech areas, giving them the flexibility to specialise in the field that resonates most with them. 

"This structured exposure is especially valuable for students who may be unsure about which area to pursue, providing them with a clear pathway and the confidence to make informed career choices."

Ready to take the first step in your tech career? Find out more and apply for the BSc Computer Science or International Foundation Programme for Computer Science at the University of London.