IWD Smart Champions pt 2: Sophie Mason

Sophie Mason, visionary Founder and CEO of Thinkedi, a trailblazing tech company at the forefront of reshaping workplace inclusion. As a disabled and neurodiverse entrepreneur, Sophie brings a unique perspective to the helm, aligning Thinkedi's mission with a commitment to breaking barriers and fostering success for all. Under her leadership, Thinkedi has become a movement, offering innovative solutions like the 'Accommodations Manager,' 'Inclusion tool,' and 'Diversity Dashboard' to combat workplace discrimination. Sophie's journey is one of resilience and determination as she continues to redefine success in the tech industry with innovation and inclusivity at its core.

Sophie shared an important message with us on IWD:

“This last year has marked the shattering of many a glass ceiling for me. 18 months ago, I would probably have laughed at the idea that I would now run a tech company, and I would not have believed I would have been a finalist for the Wales Tech Awards Best Tech Leader - exciting times! I have always followed my passion for learning. At A level, I studied drama, music, art and photography. After a year of architectural technology & design, followed by a BSc in Psychology through the Open University, I trained for a further two years as a nurse. Sadly, the physical side of nursing meant that I was unable to complete my degree due to being disabled and, at times, needing to use a wheelchair. I learned so much from nursing, though, and strangely, there has been a lot of cross over into tech and cyber in particular, with safeguarding the vulnerable and with infection control. I am also an avid cooperative board gamer, spending most Saturday evenings with my husband and three children fighting fires together, saving the world from contagious diseases or working as secret members of elite societies saving the world from the abomination of ancient evil gods. In my professional roles in project and change management, though mostly in the public and third sectors, I have always been the go-to person for risk management and compliance. despite this I knew nothing about Cyber security and have simply never considered a career in the sector. There were very few visible female role models in the smart space. 

This International Women's Day I am so proud to be able to advocate for diversity in Cyber and Tech. I would really like to shout out to the Cyber Innovation Hub, Women in Cyber Wales and Fintech Wales for all their doing to champion diversity in our field. Also, to the inspirational women around me, including Merryn Roberts-Ward, Jessica Bowen and Gemma Hellyer. And I'd also really like to recognise those who aren't female but advocate for feminism in their day-to-day lives including David Wall and my husband Chris who is my greatest ally and cheerleader. 

In the last year, we've built a fantastic foundation for our Thinkedi software. We are so proud of our independence and resilience in building revenue through consultancy with our sister company, THINKGlobal HR. We are so excited for our next steps as we accelerate towards our goals of FTSE 100.”

We're incredibly grateful to have Sophie sharing her knowledge with us in a 1 hour fully funded workshop on 'How Smart Towns are Inclusive towns' on Thursday 18th April 14:00 - 15:30

 

Book your space here

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