GirlCode Profile: Tshibola Tracy Mutombo

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Tshibola Tracy Mutombo. I am a 27 years old graduate from the University of Johannesburg in computer science and informatics.

After graduating, I joined an internship program where I was trained in Advanced Java and certified in Software Testing. I am currently working for a different company as a Software Tester.

Walk us through your career journey and how you got into I.T?

Although becoming a software engineer was not my first choice as a child, I knew it was something I could really love doing when I started playing with my father’s computer when I was around 13 years old. Fast forward to starting my 1st year at university, I realized that it was nothing like what I had in mind, however, I was determined to do it and fell in love with my choice.

Have you experienced any challenges as a female in this industry and how did you overcome them?

I think the challenge for most women in most work environments is that we are really undermined. It takes a lot for men to acknowledge women’s strength, and it constantly feels like we need to prove ourselves, and I believe that one of the ways to stop that is for women not to be afraid to take that space and deliver great work, and to continuously follow our passion and what drives you.

What is your typical day like at work?

I usually start my work around 06h45 am, read and respond to my emails to see what has a higher priority and go through all the tasks that have been assigned to me, and make sure that the most urgent work gets done first.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were younger?

That, although there are more women joining the IT sector, there are still a lot of instances where women are not really trusted with taking up on bigger roles. There is still the need for us to constantly prove ourselves and it takes boldness. Male colleagues are still reluctant about asking questions to women or believing that women can deliver great work.

What is your advice for other girls considering getting into the tech space?

To be less scared, not to fear exploring. It takes time to discover oneself, so exploring what you truly love. Everyone’s dreams are valid, they are never too big, even what you deem to be the most difficult thing, it has been done by someone, and it can be you. Secondly, I want women to know that there is no more male dominated space, we can do it. If we only look at it as something we like and not at all the reasons why it cannot be done.

What is your motto in life?

Your determination and willingness to do something matters above all else. Because I want to do it, I can do it.

Lastly, what do you hope to leave behind as your legacy?

I want women to live a life they are happy with! without the society-imposed rules and laws, a society where women do what they really want to do. I want women to make bold choices and remain unapologetic about it.

A generation of women who believe in their potential and see endless opportunities through organisations such as GirlCode.