Mums in Tech ft. Sibgha Naeem

Firstly, can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your current role?

My name is Sibgha, and I am a software engineer who is passionate about building technology that solves real-world problems. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, learn from talented people, and continue growing both personally and professionally.

I am also mum to a wonderful little boy who keeps me busy, makes me laugh every day, and constantly reminds me what really matters. Becoming a mother has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It has changed my perspective, taught me a lot about myself, and shaped the way I approach both work and life.

If you could sum up what it’s like being a working mum in tech in one sentence, what would it be?

It’s challenging, rewarding, sometimes exhausting, but always worth it.

How do you find the balance between your career and motherhood?

I don’t think balance is something you achieve once and then keep forever. It’s something you keep adjusting as life changes.

Some days work needs more of me, and other days my family does. I’ve learned to focus on being present wherever I am, rather than worrying about what I should be doing somewhere else. When I’m working, I give my best to my team and projects. When I’m with my son, whether we’re painting, playing pretend games or reading together, I try to be fully present in those moments.

I’ve also learned that it’s okay if everything isn’t perfect. That mindset has helped me more than anything else.

What has been your greatest challenge as a working mother in tech?

One of the biggest challenges has been dealing with the feeling that there is never enough time.

The tech industry moves quickly, and there is always something new to learn. At the same time, being a mum comes with its own responsibilities and unexpected moments. There were times when I was balancing work, studying for my Master’s degree and raising a young child, and it felt overwhelming.

Looking back, I realise that I was often putting more pressure on myself than anyone else was. Learning to let go of perfection and focus on progress has been one of the most valuable lessons.

What skills have you developed as a mother that have helped your work life?

Becoming a mother has probably taught me more about patience, resilience and adaptability than anything else.

Before having my son, I liked having a plan for everything. As a parent, I’ve learned that things don’t always go according to plan, and that’s okay. You learn to adapt quickly, stay calm under pressure and focus on finding solutions.

It’s also helped me become more empathetic and understanding. We rarely know what someone else may be dealing with behind the scenes and having that perspective has helped me build stronger relationships both at work and in my personal life.

When you were returning to work, what one thing helped you / would have helped you the most?

Knowing that I was supported and trusted made a huge difference.

Returning to work after becoming a parent can feel daunting. I remember questioning whether I could still juggle everything and wondering how I’d settle back into work. Having supportive managers and colleagues who understood that transition helped take away a lot of that pressure.

Sometimes it’s the small things that matter most, a flexible schedule, a check-in from a manager, or simply knowing that people trust you and want you to succeed. Those things helped me rebuild my confidence and find my rhythm again.

What do you feel should be the top priority for employers who want to support working mothers better?

Flexibility and trust.

Most working mothers are already experts at managing responsibilities and making things happen. What helps the most is having employers who trust their people and understand that life doesn’t always fit neatly into a schedule.

When employees feel supported rather than judged for family commitments, they’re able to bring their best selves to work. A supportive culture often matters just as much as any formal policy.

Any final words of advice for other mothers in the Tech Industry?

Be kind to yourself and don’t underestimate what you’re capable of.

It’s easy to compare yourself to others and feel like you’re not doing enough, especially when you’re balancing motherhood with a career in a fast-paced industry like tech. There will be times when it feels like you must work harder to keep up or prove yourself, but don’t let that stop you from pursuing your goals.

Motherhood changes you, but it doesn’t take away your ambitions or your potential. If anything, it can make you stronger, more resilient and better equipped to handle challenges.

Everyone’s journey is different, so focus on what matters to you, celebrate your progress, and remember that becoming a mum doesn’t mean you have to stop investing in yourself and your career.