Women in Tech Interview: Olena Berestetska's Take on AI, Diversity, and the Evolving Tech Frontier

Tell us about yourself!

Hey there!

I'm, Olena Berestetska, a go-getter initially from Ukraine, now making things happen in the UK. I've got a knack for marketing, building relationships, and running international cooperations. I thrive in Business Development, Partnerships, and International Cooperation. Basically, if it involves connecting people and ideas across borders, I'm all in. I bring a mix of grit, motivation, and Ukrainian resilience to the table!

Why did you choose this field in the first place?

I chose this field because I wanted to be included in the rapidly evolving technological world. The pace of innovation and technological change is exhilarating, and being part of it means I'm always learning, growing, and staying ahead. This field perfectly matches my drive never to stop and constantly push the boundaries of what's possible.

What tech are you most excited/passionate about right now and why?

Right now, I'm excited about AI and machine learning. The way these technologies are transforming industries and everyday life is fascinating. They're not just about automating tasks; they're about opening up new possibilities, from personalized healthcare to smarter city planning. It's the blend of endless potential and real-world impact that makes AI and machine learning so captivating to me.

What tech are you most worried about right now and why?

I'm most concerned about the ethical implications and potential misuse of AI and deepfake technology. As AI becomes more advanced, the line between real and synthetic can blur, leading to challenges in trust and authenticity. This technology, if used irresponsibly, can spread misinformation and manipulate public opinion, posing significant risks to individual privacy, security, and societal stability.

What are your hobbies and interests outside of tech?

I'm pretty keen on self-awareness and personal development, always exploring how to better understand myself. History is my cup of tea, particularly how events are all interlinked. Salsa dancing is an absolute joy, it's so full of life and energy. And at the moment, I'm getting stuck into learning proper British English, embracing all its quirks and charm.

Let's talk about breaking the glass ceiling. What were the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in tech, and how did you deal with them?

Navigating the tech industry as a woman can indeed present unique challenges. For me, the biggest hurdle has been balancing my roles as a mother and a tech professional. It's a constant juggling act, but I've found that setting clear boundaries and prioritizing effectively is key. As for communication preferences, it's interesting to reflect on our unconscious biases and how they shape our interactions in the workplace. One of the insights I've realized is my own unconscious bias - I've noticed a tendency to prefer communicating with men in professional contexts. Recognizing this has been important for me. It's an example of how we might unknowingly lean towards certain interactions based on ingrained perceptions, which can subtly influence our workplace dynamics and relationships.

Any questionable misogynistic story/situation you faced/handled, and you want to share with the HackerNoon Fam?

As someone with a more traditionally masculine psychological type, being strong and direct, I've fortunately not encountered questionable misogynistic situations in my career. My approach has possibly shielded me from such experiences. However, I'm aware that these issues exist and remain vigilant, ready to address them if they arise. It's about maintaining a balance and ensuring respect and equality in all professional interactions.

What was the biggest setback/failure that you faced, and how did you manage it?

My biggest setback was being unable to complete projects I knew could succeed. I had the knowledge and belief in their success, but due to circumstances beyond my control, I couldn't see them through. Managing this involved accepting that not all factors are within my control and learning to pivot and adapt to new situations, focusing on what can be achieved rather than dwelling on what couldn't be.

What's your biggest achievement that you're really proud of?

My most significant achievement is the skill I've developed in adapting to change and facing new challenges. I've often switched job spheres, trying completely new things. This ability to evolve and grow in different environments is what I'm most proud of. It's not just about the projects I've completed but how I've continuously reinvented and pushed myself beyond my comfort zone.

In your opinion, why do we see this huge gender gap in the tech industry, and how can we reduce it?

Historically, the IT industry has felt like a closed, ‘men only’ club. But, this is changing and needs to keep changing. A career in technology shouldn’t be about gender. Rather, admission needs to be about your knowledge, your experiences and your past results.

Some people talk about the differences between men and women. Some say that women may be more emotionally intelligent, so they are able to navigate complex workplace dynamics more easily. This can help build strong relationships with clients and colleagues. Women tend to be more flexible, adaptable and more likely to use collaborative and inclusive language. Women may even be better at multitasking, which can help them handle multiple responsibilities and juggle competing priorities.

The point is: women in technology bring a different perspective. This will help teams work together differently and empower them to solve problems differently.

Who is your tech idol? Why?

I don't really have a tech idol. Instead, I find inspiration in the multitude of creative and talented individuals in the field. Each person offers unique insights and skills from which I can learn, broadening my perspective and understanding of technology. This approach allows me to draw inspiration from a diverse range of sources rather than focusing on just one idol.

Do you have any advice for aspiring girls who want to join the field?

My advice for aspiring girls looking to join the tech field is: Don't be afraid and never view your feminine nature as a restriction. Embrace your unique perspective and strengths, as they can be your greatest assets in a diverse and dynamic industry. Be confident in your abilities and always stay curious and eager to learn.