Steph’s Story
Five years ago, I was doing my everyday routine as a Financial Controller. I was preparing the daily cash flow to organize the day financially when a question, the most important question of my life, jumped into my head: Are you enjoying this Stephannie? Is this where you see yourself in the next 5 years?
The honest answer to this was No. I thought I was at a perfect age to go overseas and start a new journey by myself. I was feeling too comfortable with everything sorted but with no spark and this is something that we all need in our spirit.
I decided to leave my beautiful Peru and start a new journey in Australia. I arrived in 2019 in Sydney to start an MBA & Masters in global project management.
In 2020, the pandemic hit the world, and international students in Australia were even more hit. An international student without savings could not afford to live in Australia since Australian citizens had the priority to keep their jobs.
It was very hard to find a professional job in business, in the meantime I used to work as a makeup artist in Sephora, until I got the chance to apply to a job where business acumen was required to work in the IT industry, implementing Salesforce.
Jo called me for an interview with her and Swathi, I cannot explain the great vibe I felt in that hour of the interview. I felt very comfortable talking about my previous experience and discussing case scenarios as a consultant but when they asked me if I had experience with Salesforce at that time I answered with the truth: No, but I am a quick learner.
Swan Technology Solutions gave me the opportunity to start my career in salesforce with them. I am walking to my 3rd year with them, and I can see the incredible journey and huge growth of me in this industry. It is true that we never stop learning but I can feel I have a solid knowledge to lead my own projects with self-confidence most important, I gained Jo’s trust to do it.
I am really grateful for this amazing journey and the chance that with Swan, we created this project to help other Latin people to succeed. I know that being far away from everything you love can be very hard, especially in a different culture and leading every day in a different language, but NOTHING Is impossible.
My message to you dear Latino: Never give up, you have come so far, create a great present and dream big! You only need to really want it and go for it!
Livia’s Story
My volunteer journey began in 2020, during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of running two cohorts, and the impact of this work has been truly fulfilling. I’ve witnessed how it can transform lives.
I’m pleased to share that I will be embarking on this journey again, now with the invaluable support of Steph. Having a dedicated partner who shares my passion and is equally committed to the success of this project is a significant step forward. Together, we will bring a higher level of accountability and drive to this initiative.
Furthermore, I want to highlight that Swan Technology Solutions has endorsed this project and made it an official part of our company’s initiatives. This demonstrates our organization’s commitment to diversity and inclusion and provides us with the resources and recognition needed to make an even greater impact.
Salesforce has been a game-changer in my life, and I’ve witnessed it do the same for several of my mentees. It has opened doors, provided opportunities, and empowered individuals to pursue their dreams and build successful careers. This, in itself, is a testament to the importance of continuing this type of project.
I am more determined than ever to keep pushing forward. Together, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of Latinos, Latinas, and many others within the Salesforce ecosystem. Thank you for your support as we embark on this journey.
Latina Cignus
Are you a Latino in Australia passionate about IT and eager to enter the industry? Join us at Swan Technology Solutions for an empowering volunteer initiative led by experts Stephannie Estrada Zimic and Livia Viana Berto. Our Cignus Tech Volunteering Mentorship Sessions offer a unique path to a rewarding IT career.
If you’re eager to kickstart your career in IT and need guidance on how to begin, this is an opportunity you can’t afford to miss.
To secure your spot, please email us your resume and a cover letter at the email below, introducing yourself and explaining why you aspire to become a Salesforce Consultant.
cignustech@swantechnologysolutions.io
Please note that due to limited spaces, we may not be able to respond to everyone.
Our cut off date for applications is October 10th, we can’t wait to work with you.
Stephannie Estrada Zimic Livia Viana Berto