NEROSHNEE Rangasamy, who grew up in Malabar and now works in the Netherlands, was recently nominated for an international award which honours women in technology.
She went on to graduate with a National Diploma in Information Technology.
Rising through the corporate ranks, she landed her dream job as the head of SAP Intelligent Platform Advisory Practice for the Netherlands, an international consulting firm.
Years in the industry, balancing both work and family life, and most recently being nominated for a TechWomen 100 award on the international stage, Neroshnee talks tech, family and what it takes to really make it in the industry.
How did you know that pioneering and utilising next gen technology was a stream you were passionate about?
Rangasamy: As a child my parents, Lingham and Manogaree Rangasamy, and grandparents, Eric and Thayena Naidoo, had always fuelled my appetite for learning. You would often find me in the garage with my granddad designing and building something along with (be it a cabinet or repairing a car) being in kitchen with my grand–mum creating new recipes.
I was the ‘why’ and ‘I’d like to see’ child. For my 15th birthday, my dad had bought me a computer which ignited my curiosity for technology.
I quickly realised the possibilities of the future where technology would influence society, business and the opportunity to make a difference in the world. Naturally, I began my study trajectory in information technology.
What are your core values, and how have they shaped your response to life’s challenges; in particular, those encountered in the ever-changing tech industry?
Rangasamy: I like to think of myself as quite a simple individual, whose core values include honesty, integrity, care and making a difference.
Being self–aware of your values is imperative as it determines the way you live, work and contribute to society. It is the foundation that applies across all industries; not limited to the tech industry. Similarly, keeping in touch with your values is a lifelong exercise. Life may present many challenges and each time you revisit your values, you discover what is really important to you as an individual which helps you make the right choices for the future.
Growing up, who was your role model and how did he/she/they contribute to your own drive to pursue your dreams?
Rangasamy: I’ve been lucky that I have had many role models whilst growing up. From my parents, grandparents, my husband, Rishi Raga – to being inspired by Nelson Mandela– each of whom have played a crucial role in my life to date and have inspired me to believe in myself and be the best version of myself as an individual, as a daughter, wife, mum and leader.
My mum would often say there is no such thing as impossible; if you put your mind to it, you can achieve it. Similarly, my husband, Rishi, is my daily inspiration. He is currently the Global SAP finance and controlling technology manager at an international beer manufacturer, managing over 25 countries including South Africa. I bear witness to his passion for creating value across these countries, and his natural compassion to help those around him inspires me to continue to always do my best, making him and my family proud.
What are your most notable achievements?
Rangasamy: I have a few; however, the most recent is my TechWomen 100 award nomination, in recognition of being an inspiring emerging talent sponsored by J.P Morgan and Barclays Bank; secondly, my recent appointment as the senior director heading up the SAP intelligent platform advisory practice for the Netherlands at an international consulting firm.
In a male dominated space, how did you navigate, if ever, the stereotypes and generalisations often assigned to women in the tech industry?
Rangasamy: Personally, I can’t say that I have experienced them, as I am lucky to have worked with people who respect women in the industry.
However, I do acknowledge that gender inequality does exist in many companies and organisations and hope with the current awareness of this imbalance that more females enter the industry, gaining respect and eliminating any barriers that still exist. My personal recruitment plan for my department this fiscal year is a 50/50 parity. As a fellow woman in tech, it is my personal prerogative to help hold the door open for fellow females and support them in their journey in order to drive diversity and inclusion.
Your story is one that could likely inspire young girls with a dream to enter your industry and those like it. What advice would you give them?
Rangasamy: Firstly, ensure you take the subjects required to enter a STEM–related study.
Secondly, believe in yourself and your potential. Do not let others’ opinions about you or your life decisions influence or deter you. Trust your own intuition and follow your dreams. Ultimately, your life is in your hands.
Lastly, find a role model and connect with them. You will be surprised how many women in technology are keen to support each other.
I often have individuals connect with me via Linkedin, inspired by my own journey, whom I’ve supported either with job opportunities from within my network or coaching advice.
How do you achieve balance between the demands of your job and your personal life?
Rangasamy: Good question. Between my husband’s schedule, kids’ schedules and mine… planning is key. We are lucky to have the flexibility in our jobs which affords us with the opportunity to manage our own schedules.
Family time is of utmost importance for us, so we ensure efficiency during the day to be home for quality time (dinner, story time, etc).
Which conferences and summits have you previously spoken at and, out of these, which has been your greatest honour?
Rangasamy: Most recently I’ve spoken at the SAPInsider international conference, where I had to opportunity to address a number of global Fortune 500 clients, sharing insights of the digital age and how best they can embark on their transformation journey. The cherry on the top was having three fellow South Africans in the audience.
Lastly, are there any current projects you’ve undertaken or inroads you intend to make in particular areas of your profession?
Rangasamy: In my current role, my focus includes emerging technology such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic automation and how it can be used ethically to improve business models and sustainability for clients.
I believe technology will continue to radically influence society and the economy. As such, being in a position to advise and change businesses using insights, knowledge and innovative ideas is my next trajectory.
