Hello all,

Discover how much you know about the trailblazing women who changed our world with our engaging Women's Day Quiz!

Test your knowledge of iconic figures from different eras and cultures who broke barriers and left indelible marks on society. From hidden historical figures to modern-day changemakers, our carefully crafted questions will challenge you and introduce you to inspirational stories you may not have heard.

To make it easy for the community, I have added a hint to every question. I hope it helps :)

TAKE THE QUIZ NOW!

1) Who proposed the Idea of International Women’s Day? Hint: Think about early 20th-century socialist movements and women's suffrage.

2) Who is known as the inventor of the first compiler? Hint: This person was a pioneer in computer programming and a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy.

3) Who wrote the world’s first computer program? Hint: This person worked closely with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine.

She was the daughter of a famous poet.

4) Who is known as the "Mother of the Internet" for her invention of the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), a critical component of network infrastructure? Hint : Her work helped "bridge" networks effectively, and her invention prevents data from endlessly looping in a network.

5) Who is credited with coining the term "software engineering"? Hint: This was a prominent female computer scientist and mathematician. She was involved in early programming language development.

6) Which woman was a NASA mathematician who calculated trajectories for many space missions, including the Apollo program? Hint: Her story was featured in a popular book and movie. She was known for her incredible accuracy and brilliance in mathematics.

7) Which country was the first to grant women the right to vote on a national level? Hint: This country is located in the Southern Hemisphere.

It's known for its beautiful landscapes and being the first to see the sunrise each day.

8) This social media platform was co-founded by a female Harvard student. (Hint: This Social media platform focuses on networking)

9) The term "debugging" originated from her experience of removing a moth from a computer. (Hint: She was the co-creator of COBOL Language)

10) The female co-founder of the "Girls Who Code" initiative. (Hint: Her first name is "R")

This quiz is just one small way to honor the countless women whose courage, intellect, and determination have paved the way for future generations. Every story matters, and by learning about these remarkable women, we keep their legacies alive.

"Here's to strong women. May we know them? May we be them? May we raise them."

Comment your answers below. Feel free to share your own quiz questions and allow the community to test their knowledge .

Hello everyone,

As we celebrate women who rise above obstacles, we recognize their unwavering strength, resilience, and dedication. Women in technology often balance demanding roles while breaking barriers and inspiring others.

In today's blog, we are spotlighting "A Day in the Life of a Woman Webinar Program Manager: @Samantha Hudson dos Santos Figueira."

Sam Hudson has over 13 years of experience in customer-facing roles. Sam has built a reputation for her expertise in delivering successful digital events. Her journey is one of perseverance, leadership, and the determination to excel in a dynamic industry.She is a dedicated Webinar Program Manager at BMC, embodies these qualities.

Navigating the Fast-Paced World of Digital Engagement

In the dynamic world of digital engagement, the role of a Webinar Program Manager is pivotal. From strategic planning to execution and post-event analysis, these professionals ensure seamless webinar experiences that deliver value to both hosts and attendees. Let’s take a closer look at how a woman Webinar Program Manager expertly balances strategy, creativity, and communication.

Morning: Planning and Preparation

Sam’s day usually starts early with a cup of coffee and a well-organized to-do list. A Webinar Program Manager kicks off the day by checking emails for updates from speakers, attendees, and internal teams. This is also the time to review timelines, ensuring everything is on track.

Mid-Morning: Speaker Coordination and Content Refinement

In Sam’s role Effective communication is key. The manager often connects with speakers to finalize presentation content, confirm technical requirements, and conduct practice runs to avoid last-minute surprises.

Afternoon: Technical Setup and Dry Runs

Webinar success heavily relies on seamless technology. The afternoon is often spent conducting dry runs, testing audio and video quality, and addressing any platform issues.

Event Time: Showtime!

Whether it's a live session or a pre-recorded webinar, the Program Manager ensures everything goes as planned. They manage the chat, Q&A sessions, and troubleshoot issues in real-time.

Post-Webinar: Analysis and Follow-up

Once the event concludes, the focus shifts to performance review and follow-up. The manager reviews attendee feedback, prepares reports, and collaborates with marketing for content repurposing.

