Maryaim's Path to Clarity Through Data
I’m Maryaim Shaker from Baghdad, a Computer Science graduate from the University of Baghdad. Right now, I work as a Junior Project Coordinator at Al-Zawaya for Marketing and Business Development. My role is a mix of coordination and analysis, I support teams, track projects, and prepare reports that help with decision-making. I’ve always been interested in organising, analysing, and making information clearer, and that’s what keeps me drawn to data analysis.
I’ve always been curious about how things work behind the scenes, whether it’s a system, a database, or just the logic behind it. For me, tech isn’t just about programming, it’s about creating order and insights. That curiosity is what made me step into the tech world, and later into data analysis, because it makes numbers speak in ways that help people and businesses.
Honestly, I was nervous at first. I wasn’t sure if I could keep up. But quickly I realized it was a very supportive and welcoming space, where everyone was learning together and encouraging each other.
The experience was motivating and eye-opening. I didn’t just learn skills, I also gained more confidence in myself and my potential. I really enjoyed the discussions during classes, and the mentorship sessions. They gave me not only technical knowledge but also motivation. My best memory is graduation day. It felt simple but powerful, seeing six months of effort come together in one moment we all celebrated.
The mentorship sessions were a turning point for me because they gave me a chance to hear directly from women who were already ahead on the path I want to take. Their stories gave me hope and made me feel that my goals were possible. The guest speakers added another layer to my learning, they brought fresh perspectives from the industry and shared real challenges and solutions. The community events were equally important. They reminded me that I wasn’t on this journey alone. Meeting other women, sharing experiences, and even just talking about our struggles and progress gave me encouragement and a sense of belonging.
Life feels a bit clearer now. I still have a lot to learn, but I know more about where I want to go, and I feel more confident in myself. Before the program, I wasn’t sure which area of computer science I wanted to focus on. After graduation, I realized that data analysis is the area I connect with most, and I started applying it little by little in my current job.
The program gave me a foundation in analyzing data, presenting insights, and thinking more critically. Even though my current role is project coordination, I use these skills when preparing campaign performance reports and supporting management with decisions. It gave me more confidence, patience, and trust in the learning process. I now see challenges as part of growth, not as a stop sign.
Yes!, the mentorship sessions, and simply finishing the program, made me realize that I don’t need to have everything figured out. Step by step, I can shape my future.
They open doors for women by giving them skills, confidence, and a strong community. Especially in our region, this makes a big difference.
Don’t wait until you feel “100% ready”; because readiness comes through the journey itself. Start small, take one step, and surround yourself with supportive people. That’s what makes the path easier and more enjoyable.
What I’ve learned is that growth doesn’t happen in a straight line. Sometimes you feel stuck, sometimes excited, but each step teaches you something new. I’m very grateful for this program, the inspiring people I met, and the sense of belonging to a community that truly believes in women in tech.
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