How Identity Has Influenced A Product Owner At Foreign Bank's Career
Cynthia, a product owner, shared that being a woman in business, particularly in Peru, presented challenges including stereotypes where "people don't pay that much attention to what you have to say." However, mentorship from other women empowered Cynthia to overcome these obstacles, demonstrating the importance of female support networks in navigating a career and challenging gender biases.
Overcoming Challenges, Confidence, Mentorship, Leadership, Gender Issues in Workplace
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Cynthia Panez Velazco
Product Owner
Foriegn Bank
Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Peru, 2014
UCLA Anderson School of Management, MBA
Engineering - Industrial
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Immigrant, Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. "Overcoming stereotypes as a woman in business was a challenge, especially early in my career."
2. "Mentorship from other women in the industry was crucial in building confidence and assertiveness."
3. "Women need to support each other to overcome gender bias in the workplace."
Transcript
As someone who identifies as female, how has that impacted you navigating your career?
Being a woman in business is still challenging everywhere. In my case, in Peru, it was difficult to navigate certain situations in the office.
I faced stereotypes, like people not paying attention to what you have to say just because you're a woman. When I was starting my career, I was young and maybe not as confident. So, sometimes I would just let that happen.
But as I improved, grew, and learned more, I also gained mentors from other women in the same industry. That really helped me stand up and make myself heard. I think it's important for women to support each other in that sense.
I think it still has an impact today, but we have the power to change that.