“The Impact program was transformative.”
Helena Bahrami, AI and Machine Learning Team Leader at Wine-Searcher was seeking to elevate her career and chose our Impact Program to meet her development goals. Since completing the program, she has taken on greater leadership responsibilities and been instrumental in steering projects towards innovative directions. Find out more about her story below in this enlightening Q&A.
Before applying for the Impact Program, what stage were you at in your career?
Helena: Before applying for the Impact Program, I was at a pivotal stage in my career where I had accumulated significant technical expertise and was recognized for my contributions to AI and machine learning. However, I recognised the need to enhance my leadership capabilities to match my technical skills to effectively lead diverse teams and drive innovation.
What motivated you to pursue a leadership development course?
Helena: I was motivated by a desire to elevate my leadership skills and broaden my influence within the tech industry. A recommendation from a senior colleague who noticed my potential for leadership also played a crucial role in this decision. They encouraged me to pursue formal training to harness my abilities and transition smoothly into leadership roles.
Why did you choose the Impact Program?
Helena: I considered several other leadership development programs, looking for one that offered a blend of theoretical and practical insights tailored to women in tech. However, Women & Leadership’s reputation for fostering a supportive and inclusive environment specifically for women ultimately made it the most appealing choice.
What specific outcomes or skills were you aiming to achieve through the leadership development course?
Helena: I aimed to develop effective communication, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking skills. Additionally, I wanted to enhance my ability to manage and resolve conflicts creatively, foster team resilience, and drive technological innovation within my team.
Did you enjoy the women’s-only program format for supporting your learning?
Helena: Yes, I regularly connect with several cohort members from both Australia and New Zealand, and we have built a supportive network that continues to provide professional and personal guidance. This trans-Tasman connection has been instrumental in sharing best practices and encouraging continuous learning and development, enriching our experiences and broadening
Can you talk about your experience during the program, how did you find it?
Helena: Liz Lor’s facilitation was pivotal; she expertly guided us through the curriculum while encouraging a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. The structured lessons coupled with interactive workshops allowed us to apply what we learned in real-time, enhancing our learning experience.
What were your key learnings from the program?
Helena: The systematic curriculum encouraged us to reflect on our personal and professional selves, set SMART goals, and prioritise effectively. The facilitator’s expertise in fostering an environment of growth and empathy allowed me to develop key skills in emotional intelligence and conflict resolution. This nurturing yet challenging setting helped me transform into a leader who not only motivates but also drives the team toward continuous improvement and innovation.
The program’s focus on coaching skills taught me the importance of empathy, steering clear of judgement, and avoiding the pitfalls of the ladder of inference. These skills have been crucial in my role as a team leader, enabling me to support my team’s technical and professional growth comprehensively.
Have there been any specific initiatives or projects in your workplace that you’ve drawn on your learnings to assist you?
Helena: Post-program, I initiated a mentorship scheme within my department at Wine-Searcher and also the TechWomen community in New Zealand to foster talent and support career development, which reflects the coaching skills I acquired. This initiative has not only boosted morale but also helped in identifying and nurturing potential leaders within the team.
Since doing the program what has changed for you?
Helena: The program had a profound influence on my career trajectory. Since completing the program, I’ve taken on greater leadership responsibilities and have been instrumental in steering our projects towards innovative directions. My enhanced leadership skills have led to my involvement in strategic decision-making processes and significantly increased my influence within the company.
What’s next for you?
Helena: Looking forward, I aspire to continue growing as a transformative leader within the tech industry, possibly advancing into executive roles where I can shape the strategic direction of AI and ML initiatives. The skills and insights gained from the Impact Program will be invaluable in navigating complex challenges and leading with integrity and vision.
Do you have any advice for others considering doing a leadership development program?
Helena: For anyone considering such a program, I highly recommend embracing the opportunity. It’s a powerful way to gain a deeper understanding of both personal and professional growth and to systematically acquire the tools necessary to lead effectively.
Especially for women in tech, finding a program tailored to address our unique challenges and opportunities can be incredibly impactful.
Helena’s success story serves as an inspiration for other women seeking to advance their careers. The Impact program helped transform her from a technical expert into a confident and influential leader, in only 10 weeks!
Find out more about the Impact Program
