WomenInTech. "Skills and results speak louder than prejudices," — girls on their path to success

Assel Seifullina, city — Astana, entrepreneur, founder, linkedin

About Me

I am the founder of the companies EasyStep education platform, DOP, «Zernyshko» and KazGreenHub, ZARDAP as well as the educational center YasDiEducation. I am dedicated to developing innovative educational and environmental projects aimed at creating a sustainable future and unlocking the potential of every individual. My special concern is children aged 5 to 12, as it is at this age that dreams and ambitions are born, which can change the world. For 19 years, I have been teaching at the university, and it brings me great pleasure to share my knowledge and experience with students, inspiring them to participate in various hackathons and competitions.

My career path in the field of education began more than 19 years ago and led me to create educational startups that inspire and motivate. In the IT field, I found my passion and a place where I can combine technology and learning to turn dreams into reality.

How I entered the IT profession

I first saw computers in 1998 in the ninth grade during a computer science class. I fondly remember my teacher, Boris Vasilyevich, who said, "Even if a few people write a program in Pascal, for me, that is already success." Among my classmates, I was the only IT specialist. Later came university and master's studies, where Gulden Yelsambekovna Murzabekova had a huge influence on me, seeing my potential. Working at the university confirmed that education and IT are fields with endless development potential.

About stereotypes

On my path in IT, I had to face stereotypes, but I always knew that true strength lies in knowledge and achievements. I strove to prove my competence by turning innovations into real results.

As a woman in IT, I encountered many stereotypes. But I always believed that skills and results speak louder than prejudices. Because true strength lies in knowledge and achievements. I strove to prove my competence through innovations and the success of my projects.

Barriers for women in IT

Women in IT often face a lack of role models and prejudices. After maternity leave, I repeatedly tried to become a developer, but a small child did not allow me to fully engage in the process, so I chose the role of a business analyst and started my career path in IT at JSC "NIT". Overcoming obstacles is a constant process. You are a mother, daughter, spouse, and you need to do everything, look good, and find balance. Thanks to the Astana Hub "Tracker School" program, I acquired the unique profession of a tracker. Now I know my mission — to remove limitations through knowledge. Becoming a mentor and tracker and participating in support communities such as UN Women, Women In Tech Uzbekistan, I can inspire, guide, and support other girls and women on their development path.

Recommendations for those just starting their journey

When it seems that strength is running out, I remember the words of Scarlett O'Hara: "I'll think about it tomorrow." Believe in your unimaginable potential and accept challenges. Action is the key to success. Be curious, experiment, build networks, and find a balance between work and personal life; networking and mentoring can significantly accelerate your growth. Remember that every failure is a step to new heights. Only action removes excess potential.

And most importantly — seek like-minded people, for one is not a warrior in the field. I thank my team for their support and joint development: Khamsa, Kuandyk, Ekaterina, Aset, and Zhalgas.

Aiman Sakova, city — Almaty, PR Manager, @sakhova_

About Me

I hold the position of PR Manager at Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan. My tasks include developing and implementing PR strategies aimed at strengthening the Huawei brand and promoting our innovative products and solutions.

My work also involves interacting with the media, creating content, organizing events, and managing corporate reputation. I strive to ensure that our brand remains in leading positions and enjoys the trust of clients and partners.

This year marks 10 years since I started working at Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan. In general, my career path at Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan began even during my student years. I dreamed of working at this company even as a student and actively strived for it. Initially, I came for an internship where I was able to apply my knowledge of the Chinese language in practice and demonstrate my abilities.

Over time, thanks to perseverance and a desire to learn new things, I got the opportunity to try myself in different roles within the company, which allowed me to better understand the internal processes and culture of Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan.

At each stage, I gained valuable experience and knowledge that helped me develop as a professional, moving into more complex and responsible roles. Currently, as a PR Manager, I am proud to contribute to promoting Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan as a leader in the field of telecommunications technologies.

How I entered the IT profession

I knew from my university days that I wanted to work at Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan. This is because this company is not just a global technological flagship with a rich corporate culture, but also a large platform for development and acquiring invaluable experience at an international level.

It can be said that my entry into the IT field was the result of my desire to work at Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan and my proficiency in the Chinese language, as my specialty was a Chinese language translator. Thus, I began working in the ICT field, and I am glad that I was able to harmoniously combine my linguistic skills with the dynamic and technological environment of Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan.

About stereotypes

At Huawei Technologies Kazakhstan, I have never encountered any biased attitude due to gender, but in the market, I have witnessed stereotypes related to gender prejudices in the IT field. For example, some people still believe that women are less technically savvy or less capable of leadership. But I believe that professionalism, knowledge, and perseverance do not depend on gender. My work results speak for my competence, which is ultimately what matters most.

Barriers for women in IT

Women in IT may face various difficulties, including a lack of support and mentoring, bias from colleagues and management, as well as difficulties in balancing work and personal life.

To overcome these obstacles, it is important to strive for self-development, develop skills and talents, and actively participate in the professional community and be "vocal." I myself always try to support and inspire women in IT, share my experience, and help them grow professionally.

It is also important to learn to set priorities and find a balance between work and personal life to avoid burnout and continue moving forward.

Recommendations for those just starting their journey

My advice to those just starting their career path — never stop learning and self-improvement. IT is an industry that is constantly changing, so it is important to keep up with the latest technological trends and news. 

Always continuously develop your skills and knowledge, keep up with current trends and innovations in your field. Do not be afraid to be ambitious and strive for your goals, even if they seem unattainable. 

And finally, do not hesitate to seek advice from more experienced colleagues or mentors. Their experience and knowledge can be valuable resources on your career path that will help broaden your horizons.