Pursuing a career as a woman in technology can be both challenging and rewarding too. At NCS Australia we know boosting inclusion and advancing the interests of women requires more work and progress – and we are determined to lead the way in driving positive change. 

Our hiring approach and commitment to drive accountability of our hiring initiatives has helped to increase female hires beyond industry averages. And we’re not stopping there with an ambition is to go even further, advancing the interests of, and opportunities for, women in technology to join us, and thrive as part of our national workforce. 

This week, 11 of our women from NCS Australia are finalists in the 2025 Women Leading Tech Awards – with the winners set to be announced at a gala dinner in Sydney tonight. 

Included in the mix is our Head of Talent Acquisition, Bhavna Gaundar, shortlisted in the Recruiter category for our efforts nationally to advance career pathways and opportunities for our own women. 

Bhavna has been instrumental in leading third-party strategic partnerships with organisations to help NCS expand its reach and connect with a wider pool of female talent across Australia. She also ensures up-to-date peer and market reviews are conducted to deliver both fair compensation and pay equity for female recruits, confirming offers are competitive and equitable. 

“We have clear diversity hiring targets at NCS Australia and we are aiming to achieve a hiring rate that exceeds the industry average for women in tech. As a growing business, we recognise the strengths of diversity – including balanced gender representation – and we are focused on setting up our organisation for long-term success. This begins with our people and carries through to our culture,” says Bhavna. 

Here are some words of encouragement and advice from our female trailblazers – both nominees and finalists in these awards – about showing unity, breaking down barriers, delivering value and making an impact. Supporting each other is integral to how we work at NCS Australia, making tomorrow together with our clients.

Advice for women, from women: Insights from our NCS trailblazers in tech

• “You belong here. No, really. Even if you walk into a room where no one looks like you, own your space. 
• Speak up. Your ideas are valuable. Don’t wait for permission to share them. 
• Find your people. Mentors, allies, fellow women in tech – build your squad. They’ll lift you up when you need it and remind you that you’re not alone. 
• Keep learning. Tech evolves fast. Stay curious, stay adaptable, and don’t be afraid to dive into new things (even if they terrify you at first).
• Have fun. It’s your career. Make it an adventure.
• Make friends with fear. This is something I’m working on actively. It’s not the enemy; just an emotion even world leaders feel. The difference? They embrace it. Use it, don’t fight it.”

Kavita Agarwal Practice Principal, Digital Experience, NCS Australia
Finalist, ‘Design’ category, 2025 Women Leading Tech Awards

“Don’t be put off by thinking a career in tech is for men and that being female will make it harder for you to succeed. Be yourself and know your strengths. Acknowledge that being female may highlight strengths that are not readily found in our male counterparts. Having diversity in a team or company brings better results as it generates more creativity and ideas to discuss.” 

Leanne Fernandes, Account Manager, NSW Government, NCS Australia
Finalist, ‘Customer Success’ category, 2025 Women Leading Tech Awards

“Don’t wait for permission, step forward and take up space. Tech is evolving rapidly, and there’s no single path to success. The best thing you can do is stay curious, keep learning, and actively seek out opportunities where you can showcase your skills.

Surround yourself with mentors and a strong network. I’ve learned so much from working with diverse teams and leaders who challenge me to think differently. Find those who support and uplift you, but also don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo when needed.

Finally, be bold in advocating for yourself and others. Tech is at its best when it’s inclusive and innovative, and that starts with having diverse perspectives in the room. Whether it’s through your projects, leadership, or mentorship, always look for ways to open doors for the next generation of women in tech.” 

Georgia Swanson, Director of Strategy and Growth, NCS NEXT, Global Innovation, NCS
Finalist, ‘Innovator’ category, 2025 Women Leading Tech Awards

“You don’t have to be a technologist to work in tech. There are plenty of roles that don’t require you to have deep knowledge of technology. If you’re interested and want to learn, reach out for help. There’s plenty of assistance there if you ask for it.” 

Jodi Lawson, Senior Integration Manager, NCS Australia

“Navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry has pushed me to prove my expertise and advocate for diverse voices. Today, I’m passionate about empowering teams, sharing knowledge, and fostering environments where diverse perspectives are valued – because the best solutions come from collaboration, not conformity.” 

Mollshree Gogia, Practice Principal, South Australia, Quality & Testing, NCS Australia 
Finalist, ‘Customer Success’ category, 2025 Women Leading Tech Awards 

“Don't let anyone define you: There will be times when you face stereotypes or biases. Don't let them define you or limit your potential. Use your unique experiences and perspectives to your advantage and break down barriers.” 

Bhavna Gaundar, Head of Talent Acquisition, NCS Australia 
Finalist, ‘Recruiter’ category, 2025 Women Leading Tech Awards

“Never be afraid to embrace growth or leadership roles – nothing comes without challenges. Learn to push through obstacles; this may require working harder, seeking guidance from a mentor, and continuously improving your skills in the ever-evolving tech world. Perseverance is crucial.
Be bold and confident in sharing your ideas, and develop the ability to balance work and life by choosing your priorities wisely. Resilience is key to growth.
Lastly, maintain strong work ethics and find ways to give back, whether through mentoring others or contributing to your community. Establish strong communication skills.” 

Deepti Bansal, Senior Test Manager, NCS Australia