Balancing Act: The Personal Touch

For a woman balancing multiple responsibilities, effective time management and multitasking are critical. With strong organizational skills and resilience, she ensures that each webinar meets audience expectations while fostering meaningful connections with her team and community.

In essence, the role of a Webinar Program Manager requires a blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and interpersonal skills. It's a demanding yet rewarding role that plays a vital part in ensuring successful virtual engagements.

Presenting an engaging Q&A with Sam,

1. Could you please share a brief intro about yourself for our community audience?

Hi everyone! My name is Samantha Hudson Dos Santos Figueira (formerly Amend). I've been with BMC for over 13 years, working in various customer-facing roles. For the past three years, I've been a program manager, focusing on customer success events. I'm a passionate advocate for the BMC Community and love helping customers find answers and utilize self-service resources as a community ambassador.

2. What inspired you to pursue a career in technology?

For me, it was the dynamic nature of the tech industry, from school it was pre-dotcom boom, and with business, a perfect combination when studying and school and college. It's constantly evolving, presents new challenges and opportunities. I enjoy being part of companies that directly impacts customers solve problems and improve their experiences is incredibly rewarding.

3. Do you have a female role model? If so, who is she and how has she inspired you?

There are too many to name, I am very merit-minded working best around strong women that collaborate, demonstrate hard work ethics along with the ability to balance professional success with personal values. Im part of Customer Success Elevate program and un the networking pillar focusing on collaboration and empowerment, this has also been a significant influence. They always say surround yourself around like-minded people.

4. What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a woman in a program manager of events role?

One challenge can be ensuring your voice is heard and respected in meetings and discussions, especially in environments that may still be male dominated. Also, balancing the demands of event management, which often involves long hours, elevating others, producing, reviewing content and then the overall responsibility of end to end delivery. Overcoming unconscious biases and proving my expertise consistently is also something I’ve had to navigate and be my own self-promoter.

5. What advice would you give to young women interested in pursuing a similar career role as yours?

·      Build your network: Connect with mentors and peers in the industry – i.e personal brand

·      Speak up and advocate for yourself: Don't be afraid to voice your ideas and ask for what you deserve. Im learning to do this better…

·      Embrace learning: Technology is constantly changing, so stay curious and keep learning. My issue as a content creator is finding this time!

·      Take risks: Step outside your comfort zone and pursue opportunities that challenge you, its not meant to be easy!.

·      Authenticity: Your unique perspective is valuable and don’t be unheard

6. What are some of your proudest accomplishments in your role?

I'm most proud of the positive impact I've had on customer success through the events I've managed, help others achieve their goals and more importantly design a program from scratch. Seeing customers gain valuable insights and build connections is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, my work within the BMC community, and seeing customer engagement increase

7. How do you stay updated on the latest advancements and trends in technology?

·      LinkedIn

·      Participating in online communities and forums.

·      Networking with colleagues and industry experts though word of mouth

·      Utilizing BMC's own resources and training.

8. What are your thoughts on the importance of diversity in the tech industry?

Diversity is crucial. Diverse perspectives lead to more innovative solutions and better products. A lack of diversity can result in biased algorithms and products that don't meet the needs of all users. Creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected is essential for the industry's growth and success.

9. How do you practice self-care and prevent burnout on your busy schedule?

Self-care is essential. Something I need to do more of my work/homelife balance. I need movement and thrive on energy. Setting boundaries and managing my time effectively, I struggle with.

·      Engaging in activities I enjoy, especially competitive running

·      Prioritizing sleep and exercise.

·      Practicing mindfulness and managing stress with walks and yoga

10. Is there anything else you'd like to share about your experience as a woman in technical management?

It's important to remember that progress is being made, but there's still work to do. I've seen positive changes in the industry, but we need to continue advocating for equal opportunities and creating a supportive environment for women in tech.

11. How can male allies contribute to making workplaces more inclusive for women?

Male allies play a vital role. They can:

·      Amplify women's voices in meetings and discussions. I do this with speaker series and for events try to get a mix.

·      Challenge unconscious biases and discriminatory behavior.

·      Mentor and sponsor women in their careers, help others

·      Actively listen and learn from women's experiences.

12. Have you ever felt that your growth opportunities were affected by factors like age, gender, or personal responsibilities? If yes, how?

