We celebrate the International Women's day on the 8th March (International women's rights day, in few countries) but it's also important to remind that women are equal of men and it's essential to protect and respect their rights every days of the year but nowadays, women make up just 24% of the tech workforce, thus more and more women are encouraged to pursue careers in the tech industry. Initiatives such as Girls who Code and conferences such as European Women in Technology support this movement passionately.
And at Joomla, the trend is not much different. Because there is no fatality, we must do things in others ways and be more inclusive. In our community, some women are really amazing and I've decided to introduce you some of them. These women are so inspiring and so motivating. Really. Read their stories, their advices, their thoughts and you'll be convinced.
Because we need really each others, I do hope that these portraits will inspire others women to embrace a career in tech sector and/or to join the Joomla Community.
Women's portrait at Joomla: Ruchika Nagarkar
What’s your name and your role at Joomla?
Hey everyone, I am Ruchika Nagarkar from India and I am a Joomler since 5 years. There has been no turning back for me since the the day I attended Joomla World Conference in 2015, Bangalore. I am a part of Joomla Enhancement Development team and have recently joined Volunteer Engagement Team where main focus is to introduce volunteers with our amazing software and community.What excites you about your daily work?
By profession, I am a Senior Software Developer. So, excitement is not just limited to analysing, building new features and squashing some bugs but also I get the opportunity to mentor and train others.What did you study?
I pursued Bachelors of Engineering.When did you start to think about pursuing a career in tech?
As soon as I graduated. My first job was of a Web Developer role which was really exciting. But I was truly inspired and determined to be in tech industry when I moved to Bangalore seeing the amazing pool of tech communities.What challenges are you facing as a woman working in tech?
I feel though we are moving more towards an open mindset, still not everyone belongs to the same cake yet. From my personal experience I feel women always needs to give an extra effort than male to prove themselves. Though you are talented, you have great ideas but your voice often goes unheard. Your technical skills are thought as not good enough until you push some extra boundaries.What would your advice to women considering pursuing a career in tech be?
I would like to say to all women that you are open to choose any field you want. No work is tough or easy, in fact it is the matter of fact how much efforts you put into it. If your voice goes unheard raise it again and then again till the time it actually goes into someone's ears. Self doubt is a common feeling and I would encourage you to embrace it. Don't let any opportunity go out of your hands because of this. Don't be afraid to learn new technology. Today you might be a beginner but one day you will be an expert. Never fear to take a lead. Have your seat at the table. A good mentor can change your life. So, identify and find one.Are there any specific Book/Blogs/Apps you enjoy & recommend ?
There are many books which I read but few I will highlight:Lean In, Sheryl Sandberg
Presence, Amy Cuddy
Becoming, Michelle Obama
Black box Thinking, Matthew Syed
Who or what inspires you?
Who:
My mother, of course :-)
And then I am truly inspired by Michelle Obama, Carla Harris and Indra Nooyi.
By people who volunteer into any kind of project or initiative.
What:
"After every fall you can stand again" - I know its a bit cliche but I feel you are your own inspiration. If I look back into my tech journey I feel inspired to see how far I have come through.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love engaging with developer communities and highly support women in tech. Apart from my day job I am volunteering in such communities to inspire more women. I am really enthusiatic for art and try to juggle some time amid my schedule for sketching and painting.3 tips you would give your younger self?
It is completely normal to make mistakes. Embrace imperfections
Exercise and take care of your body
Identify your strengths and weaknesses. Work on them, it really helps in the long run
