In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood explores the realities of building bridges in a biased world with guest Sonia Pérez. They uncover the subtle and overt barriers that neurodivergent and minoritised people face in traditionally male-dominated sectors, particularly engineering and energy. Sonia offers candid reflections on navigating complex identities, masking in the workplace, and the intersection of motherhood, neurodiversity, and professional ambition. The conversation tackles how internalised expectations shape confidence, strategies for thriving amid microaggressions, and the persistent, unseen labour of adapting to workplace culture. Joanne and Sonia underscore the critical role of network and community—'finding your village'—in fostering psychological safety and personal resilience.
Sonia Prez is an engineer and accomplished leader within the energy industry. Now based in Aberdeen, she is a committed champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion. With lived experience as a neurodivergent, single mother and professional, Sonia actively advocates for the importance of psychological safety and belonging in STEM. Her journey into DEI was spurred not only by professional insight but by personal developments—her daughter’s neurodivergence prompting Sonia’s own diagnosis and rapid learning curve. Beyond her technical expertise, Sonia has chaired women’s and neurodiversity networks, contributed to sector-wide discussions, and holds master’s degrees in both engineering and creative writing.
Throughout the episode, Joanne and Sonia discuss the nuanced reality of fitting in, the limitations of masking, and why systemic change is necessary for authentic inclusion. They highlight evolving generational perspectives, the ongoing challenges for working parents, and the value of open conversations about mental health, eating disorders, and intersectionality. Sonia’s advice emphasises the importance of building supportive networks, taking up space, and not internalising societal bias.
A key takeaway from this episode is the transformative power of embracing and sharing lived experience to drive inclusive leadership and culture change. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own identities, leverage supportive communities, and continue challenging the status quo as we strive for a workplace—and society—where everyone can truly belong and thrive.

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