“Even a single connection can open doors you didn’t know existed,” says NOORA member Mamatha Shyamala, as she recounts how her NOORA membership helped build her confidence to apply for, and be promoted to, the role of Principal Data Engineer at EGA.
I started my journey in 1998, in a small town in India. I studied Computer Science Engineering—not at a fancy college, and not with fluent English. But what I did have was a deep love for mathematics and an genuine passion for programming. That was enough to carry me, I graduated among the top of my university.
Soon after graduating, I applied for a job at Wipro – one of India’s top IT companies. Thousands applied, and I was fortunate to be one of just 30 people selected. I was also the first from my college to receive such an opportunity. That moment marked my first big milestone.
Communication was tough. I wasn’t confident speaking up, especially in group settings. But I was strong technically. I focused on doing work and, within 18 months, I was promoted to Senior Software Engineer.
After a couple of years, I got married and moved to Dubai. I applied to just one job here – at EGA – and that’s where I’ve been for the last 23 years. People are often shocked: One company for over two decades?
But for me, EGA has been more than a company. It’s been my second home.Every day brought new challenges, new things to learn. What kept me going was the culture – supportive leadership, recognition for talent and, most importantly, a belief in people. It is a privilege to be part of EGA.
Back in 2001, the position I had applied has typically been filled by men. Being selected felt like breaking a small barrier—and it meant a lot to me. It was a moment that made me realize I was stepping into uncharted territory.
Yes, it was a male-dominated environment. I was the only woman in the team, had to work in the plant under tough conditions. But I never once regretted joining EGA. In fact, I felt privileged.
[Read our case study of EGA’s diversity and inclusion initiatives]
I started as a System Analyst, then Senior Analyst, then Business Analyst. Promotions were rare back then, but I didn’t mind – I loved the work. I was building control systems, developing algorithms – it was challenging, exciting and deeply fulfilling. Amazing environment, able to balance work-life.
For a long time, I never imagined myself in leadership. I was scared of the spotlight. But I kept learning. I embraced new technologies – AI, Cloud, IoT (the Internet of Things) – and I slowly began expanding my technical horizon. Eventually, during a major restructuring, a new opportunity opened in Industry 4.0.
I stepped into the role of Lead Data Engineer. Still a technical role, but with a team to guide. I delivered successful projects, received recognition, and most importantly – I began believing that I could lead.
Being part of Aurora50’s NOORA corporate women’s network shaped me further and prepared me for my current role. Last month, I was promoted to Principal Data Engineer.
For me, this isn’t just a new title. It’s proof that we can overcome our internal doubts, you just have to believe in yourself.
Last year, a Principal role opened up in my team. I was the one reviewing resumes and even helping with interviews – yet I couldn’t bring myself to ask if I could apply. I doubted myself.
Despite years of experience and success, I didn’t believe I was ready. That’s when I realised I was battling imposter syndrome.
Being part of NOORA came at the right time. Through the sessions, panels and stories, I slowly started reshaping my mindset.
Panel discussions with senior leaders stood out in the sessions I attended. These leaders didn’t just talk about success – they talked about the struggle, and how they kept going by focusing on the goal.
There’s one moment I’ll never forget – another member, Manar, said, “Grab the opportunities. Prove yourself and break the glass ceiling.”
Her words stayed with me. I began taking more responsibility, being bolder in decision-making, becoming more self-reliant. And people noticed – especially my management.
Then there was another member, Shruti, who said to me once, “It’s okay not to know everything – we learn and move forward.”
That was a shift for me. I stopped avoiding unfamiliar tasks. Instead, I took them on, did my homework, and started showing up with solutions, not just problems.
I found strength in these conversations. Sometimes just a sentence, sometimes a moment… but they stayed with me.
Slowly, I began stepping up. Owning more. Trusting myself more. And eventually, I found the courage to apply for the Principal role. I stood tall. Made my case. And I got the role.
For fellow NOORA members: Being part of NOORA has already shown me the power of community. I found strength in this network. It’s a powerful truth. My advice to my fellow NOORA members is: stay engaged.
The collective wisdom in this group is incredible – don’t hesitate to share your challenges, your insights or your wins, no matter how small.
Mentorship doesn’t always mean big or formal sessions. A quick message, a shared resource, a thoughtful question – these small acts can spark big changes for someone else.
You belong here. Keep showing up for each other.
For peers outside of networks like NOORA: I am such an ambassador for the NOORA network: I keep sharing my experience with other peers in EGA.
Be part of the community – having a support network is transformative. Women, particularly, don’t tend to build a network.
It’s not just about career advancement – it’s about shared experience, real talk and mutual empowerment. If you feel isolated in your journey, know that there are circles out there waiting to welcome you.
Even a single connection can open doors you didn’t know existed.
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