by Johanna Ferrer
Stepping into the world of Agile can feel like embarking on a grand adventure, especially as a woman in a predominantly male industry. My journey with Women in Agile (WiA) has been transformative, filled with learning, challenges, and significant growth.
I first discovered WiA at a local Agile conference in Lima – Perú. I was relatively new to Agile methodologies in the city, and I was eager to learn and connect with like-minded professionals. The WiA session caught my eye because it promised a supportive environment and a chance to network with other women in the field. Little did I know, this would be the beginning of a crucial chapter in my career.
Finding My Community
Walking into that first WiA session, I was struck by the warmth and camaraderie in the room. It was empowering to be surrounded by women who shared similar experiences and challenges. We discussed topics ranging from career advancement and leadership to work-life balance and dealing with unconscious bias. The shared stories and support I found in this community made me feel less isolated and more confident in my abilities.
Personal Growth Through Mentorship
One of the most significant aspects of my involvement with WiA has been the Mentorship program. I had the privilege of becoming a mentor this year in Women in Agile. Guiding and supporting a talented professional has been incredibly rewarding. I provided her with career advice, helped her to navigate the complexities of environments, and encouraged her to believe in her abilities. Watching her growth and success has been one of the highlights of my career.
These are some strategies I applied as a mentor:
- I showed genuine interest in my mentee’s goals and challenges.
- I listened actively, I gave her my full attention during conversations.
- We agreed on frequency and mode of communication.
- I shared with her my own experiences and lessons learned, both successes and failures.
- I provided her constructive feedback.
- I provided her guidance and tools, but in the end she made her own decisions.
- I adapted my mindset to my mentee needs and circumstances.
- I learned from my mentee as well.
- We celebrated the small steps, and I encouraged her to recognize her successes.
WiA Power Hours
Thanks to this program and the support from the organizers in WiA Power Hours, I will definitely participate in future programs, talks, meetups, and other events where I can contribute, based on my own experience, to creating a more inclusive environment where everyone can participate. Through WiA, I’ve learned the importance of lifting others as we climb and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.
Conclusion
My involvement with Women in Agile has been a game-changer. It has provided me with a network of inspiring women, opportunities for personal and professional growth, and a platform to share and learn. The journey has taught me that while challenges are inevitable, having a supportive community can make all the difference.
Women in Agile has not only helped me grow as a professional, but also as an individual. The experiences and connections I’ve gained have shaped my career path and reinforced the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. I look forward to continuing this journey, supporting other women in Agile, and contributing to the ever-evolving Agile community.
To anyone considering joining Women in Agile, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the plunge. Whether you’re new to Agile or a seasoned practitioner, the community offers invaluable resources, support, and opportunities for growth. Together, we can break barriers, drive change, and create a more inclusive and dynamic Agile landscape.
