In this latest series of articles, we are publishing interviews of women working as a professional or a student in the technology sector. The objective is to highlight their work and contribution to the industry and the community.
In these interviews, you will find women working in technology to solve real-world problems, break stereotypes, and create the next big impact on the tech industry. This series of interviews shows that even with the lowest rate of women participation in the labor market in Pakistan, there are still many smart women who are creating and using technology to work wonders.
Today, we are featuring Saba Talha. Read on to learn more about her work and get inspired.
1. Tell us a little about yourself, your background, your education, and your work.
I’ve been in the software industry for over 12 years now, and it’s been an incredible journey so far. I completed my bachelor’s degree from Karachi University, where I laid the foundation for my career in technology. Following that, I pursued my master’s degree from MAJU, where I had the opportunity to specialize and excel in my field.
Currently, I serve as a project manager at Folio3 PVT LTD, overseeing multiple teams, clients, and projects simultaneously. It’s a dynamic role that allows me to leverage my experience and expertise in leading successful software development initiatives. I’m truly passionate about what I do, and I find immense fulfillment in collaborating with talented teams to bring impactful solutions to life. Every day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth, and I’m excited to continue making a meaningful difference in the tech industry.
2. What are your future plans/aspirations? How will it impact the community/society/your team/your project?
In the future, my plans revolve around building self-motivated and self-managed teams. By fostering environments where individuals are empowered to take ownership of their work and drive their own success, I aim to cultivate impactful leaders within the community. These leaders will not only contribute to the success of our projects but also inspire and mentor others, creating a ripple effect of positive impact within our team and beyond. Ultimately, my aspiration is to nurture a culture of excellence and collaboration that elevates both individual and collective achievements, benefiting not only our projects but also the broader community and society as a whole.
3. Please brag about your career accomplishments. What are the things you are proud of?
I am proud to have achieved significant milestones throughout my career journey. One of my most notable accomplishments was receiving a gold medal during my master’s program, which recognized my dedication to academic excellence and specialization in my field. Additionally, I have successfully navigated various roles within the software industry, transitioning from a quality assurance (QA) role to my current position as a project manager (PM). In each capacity, I have managed multiple projects across different domains, demonstrating my versatility and ability to adapt to diverse challenges. These experiences have not only honed my skills but also allowed me to make meaningful contributions to the success of each project and the overall growth of the teams I have been a part of.
4. What has been your best education/career decision, and why?
One of the best decisions I made in my career was transitioning from a quality assurance (QA) role to project management. This decision has been instrumental in my professional growth for several reasons. Firstly, it has provided me with invaluable opportunities to enhance my communication skills, both with clients and team members from diverse backgrounds. Secondly, navigating the challenges of project management has taught me valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability, especially in handling setbacks and turning them into successes. Lastly, I find immense fulfillment in the new role’s challenges and learning opportunities, which continuously push me to strive for excellence and expand my skill set. Overall, this transition has been a pivotal point in my career trajectory, allowing me to evolve personally and professionally while making meaningful contributions to project success.
5. What are the best lessons you’ve learned?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of continuous learning and staying relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Despite taking a two-year career break to prioritize family commitments, I remained committed to staying updated with the latest technical advancements. This experience taught me the significance of proactively seeking out opportunities for learning and professional development, even during periods of personal or professional transition. By staying informed and adaptable, I’ve been able to navigate changes in the industry more effectively and maintain my relevance in the field. This commitment to lifelong learning has been instrumental in shaping my career journey and ensuring continued growth and success.
6. Which woman inspires you and why?
I draw inspiration from every woman who works diligently to achieve her life goals, overcoming challenges and barriers along the way. However, if I were to highlight one particularly influential woman in my life, it would undoubtedly be my mother. Her unwavering determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her family and personal aspirations have always been a source of inspiration for me. Witnessing her ability to balance various responsibilities while pursuing her dreams has taught me the importance of perseverance, compassion, and self-belief. My mother’s journey serves as a constant reminder that with dedication and resilience, anything is possible, and her unwavering support has been instrumental in shaping who I am today.
7. Do you think Pakistan has changed as a society in terms of accepting career-oriented women? What needs to change to help more women come forward?
Yes, Pakistan has undergone significant societal changes in terms of accepting career-oriented women, although there is still progress to be made. There has been a noticeable shift in attitudes towards women pursuing careers, with more acceptance and encouragement compared to previous generations
8. What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you?
The biggest challenge for the generation of women behind us may vary depending on societal, cultural, and economic factors, but some common challenges they may face include gender bias and discrimination, attaining work-life balance, and access to education and work opportunities.
9. What would it be if you could change one thing about the tech industry/business?
If I could change one thing about the tech industry/business, it would be to foster a more inclusive and diverse environment. Diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords; they are essential for driving innovation, creativity, and problem-solving. By embracing diversity in all its forms, including gender, race, ethnicity, age, and background, the tech industry can tap into a broader range of perspectives, experiences, and talents.
10. How can WomenInTechPK help you and other women?
WomenInTechPK can be instrumental in providing a supportive community and valuable resources for women in the tech industry. This platform can help all women with networking opportunities, mentorship programs, skill development, and last but not least support and advocacy.
You can follow Saba Talha using her profile(s) below, and please do not hesitate to hire her for your next project.
