The Women In Big Data SoCal Speed Mentoring Event, held on September 21, 2023 was an extraordinary day of inspiration, learning, and networking. As the host, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the positive impact of this event on the women who are shaping the future of the data industry.

 

Connecting Aspirations with Expertise

The heart of the Speed Mentoring Event was the powerful connection it fostered between experienced mentors and enthusiastic mentees. Our mentors brought a wealth of knowledge, experience, and insights to the table, and our mentees came with aspirations, questions, and a thirst for learning. The synergy between these two groups was palpable, and it was evident that meaningful mentor-mentee relationships were forming right before our eyes.

The speed mentoring format, with short, focused sessions, allowed for a diverse range of topics to be covered. From how to understand a company’s culture to interview advice and how to network, every moment was a learning opportunity. It was heartwarming to see the mentees leave each session with newfound knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose.

 

A Sense of Empowerment and Inclusivity

One of the most remarkable aspects of the event was the sense of empowerment and inclusivity that permeated every interaction. Women from various backgrounds and career stages came together to support and uplift one another. The energy in the room was infectious, and it was clear that every participant felt valued and heard. Our volunteers also played a pivotal role in creating a welcoming atmosphere. Their dedication and enthusiasm contributed significantly to the overall success of the event.

 

Mentors:

Giselle Sitdykova – CEO/Founder at Dwellics, leading the development of this data-driven insights platform, which helps users make better decisions about their real estate investment. Her topics focused on presentation as an interviewee and employee as well as topics related to keeping up with AI and industry changes.

Regina Davis – Senior Analyst at FOX where she analyzes various data sets for the sports and entertainment sectors of FOX. She led conversations around the types of programming needed for a budding analyst and communication at work.

Jialing Wang – Consultant focusing on Marketing Analytics. Her past experience includes Hulu and Spark Foundry. Many mentees sought help on job searching, networking and how to break out of your shell. There was a sense of hunger with the mentees to network through more in-person events like these.

 

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. This event was just the beginning of a larger movement to empower women in data. We will continue to build on the connections made here, offering ongoing mentorship and networking opportunities. Together, we will break down barriers and reach new heights in the data industry.