ELA Alumna of the Month – December 2024
We’re thrilled to unveil our new ELA Alumna of the Month, Amy Calleja from Malta! Amy is getting ready to graduate with a bachelor’s in computer engineering and is determined to pursue a career in the exciting field of cybersecurity. She is dedicated to shaping an inclusive tech future where nobody is left behind.
Read more about how her experience at the 2022 Summer School in Prague gave her the confidence to pursue her passions:
Which aspects of the European Leadership Academy made your time with us such a life-changing experience for you?
I will never forget taking part in the European Leadership Academy! I feel so lucky to have met so many amazing young women leaders who are now my friends, and such inspiring women role models to look up to in my field. Most especially, it means so much to me to have such incredible people believe in me and my potential!
How did the ELA programme you attended impact your personal growth? What’s a moment or sentence that you will never forget?
'Leave no one behind' has become a guiding principle for me. After meeting so many inspiring people, I have tried to push myself to actively participate in creating an inclusive society and to focus on tech for good. I also prioritise my personal development much more than I did before ELA.
Did the programme influence your plans? Did it bring you closer to your goals and/or help you take a different path?
While my plans didn't change, ELA gave me the confidence that I was on the right path. Meeting Candace Johnson, a telecommunications icon in my chosen field, reaffirmed my choice. Mentoring with Imagi also showed me I had potential as a trainer, leading me to give workshops on other topics.
What steps have you taken in your life and career since completing the programme?
I completed an internship in Quantum Cybersecurity and found that is a field that I really enjoy, so much so that I still work with the company today! I also serve as Director for Internal Affairs within Malta's National Youth Council (KNÅ») and I am also looking into doing a master’s once I graduate next year.
What have you achieved in the past few years that you are you most proud of?
I’m proud to always strive to be my best and embrace every learning opportunity. I’m honoured to be part of KNÅ» and IAESTE Malta as President, and as Event Coordinator for IAESTE's European Region. Most especially, I’m proud of participating in a panel with fellow alumna Cara Doumbe Kingue during the 2023 Summer School.
Knowing what you know now – what would you wish to have done differently?
In retrospect, I wish I had applied for opportunities that excited me sooner rather than later, instead of doubting my chances and telling myself no. I also regret not realising sooner how important it is to prioritise my self-care, because I can't help others if I'm not doing well.
How did the programme shape your view of society and the changes that digital technology can bring?
The programme showed me the power and potential that technology has to bring about positive change and to connect people together regardless of background. Innovation is only meaningful if it is inclusive, something greater for society.
What is your vision for a more inclusive and sustainable future and how do you aim to contribute to it?
By prioritising human and social sustainability: I would like to contribute by specialising in cybersecurity to make digital safety and security available for everyone, regardless of wealth.
What advice would you give the many women out there wishing to make a difference?
First, stand your ground and make your voice heard, especially when faced with sexism, misogyny and other challenging situations. Your voice is powerful and can make a difference.
Second, mistakes are not failures, but learning opportunities.
Lastly, please share the name of one song / book / movie that inspires you. The ELA community is always eager to broaden the sources of imagination and creativity!
Charlie Collin's "Frida: Style Icon" is inspirational as it uses Frida Kahlo’s style to document her struggles and development. Aside from Frida's remarkable life, this narrative approach utilises the often undervalued sense of fashion to tell a very poignant story.
