In Her Words: Maria Paula, Product Owner at Robeco

Who has been your biggest role model throughout your career (or life), and how has their influence shaped your approach to work?

My biggest role model, as cliché as it may sound, is my father. I deeply admire what he has achieved through effort and perseverance. He taught me that believing in myself and having confidence can make a significant difference in achieving my goals. Growing up in a large family with two brothers and one sister, my dad always treated us equally, regardless of gender, believing that we were all capable of accomplishing great things. This instilled in me a strong belief in my own abilities, which has shaped the way I approach work and face challenges. His example has been invaluable, especially when it comes to making important decisions, such as moving abroad.

What do you think is the biggest myth or misconception about working in tech?

I think the biggest misconception about working in tech is that you can only be part of the field if you're a coding expert. In reality, the tech field is vast and offers a wide range of opportunities, from engineers to product owners, business analysts, and more. Tech doesn’t just require hard skills; problem-solving, adaptability, and strong communication are also important to success in this field.

What’s one unexpected piece of advice you would give to someone who dreams of being in your shoes one day, especially in terms of personal growth and career fulfillment?

Don’t be afraid to stand out, speak up, and take the lead. Being proactive and stepping out of your comfort zone can really open doors and help you grow. Get involved, ask questions, and don’t be shy about sharing your thoughts, even when you're just getting started.

Do you think there’s a specific quality or mindset that has helped you thrive as a woman in tech, and how can tech graduates cultivate that early on?

Something that’s helped me thrive in tech is being open-minded—being open to others’ opinions and willing to learn from different perspectives. Tech is always changing, and being adaptable is key. Communication skills have also played a big role, as they help me connect with people and work well in teams.

For tech grads, I’d say it’s important to stay open to new ideas and different viewpoints right from the start. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from others. Also, working on communication skills early on will help you collaborate better and make a real impact.

For young women looking to make their mark in IT, how important is it to find a supportive community or network, and what should they look for in a mentor or role model?

From what I’ve seen working in tech, the challenges you face in your career, or even in your personal life, are ones that many women have already experienced. Hearing from someone who’s been through similar struggles can be both comforting and incredibly helpful. That’s why having a supportive community is so important. A mentor or role model can help you navigate those challenges and offer valuable advice based on their own experiences.