Yes, at times. Balancing personal responsibilities, especially family commitments, with demanding work schedules can create challenges. There can also be unconscious biases related to gender that affect perceptions of leadership potential and when you do a good job you get sidelined because you doing well and not considered for growth. It’s important to advocate for flexible work arrangements, we get this at BMC, it is also important to find a company that values its employees, and supports a work life balance.

Sam Hudson's journey exemplifies resilience, leadership, and an unrelenting drive for excellence. Her skill in overcoming challenges, motivating her team, and ensuring outstanding webinar experiences makes her an inspiring figure in the industry.

I am sure many of you here have had a chance to interact with Sam in any of our prior webinars. If so, drop a comment to say a hello to Sam. :)

Thanks for taking the time to read! I would love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to share your feedback or questions in the comments below. 

Hello, everyone,

In our ongoing celebration of extraordinary women, we applaud those who showcase unwavering strength in the face of adversity.

Today's blog features " A day in the life of a woman HR Business Partner".

Meet Ayanima Bhattacharya, who brings over a decade of expertise to her role as an HR Business Partner, where she seamlessly bridges people strategy with business objectives to drive organizational success.

For Ayanima here is how the day looks like navigates her role as an HR Business Partner, balancing strategic leadership meetings, employee relations, and talent development initiatives. From morning prioritization with coffee in hand to afternoon coaching sessions and data-driven decision making, her day showcases how modern HR professionals serve as crucial bridges between business objectives and employee needs. Through expert guidance on workforce planning, policy compliance, and conflict resolution, Ayanima demonstrates the multifaceted skills required to create a thriving workplace culture while driving organizational success.

After sharing her valuable insights about the day-to-day realities of HR Business Partnership, Ayanima answered several thoughtful questions from our audience. Below, you will find her expert responses addressing the challenges, strategies, and nuances of modern HR leadership.

1) Could you please share a brief intro about yourself for our community audience? 

I am a passionate HR Business Partner, with more than a decade’s experience in diverse HR roles. Throughout my experience I have contributed to Global and Regional projects, where extensive stakeholder alignment, strategic decision-making and communication is the key. A passionate DE&I champion, where I strongly believe that as a community of strong-willed women if we are ready to learn each other’s experience and share them, it is a fabulous amount of wealth we end up possessing! 

A native of from Eastern side of India, Kolkata is now almost settled in the Western side of the country Pune for 10 years now. Family is at the core of my existence and thus the frequent hikes, mini picnics and treks are a must with my 7-year-old daughter and husband. Music lies at the core of my being, and I have started learning music again which unfolds a beautiful chapter of my life. I am also an avid book reader and find peace practicing yoga and meditation. 

2) Why did you choose HR as your career domain? When you look back now how do you feel choosing this as your work area? 

I began my career as a financial analyst at a Big Four firm, and while I enjoyed my work, I found myself deeply interested in mentoring new joiners and enhancing their onboarding experience. This sparked my passion for the ‘human’ side of work, leading me to pursue an MBA in HR and ultimately shaping my career in this field. 

I strongly believe that the universe aligns things in the best possible way, and my journey into HR is a testament to that. Through hard work and dedication, I’ve built a career that I truly enjoy, and looking back, I couldn’t be happier with the path I chose. 

 3) If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be? 

If I could change one thing in the world, it would be to create a society where people embrace acceptance over judgment—a world where everyone is free to live their own version of happiness without the weight of societal expectations. 

4) What are some of the most effective strategies you've seen for attracting and retaining female talent in tech?  

Depending on the social, economic and cultural scenarios, a lot of these strategies are defined. However few constants I feel are-  

Mentorship and Sponsorship Programs are important initiatives to connect emerging female talent with seasoned leaders. This not only boosts confidence but also provides guidance for career advancement.  

Ability to create a Flexible Work Policies and nurturing Work-Life Balance is a no negotiator I feel - always needed to ensure we equip the workplace were female employees feel supported and can balance their personal space. It is important to keep the feedback loop open, understand the need and then finetune the policies to support employees 

Lastly, let’s not forget ‘leading by example’ is a must. So, the Leadership Commitment and Representation to ensure women are represented in leadership roles so that aspiring talent has visible role models. BMC is great example where we see 2 female leaders standing tall as ELTs. 

5) How can companies create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in tech?  

