One of my biggest challenges during my studies has been coming from a small town, which initially meant having more limited access to resources, opportunities, and exposure to large academic and professional networks compared to students in bigger cities. This required extra effort, adaptability, and self-motivation to seek out opportunities, develop my skills, and stay competitive. At the same time, this challenge helped me build resilience, independence, and strong problem-solving skills. It motivated me to actively engage in internships, competitions, and international programs, which ultimately strengthened both my academic and professional development.

My advice to girls and women who want to follow their studies in this sector is to never underestimate themselves. Even if you are just starting out or feel like you don’t yet belong in the field, that does not define your potential. I come from a small town, and I know what it feels like to doubt whether you are “enough” compared to others who seem more prepared or more exposed to opportunities. But those doubts should never stop you. In fact, they can become the reason you work harder, dream bigger, and prove to yourself how far you can go. You don’t need to have everything figured out at the beginning. You just need courage — to start, to learn, and to keep going even when it feels uncomfortable. The rest will come with time, experience, and persistence.

My advice is to believe in your potential even when you feel like you are at the beginning. You don’t need to know everything or come from a perfect background to succeed in STEM or cybersecurity. What matters most is curiosity, consistency, and courage to keep learning. Do not let self-doubt or where you come from define your limits. Every expert was once a beginner. Take opportunities even when they feel intimidating, and trust that growth comes through experience, not perfection.

By 2030, I would like to see DEIS principles fully integrated into the technology and cybersecurity sectors, where diversity is not only encouraged but naturally present at all levels. I hope for equal representation of women in technical and leadership roles, especially in cybersecurity, as well as greater inclusion of young people from different regions and backgrounds. I would also like to see stronger awareness and education around digital skills starting from an early age, ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities in the digital world. Ultimately, I hope for a sector where inclusion is not an initiative, but a standard.

My strengths include strong problem-solving skills and discipline in learning algorithms and programming. My main challenges are balancing academic workload with competitions. Opportunities lie in Olympiads, mentorship, and collaborative projects, while staying up-to-date in the rapidly evolving tech field remains a continuous challenge.

I would encourage girls and women to pursue their interests in STEM with confidence and curiosity. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, seek out mentors, and participate in competitions or projects that push your skills. Most importantly, believe in your ability to succeed and contribute, your perspective is valuable and needed in this field.

Technology empowers women by providing education, career opportunities, and tools to innovate and break barriers in male-dominated fields.

Pursue your curiosity, stay persistent, and don’t be afraid to take on challenges—your perspective and contributions are valuable in STEM.

By 2030, I hope to see STEM become fully inclusive and equitable, with equal opportunities for women and underrepresented groups, widespread support for diversity initiatives, and sustainability fully integrated into technological innovation.