As a part of our commitment to DE&I and our ever-evolving goal of becoming an even more inclusive company, we have partnered with SheCanCode – an organisation dedicated to closing the gender gap in the tech industry. This partnership helps us create a more diverse and inclusive workplace, and provide more opportunities for women to pursue sustainable careers in tech. Through our collaboration with SheCanCode we have also produced a series of podcasts, videos and articles that highlight the incredible women at Zühlke, their career journeys, and the insights they have gained along the way.
“Representation of women in senior roles, such as our UK Leadership team, is vital. This diversity not only brings a wealth of perspectives to the business, it provides a range of role models to our people. Partnering with SheCanCode aligns with Zühlke's values and focus on innovation, diversity and excellence. I believe that by empowering women in tech, we can drive meaningful change and create a more inclusive industry.”
We are excited to feature and celebrate the remarkable women of Zühlke, showcasing their contributions to the tech industry through these engaging podcast episodes. We invite you to explore the stories below to discover inspiring career journeys, gain invaluable advice from both seasoned professionals and emerging talents, and unlock the secrets to personal growth and excellence in your career.
Game on: a sports coach’s leap into coding
Rita Silva, now a Professional Software Engineer at Zühlke, began her career in sports science and coaching, building resilience, adaptability and a deep understanding of teamwork long before she wrote her first line of code. A turning point during the pandemic, along with an early taste of tech through an entrepreneurial venture, sparked her decision to retrain and step into software development.
In this spotlight, Rita shares how she navigated self-doubt, rejection and the challenge of balancing work and study to break into tech. Her story highlights how skills forged outside the industry, such as communication, quick thinking and a growth mindset, can translate powerfully into software engineering.
Diverse paths, shared purpose: driving innovation through varied career journeys
Some careers are planned. Others evolve through curiosity and bold decisions.
In this episode of the SheCanCode podcast, Charlotte Seiler and Réka Leisztner from Zühlke’s Digital Consulting team share how two very different journeys converged around one goal: creating human-centred digital innovation. Together, they show that impactful innovation happens when diverse perspectives meet, and that in tech, a non-traditional background isn’t a limitation, but a strength. Tune in to their podcast below.
Passion for finding technical solutions to daily problems, programming and friendly competitions
Not every software engineer’s story begins with a grand plan. Sometimes, it starts with a simple question: How can I make this work better?
For Yasmine Antille, now an Advanced Software Engineer at Zühlke, curiosity was the spark. What began as an interest in automating everyday tasks and understanding how things work evolved into a career built on problem-solving, continuous learning, and shaping meaningful technology.
In this spotlight she reflects on her journey into software engineering, her experience at #herHACK 20.24, and the power of representation in tech. Her story highlights how inclusive spaces, visible role models, and authentic mentorship can strengthen not only individual careers, but entire teams, proving that diversity isn’t an initiative – it’s an advantage.
Redefining ‘tech talent’: coaching, leadership, and continuous learning
Tech careers don’t always begin with a keyboard. Sometimes, they start on a playing field.
Elmaret Brewer, now a Lead Service Manager at Zühlke, took an unconventional route into the industry, trading sports coaching for tech leadership. What she carried with her wasn’t code, but something just as powerful: a deep understanding of team dynamics, clear communication, adaptability under pressure, and a drive to keep improving.
In this conversation, Elmaret shares what sparked her transition, how her coaching mindset shapes the way she leads tech delivery today, and the hurdles she navigated along the way. Her story invites us to rethink what 'tech talent' really means, and shows how broadening that definition can unlock more inclusive, high-performing teams.
Navigating the intersection: Being an ethnic minority and a woman in tech
In this episode, our incredible colleagues, Shen Xu, Lead Engagement Manager, and Li Gardner, Principal Business Consultant, dive into what it’s like to be an ethnic minority woman in the professional world, offering insights and advice from their own experiences as the first-generation migrants from East Asia.
From navigating language barriers to challenging stereotypes, they discuss the nuances of their journey and how different backgrounds, upbringings and educational backgrounds shape our paths. Shen and Li also touch on the importance of community, self-reflection, and staying true to oneself in male-dominated environments.
Curious to learn more? Don’t miss their valuable perspectives and practical tips, tune in to the podcast below.
Resilience Rewired: Mags Allmark's inspiring journey from tech break to Lead Delivery Manager
After taking a break to raise her children, Mags didn't just return to work – she soared to new heights. Tune in to hear how she kept her technical skills sharp through a personal tech blog and overcame challenges like imposter syndrome to land a role at giffgaff. Today, she's thriving as a Lead Project Manager at Zuhlke.
Mags's story is a powerful reminder that with determination and strategic planning, a fulfilling career comeback is not only achievable but can exceed all expectations. Don’t miss out on her valuable insights into the evolving landscape for women re-entering the workforce.
Check out the podcast and get inspired!
Being your own authentic self with Angela Bishop
Have you ever felt like you have to adopt a different persona at work? Maybe you've been told to "tone it down" or "speak up more," leaving you caught in a frustrating bind. For many women, it can feel like a lose-lose situation—judged for demonstrating too many classically 'male' behaviors, such as assertiveness or ambition, and penalized for being too stereotypically 'female,' like showing empathy or collaboration.
So how can you navigate this complex landscape and build an authentic career? Join the discussion by the incredible women of SheCanCode as they explore how authenticity can drive success, foster inclusion, and empower your career. Learn from inspiring speakers like Angela Bishop, our CEO of Zühlke UK, who have navigated these very challenges and come out on top.
The art of saying no & setting boundaries at work with Nichola Riley
With burnout rates climbing and a collective shift away from hustle culture, employees are prioritising mental well-being like never before. Yet, the challenge remains: how do we say no and set firm boundaries at work without jeopardizing our careers?
To address these issues, a few brilliant women in tech, including our own Nichola Riley, Principal Consultant at Zühlke, joined an empowering discussion about the art of saying no as a way to elevate your professional life without sacrificing your personal happiness. Watch the video to learn how to navigate the delicate balance between job demands and self-care, gain invaluable insights, and acquire practical strategies to confidently establish boundaries that prioritize your well-being.
