A famous Buddha quote says, “The mind is everything. What you think, you become.”
If you believe you can challenge stereotypes, even if it means you have to stand out, you can. This rings true for Stephanie, a project manager, data analyst, and diversity and inclusion advocate, who has refused to let societal stereotypes define who she is. Instead, she chose to forge her own path and give a voice to people like her.
Stephanie shared her story with The Stack Journal; she talked about what inspired her to be an advocate and why she feels there is a need for inclusion in tech.
What is your name, and what do you do in the Tech Industry?
My name is Egharevba Stephanie Osasumwen; I’m a Techprenaure. Technically, I work in project management and data analytics. I am also a Diversity and Inclusion advocate.
You are a project manager and data analyst. How are you able to do both together? How do you navigate both roles?
Balancing project management and data analysis is definitely a challenge because these roles are different, but they complement each other quite well.
As a project manager, my focus is on planning and overseeing projects to meet goals, which requires a lot of communication and thinking. On the other hand, data analysis involves using data to aid decision-making. I’m also able to navigate both with a strong emphasis on data and evidence-based strategies, which allows me to keep projects on track while ensuring that decisions are informed by accurate data.
How many years have you been a project manager and a data analyst?
Two years, I majored in project management and then Data analysis. That’s my current role.
You mentioned that you are also a Diversity and Inclusion Advocate. Is this also in the tech industry?
Yes, it is.
What inspired you to become an advocate?
I’m with a disability, so I understand the pain of people who go through stereotypes. I don’t enjoy seeing other people go through these things because of a lack of education in that particular field.
Many people want to do big things in the tech industry, but they bury their dreams because of stereotypes or biases about who they are and their abilities.
That’s not who I am. I love to challenge standards; I love to ask questions about why things are the way they are.
“I grew up not having a voice, and I understand the pain that comes with it. I want to give people a voice, and I want to use my position to give others the voices that they need.”
I want to let them know they can be whatever they want to be and can dream high. I want them to know that their dreams are valid and that God is with them no matter what. They should also understand that the world’s biases and standards have nothing on them.
What obstacles have you encountered as a woman with a disability in the tech industry, and how have you managed to overcome them?
Firstly, I don’t see challenges as setbacks but as stepping stones necessary for my growth. One challenge I’ve faced in the tech industry is people second-guessing my abilities. Due to preconceived notions about women in tech and biases related to disability, there have been moments when others doubted my capability to handle certain tasks, lead projects, or do certain things.
I’ve overcome this by constantly telling myself, “I can do all things; it doesn’t matter. I will do it, I will take it on, and I’ll be successful.”
What the Lord says about me matters the most to me, not what anybody has to say, so if they tell me I can’t do it, then I can most definitely do it, and I’m going to do it.
I have a very inspiring family, and my girl, Precious Eze, has been a constant source of inspiration. She’s just God’s sent. Honestly, it can get overwhelming and difficult, but with God and these people by my side, I get the job done and stand strong.
How has your journey of advocating for diversity and inclusion been? How important do you think it is to include women and marginalised communities in the tech industry?
Advocating for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve made notable progress in amplifying the voices of women and people with disabilities.
It’s not just important to include women and marginalised communities in tech; it’s essential. When these groups are part of the conversation, we gain a wealth of perspectives and innovations that are impossible in a homogenous environment. Tech shapes the future, and if certain groups are excluded, the products and services we create risk perpetuating existing inequalities. To build a truly balanced and impactful industry, everyone must be represented and heard.
What strategies do you recommend for creating inclusive environments in tech?
To truly create inclusive environments in tech, it all begins with a shift in mindset. Individually, we must challenge our biases and consciously think about inclusion in everything we do. When building products or services, we should always prioritise the needs of diverse users and consider how different people across abilities, genders, and more will interact with and benefit from what we create.
Beyond mindset, inclusive hiring practices are critical. It’s not enough to hire for diversity in numbers; we must ensure that workplaces are welcoming and supportive of everyone and that marginalised voices are empowered to speak up and contribute.
Lastly, we should build a culture of continuous learning. Inclusion is an ongoing journey, not a one-time achievement. Organisations need to invest in regular training and provide opportunities for their teams to learn more about the challenges faced by underrepresented groups. This growth helps keep inclusion at the forefront and ensures that the tech industry evolves in a way that benefits everyone.
When asked what advice she has for women in Tech, Stephanie said, “Build a strong relationship with God because you need him at the centre of everything. There will be times of confusion, setbacks, and challenges; having that foundation will keep you grounded.
Keep doing what you’re doing, but commit to continuous learning. It’s one thing to have passion and another to be well-informed. Learn, gather information, and strive for excellence in everything you do. Dream big, no matter the biases or obstacles that come your way and be strong in your pursuits.”
“Also, don’t forget to seek out experienced mentors who can guide you along the way. Put yourself out there, collaborate with others, and build connections. Aim to be excellent and become very good at what you do. Setbacks are just preparations for your comeback. Keep pushing forward and stay committed to your growth and success.”