Women remain significantly underrepresented in enterprise architecture and technical leadership roles, yet organizations increasingly need leaders who can bridge people, process, technology, and strategy—especially in the age of AI transformation. But, this is not just a talk about enterprise architecture—it is a conversation about courage, purpose, leadership, and creating space for more people to thrive in technology.

In this candid and engaging session, I'll share my unconventional journey from art school and creative work into enterprise architecture leadership. Attendees will explore three powerful lessons that apply far beyond IT: be curious, be authentic, and be flawed.

This session challenges traditional assumptions about who belongs in architecture and leadership roles while highlighting why organizations benefit from hiring individuals with diverse backgrounds, nonlinear career paths, and varied lived experiences. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for building confidence, navigating change, fostering trust, supporting psychological safety, and transforming perceived weaknesses into professional strengths.

Session guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DDizcpLph2v0sdG9oliwmPpYSH9oWyExzwXwn4RZDrU/edit?usp=sharing

Attendees will learn:
-Why curiosity is a competitive advantage in technology and leadership
-How authenticity strengthens influence, trust, and collaboration
-Why embracing imperfection improves innovation and resilience
-How hiring managers can better support and retain diverse talent
-Practical ways to pursue ambitious goals despite fear and uncertainty

Watch the session from the 2026 NDC Conference in Toronto:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlHW5aoO0fw

Watch the session from 2026 MacAdmins Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VU5UMljRbc&list=PLGUPbEf2-7aE&index=15