In today’s globalized world, the tech industry is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and identities. Women from diverse backgrounds bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the table, enriching the industry with their talents and skills. However, navigating the complexities of retaining one’s own culture and identity in a predominantly white, English-speaking industry can be challenging. In this thought-provoking conversation with Meenakshi Iyer, a personal agility and change leadership coach for mid-level leaders, we delve into the nuances of identity and professionalism in the tech world, and explore the power of embracing one’s cultural heritage.
The Limitations of Labels: Moving Beyond “Women of Color”
The conversation begins with a reflection on the term “women of color” and its limitations. Meenakshi shares her personal experience of feeling uncomfortable when referred to as a woman of color. She explains, “I find that, one, it’s a label, and two, it’s limiting… It’s not a label that I chose for myself.” Meenakshi believes that the term is rooted in the concept of “otherness,” perpetuating the idea that white is the default and everyone else is different. She prefers to identify herself as someone from India, specifically from the southern part of India with Tamil ancestry. By reclaiming her cultural heritage, Meenakshi asserts her individuality and challenges the notion of being defined solely by her skin color.
The Complexities of Language and Accent Bias
As an English speaker with Indian roots, Meenakshi has experienced the biases and challenges associated with language and accent. She highlights the importance of empathy and understanding when it comes to language learning, emphasizing that language is a medium of communication, not a measure of intelligence or capability. Meenakshi shares her own journey of learning English as a second language and the assumptions and microaggressions she encountered along the way. She also discusses the impact of accent bias in the workplace, where individuals with non-native accents may face discrimination or be perceived as less competent. Meenakshi encourages individuals to focus on effective communication and being understood, rather than striving for a specific accent or linguistic perfection.
Embracing Cultural Authenticity in the Workplace
Meenakshi’s personal and professional journey has led her to embrace her cultural authenticity and challenge the dominant narratives in the tech industry. She believes in the power of leading from within and leading with authenticity. Meenakshi states, “Each of us is the most important and most impactful person that we’ll ever lead… Each of us is a leader, and leadership is accessible to us.” She helps women in tech, particularly those who speak English as an additional language, develop their self-leadership skills and find their unique leadership stance. Meenakshi encourages individuals to draw strength from their cultural heritage, set boundaries, and promote their own visibility in the workplace. She emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one’s name, dressing authentically, and celebrating cultural holidays without apology.
Decolonizing the Heart and Mind
Meenakshi’s journey of cultural authenticity extends beyond the workplace. She shares her personal mission to decolonize her own heart and mind, recognizing the impact of English as a dominant language and the disconnection from her own culture and spirituality. Meenakshi encourages individuals to question the influence of colonialism and to actively seek a reconnection with their cultural roots. She emphasizes the importance of rituals, language, and embracing ancient wisdom as a means of personal growth and self-discovery. Meenakshi urges individuals to reject the notion of inconvenience and to unapologetically celebrate their culture and religion.
Conclusion: A Path to Empowerment and Inclusion
Meenakshi’s insights and experiences shed light on the complexities of identity and professionalism in the tech industry. By embracing cultural authenticity, challenging biases, and reclaiming one’s voice, women in tech can empower themselves and create a more inclusive and diverse industry. Meenakshi’s work as a personal agility and change leadership coach serves as a guiding light for women navigating their own leadership journeys. As we move forward, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the unique perspectives and contributions of women from diverse backgrounds, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and succeed.
To learn more about Meenakshi Iyer and her work, you can connect with her on LinkedIn or visit her website North Star Network.
