Many of our young people would recognise Joanne Reynolds from her fantastic & monumental involvement with the @Amazon Web Services (AWS)‘s Think Big Space! Joanne has been a dedicated volunteer to ITFI for a number of years and it’s clear that without her support, we would not be able to offer many opportunities! #inspiringwomen

I work for Amazon Web Services (AWS) and I’m a Community Engagement Manager

My proudest achievement was managing the delivery of the first AWS Think Big Space in Europe which we opened in Tallaght in 2022. The space provides a place outside the classroom for young people to experience STEM education like robotics and Virtual Reality.

I’m most inspired by the women I work with in our Data Centres like Claire O’Sullivan who were sometimes the only women in their college course or the only woman in the meeting room but they continue to break gender stereotypes and excel in fields like technology and engineering

I grew up in Clondalkin and I didn’t have anyone on my road or in my family who worked in traditionally highly paid or highly skilled jobs. It was only in later life that I stumbled into a great career in the tech industry and I didn’t always feel like I belonged in a fancy corporate office. I’d like you to know that you do belong, no matter where you come from or if you are the first or only person in your family or community to work in a job or company. Diversity of backgrounds is key to success and the more voices like yours we have in every room the better.

#InspiringWomen2023