“I didn't work with a female coder for 10 years - now I feel more hopeful than ever”
In celebration of International Women's Day, Midori Fukami, a software engineer at Haypp, reflects on her journey into the tech industry, a path that began with early exposure to technology and has led her to a career in what is still considered a male-dominated field. She shares her advice for aspiring tech professionals and underscores the growing opportunities for women in technology.
"Growing up, I didn't know I'd become a software engineer; I just loved being around computers. My parents owned a video rental store when I was three, and spending my early years surrounded by technology made a lasting impression. The store had VHS players, early gaming consoles, and a small computer setup for managing rentals, devices that fascinated me as a child. I didn't realise it at the time, but it planted the seed for a future in coding. It was less about consciously planning a career and more about curiosity and comfort with technology. That curiosity eventually evolved into a passion for creating software and solving problems.
"Working in a male-dominated industry hasn't always been easy. For the first ten years of my career, I didn't work with a single female developer. That absence was noticeable, not because male colleagues were unkind, but because I lacked role models who shared some of my experiences. It was isolating at times, and I often questioned whether I belonged. But things are changing. Over the past few years, I've seen more women enter the field, and I'm hopeful that we're moving toward gender balance at every level of tech. Representation matters: diverse teams bring better ideas, solutions, and perspectives. Seeing women lead projects, speak at conferences, and take on senior roles inspires those coming up behind them, and it changes the culture of workplaces for the better.
"Breaking into tech wasn't straightforward, but it's more accessible than ever, especially for women. My advice for anyone trying to land their first coding role is simple: join a coding bootcamp, get involved in online communities, and build your network. There are so many different platforms and even social media groups that offer spaces to learn, collaborate, and ask questions in a supportive environment. The tech world can seem intimidating from the outside, but once you take that first step, you'll find a community eager to help. Networking isn't just about job opportunities; it's about learning from others' experiences, finding mentors, and realising that you're not alone in your journey.
"And when you do land your first role, remember you're not expected to know everything. Ask questions. Say, 'I don't know yet, but I'll figure it out.' That simple mindset can make all the difference. Curiosity and willingness to learn are more valuable than perfection. In my experience, employers appreciate someone who can think critically, adapt, and collaborate over someone who pretends to have all the answers. Mistakes are part of learning, they're not failures, but stepping stones toward growth.
"Good coding habits are essential. For me, reading and consistent practice are non-negotiables; they help me stay sharp in a field that's always evolving. Technology changes rapidly, with new frameworks, languages, and tools emerging constantly. By dedicating time to learn and reflecting, I can approach challenges thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively. When I face a tough problem, I pause and reflect before acting. That moment of reflection is where the real growth happens. It allows you to consider multiple solutions, anticipate consequences, and ultimately write cleaner, more effective code. Over time, these habits compound, shaping both your skills and your confidence as an engineer.
"At its core, tech is a field of creativity, problem-solving, and lifelong learning. It's not just about writing code, it's about understanding problems, designing solutions, and thinking critically. Software engineers can shape the way people live and work, whether through apps, platforms, or innovative tools. And this impact is why we need diverse voices in tech. Different perspectives lead to more inclusive, thoughtful, and innovative solutions.
"If you're a woman considering a career in technology, my message is simple: you absolutely can do it. Surround yourself with a supportive community, keep learning, and don't be afraid to take up space. There will be times when you feel outnumbered or unsure, but your voice, your ideas, and your perspective matter. There's room for you in this industry, and your presence contributes to a future where tech workplaces better reflect the people they serve.
"Looking back, I realise that those early years of isolation weren't just challenges, they were lessons. They taught me resilience, the value of mentorship, and the importance of visibility for others who come after me. Now, seeing more women in coding roles, leading teams, and driving innovation gives me hope. I hope my journey can encourage other women to pursue tech, not despite the obstacles, but with the understanding that they have the power to reshape the field for themselves and for those who follow."