In this deeply reflective episode, Meena Satishkumar speaks with Macushla Howell, Head of Data at New Zealand Post, about the life-changing impact of taking a bold career break. Macushla shares what inspired her year-long sabbatical across Europe, including walking the 780km Camino de Santiago with her young family, and how the experience rewired her approach to leadership, self-awareness, and success.

Together, they explore what it means to lead with intention, the strength in stillness, and the value of being present. Whether you're considering a pause, navigating burnout, or simply seeking inspiration to live and lead with more purpose—this episode is a must-listen.

#TechBeyondGender #WomenInTech #LeadershipJourney #CareerBreak #MindfulLeadership #IntentionalLiving #CourageToPause #DiversityInTech #InspiringWomen #CaminoStories #WorkLifeReflection

In this powerful episode of Tech Beyond Gender, Meena Satishkumar is joined by Kaushiki Roy — a program manager with over 30 years of experience across tech, policy, and public service in New Zealand. From an unexpected start in technology to navigating health challenges, Kaushiki shares how purpose, learning, and a strong personal value system helped her thrive as a migrant woman of colour.

She opens up about the importance of building a personal brand, dealing with the tall poppy syndrome, staying curious, and aligning career choices with what truly matters. Whether you're early in your career or a seasoned professional, this conversation will leave you feeling grounded, inspired, and empowered.

#TechBeyondGender #WomenInTech #MigrantVoices #Resilience #LeadershipWithHeart

#PurposeDrivenCareer #PersonalBranding #DiversityInTech #EmpathyInLeadership

#LifelongLearning #InclusionMatters #NZTech #WomenOfColourInTech #VisibilityMatters

n Episode 39, we sit down with Pooja Kokatnur, Engineering Lead at BNZ, who shares a deeply personal and inspiring journey through the tech industry. From growing up in a multicultural household in Dubai to carving out a meaningful career in New Zealand, Pooja reflects on the challenges of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the subtle biases women of colour continue to face in tech.

She talks about the power of mentorship, what it means to lead with authenticity, and why staying true to your personality is a strength—not a liability. Pooja also opens up about key turning points in her career, including moments where speaking up made all the difference and where being overlooked led her to become a better advocate for others.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating their early career, stepping into leadership, or simply trying to find their voice in a fast-moving industry.

#WomenInTech
#TechLeadership
#AuthenticLeadership
#SelfBelief
#MentorshipMatters
#WomenOfColourInTech
#DiversityInTech
#InclusionInTech
#EmpathyInLeadership
#TechBeyondGender
#CareerGrowth
#SpeakUp
#BiasInTech
#LeadWithKindness
#RepresentationMatters