Why Belonging In Tech Is More Than Just About Opportunity
The tech industry is full of potential, for innovation, for impact, and for careers that can change lives. But for many women entering the field, opportunity isn’t the only thing that’s needed. What makes the difference is support: the kind that’s embedded in workplace culture, delivered through real relationships, and designed to respond to real challenges.
We believe women should feel empowered to thrive in tech, which means investing in systems, communities and mentorship that meet them where they are, whether they’re new to the industry, returning after a break, or rising into leadership.
In this article, we’re sharing experiences from three women at Liberty IT - Priyanka, Rachael and Lynsey - to explore how mentorship and structured support are opening doors, building confidence, and creating lasting impact.
Mentorship That Builds Confidence
We talk a lot in tech about growth, upskilling, career paths and promotion. But what often goes unsaid is that real growth takes confidence. For many women, especially in environments where they may be underrepresented, mentorship is the spark that builds that belief.
Priyanka speaks powerfully about how mentorship shaped her development:
“I did not think about having a mentor, but now that I have this support, I can see a significant difference in my career progression. Through their insights, I’ve developed critical skills, making their influence invaluable in my professional journey.”
Priyanka, Principal Software Engineer
For Rachael, mentorship was key when transitioning into a new field. She highlights the value of having someone guide her through unfamiliar territory:
“Mentors and role models have played a huge role in shaping my career… when I was making the transition from graphic design into product design, she helped me to navigate my transition and has been a consistent source of guidance and encouragement. I still reach out to her whenever I’m trying to make big decisions or work through challenges. Having that mentorship has greatly supported my growth, enabling me to develop confidence as both a designer and a problem solver.”
Rachael, Senior Product Designer
But mentorship at Liberty IT isn’t limited to informal chats or coffee catch-ups; it’s built into the culture, and we’ve created a structure around it. We’ve developed peer networks, coaching opportunities, and returner support based on what women here actually ask for.
“For me a good mentor is not just someone who shares knowledge and experience but someone who is also a supportive ally, someone who advocates for you internally and someone who offers positive reinforcement and encouragement that you can do whatever you want to do!”
Lynsey, Director of Operations
What Real Support Looks Like For Women In Tech
Real support is proactive, it anticipates the needs of women and builds a culture where they can thrive. That’s the approach Liberty IT takes, and it’s shaped by listening to women across the organisation.
Returning to work after maternity leave is one of the most common and critical points where women can feel isolated or left behind. That’s why we offer a maternity returner buddy system, a Family Leave Toolkit and access to peer-led mentoring circles.
“Personally, throughout my own career, I was very appreciative of the support I had when I returned to work after both of my maternity breaks. Liberty IT provides great support and in recent years we have really leaned into this time for returners and offers fantastic initiatives as part of our Family Leave Toolkit – with a whole section of resources which help you prepare for coming back to work, such as coaching sessions and advice from others who have been on that same journey”
Lynsey, Director of Operations
Support at Liberty IT also extends to building visibility and confidence in areas where women have often been underrepresented, like technical speaking and leadership.
Rachael shares how this came to life through the WIT Lightning Talks:
“One initiative I’ve been involved in recently is the Women In Tech Lightning Talks, which we launched to help more women build confidence in public speaking while sharing their technical expertise. At most tech events, women speakers are still in the minority, and this initiative is about changing that by creating a safe, supportive space for women to practice, present, and mentor others. We just successfully ran the first round of Lightning Talks in our Belfast office and the response from participants was incredibly positive.”
Rachael, Senior Product Designer
Ongoing Support for Women In Tech Roles
Creating inclusive cultures isn’t a box to tick; it’s an ongoing process of learning, listening, and evolving. And it’s clear that the work we do at Liberty IT makes a difference, not just in the careers of individuals, but in shaping what the tech industry looks like tomorrow.
For more real stories and advice from women who have a tech career, check out:
Top Tips for Starting a Tech Career – No Matter Your Background
Tech Trailblazer: Priyanka – A Career Built on Curiosity and Growth
Support Every Step of the Way
Whether you’re just starting, making a career pivot, or returning after time away — know this: you don’t have to do it alone. With the right mentorship, community, and workplace culture, women in tech can do more than just make it — they can lead, innovate, and inspire.
Explore careers at Liberty IT and discover what real support can look like.
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