The Power of Persistence

Growing up, I always imagined myself becoming a lawyer. However, as I progressed through high school, I began to realise that my strengths lay elsewhere. I found myself drawn more towards solving problems and understanding logic rather than memorising theory. This shift in interest led me to explore subjects like mathematics and physics, and eventually, I made the decision to pursue engineering.

Choosing this path was not easy. I often found myself in classrooms where I was one of the few girls, which sometimes made me question my abilities. There were moments when my decision was challenged, and I was even told that engineering was not meant for women. These experiences created self-doubt and made me wonder whether I truly belonged in this field.

I still remember my first day of college, when those doubts resurfaced, and I questioned whether I had made the right choice. However, I was fortunate to have strong support from my family, especially my sister, who believed in me and encouraged me to keep going. With that support, I focused on improving my skills, practising coding, working on tasks, and learning from different platforms, including subjects like digital electronics. Over time, this consistent effort helped me build confidence and develop a stronger sense of direction.

The challenges I faced, particularly being in a male-dominated environment, played a significant role in shaping my growth. Facing assumptions and resistance regarding my career choices taught me to focus on my own progress rather than external opinions. I learned that resilience and consistency are key, and that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Despite the difficulties, the sense of achievement that comes from overcoming challenges has always outweighed the frustration along the way.

One of the things I am most proud of is being the first engineer in my family. This milestone is meaningful to me because it represents a new path and a different direction from what was traditionally expected. It is not just a personal achievement, but something that sets an example and creates possibilities for others around me.

Reaching this point has given me a strong sense of responsibility and motivation to continue growing in my career. It reminds me of how far I have come and encourages me to keep moving forward, taking on new challenges and making the most of the opportunities ahead.

Since joining Abstract Group, I have experienced tremendous growth both professionally and personally. One of the aspects I value most is the supportive and collaborative environment. Everyone is willing to share their knowledge and provide guidance without making you feel hesitant to ask questions. This culture of support has helped me build confidence in my abilities and continue developing my technical skills. Being part of a team where people genuinely want to see each other succeed has made a significant impact on my journey. The opportunities to work on real projects, learn new tools, and take on new challenges have all contributed to my growth as an engineer.

My advice to women and girls considering a career in engineering is to believe in yourself and not let others define your path. There may be moments of doubt, and you may feel out of place at times, but that does not mean you do not belong. Engineering is for anyone who is curious, willing to learn, and enjoys solving problems.

Do not be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes, or step outside your comfort zone. Every challenge you face is an opportunity to grow and improve. I would encourage anyone considering this field to give it a try. There are many talented and supportive women in the industry who are willing to guide and inspire others. I feel grateful to be part of this field, doing work that I genuinely enjoy, and I look forward to continuing my journey while encouraging others to pursue theirs.