Empowered in Tech: Women in Tech Netherlands
Welcome to Empowered in Tech: Women in Tech Netherlands Podcast
Born from the mission of the Women in Tech Netherlands community, this podcast aims to educate, inspire, and expand the network of women in technology. Hosted by Ilaria Severi, expert in branding, social media, PR and marketing, guest lecturer and podcast producer, the show features powerful stories from trailblazing women who are breaking barriers, driving innovation, and shaping the future of the tech industry.
As the official chapter of Women in Tech Netherlands, launched in June 2019 at Elsevier’s HQ in Amsterdam, we are part of a global initiative working to close the gender gap by empowering 5 million women and girls to embrace a career or course of study in technology by 2030. Our efforts align with five United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: Gender Equality, Education, Entrepreneurialism, Social Inclusion, and Science, Technology, and Innovation. We are dedicated to equipping women with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to succeed in STEM fields.
Our podcast is proudly supported by DMN-WESTINGHOUSE, an independent international company with a deep commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in technology. Their support makes this platform possible and reflects their vision of an equitable and innovative tech industry.
Whether you're just beginning your tech journey, seeking leadership insights, or passionate about creating a more inclusive world, Empowered in Tech offers stories, advice, and inspiration to guide you.
Join us as we celebrate and amplify the voices of women transforming the tech industry and work toward a more inclusive future together.
Check our website: https://women-in-tech.org/nl/
And follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/women-in-tech-netherlands/posts/?feedView=all
Empowered in Tech: Women in Tech Netherlands
The Power of Resilience: A Story of Grit and Growth with Stefana Sopco
In this episode of Empowered in Tech: Women in Tech Netherlands, host Ilaria Severi sits down with Stefana Sopco—Marketing Manager at PortXchange and Spokesperson for Women in Tech NL—for a raw and powerful conversation about starting from zero, breaking through bias, and rising as a leader in sustainability and tech.
Stefana came to the Netherlands with just €80 in her pocket, no job, and no network. What followed was months of rejections, self-doubt, and hustle—until one spontaneous networking event changed everything. Today, Stefana is a two-time FortyUnder40 honoree and a recognized force in maritime innovation.
💡 What You’ll Learn:
- How Stefana turned rock bottom into a launchpad
- The career-changing power of networking and visibility
- Reclaiming your voice after toxic environments
- How to build a career in marketing with authenticity and resilience
✨ About Our Guest:
Stefana Sopco is not just a marketer—she’s a movement builder, a mentor, and an advocate for women in tech. Her story will inspire anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider to keep going.
🙌 Thanks to Our Sponsor:
This episode is brought to you by DMN-WESTINGHOUSE, a company actively committed to inclusion and hiring for diverse roles in tech. Connect with them on LinkedIn!
💡 Connect with Women in Tech Netherlands:
Visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn to stay inspired and engaged with our community.
🎧 Listen now and rediscover what’s possible when you stop waiting for permission and start showing up as yourself.