What is it like to be a woman in the tech world?

Tell us about yourself: 

My name is Emiliya Nikolova and I have been working as an Engineering Manager at Paysafe since 2019, bringing experience in various tech roles across multiple companies. My expertise spans leading technical projects and account management, infrastructure delivery, and agile coaching. 

In my current role, I primarily oversee mobile software development, ensuring the delivery of high-quality solutions. Outside of work, I enjoy learning new languages, drawing, and travelling.

What are the biggest challenges women face in the technology sector? 

In my experience, one of the biggest challenges in tech – especially in areas like AI, crypto and fintech – is staying current with the fast-paced evolution of these fields. The rapid growth, coupled with ongoing regulatory changes, makes it difficult to keep up. 

For women with families, this challenge is even greater, as balancing professional growth with maintaining a healthy family life and raising children becomes a delicate juggling act. 

Ultimately, achieving a work-life balance is one of the toughest hurdles to overcome.

What qualities and skills help women succeed in this industry? 

I believe that strong organisational skills have been the most valuable asset in my career. In every role I’ve held, I’ve successfully streamlined processes, improved team dynamics, and enhanced overall efficiency – contributions that have always been well-received. 

Persistence is another quality I deeply admire. I firmly believe that with enough dedication and effort, success is inevitable. Additionally, curiosity, a passion for learning, and continuous self-reflection are essential for growth and excellence in any career. Women, in particular, often excel at juggling multiple tasks, which can be especially beneficial when balancing back-to-back meetings and various responsibilities.

Can you share a personal experience or milestone that shaped your career in technology? 

I used to be very impatient, and it’s something I’m still working on. In the past, I’ve left jobs simply because I wasn’t willing to wait for a problem to be resolved – I preferred walking away and searching for the perfect setup. The last time I quit without much thought, I ended up returning to the same company a few months later. I finally realised that chasing an “ideal” job wasn’t realistic and “ideal” is something we manage in our minds. In fact, I learned that true fulfilment comes from adaptability and growth.

What advice would you give to women who want to enter the world of technology? 

The tech industry is a fantastic place to start your career, offering a dynamic and supportive environment. Colleagues are usually open-minded and willing to help, making it a great space for growth and learning. My advice to women entering tech is, first and foremost, to stay curious and eager to learn. Never stop reading, exploring new ideas, and expanding your knowledge. 

Secondly, embrace challenges and be persistent. The easiest option is to give up when things get tough, but true success comes from pushing through obstacles and continuously improving. Last, don’t be afraid to take up space – your voice and skills are needed.

How can companies create a more inclusive environment for women in technology? 

I believe companies are increasingly making efforts to foster a more inclusive environment for women through targeted events, dedicated committees and diversity initiatives. 

According to Forbes, women currently make up 30% of the fintech industry, which is a very good number that continues to grow. However, one area that can be improved is female representation in C-level positions, which remains relatively low – around 20%. There is still work to be done to ensure more women reach leadership roles and have a seat at the decision-making table. 

At Paysafe we have introduced workshops and sessions related to empowering women and encourage everyone to become part of our Women@Paysafe network.
 

Find out more about life at Paysafe on our Careers site.