Sharliza
Rahman
Chief Brand and Digital Officer, Forte Insurance (Cambodia) Plc
“The road ahead is always a little scary and unknown, and you may feel unequipped - be it lack of qualifications, experience, expertise, or resources. But if it is the path God has intended, trust that it will happen for you. It starts with growing your mindset and building a 'bigger cup' mentally to accommodate your goals in life. As people say, 'luck' is when opportunity meets preparation.”
I find it fulfilling to inspire the next generation of leaders and experts, to see former team members develop in their own careers and lives according to their definition of success.
Discovering the internet back in 1996 and how amazing it was to be connected to others who shared my interests. I convinced my mother to buy me a Packard Bell PC with a 14.4kbps modem after doing well at PSLE. I taught myself to code using Notepad and started a web design business in secondary school. That was the beginning of my digital career journey!
Self-limiting beliefs. The road ahead is always a little scary and unknown, and you may feel unequipped, be it lack of qualifications, experience, expertise, resources. But if it is the path God has intended, trust that it will happen for you. It starts with growing your mindset and building a ‘bigger cup’ mentally to accommodate your goals in life. As people say, ‘luck’ is when opportunity meets preparation.
I focus on opportunities rather than challenges. Be careful with the stories we tell ourselves – using the word ‘minority’ can feel disempowering, while ‘indigenous’ or ‘native’ gives a sense of rootedness and belonging. I regard myself as a native Malay Singaporean lady who can offer valuable perspectives and create impact for the companies I work with. That said, building credibility and taking steps to be taken seriously are very important, and that starts with doing what you say you will do.
Keep an open mind. Make connections. Take risks. Live life in different countries and environments. Augment your digital skills by gaining experience in other fields and learning how to collaborate with and lead people. Your tech background can open up doors to opportunities towards more senior, strategic positions since tech is so integral to our lives. Always care for the people you work for and strive to do your best!
Supporting organisations like The Codette Project and influencing more young Nusantara women to aspire to be the best we can be, to become role models wherever we are, to represent us on the world stage and elevate opportunities for our families, communities and societies.