Building a support system: A woman’s journey in tech leadership

When I first shared my story in ‘Breaking the Stereotype: My Journey as a Female Coder,’ I reflected on growing and thriving in a field where few looked like me. 

Breaking stereotypes, however, is only the beginning. What sustains you is the support system you build – the people, networks, and values that carry you through every challenge and success.

This is my story of building that support system across countries, cultures, and career milestones, looking at why it matters so deeply for women and underrepresented voices in tech.

From a classroom in Pakistan to global tech leadership

I began my academic journey in Pakistan, where societal norms often limited women’s participation in technical fields like Computer Science. Pursuing a career in tech meant defying expectations and entering spaces with little female representation. 

Yet, within this environment, I remained committed to my goals and graduated top of my cohort, learning the value of persistence and self-belief. It also showed me what it meant to succeed in the face of cultural and structural barriers. 

I then moved to the UK from Pakistan, first as a scholarship recipient pursuing an MSc and PhD in Computer Science. I worked at Coventry University before returning to Pakistan as Domain Head of Software Engineering at COMSATS. In many of these spaces, I was one of the few women in technical or leadership roles and navigating them required more than just academic or professional competence.

I later joined Ravensbourne University London as a Senior Lecturer, becoming a Course Leader soon after. In every transition, the support around me made the difference. Mentors offered guidance, colleagues recognised my contributions, and informal communities gave me strength. These networks, though not always easy to find, boosted my confidence and reminded me that I belong in leadership.

Why support systems matter in traditional workplaces

Whether in Pakistan or the UK, academia or industry, the gender gap in tech leadership is real. Solutions must include policy alongside human connection. Here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Create micro-communities of trust
   In Pakistan, support often came through informal relationships, conversations over coffee and shared struggles. In the UK, I found strength in academic networks, mentorship groups and collaborative peer spaces. These small, safe hubs were my anchor. If you don't find any, create some. Start with one connection and build outward.

    

2. Be the role model you didn’t have
   When I became Domain Head in Pakistan, younger female students and junior staff began reaching out; not for advice, but to say they could now picture themselves in my role. Visibility matters. Just being present and authentic can empower others.

    

3. Build cross-gender alliances based on shared values
   Support doesn't have to come only from women. Some of my strongest allies were male colleagues who genuinely valued fairness, collaboration and inclusion. One of my greatest sources of strength has also been my husband, whose unwavering belief in my capabilities and ambitions has been instrumental in my journey. Support doesn’t need to come from those who look like you, but from those who stand beside you when it counts.

    

4. Prioritise psychological safety
   Support systems must create emotional space. As a Course Leader, I endeavour to build these areas where students and colleagues feel safe to speak up and take risks, just as others once did for me. I know firsthand how powerful it is to feel heard without judgement. If you’re in a position of influence, consider how you develop psychological safety. Your support might be the reason someone chooses to stay in the profession.

    

5. Make support intentional
   Support is not passive; it takes effort and care. I actively sought mentors and connections beyond my institution. These relationships weren’t just helpful; they were essential. Make it a priority to connect with others, share your journey and be there for those around you. It’s one of the most sustainable ways to succeed and to bring others on your journey.

Final thoughts: lead boldly, lift others

From my early days in Pakistan to my leadership roles in the UK, I have learned that success in tech isn’t a solo journey. It’s shaped by the support we receive, give, and help create for others.

Support systems aren’t optional, they are the foundation. They give us the strength to lead, the courage to stay, push forward, and the power to change things for the better. Whether you are a student entering a male-dominated field, a professional navigating your first leadership role or someone who feels unseen in a room full of voices, know that your presence matters. 

To every woman and underrepresented voice in tech: keep showing up. Keep building. And never underestimate the power of standing together.