From Naive to Savvy: Oge Opara-Nadi on Overcoming Biases in the Tech Industry

11/06/2024 40 min Temporada 2 Episodio 30

Listen "From Naive to Savvy: Oge Opara-Nadi on Overcoming Biases in the Tech Industry"

Episode Synopsis

In the male-dominated tech world, being a woman of color often means facing systemic barriers and unconscious biases.

But engineering leader Oge Opara-Nadi refuses to be a victim of these challenges. "You don't have to be somebody else. You are unique and special just the way you are. And that is what the world needs."

In this candid conversation, Oge shares her powerful journey from feeling painfully naive early in her career to embodying the empowering belief that she belongs and can create change.

You'll hear her recount eye-opening experiences of having ideas overlooked, opinions dismissed as "aggressive," and being the "only" woman and person of color in many rooms. 

However, Oge's story is ultimately one of resilience, growth and trailblazing impact. She drops:
• Crucial insights on finding your purpose
• Advice on advocating for yourself 
• Strategies for transitioning from a reactive to proactive mindset

You'll also hear Oge's wisdom for other underrepresented women: "Believe in yourself. Find your tribe - the people who genuinely want your best interest."

Despite facing bias and self-doubt, Oge is redefining what's possible as a mother of triplets and a son very close in age (4 children under 2 at one point), while driving equitable spaces where everyone can thrive. Her inspirational perspective and hard-won nuggets like "Be the change you want to see" will embolden you to show up fully and ditch the doubts.

Whether you're an ambitious woman of color in tech or an ally seeking to understand, this real, raw episode is a must-listen. Get ready for an empowering pep talk to unlock your power.
About Oge:
Oge Opara-Nadi is the Head of Developer Experience and Operational Excellence at a UK-based fintech company.
She shapes organizational culture as a champion for equality, diversity, and inclusion, chairing EDI committees. With over 23 years of experience in the tech industry, Oge combines professional expertise with guiding principles of integrity, innovation, and impact on achieving high-performance standards.
Oge is passionate about creating equitable spaces where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. She is also an international public speaker, executive leadership coach, and mentor, dedicating her efforts to empowering and inspiring the next generation of women and underrepresented groups in tech.

Connect with Oge on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oge-opara-nadi/

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