WomenInTech. Women founders on how to successfully build a startup

Successful female startup founders share insights on how to build a project in the IT sector

Tota Smatova, city — Almaty, founder of Checkdoc

About myself

I run a medical startup called Checkdoc. We make diagnostics accessible by offering home or office visits. We have been operating for over two years.

How I entered the IT profession

I hold two higher education degrees. I studied at KazNU and UIB. I previously opened businesses in the food service industry and a beauty salon. Over time, I realized that to succeed in such ventures, one must be a creative person who loves this field. I lacked this passion, so I sold the salon.

Next, I began studying the IT sector. At one of the meetings with tech entrepreneurs, I met the founder of Chocofamily. I liked the company's values at that time. I joined the company and worked there for three years. After that, I decided to found the startup Checkdoc.

On stereotypes

At first, I faced a lack of seriousness regarding my age.
There are stereotypes about female founders. Recently, I heard that some investors refuse to invest in startups founded by women. They believe that women might have children, which would distract them from business. Since it is the investors' money, they have the right to act this way. However, I believe it is unwise to dismiss women: we are stress-resistant, often more diligent, and diplomatic.

Barriers for women in IT

The majority of the IT community consists of men. At events and gatherings, they are always the majority. Many contracts and agreements are discussed not only in formal meetings but also in informal settings, such as cafes, where women are rarely seen. Although these are considered startup meetings. And women should also be present there.
I do not resist this situation. I rather understand that women need to develop differently. Sometimes one must stand up for one's position and provide arguments.

Recommendations for those just starting their journey

The most important thing is the ability to keep going. The path of startups is thorny. Everyone around will doubt you. At this moment, you need to understand whether your activities are yielding results. If they are, then you cannot give up. Continue moving forward in your chosen direction, adjusting your actions along the way.
Often, those who attract investments start spending a lot: organizing events, renting expensive offices. Here, it is important to correctly calculate the budget and achieve results before the next deal.

Asem Tazhiyeva, city — Astana, founder of Ozim Platform

About myself

Ozim Platform is a mobile application for parents who have young children and children with special needs. I am also the head of the Association for the Development of an Inclusive Society in Kazakhstan.

How I entered the IT profession

I studied to become a teacher of English and Korean languages. At the same time, I was always drawn to IT. I got my first job as a programmer, where I automated and implemented a linguistics-based system for learning English. I also worked as an assistant director to Rubizhan Yakhin. I was the head of the user support department for the corporate information system at JSC "Kazpost". Later, I created my own online clothing store.

After closing my business, I entered master's studies. There, I learned about inclusion and its importance for our society. I was overwhelmed with thoughts about how much more needs to be changed in the country. I had the necessary experience, so I decided to create an application to help people with special needs.

On stereotypes

During my work at JSC "Kazpost", I had a low salary. New managers earned more. Therefore, I submitted resumes to international companies: I felt they were fairer in this regard.

While working on the startup, I sometimes encountered negative perceptions. Ozim Platform is a social startup that is not highly commercialized. Sometimes it is treated as a "non-startup". But this does not stop me from continuing what I do.

Previously, I did not understand the significance of technological forums and organizations for women. Over time, I realized that the women's community is a soft force that provides good support. In my opinion, women manage businesses more skillfully and adapt quickly to changes.
I received a lot of support from the community and the state. Many local and international programs are launched for women.

Barriers for women in IT

10-15 years ago, there were stereotypes in the IT sector from men. Now I do not see them. Women are now valued more. However, there are still few women in IT, just as there are few girls in physics and mathematics schools.

No one ever restricted me in my activities. On the contrary, I always felt support from my family and husband.

Recommendations for those just starting their journey

Do not doubt and do not be afraid. Follow your own path. Many will advise you on what to do. I recommend listening only to yourself and doing what you think is right.
Study a lot, develop yourself. Create creative startups. Do not think that a woman should only sit in the kitchen and raise children.