Chapter 1: The Value of Speaking at Tech Conferences

For women in technology, taking the stage at conferences presents a unique chance to highlight your work, expand your network, and enhance your professional reputation.

Photo: by the author. GHC Conference.

Since 2018, I have actively participated in conferences tailored for women in tech. Whether presenting research papers, sharing career insights, or offering mentoring, these events bring immense joy, particularly when I connect with fellow women in the industry or those seeking guidance!

For me, speaking at these gatherings is not only about sharing my expertise but also about fostering connections. Recently, a mentee of mine inquired about the significance of speaking at tech conferences, sparking a fruitful discussion on how to leverage such opportunities effectively.

Section 1.1: Reasons to Seek Speaking Engagements

#### Subsection 1.1.1: Share Your Expertise

During my tenure in the corporate sector, I had the chance to impart my knowledge to young women in fields like Data Privacy and Security. My team and I showcased practical online safety tools, empowering attendees to implement them immediately for a more secure online experience. The emails I received post-session from grateful participants seeking further information were incredibly rewarding.

#### Subsection 1.1.2: Enhance Communication Skills

Being a non-native English speaker, public speaking posed challenges for me. However, with each conference, I’ve noticed a marked improvement in my communication abilities. Engaging with audiences has become easier, and my confidence has soared. My recent presentation on diversity in tech was a testament to my growth since relocating to the U.S. in 2016; nearly seven years of progress that truly reflects the journey!

#### Subsection 1.1.3: Reach Wider Audiences

At the Tapia Conference in 2017, my presentation on diverse students at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) attracted a broad range of attendees. This platform allowed me to connect with individuals interested in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I), who might not have encountered my work otherwise. These interactions often lead to new speaking opportunities, illustrating that one connection can open numerous doors.

Section 1.2: Build Valuable Connections

Recently, Ana Veroneze and I participated in the Brazil Conference at Harvard & MIT, which targeted a Brazilian audience. We connected with others from Brazil addressing issues like politics, sustainability, and the gender gap. Staying in touch with my roots is essential, and this conference provided a venue to meet politicians, activists, and students from Massachusetts, reinforcing my commitment to contributing to both Brazil and the U.S.

Section 2: Establish Credibility and Personal Brand

For women in tech, speaking engagements are a potent means to solidify credibility and establish a personal brand. When I presented at GHC in 2018, the inquiries and discussions that followed were overwhelming. Attendees were eager to learn about the metrics my nonprofit was achieving, our aspirations, and how they could assist. My talk focused on Women in Tech and Diversity & Inclusion, backed by data and personal experiences, which helped position me as a thought leader in the field.

#### Subsection 2.1: Learning Opportunities

During my early master's studies, I presented my research at a conference on Bioinformatics. This experience allowed me to attend sessions on machine learning and AI's role in treating diseases, enriching my understanding and enhancing my own research.

Many conferences issue a “Call for Participation” (CFP), such as AnitaB.org (GHC) and WomenTech Network (Apply to Speak), which are excellent avenues to showcase your expertise and gain exposure. Searching for terms like “Speaking Call for Participation women in tech” or “women in tech speaking opportunities” will help you discover numerous opportunities to submit abstracts or find conferences globally.

Best of luck on your journey to uncover speaking opportunities! If you're in search of a career mentor, feel free to reach out to learn how I can assist you in making strategic career decisions and enjoying a rewarding professional path.

Chapter 3: Additional Resources

Description: Explore the advantages of participating in tech conferences and discover how to become a speaker, enhancing your professional journey.

Description: Learn why attending tech conferences is beneficial and how to make the most of your speaking opportunities for career advancement.