Software.org Panel Showcases the Value of Mentorship to GWC Students

July 20, 2023

By Lilia Stone

BSA employees discuss the importance of mentorship throughout their careers.

Volunteers on behalf of Software.org highlighted the pivotal role mentorship plays in driving the success of an organization during the Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program’s fifth interactive engagement.

Led by BSA Communications Coordinator Lindsay Emery, the panelists – BSA Senior Director of Legislative Strategy Danielle Brown; BSA Director of Policy Olga Medina; BSA Senior Digital Manager Stefania Durden; and Software.org Research Intern Dilara Kamrava – spoke to dozens of young women interested in STEM careers about the importance of inclusion, the feelings of imposter syndrome, and the invaluable role strong mentorship can play both for individuals and within an organization.

“One of the benefits of creating an inclusive culture that is rooted in principles of equity and organizational inclusion is that it helps to minimize that effect that imposter syndrome has, particularly on women,” Medina said while discussing the importance of a robust DEI program. “Creating an inclusive culture that prizes the perspectives and viewpoints of everyone uplifts different voices equally, including the voices of women.”

Reflecting on her tenure on Capitol Hill, Brown explained how she witnessed the prevalence of “imposter syndrome.” As her working environment became more diverse, though, Brown shared how she now leverages her experience to mentor young women, encouraging them to trust in their capabilities, take risks, and not shy away from ambitious positions and projects.

Kamrava shared her strategies for overcoming such obstacles, especially as a fellow student and a STEM major in college, a field traditionally perceived as male-dominated. By immersing herself in study groups and joining STEM-oriented social clubs, she found reassurance in shared interests and goals. Her experiences underscored the fact that one’s background or predisposition shouldn’t act as barriers to the pursuit and achievement of their aspirations.

Check the Connecting the Dots blog for recaps on the partnership sessions during the Girls Who Code 2023 SIP.