This session features a joint presentation from Nicola Martin FBCS FWES (Nicola Martin Coaching & Consultancy, BCSWomen) and Jane Nie (Jane Nie Coaching), who explore the benefits of mentorship and coaching in overcoming career challenges and accelerating growth.
Additionally, a panel discussion will provide a closer look at the current job market for women in tech, highlighting the most sought-after technical and soft skills.
Joining the discussion are:
• Akua Opong CITP MBCS FRSA, Senior EUC Engineer at London Stock Exchange Group
• Imogen Hopkins-Bell, Principal Recruiter at Candour Solutions
The discussion will share insights on key skills needed for success.
Learn strategies and practical advice on how mentorship and coaching can support your personal and professional development. Whether you're just starting out or seeking new opportunities in tech, this event offers a valuable chance to connect, learn, and prepare for the next steps in your career.
About the speakers:
Nicola Martin FBCS FWES, Founder at Nicola Martin Coaching & Consultancy, BCSWomen Committee Member
Nicola is a technologist with over two decades of experience in the tech sector. She is the founder of Nicola Martin Coaching & Consultancy and a professional career coach, with specialised training in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Nicola is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in software engineering and is a recognised thought leader in software engineering.
Nicola plays an active role in shaping the future of the tech industry. As a sought-after mentor, speaker, and panellist, she addresses key issues such as AI, quality, software testing, mentorship and coaching and the need for greater diversity in tech.
Nicola’s work has earned her numerous accolades, including appearances on the UKTech50 long list and the Computer Weekly Most Influential Women in UK Tech List (Top 50). She has been recognised in other awards and lists by Diversein.com, Women in Tech Excellence Awards, and Bupa everywoman in Technology, where she won the inaugural AI Champion Award.
Akua Opong CITP MBCS FRSA, Senior EUC Engineer at LSEG & STEM Ambassador
Akua is a Chartered IT Professional within the Infrastructure & Cloud, Engineering Team at LSEG. As part of her role, she mentors new starters in the team, including interns and graduates, and provides technology guidance to colleagues across the Group.
Outside of her main role, Akua is a keen diversity & inclusion advocate, LSEG WIN Engagement Community Team, WIN Tech Events Coordinator, UK Accessibility Lead, Mental Health Champion and UK Community Action Lead for the outreach programmes. She is passionate about raising the profile of Women in STEM, as a STEM ambassador. She was a UN Women UK Delegate for CSW68 during IWD 2024.
Akua is a Neurodiversity advocate (self-identifies as Dyslexic and has ADHD), NED, charity ambassador, fundraiser and a keen sports volunteer for England Netball, UEFA Community and British Athletics.
Jane Nie, Founder and Life Coach, Coach Jane Nie
Jane is a holistic life coach passionate about empowering female and other people of diversity . With a Master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition from Johns Hopkins University and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF), Jane combines her coaching, nutrition, and holistic well-being expertise to help individuals overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Her extensive cross-cultural experiences and commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) drive her mission to help clients find clarity, discover their purpose, and live their best lives. Jane's personalised coaching sessions, workshops, and group facilitation are designed to inspire clients to dream big and break through barriers.
Imogen Hopkins-Bell, Principal Recruiter at Candour Solutions
Imogen is a Principal Recruiter at Candour Solutions, specialising in QA / Software testing hires for almost 4 years across the UK. Her experience also includes running QA recruitment teams.
