Invisible String with Huayu Lai
In our new Invisible String series, we aim to highlight the work done by our volunteers, also known as hackers, and the different ways they are interested in tech. Volunteers are the (often) invisible strings that bind together the not-for-profit sector and, without them, WITGBG wouldn’t function.
Meet long-time WITGBG hacker and board member Huayu Lai — the manager of our reorganisation plan.
What’s your role at WITGBG?
When I first joined, I was in the partnership team and even led it for a year. After that, I’ve stayed on the management team to help with various topics like setting a long-term strategy and creating a new organisational structure to bring us closer to those goals. I’ve been with WITGBG for almost 2 years. It’s been a fun ride!
What motivated you to volunteer with us?
Two years ago, I was feeling burnt out and realised that I need to diversify where I give and receive energy in my life. Volunteering – when done in a sustainable way – is a huge source of energy for me because it allows me to contribute to improving my community, together with a group of other smart and passionate people
Tell us about your journey with tech.
Love, hate? Jokes aside, technology is so pervasive in modern society. Some days it brings me joy and convenience, other days it feels like a tremendous burden. I imagine I’m not the only one, and that’s where I see things like inclusive, ethical, and accessible design become so important.
What do you work with now?
I work in the marketing team at Electrolux, focusing on designing and improving processes.
Looking forward 5 years, what change do you want to see in the tech industry?
I’d like to see more companies understand the full value of diversity and inclusion, meaning not treating it as just a ‘fluffy HR topic’ but rather something which, when cultivated properly, can really contribute to the bottom line and to the consumer experience.
I'd like to see companies put action and money behind [diversity and inclusion], not just pretty words.
Brittany asked Huayu: What would you say to a woman who doesn’t believe she has a place in the tech industry?
It sucks that you feel this way, and you’re not alone. Women leave the tech industry at a disproportionate rate. Just because the system is screwed up doesn’t mean that there’s anything wrong with you. If you’re wanting to enter the tech industry, go for it! If you’re in the industry already, find a confidante, a mentor, or a community. And if you have energy for it, become an advocate for change.
Connect with Huayu on LinkedIn
Follow Electrolux on LinkedIn