Leading at the Intersection of People and Technology: Insights from Kavita Kerwar

In this episode, we sit down with Kavita Kerwar, Principal Consultant at Dius, to explore her career journey and insights into AI-driven innovation, product management, and leadership. Kavita has worked with major well known Australian brands (like Commonwealth Bank and Qantas). She shares how her passion for problem-solving has been a guiding force, her strategies for handling tough conversations, and the importance of building a professional network. Kavita also discusses her experience being a South Asian woman part of the LGBTQIA+ community who struggled early on her career to find mentors who had lived personal experience similar to her and how this has led to her volunteer work with Out for Australia.

Key Takeaways:

• Problem-Solving is Key: Kavita believes that a proactive, solution-oriented mindset is critical for success in tech and leadership roles.
• Empathy in Leadership: Effective communication during tough situations starts with understanding others' perspectives and addressing their concerns with empathy.
• Continuous Learning: Staying curious and adapting to new technologies like AI is essential—learning on the job can be just as valuable as formal education.
• Own Your Value: Advocate for yourself and recognize the value you bring to your team, especially during performance reviews.

Topics Discussed:

• Kavita’s Career Path: From her early days as an intern in tech to becoming a principal consultant, and how problem-solving has been a constant theme in her career.
• Navigating Tough Conversations: Kavita’s approach to delivering difficult news with transparency and empathy, and why it's important to address challenges head-on.
• Adapting to AI and Data Science: Insights into how AI is transforming industries, and tips for those looking to break into the field without feeling overwhelmed.
• Embracing Your Success: Why taking pride in your work and clearly communicating your achievements can change the way you approach career growth.
• Finding Authenticity in the Workplace: Kavita discusses the challenges of bringing her full self to work and the importance of representation for LGBTQIA+ professionals. She explains how this journey inspired her role as a state director for Out for Australia, where she advocates for greater visibility and inclusivity in the professional world.

Resources & Links:

• Her Tech Circle: https://linktr.ee/hertechcircle 
• Connect with Kavita Kerwar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitakerwar/
• Out for Australia: Learn more about this non-profit supporting LGBTQIA+ professionals through mentoring and community building .https://www.outforaustralia.org/
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