Yes, you can succeed in tech as a woman

Sandrine’s commitment to gender parity stems from a specific event. During a school meeting, a teacher said, “This girl doesn’t work… let’s just let her through. It doesn’t matter, she’ll find a good husband.” No one reacted.

That moment pushed her to act. “I told myself: the best way to counter this kind of prejudice is to go into middle schools and high schools and say: yes, I’m a woman, I studied science, and yes, you can be successful too.”

Sandrine joined the association “Elles bougent,” which visits high schools to promote technical fields. Then another, “Capital filles,” which supports young women in their career orientation. She mentors two young women every year, sharing her experience, listening, and advising on building a career as a woman in tech.

“If, thanks to my story, a young girl dares to do what she loves without giving in to family or school pressures, then I’ve made a difference.” And Orange supports this commitment: meetings with her mentees and school visits take place during her working hours.

Even today, Sandrine regrets the lack of women applicants when she’s hiring. She sends a clear message to all women who hesitate: “Don’t be afraid. Apply, even if you don’t tick every single box!”

What gives Sandrine her inspiration? First, her mother who showed her that women can thrive in their work. And her own children, whom she wants to encourage to follow their passions, without barriers. “I have daughters. And what I do today, I also do for them. So that they have choices, and so that they can truly do what they want.”