Empower her Tech Dialogues
– Sylvia Tancheva
As we commemorate International Women’s Day on the 8th of March, we take a moment to honor the achievements and contributions of remarkable women in our tech community. This year, we shine the spotlight on Sylvia Tancheva, a dedicated mother, and seasoned professional with over 17 years of experience at our company!
Empower her Tech Dialogues:
Our Empower her Tech Dialogues initiative aims to highlight the incredible journeys of women in technology. Sylvia’s story exemplifies resilience, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, making her an invaluable part of our tech landscape.
How did you initially become interested in technology, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
Sylvia: In my school days, there wasn’t even a computer room for IT lessons; we wrote code on the blackboard and on paper. It seemed a bit crazy to study Computer Science without even owning a computer, so I bought one after being admitted to the university. My mentor during my master’s program greatly influenced my decision and assisted me on my thesis.
What are your aspirations for the future, both in your tech career and personal life?
Sylvia: Technical fields evolve rapidly, making predictions challenging. I look forward to the interesting and challenging journey ahead. Personally, I’m raising a son who seems to be following his tech-savvy parents, and I expect to mentor a young tech expert soon.
Can you recall a moment in your career when you felt your contributions had a significant impact on the company or a project?
Sylvia: Co-leading a project that became a market leader and providing a working small business state financing system in the UK during Covid-19 were particularly exciting moments.
Where do you draw inspiration for innovation in your work?
Sylvia: Tangible impacts on users’ lives inspire me. Witnessing ideas transform into solutions that make users’ lives more comfortable is motivating.
In a male-dominated industry, have you faced any specific challenges, and how did you navigate them?
Sylvia: Growing up surrounded by boys eased communication with male colleagues. I’ve been fortunate to work with colleagues who treated me equally. Leading a team of males, I was always considered one of the “guys.”
What strategies have you found most effective in maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
Sylvia: Balancing work and life are an ongoing challenge. As a bit of a workaholic, I remind myself to “STOP” occasionally. Engaging in hobbies and taking breaks from screens helps maintain balance.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career in technology, based on your own experiences?
Sylvia: Technology is not limited by gender. Believe in yourself and start doing it. My niece’s success in a top technology university, based on her belief in her mathematical skills, is a testament to this!
Sylvia’s journey embodies empowerment, resilience, and innovation. On this International Women’s Day, her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring women in tech, encouraging them to believe in their capabilities and shape the ever-evolving technological landscape!