A few weeks ago, I attended Levelling the Playing Field: Advocating for Yourself with Grace & Grit hosted by Women in Tech Canada. It was one of those evenings that fills your cup: great food, powerful conversations, and a room full of brilliant women lifting each other up.
During the event, one theme stood out to me: the importance of having your own “board of directors.”
No, this isn’t about corporate governance. It’s about surrounding yourself with a personal advisory team. Think of it as a handpicked group of people who will:
💪🏻 Challenge you when you’re playing small
❤️ Support you through setbacks
🥳 Celebrate you when you win
🪴 Share their wisdom to help you grow
Your board of directors could include mentors, peers, former bosses, trusted friends, and industry experts. The common thread? They believe in your potential, will give you honest feedback, and genuinely want to see you succeed.
One of the best ways to build this board? Networking with intention.
That night, I had the privilege of mentoring a breakout circle where we dove into interview strategies and how to stand your ground in difficult conversations. I was blown away by the wisdom in the room—proof that when you show up and connect, you open the door to relationships that can change the trajectory of your career.
BC Finance Minister Brenda Bailey’s keynote hit another powerful note:
🧠 “Who writes our code? Code embeds values and biases. With AI, this now happens at scale.”
Her point wasn’t just about technology. It was about influence. The people you surround yourself with will shape your thinking, your decisions, and ultimately, your future. So choose your board wisely.
How to start building your board of directors:
1️⃣ Identify gaps. What skills, perspectives, or experience would help you grow?
2️⃣ Look in unexpected places. Your next board member might be in your industry… or outside it entirely.
3️⃣ Nurture relationships. Stay in touch, give as much as you receive, and express your gratitude.
Humans aren’t meant to navigate life or leadership alone. Start building your board of directors now, and watch how it transforms your career and your confidence.
✨ Want to be surrounded by your own board of powerhouse women?
Join the waitlist for my Women in Tech Rising Collective, our new group coaching community opening in September.
Lots of love,
-Anna
