Empower her Tech Dialogues
– Viktoriya Atanasova
In this segment of Empower her Tech Dialogues, we delve into the tech journey of Viktoriya Atanasova, a seasoned software developer and Tech Lead with over eight years of experience. As we celebrate Women’s Month, Viktoriya shares her insights on career beginnings, and impactful moments, and offers advice to aspiring women in the tech world.
Her story encapsulates the essence of navigating challenges, making impactful contributions, and achieving excellence in the dynamic technology field.
How did you initially become interested in technology, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
Viktoriya: My journey began with an early love for drawing and a quest for a more challenging and intriguing path. My affinity for mathematics and logic led me to the world of software development. The decision was solidified by creating my first working program and embarking on a computer science degree, marking the beginning of a fulfilling career.
What are your aspirations for the future, both in your tech career and personal life?
Viktoriya: I always try to keep evolving both in life and career. I need to move forward, to develop new skills, and expand my knowledge constantly – even if it’s just small things. I do whatever I need to feel happy. I cannot say I see myself in a specific work position. For me, it’s more important to feel comfortable with the people I work with, to be useful, and to feel significant.
Can you recall a moment in your career when you felt your contributions had a significant impact on the company or a project?
Viktoriya: To be honest, every time a customer gives positive feedback on the product being developed, I feel valuable. Witnessing clients eagerly embrace new features and express satisfaction is immensely motivating. My dedication to creating products that bring joy and value to customers is a driving force in my career.
In a male-dominated industry, have you faced any specific challenges, and how did you navigate them?
Viktoriya: As a matter of fact, I don’t recall having too much trouble for being a woman in this industry. It is more important to be smart, capable, hard-working, and eager to learn, and people notice it, the same way they would if I were a man. I’ve never felt less appreciated than my male colleagues.
What strategies have you found most effective in maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
Viktoriya: Working remotely definitely helped me manage all kinds of tasks, including taking some rest. I’ve found that for me what works best is to manage the small everyday personal tasks during work hours, and the big ones outside of work hours. The reason this helps me is that I sometimes get stuck at work tasks and need a new perspective or need to context switch between two different work tasks, or it’s just too hard to focus at some points – then doing even small chores at home can help me clear my mind.
Can you share a specific project or achievement in your tech career that you are particularly proud of?
Viktoriya: I find immense pride in every positive customer feedback received for the products I develop. Witnessing the impact of my work on clients and their immediate adoption of new features validates my dedication to the craft.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career in technology, based on your own experiences?
Viktoriya: My advice would be to always believe that everything is possible (especially in programming and similar roles) and never give up. Sometimes you might need to have a stronger will, but being determined always pays off. Do not hesitate to step out of your comfort zone. And lastly – don’t be scared of showing the people what you are made of.
As we honor Women’s Month, Viktoriya Atanasova’s narrative is a testament to the power of determination, continuous growth, and the limitless possibilities that unfold when we chase our goals with passion and resilience. Her journey mirrors the collective strength of women in tech, reminding us that with belief, tenacity, and a bold spirit, we can conquer any challenge and shape a future where gender equality is not a goal but a reality. Let her story inspire a new wave of aspiring women, propelling them toward a future where their brilliance knows no bounds. The code of empowerment is written by those who dare to dream, and Viktoriya is a living embodiment of that daring spirit!
