In honour of International Women’s Day 2025 (8th March), we’re celebrating three remarkable colleagues: Lucrezia, Nicola, and Helen. Their expertise, intellect, and dedication make a huge impact at Maths Circle, but it’s their warmth, humour, and leadership that makes them the invaluable team members they are.
We sat down with them for a conversation about their inspirations, how they balance their busy personal lives, what led them to a career in EdTech, and more. Here’s what they had to say!
Who have been your biggest role models in your career, and what did you learn from them?
Lucrezia:
My mother and grandmother: unapologetically (perhaps brutally) honest, hard-working and independent. My mum alternated between being a lawyer and completing DIY tasks: learning how to make cement or trimming pine trees. My grandma was an ex-teacher, but also an amazing cook. Growing up with them, I never thought there were such things as ‘men roles’ and ‘women roles’, but that anyone could do anything they wished as long as they put effort into it. It is thanks to their convictions and support that I always felt confident and free to pursue my passions.
What inspired you to pursue your current career in EdTech?
Helen:
I’ve always believed that education is the most powerful tool for transformation. I saw the lifelong influence of teachers on people close to me, and wanted to enter a sector that could so dramatically shape lives for the better. I was lucky enough to join some fledgling EdTech companies at the start of my career, and was so inspired by the way technology was able to break down barriers, making learning more accessible, engaging, and inclusive. Combining the two felt like a natural fit and I’ve never looked back.
How do you work to empower other women around you?
Nicola:
I love to celebrate the achievements of women around me. Supporting each other – whether through encouragement, opportunities, or simply listening – creates a stronger, more inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. By encouraging women to speak up and share their opinions, we can increase creativity and innovation in the workplace which results in better decision-making.
What do you think are the biggest barriers for women in STEM or tech roles?
Lucrezia:
I’d say part of it is a nurture issue. From very early on, girls are less exposed to activities that hone scientific hard skills than boys, just as boys are not as exposed to activities that promote soft skills. Because of this ‘nurture-induced’ dichotomy, in some countries, STEM and Tech are often seen as masculine sectors and can feel intimidating to young girls and women who fear they may not fit in, which often leads to Imposter Syndrome (which is more common in women than men).
My suggestion is that if you have a dream role you worked hard for, go for it and apply. You owe it to yourself. I have been very lucky in my career because I have always worked with amazing people (Maths Circle is an excellent example!), so there is a place for women in the STEM industry.
and how can we work to break them down?
Helen:
I think the future of women in STEM is bright but I’d love to see more women in executive roles and more investment in female-founded tech companies. I also think it’s important to recognise that encouraging women into tech workforces isn’t a destination. There should be structures to keep women in STEM, and support to grow careers as lives develop. This means greater mentorship opportunities, and policies that support work-life balance.
How do you balance your personal life and career, and what tips do you have for other women managing similar challenges?
Nicola:
Finding the right balance is never easy, and is something that I continue to work on, but I find that it helps me to schedule time in my calendar for specific tasks (including dedicated time for self-care) and to set clear boundaries. My advice: always ask for help and support from family, friends and colleagues, and don’t be afraid to say no to things that disrupt the balance. Also remember that balance looks different for everyone — find what works for you!
What’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self when you were starting out?
Lucrezia:
You don’t have to get it right at the first attempt. In fact, most people don’t, and you actually learn more from your mistakes than your successes. Imposter syndrome is real, but it can be defeated!