Women in Tech: Leadership, Challenges, and the Power of Sisterhood

Facing Challenges and Overcoming Biases

Livia Matos shares her transition from advertising to technology, highlighting the need to constantly prove oneself, especially in a predominantly male sector. She also addresses imposter syndrome and the importance of mentors for navigating difficult conversations about promotions and salary.

Uiclecia, founder of IA para Todas, recounts a striking episode where, in a leadership selection process, she was informed she was "the only woman." Later, to ensure women were hired, she had to tear the names off résumés so her manager would evaluate only competencies, revealing explicit bias. She emphasizes that "competence and ethics have no gender."

Ana Paula reflects that for years, she didn't perceive gender disparity, as she was focused on her own journey. Today, she actively seeks to bring more women into the field and connect with them. She also shares a subtle tactic in meetings: intervening when a woman is interrupted, ensuring her voice is heard.

Authentic Leadership and Personal Balance

Uiclecia advocates for a leadership model based on authenticity, assertive communication, and firmness in decisions, without losing one's personality. She emphasizes that hierarchy does not define leadership; leadership emerges from the ability to inspire and guide.

Livia Matos believes in giving autonomy and acting as a mentor to her team, encouraging reflection and mutual growth. She highlights the importance of active listening and distinguishing between a boss and a true leader.

Regarding the balance between personal and professional life, Uiclecia associates it with an athlete's discipline: attending to all the "plates" with equal care. Ana Paula, on the other hand, jokes that "imbalance is everything," meaning it's a constant adaptation and prioritization, without fear of "letting the plates drop" and then readjusting.

The Power of Sisterhood and Allies

Livia Matos underscores the fundamental importance of sisterhood and female unity. She argues that women are often incited to compete, but together they are "powerful." The role of male allies is crucial, as Uiclecia points out. They can help break down cultural barriers and ingrained biases, whether through mentorship or by simply being interested in understanding and improving the situation. Livia celebrates the fact that a growing portion of the podcast's audience is male, indicating progress in awareness.

Inspiring Messages for Their Younger Selves

In the end, each participant reflects on what they would tell their younger self:

• Livia Matos would advise her younger self to trust herself more, trust her intuition, and not be afraid to embrace new opportunities.
• Ana Paula Mussel would say to "keep dreaming, be a little lighter" on herself, schedule vacations, and follow her heart.
• Uiclecia would encourage all young women not to give up, to seek knowledge, to have the courage to embrace fears and insecurities, and to remember that "the only person who can put you where you want to be is yourself."

This episode of Donas da Voz is a powerful reminder that the female journey in technology, though full of challenges, is also a fertile ground for innovation, authentic leadership, and the building of supportive communities. May the stories and advice of Ana Paula, Uiclecia, and Livia inspire you to embrace your ambitions, defend your space, and pave the way for future generations of women leaders.