In the rapidly evolving world of technology, diversity and inclusion are not just ethical imperatives but also catalysts for innovation. Yet, the tech industry continues to grapple with a significant gender gap, both globally and locally. As of 2024, women occupy approximately 27% of tech-related occupations worldwide, a figure that underscores the persistent underrepresentation of women in the sector. Interestingly, North Macedonia reports a higher average, with women constituting about 36% of the IT sector workforce. However, disparities exist within specific roles; for instance, only 20% of ICT programmers are women, a notable concern given that programming positions are among the highest-paid in the field. 

If women and men possess equal potential, why does this disparity persist in technology? 

Despite all the barriers and challenges that contribute to the gender gap in ICT, one thing remains true — building a career as a woman in tech is not easy. But even in the face of these obstacles, there are strong, determined, and inspiring women who are breaking through and making their mark. At OrangeMelons, we’re proud to work alongside such individuals. 

Meet our very own Melonhead, Erzana, whose journey in IT began nearly two decades ago. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and purpose — and it’s one we’re honored to share.

Breaking Barriers: My Journey as a Woman in Software Engineering 

From being the only girl in the room to becoming a role model — a 20-year story of resilience, growth, and purpose. 

In 2006, I made a decision that would shape my life — I enrolled in Software Engineering, a field that was far from considered “appropriate” for women in my country at the time. Out of a classroom of over twenty boys, only two of us were girls. I didn’t know exactly what lay ahead, but I knew I belonged in tech — and I was determined to prove it. 

I came from a family of doctors, so my choice often puzzled people. They didn’t understand why I’d walk away from a well-known, respected path to pursue something so unfamiliar and male dominated. “Why would a girl want to do that?” they would ask. But I listened to my heart, not the noise. Something inside me knew that this was my direction. I didn’t have all the answers then, but I had passion — and that was enough to begin. 

I pursued my passion relentlessly, continuing straight into a master’s degree in software engineering at SEEU University in Tetovo. There, once again, I found myself as the only girl in the group — navigating study projects, group work, and constant assumptions about what I could or couldn’t do. It wasn’t just a matter of being outnumbered — it was about being underestimated, overlooked, or questioned simply because of my gender. I carried the weight of being “the only one” in every room — not just representing myself but silently representing all the girls who would come after me.  

And then came 2011 — time to enter the job market. I thought the hardest part was behind me, but I quickly realized that being qualified wasn’t always enough and that getting a job was another battle altogether. Despite my qualifications and dedication, I wasn’t always taken seriously in interviews. The doubt was subtle, but it was there. I had to fight not only for the opportunity to prove myself — but to be seen in the first place. 

But perhaps the hardest battle of all came once I was inside that room — the stereotype that men should earn more than women, even when doing the same work. I had to confront the idea that my contribution was somehow worth less. I questioned, I challenged, and I stood my ground. It was uncomfortable and exhausting, but necessary. Today, this is no longer my reality, but it was one of the toughest battles of my early career. 

There were many moments of doubt, but also moments of deep growth and strength. Over the years, I built a career that I’m proud of — one grounded in persistence, curiosity, and love for my craft. 

Today, almost two decades later, I’m harvesting the fruits of that long and often challenging journey. I’ve carved out a place for myself in the tech world, and more importantly, I’ve become someone that the younger girls in my family look up to. They no longer ask why I chose this profession — they ask how they can do it too. They want to follow in my footsteps, and that fills me with pride. 

What started as a lonely path has now become a source of inspiration and strength for others. And that, more than anything, makes the journey worth it.