How women tech leaders can build strong networks for success

As the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Tata Communications, where we enable the digital ecosystems of global enterprises, I see connections everywhere. Technology thrives on networks—seamless connectivity that powers businesses, innovation, and progress. However, beyond data flows and cloud infrastructures, there is another network that deserves equal attention yet is often overlooked: the one that supports, uplifts, and empowers women in technology.

On International Women’s Day (IWD), we must celebrate a different kind of connectivity—one built on mentorship, sponsorship, and empowerment for all women and girls in technology. This year's theme, "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality." reinforces the need for an inclusive and supportive tech ecosystem where every woman, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed.

Why Women Need More Than Just Mentors

According to projections by recruitment firm TeamLease Digital, women's workforce participation in India's tech industry is expected to increase from 10.8% in 2022 to 14.9% by 2027. Additionally, the representation of women in technology roles within Global Capability Centres is set to rise to 35% in the coming years.

This representation reflects significant progress—but progress alone is not enough. The numbers paint a promising yet incomplete picture. Structural barriers to advancement persist. A McKinsey report highlights a critical drop-off point: for every 100 men promoted to managerial roles, only 81 women advance. The gap widens at leadership levels, where women hold just 10% of executive positions.

To bridge this gap, mentorship and sponsorship are powerful enablers of growth. While mentorship equips women with the skills and confidence to navigate the industry, sponsorship ensures they are seen, heard, and considered for high-impact roles. A mentor helps guide the journey, but a sponsor accelerates it—one offers direction, while the other opens doors to leadership.

But one should always keep in mind that mentorship is not a one-way street. As women progress in their careers, they have a responsibility to give back by mentoring others. By sharing knowledge, experiences, and networks, they empower the next generation and strengthen the web of support. By fostering a culture of mentorship and sponsorship, we can create stronger pathways for women to rise, shaping a more inclusive and equitable future in technology.

Unlocking Opportunities, Together

A strong professional network is often the differentiator between career stagnation and acceleration. Yet, women in tech frequently miss out on the informal sponsorship networks that propel their male counterparts forward.

Despite evidence that organisations with structured initiatives and equitable pay achieve higher retention rates for women, many companies are reporting declines in career development, mentorship, and sponsorship programs targeted at women. The absence of such programs in most Indian firms creates a critical gap and raises an important question—how can businesses truly foster an equitable and inclusive industry?

Building these networks isn’t just about fairness; it’s about creating a resilient workforce and driving progress across the sector. Diverse teams make better decisions 87% of the time, reinforcing the role of inclusivity in fostering innovation.

A Personal Testament to the Power of Networks

My nearly three-decade journey stands as a testament to the power of a strong professional network. As a young woman stepping into the tech industry, I was often the only woman in the room. But I was fortunate to have incredible mentors who believed in me, pushed me to grow, and opened doors I might never have discovered on my own.

In the ever-evolving comm-tech industry, where creativity and problem-solving drive success, excluding women from leadership is where many companies fall short.

Building a Future Where ALL Women Can Lead, Not Just Participate

Creating a more inclusive ecosystem means moving beyond intent into action. The future isn’t just about hiring more women—it’s about ensuring they have sponsors who will advocate for their careers in decision-making rooms.

To truly live up to the promise of "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality.", we must move beyond celebrating progress and actively dismantle barriers that limit women’s advancement. This means mentorship and sponsorship must become non-negotiables, ensuring that every woman in the workplace has access to opportunities, networks, and leadership pathways.

This Women’s Day let’s not just celebrate the progress made so far—let’s accelerate change. Because when all women have equal rights and opportunities, the entire industry benefits. In the end, the most powerful networks are the ones that uplift, support, and create lasting impact.

Genius Wong

---

Genius Wong is Executive Vice President – Core and Next-Gen Connectivity Services, and Chief Technology Officer, Tata Communications