Women of GTconsult
In honour of Women's Month, we are celebrating the stories of women at GTconsult who inspire us every day.
Mari Theron- Senior SharePoint Developer
Today, we spotlight Mari, a dynamic professional who has carved out a successful career in IT, driven by curiosity, resilience, and a passion for innovation.
In her current role, Mari focuses on improving and refining existing systems and processes, particularly within IT and digital platforms. Her key responsibilities include troubleshooting issues, enhancing user experience, optimizing workflows, and ensuring that the solutions she implements are both efficient and effective. She also collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with overall business goals.
We asked Mari to answer 10 questions to better understand her as well as the role she is in. Let's get to know this powerhouse!
1. What did you want to be when you grew up, and what led you to your current career path?
1. What did you want to be when you grew up, and what led you to your current career path?
When I was in primary school, I aspired to be a physiotherapist, but I soon realized that I was looking for a different kind of intellectual challenge. Based on my school results, accounting seemed like a natural path, but I chose IT because I was fascinated by how things work. I also recognized that IT would be the way of working in the future, and I wanted to be part of that evolving landscape.
2. Which women inspire you to be the best version of yourself, and why?
Nadia Comaneci has always been a huge inspiration to me. Having done gymnastics myself, the sport taught me to push my limits and never give up. Nadia’s achievements and dedication to perfection remind me to strive for excellence in everything I do.
3. Which women are your top three dinner party guests, and what would you ask them?
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift is a powerhouse in advocating for women's rights and yet has a massive male fanbase, affectionately known as "male Tay Tay fans."
What I’d ask: "How do you navigate the balance between standing up for women’s rights and maintaining a broad appeal across different genders? What advice would you give to young women on using their voice?"
Simone Biles
Sheryl Sandberg
Sheryl Sandberg is the former COO of Facebook (now Meta) and author of the bestselling book "Lean In." She's been a prominent figure in the tech industry, advocating for women's leadership and gender equality in the workplace.
What I’d ask: "What are the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in tech, and how did you overcome them? What advice would you give to women looking to break into or advance in the IT industry?"
4. What do you think is the key to building a workplace where women thrive?
I believe the key to building a workplace where women thrive lies in creating an environment that is inclusive, supportive, and empowering. This means ensuring equal opportunities for career advancement, providing mentorship and networking opportunities tailored to women’s unique challenges, and fostering a culture that values diverse perspectives. Additionally, addressing unconscious bias and promoting work-life balance are crucial steps in enabling women to excel and reach their full potential in the workplace.
5. What makes you a strong woman, and what fulfils you in your personal and professional life?
What makes me a strong woman is my ability to embrace challenges and turn them into growth opportunities, whether in my diverse career roles or my personal passions like aerial dance. I thrive in dynamic environments, balancing both the technical and creative aspects of my work, and find fulfillment in building solutions that make a real impact. My strength also comes from the connections I build with others, drawing energy from the joy and support of loved ones, which fuels my drive to keep learning and pushing boundaries.
6. Why do you think it’s important for more women to join the tech industry?
It's important for more women to join the tech industry because diversity drives innovation. Women bring unique perspectives, experiences, and problem-solving approaches that can lead to more creative and effective solutions. By having more women in tech, we can create products and services that better reflect the needs of a diverse population. Additionally, increasing female representation in tech can help break down stereotypes, inspire future generations, and ensure that the industry is inclusive and equitable for everyone.
7. What advice would you give to yourself or someone else just starting out in your field?
My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. The tech field is constantly evolving, so it's important to keep up with new developments and adapt to changes. Don’t be afraid to take on challenges that push you out of your comfort zone—those are the experiences that will help you grow the most. Build a strong network of mentors and peers, and always seek opportunities to collaborate and learn from others. Most importantly, believe in your ability to make a difference, and don't hesitate to bring your unique perspective to the table.
8. What motivates you to excel?
What motivates me to excel is the knowledge that my work has a direct impact on helping others be more productive and successful in their roles. I find great satisfaction in solving complex problems and creating solutions that make a real difference. The opportunity to continuously learn and adapt in a dynamic field keeps me engaged and driven to achieve excellence.
9. What are your goals for the next few years, both professionally and personally?
Over the next few years, my professional goals include expanding my expertise in IT and digital solutions, particularly in areas that drive innovation and efficiency within organizations. I aim to take on more leadership roles, where I can mentor others and contribute to larger-scale projects that have a meaningful impact. I also want to continue developing my skills in emerging technologies to stay at the forefront of industry trends.
On a personal level, I’m focused on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, nurturing my relationships with friends and family, and continuing to pursue my passions, like dancing and traveling. I also want to challenge myself with new experiences that push my boundaries, whether it’s learning a new skill or taking on an adventurous challenge. Overall, my goal is to grow both professionally and personally in a way that aligns with my values and aspirations.
10. What message or piece of advice would you like to share with other women pursuing similar careers?
My message to other women pursuing careers in IT or related fields is to embrace your uniqueness and let it be your strength. The tech industry needs diverse voices and perspectives, so don’t be afraid to bring your full self to the table. Stay curious, keep learning, and don't shy away from challenges—those are the moments that will propel you forward. Surround yourself with a strong support network, seek out mentors, and always lift others as you climb. Remember, your contributions are valuable, and you have the power to shape the future of technology.
Mari is an outstanding addition to the GTconsult team, bringing not only her technical expertise but also her passion, resilience, and innovative spirit. Her contributions have significantly enhanced our team's capabilities, and her dedication to excellence is inspiring. We appreciate her taking the time to give us a glimpse into the remarkable woman behind the work.
We look forward to the great things she will continue to achieve here at GTconsult. Here’s to Mari—a remarkable woman who embodies the values and strengths that make our team thrive.