Transforming Lives: Winners of Women in Tech Excellence Awards Share Their Inspiring Journeys
As the spotlight shines on the upcoming 2026 Women in Tech Excellence Awards, last year's winners reflect on the profound impact their victories have had on their careers and lives. From feeling overlooked in the tech industry to becoming recognized leaders and advocates, these remarkable women share their stories of transformation and encouragement.
Acknowledgement and Validation in a Competitive Field
For many recipients, winning an award was not just a trophy, but a pivotal moment of validation. Rebecca Taylor, named Cybersecurity Professional of the Year, described the experience as “magic,” emphasizing the importance of being recognized in a field where women often remain unseen. Neshma Emile, Innovator of the Year, echoed this sentiment, sharing the reassurance that came with acknowledgment: “It was genuinely surprising, but also really reassuring.”
Creating Opportunities and Building Confidence
The awards have opened doors and expanded networks for the winners, leading to new opportunities that many had not anticipated. Felicity Bruce, a Graduate/Apprentice of the Year, found herself invited to speak on influential panels where she can effect real change. "This award validated that apprentice Software Engineers can create true impact,” she shared.
Winners like Lynsey Carr noted that recognition also bolstered their confidence in their roles. She stated, "Winning this award gave me visibility around the business and supported the building of relationships and trust with colleagues," highlighting how public recognition fosters not only self-esteem but professional connections.
The Ripple Effect of Recognition
Maryna Rybalko, Team Leader of the Year, observed that her award fostered leadership opportunities and reinforced her commitment to mentoring and supporting underrepresented voices in tech. The positive effects of recognition extend beyond individual accomplishments; they inspire others and cultivate a culture of support and growth within the industry.
Advice from the winners is clear: focus on the impact of your work and don’t shy away from self-promotion. As Kirsty Nunn aptly stated, “Be specific about your impact and don’t downplay your achievements.” This focus encourages aspiring individuals to nominate not only themselves but also their impressive colleagues, ensuring that more deserving women are celebrated for their significant contributions to the tech field.
A Call to Action
Nominations for the 2026 awards close on 17 April, presenting an excellent opportunity for recognition of both individual and collective accomplishments. As these stories illustrate, the process of stepping into the spotlight can be daunting, particularly for those who believe their work is “just part of the job.” However, the inspiring journeys of these winners affirm that recognition can lead to lasting change in careers and lives.
