Share to Make a Change: MVP Emily van Putten’s Journey

Emily van Putten, a Security MVP from the Netherlands, has been leading the dissemination of information on cloud security through community activities. She also focuses on promoting the success of women in the IT industry. Her numerous achievements have led to her selection as one of the top 25 talents for TEDxAmsterdamWomen Talent Night.

In this blog post, we will share her past activities and future aspirations in her own words, highlighting how she stands on stage to convey her experiences and beliefs, continuously inspiring people about diversity and inclusion.

*Picture Credits: Suzan Alberts

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Tell us about your community activities and how you help community members.

I am deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the tech industry. As a board member of Dutch Women in Tech, I help create a supportive community for women in IT. We organize monthly meetups where women can network, share knowledge, and support each other. Additionally, we produce podcasts aimed at inspiring women to pursue and advance their careers in tech.

One of the projects I am most proud of is the cybersecurity skilling program for women with limited or no IT knowledge. This initiative, organized voluntarily with four other dedicated women, saw 90 participants last year. Many of these women achieved their first Microsoft certification (after 3-month of bi-weekly training sessions), and six have already started working in IT. This program highlights the commitment to not only bringing more women into tech but also providing them with the skills and support they need to succeed. I am so grateful for the support that all partners and Microsoft have given to this program!

Beyond these initiatives, I actively work to improve overall equality in the workplace. The tech industry, like many others, still has a long way to go in creating a level playing field for everyone. While there have been significant efforts to attract women to IT, we must also focus on retention. Statistics show that women are three times more likely to leave IT within the first five years of their careers compared to men. Addressing this issue is crucial for making IT a sector where everyone can thrive.

As one of the top 25 talents for TEDxAmsterdamWomen Talent Night, how do you continue to empower women in tech in terms of diversity and inclusion?

Being selected as one of the top 25 talents for TEDxAmsterdamWomen Talent Night is an incredible honor, and it fuels my passion to continue with this journey to inspire people on a personal level.

My approach to diversity and inclusion also involves attracting women to the industry and ensuring they have the support to stay and succeed.

At Dutch Women in Tech, we focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. Our monthly meetups, knowledge-sharing sessions, and events provide women with the resources and connections they need to thrive. We also produce podcasts to inspire and guide women on their journey in IT.

A significant part of my work is addressing the high attrition rates among women in tech. We need to create a more supportive and inclusive culture where women feel valued and heard. IT is not just about technology; it’s about people and connections. By emphasizing empathy, integrity, and authenticity, we can build a workplace culture that supports everyone.

Additionally, I am actively involved in mentoring emerging tech professionals, particularly women. Through mentoring, I provide guidance and support, helping them navigate the challenges of the industry and build successful careers. Mentorship is a powerful tool for fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among women in tech.

What does delivering a speech on stage mean to you?

Delivering a speech on stage is a powerful opportunity to connect with others and inspire change. For me, it’s not just about the content of the speech but how it resonates with the audience. I believe in the power of vulnerability, personality, and addressing difficult topics openly.

When I speak, I aim to create a genuine connection with my audience. By sharing my personal experiences and the challenges I’ve faced, I hope to inspire others to embrace their authenticity and pursue their passions. The era of achieving results solely through direct, authoritative means is behind us. The future is about connection—empathy, integrity, and authenticity.

Through my speeches, I use my voice to advocate for a world where everyone can be themselves. I focus on the challenges we face in the workplace and beyond, particularly in the context of diversity and inclusion. It’s about making a difference, inspiring change, and fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and heard.

As a trans woman, my journey has given me unique insights into the importance of authenticity and the power of being true to oneself. I strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment in the tech industry and beyond. By sharing my story and advocating for change, I hope to make a positive impact and inspire others to do the same.