Meet three inspirational young women paving the way in technology

We’re proud of the dedicated young female talent here at GroundProbe!

Introducing Sandra Palacio, Aarthi Selvam and Jhelyn Suan, three inspiring, forward-thinking senior software engineers and developers at GroundProbe paving the way for other young women.

Here we learn about their experiences relating to gender equality, dreaming big, and inspiring future generations.

Why is gender equality important to you?

Let’s remove gender and simply all be seen as humans. Equal rights to dream and aspire to work with or wherever we want, with the most suitable person based on their talent and skills hired to complete the task. – Sandra

No one should have limited life choices because of their gender. Gender equality is a human right and essential in preventing violence against women and girls. – Aarthi

We are all human. I want to be treated equally and have equal opportunities. – Jhelyn

What are the challenges you see in reaching 100% gender equality?

There are many people who, due to their lack of education, disadvantage of poverty, or religious or cultural background, still believe gender equality is unnecessary. The result of this, unfortunately, can lead to sexual abuse, exploitation, and violence. – Sandra

Have you seen a change/any change in society regarding gender equality since arriving in Australia?

Definitely! I have seen in the news, events, and company policies how many people are working together to overcome the barriers of gender inequality. – Sandra

Why should young women dream big?

If we all dream big and achieve those dreams, the world will be a better place to live. – Sandra

Women should dream big because they have the same potential and rights as men. It challenges gender stereotypes, breaks barriers, and empowers
women to contribute positively to society. – Aarthi

To create positive change and find meaning. – Jhelyn

When you were little, did you dream big? What was your dream?

We all have dreams which, even if insignificant, are big when we are a child. My big dream was to provide for my parents and sisters so my parents did not have to work anymore. – Sandra

Yes! I wanted to invent a time machine! – Jhelyn

Who inspired you, and what did you learn?

Many people have inspired me throughout my career. Firstly, my parents. I learned from them that love and kindness are essential in life and that everything is possible when they are present. They taught me that you can achieve any dream if you focus, work hard, do not give up, and be grateful for everything you have. – Sandra

As a child, cartoons inspired me! I thought that anything was possible. It gave me a better understanding of the consequences of my actions and a deeper appreciation for the present moment. – Jhelyn

What should a young woman do if she is knocked down?

First, take a break, think, and analyse what went wrong. Then, plan a new strategy or reinvent the whole situation. Think about what makes you happy and what you want to do; desire will help you to succeed. – Sandra

Remember that ‘failure’ does not define a person’s worth or potential. Just stand up, keep on, keeping on. – Jhelyn

How do you actively inspire other women around you?

By being myself. I try to be a better person every day, doing the things that make me happy to the best of my ability. – Sandra

How has GroundProbe supported you as a young woman in technology?

I have been so grateful to GroundProbe and my team, as I have always felt supported and valued. GroundProbe has allowed me to have an exceptional work-life balance and explore different career paths. – Sandra

GroundProbe consistently supports and encourages women, including me, by offering courses in leadership and mentoring – helpful to strengthen personal and professional skills. – Aarthi

Through GroundProbe, I am enrolled in a Women and Leadership Australia leading-edge course. – Jhelyn

What legacy would you like to leave behind for young women in technology here at GroundProbe?

I want to be remembered as someone always willing to learn and not be afraid to try different things to achieve my goals. Considering this, I want to create new processes and mentor any aspiring or new professionals wishing to join GroundProbe. – Sandra

I want to help create a workplace that supports and values women by fostering cultural diversity and inclusion aimed at helping them to succeed. You become what you believe! – Aarthi

To help young women interested in technology build their skills and confidence, I mentor them by sharing my experiences, providing guidance, and demonstrating my passion for technology. – Jhelyn

Finally, anything else you would like to add?

To all young women interested in technology, I recommend that they build on their leadership aspirations. Be a mentor and a role model to others. Feel free if you are the only female in your workplace; your team will support you. Do what makes you happy. – Sandra

When: April 2023

Where: GroundProbe Head Office, Brisbane, Australia

Who: Aarthi, Sandra, Jhelyn