In 2019, Sapture launched our 'Women Making SAP Happen' initiative with the aim of highlighting some of the amazing women working in the SAP ecosystem. Now, 2 years later, we have shared some truly inspirational stories and have given an insight into the career achievements of women in the SAP industry. These stories were included in our International Women's Day Special 2020.

The theme for International Women's Day 2021 is #ChooseToChallenge. We can all choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. A challenged world is an alert world and we all have a responsibility to encourage and embrace these challenges in our world today.

This year, we bring you a mini blog which digs a little deeper into some of the challenges that women face in both professional and personal lives and how they have learnt to navigate through these experiences.

Which mentors or role models have positively impacted you in your career, and what's the one lesson they taught you?

I’ve been very lucky to be surrounded by an incredible family and partner which I believe underpins my positive attitude and approach to life. Being appreciative for everything I have is an important mindset that I hold. The people closest to me have taught me selflessness, empathy and great resilience. From a professional perspective, I’ve worked with some very powerful, intelligent and inspirational people. I am continuously motivated and inspired to achieve a high standard due to strong leaders whom I look up to and respect. I am happy to say, there are too many to name that have influenced me to be and do better every day.

How have you managed to balance your career and personal life?

I was recently in a coaching session with a senior leader at SAP, and I actually asked this question to them. Their response really resonated with me. They said something along the lines of: “People try to separate work and home life, but at the end of the day, it’s all your life, and sometimes you will put more into work, and sometimes you will put more into personal aspects. It’s your choice as to what you want to focus on more at any time and balance that accordingly”. This was quite logical to me, as sometimes it feels like we let work consume us because of deadlines and schedules – however that is a choice we make at the time because of our commitment and aspirations. So, I think as long as we are conscious of the choices we make and where we invest our time for whatever reason, we can balance as need be. Be in tune with yourself and your relationships and you will know the balance you need to apply.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Treat yourself kindly. Self-awareness is important to catch yourself with behaviours that are not serving you. I’m in my early 30’s now and only just starting to realise this now.

"It does take time for people to build credibility and experience, however sometimes I was quickly ‘type-casted’ due to my gender and age"

What unique challenges have you faced in your career as a woman? How did you overcome them?

I started working as an assistant tutor very early on when I was 10 years old. As my parents are teachers and finance managers, this inspired me to see how we can help each other to make our lives better through education, contributing value in the community and have sound financial management. I continue to support others to explore the options on personal development and strategic financial planning to achieve a more balanced lifestyle.

When I was studying, I transformed from a shy lady into a well rounded person. I was given enormous tasks and people feel I can Fix or Close it with my diplomatic skills, elected to be a leader in school as deputy head prefect (similar to school captain) and executive leader of a wide range community services organisations and the journey continues.

Age won't stop us from achieving, our attitude in reaching higher and willingness to support others along the journey fulfil lives.

I believe in Pay It Forward, every day we learn, we pass on valuable lessons so that others can rise quicker.

Which mentors or role models have positively impacted you in your career, and what’s one lesson that they taught you?

Besides my parents, which I am very thankful for their lifelong roles as a friend/mentor and adviser, I am thankful to people who I met along the way who contribute their time to share their experiences, lessons learnt, and ideas which help me to make an informed decision on major pathways. For example career development strategy and the dos and don'ts in the corporate world yet be yourself.

How have you managed to balance your career and personal life?

I used to work in a global program that required me to travel regularly. While the opportunity and experience was adding high value both to myself and the companies, I reached the point where I was working 14 hours a day due to dual responsibility to manage the business as usual activities and capital investment projects. After the completion of the project delivery, I had a rethink of what I should really focus on and how I can utilise my experience to help others to consider their suitable pathways and celebrate milestones together.

Whart advice would you give your younger self?

I would be happy to share the experience I have now to my young adult-self. Follow your heart, not the traditional path which people walked, except we can utilise their learning experience, the learning experience can grow exponentially which helps other to overcome the initial challenges and fear, so that we can all be stronger and be a valuable global citizen.

"I believe in Pay It Forward, every day we learn, we pass on valuable lessons so that others can rise quicker"

How have you managed to balance your career and personal life?

In my situation, it can be a bit challenging as I am a full-time Project Manager, PhD student - Doctorate of Philosophy-IT Software Engineering AI and most importantly mother of three kids (ages 5,10 and 17). For me, it is vital to manage time well to be able to do it all. It is about your habits and daily routine. Planning and prioritise is the key. Have at least an hour a day to yourself, go for a walk or something similar that will help you relax. It does help in releasing toxins from the body and negative thoughts. Always, make time to be with your loved ones. I am fortunate enough to have fantastic support from those close to me as I would not be able to follow my dreams without their ongoing support.

Do remember pressure is a privilege. Be positive and think positive.

What unique challenges have you faced in your career as a woman? How did you overcome them?

I have not faced any unique challenges as a woman in my career. However, I have faced other challenges that I took as learnings to develop myself, to become more resilient in similar situations and stronger as a person. I focus on my goals and trying not to let challenges or negative surroundings impact what I do.



Also, I strive to be a positive role model to other women and my kids.

What advice would you give your younger self?

You are stronger, smarter and more resilient than you could ever imagine. 

Knowledge is power! 

Be curious as much as you are now.

It is ok to ask for help sometimes...

Be patient!

Thank you to the amazing women that took part in this mini blog as part of International Women's Day 2021!



If you would like to nominate an outstanding woman to tell her story, or if you would like to be featured in our "Women Making SAP Happen" series, please email danielle@sapture.com.au