It has to be driven from the top. I feel the first step is to have Leader’s commitment towards the cause. 50% of the job is done there, the rest 50% will require focus on targeted recruitment intervention, flexible work hours, having strong communities of Women employees one like our ‘Elevate’. 

6) How can male allies contribute to making workplaces more inclusive for women? 

I feel allies can contribute by being an ‘Upstander’ and support to implement policies that ensure flexible work arrangements, equitable pay, and promote career advancement for women. By promoting these they can help dismantle systemic barriers that disproportionately impact women still at some places. Also, we need allies who can ‘Amplify’ women’s voice and I can think of so many such supportive allies around me who are my mentors, leaders, colleagues and friends. 

7) What advice would you give to women aspiring to become leaders in the tech industry? 

Believe in yourself, learn from your mistake and move forward, be ready to put in all the effort hard work and ensure you are always prepared to be your best advocate. Remember the Universe conspires to align the best things for you. Beleive it !  

8) What message would you like to share with other women in the tech industry on International Women's Day? 

International Women’s Day is a reminder of how far we have come through and the significant work that’s still ahead. We have come a long way , yet more to do. This day is not only about honoring achievements but also about inspiring us to keep breaking barriers, supporting one another, and owning the incredible value we bring—individually and collectively. 

 A Special Thank You

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ayanima for her exceptional contribution to this blog. Her meticulous attention to detail, insightful perspectives, and dedication to showcasing the multifaceted role of HR Business Partners have made this piece truly valuable. Ayanima's work not only illuminates the day-to-day realities of HR professionals but also elevates the understanding of this crucial organizational role. Thank you, Ayanima, for sharing your expertise and helping us create content that resonates with HR professionals worldwide.

Have you walked a similar path in your career? We invite you to share your own "day in the life" story with our growing community!

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Hello all,

As we continue to celebrate women who go above and beyond, we recognize those who set a powerful example of resilience and determination in overcoming challenges.

In today’s blog, we are highlighting an inspiring woman who leads a team of technical experts while keeping customer experience at the forefront.

Meet Suparna Siriyah, a dedicated Senior Technical Support Manager who ensures seamless customer experiences by leading her team with efficiency and expertise. Her day begins with a quick review of overnight support tickets, identifying urgent issues that need immediate escalation.

I was curious to know how her day looked like as a Senior Manager of a technical team. She was so humble to spend some time to share her thoughts on this. Over to Suparna now,

Mornings are spent in team stand-ups, where she aligns her support engineers on priorities, discusses roadblocks, and strategizes solutions. She also collaborates with product and engineering teams to address recurring technical concerns, ensuring long-term fixes rather than just quick solutions.

Midday, Suparna dives into customer interactions, handling escalations with a calm and analytical approach. Whether it’s troubleshooting a complex issue or reassuring a frustrated client, She brings exceptional organizational and leadership skills, combined with empathetic communication, to effectively manage and motivate teams.

Late Evenings are for process improvements—analyzing support metrics, optimizing workflows, and implementing training programs to upskill her team. She ensures that every customer receives timely, high-quality support while also empowering her team to grow.

As the day winds down, Suparna reviews key performance indicators, acknowledges top performers, and prepares for the next day’s challenges. Her leadership is the backbone of a customer-centric support operation, ensuring the flourishing of both clients and her team.

For Suparna, leading a technical team isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about creating seamless experiences and driving continuous improvement. 🚀

Here is the Q&A with Suparna!

1) Could you please share a brief intro about yourself for our community audience?

I am Suparna Siriyah, the Senior Manager overseeing the Global Service Desk team for our Helix ITSM product, as well as the DWP/DWPC product-based team. It's been a fantastic four years with BMC!

2) What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a woman in a leadership role?

One of the most significant challenges I faced in my career was ensuring my ideas were recognized and my contributions valued. At times, I had to put in extra effort to establish credibility, even when my knowledge and experience aligned with the discussion. I overcame this challenge by confidently backing up my ideas with  data and building strong professional relationships. Seeking mentors and allies helped amplify my voice, while self-advocacy ensured my contributions were recognized. 

3) How do you overcome self-doubt and failure? Either it is in your career or your life.

Yes, there are times when self-doubt creeps in, making me feel like I’m not doing well. In those moments, I remind myself of the difficult situations I’ve overcome to reach where I am today. Reflecting on those challenges and recognizing how they have strengthened me energizes me even more to work on my shortcomings.

