Inspiring the Future workforce: Key Takeaways from My Ignite Speech at the WiDS Sri Lanka Conference

By Nadani Mendis & Hiruni Kandaudaarachchi

I had the honor of speaking at this year’s Women in Data Science (WiDS) Sri Lanka Conference, an inspiring event dedicated to highlighting the contributions of women in data science and discussing pivotal topics. This year’s conference theme was “The Future of Data Security and Privacy in the Age of AI.”

As an ignite speaker, my goal was to motivate attendees, particularly those who are science undergraduates, to embrace the key traits necessary for success in advanced analytics and related fields. During my speech, I shared insights from my own journey from a science undergraduate to my current role, focusing on essential personality traits for excelling in data science. I emphasized the importance of teamwork, highlighting how collaboration drives innovation. I also spoke about resilience, encouraging attendees to persevere through challenges, and the value of curiosity, urging them to explore new ideas and experiment without hesitation.

Moreover, I addressed the need to remain adaptable in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Staying flexible and continually learning are crucial for keeping pace with rapid advancements and ensuring ongoing personal and professional growth.

I hope my experiences and advice inspired the next generation of data scientists to take bold steps in their careers, embrace change, and thrive in the dynamic world of data science.