4) What is the most valuable life lesson you've learned through your experience?

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is to always be your own advocate and stand up for yourself. At the end of the day, it's your battle, and it's best to rely on yourself rather than depend on anyone else. Take charge of your life—no one else will do it for you.

5) If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self?

 I would advise myself to be more confident in decision-making, stand firm on what’s right, and learn to say no when necessary.

6) What are the biggest tech trends that excite you right now?

As a woman in tech, I'm excited about AI and automation, especially their impact on IT service management. AI-driven chatbots, predictive analytics, and automation are making operations more efficient and proactive.

7) What does emotional intelligence mean to you?

 As a woman leader, EQ is about inspiring and empowering my team to succeed through motivation, trust, and strong relationships. Most importantly, it’s about leading with empathy—because at the end of the day, we are humans, not robots.

For Suparna, technical support isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about creating seamless experiences and driving continuous improvement

Suparna’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her ability to navigate challenges, inspire her team, and prioritize customer experience makes her a true role model for many.

As we celebrate strong and determined women in leadership, we would love to know: who inspires you in your professional journey?

Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation to say "Thank you" to Suparna for her outstanding achievements!

This podcast is hosted by Samantha Hudson Dos Santos Figueira, today’s episode is extra special because we’re celebrating International Women’s Day! We're excited to welcome 11 remarkable women from BMC who will be sharing their experiences, insights, and vision for the future of women in tech. Be ready to listen to interesting conversations related to breaking barriers, role of diversity in workplace, mentorship and advocacy, challenges and triumphs, and outlook for the future.

🎙️ Listen Now:

• Soundcloud
• Spotify
• Apple Podcast

Don’t forget to subscribe on your favorite platform for future episodes!

Women’s Day is more than just a celebration—it’s a tribute to the resilience, innovation, and leadership of women who continuously break barriers and drive progress. Across industries and disciplines, women are transforming communities, mentoring the next generation, and ensuring inclusive growth. At BMC Community, we take this opportunity to spotlight the incredible women whose dedication and expertise have shaped our community. 

Trailblazers in Innovation and Community Leadership 

The strength of our community lies in the dedication and contributions of its members. These exceptional women have played a pivotal role in enriching BMC’s community ecosystem by fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and sparking impactful discussions that uplift and empower others. Through their leadership and commitment, they have helped create a more inclusive, insightful, and engaged space where members can learn, grow, and make a lasting impact.  

1. Karen Farrell – A Multi-Faceted Leader 

A seasoned professional, Karen has been an integral part of the BMC community. With a diverse background spanning technical writing, UX design, web development, and project management, she has contributed significantly through knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and engagement. Her dedication and expertise continue to inspire and empower others within the community. This is reflected in her impressive 152,613 reputation points, 1,279 posts, and 399 comments. 

2. Anne Brock – A Mentor and Knowledge-Sharing Advocate 

With 112,998 reputation points, 57 posts, and 549 comments, Anne has been a guiding force within the community. She is known for her commitment to mentoring, education, and ensuring that knowledge is accessible to all members. Her contributions continue to empower and uplift others. 

3. Marie Johnson – Championing Collaboration and Support 

A strong advocate for collaboration and engagement, Marie has played a key role in fostering meaningful connections within the community. With 24,358 reputation points, 16 posts, and 270 comments, her contributions have been instrumental in building a supportive and inspiring environment. 

4. Juliette Murray – A Dynamic Voice in the Community 

A driving force in the community, Juliette has actively shaped discussions with her insights and expertise. With 12,093 reputation points, 97 posts, and 226 comments, her dedication to knowledge-sharing and fostering meaningful engagement makes her a valued contributor to the BMC community. 

Honoring Women’s Impact Every Day 

Women’s contributions go beyond numbers; they represent leadership, mentorship, and the collective strength that builds thriving communities. Today, we honor their efforts and encourage everyone to recognize the women who have made a difference in their professional and Personal journeys. 

💜 Join us in celebrating the incredible women who inspire and empower us every day. Whether through mentorship, innovation, or leadership, their contributions leave a lasting impact. Take a moment to appreciate and tag a woman in the BMC community who has influenced your journey! 👏