Our CTO and Co-founder, Anna Beltzung, talks about Women’s Day and her journey from her science studies at ETH to dimpora.
What’s your take on International Women’s Day?
It’s a great day to celebrate us and our achievements!
How did you become interested in science? Why did you decide to pursue it as a career?
As far as I remember I always liked science in school and understanding why things are the way they are always fascinated me. Coupled with the fact that both my parents are also scientists, I guess there was somehow nothing in my way to get to where I am today.
How’s your role as Co-founder of dimpora?
Co-founding dimpora was an eye-opening adventure when it came to my love for science - as I actually discovered a passion for many other things such as strategy, IP, sales, and even sometimes, financials! My role is very versatile but I primarily lead the innovation and R&D of the company.
What are dimpora’s plans for the team in terms of equality as the company grows?
I am very proud of the fact that we are 75% women in the company, especially knowing that we are a science-based start-up.
On the other hand, there’s still much to be done and I do hope we reach gender equality someday. I truly believe that this balance is immensely beneficial for any company.
What are the most influential women in your life and how have they shaped you?
I’ve had the chance to count on many strong women in my family - one of my aunts outstandingly took over the family business, and the other made a very successful career in Human Resources and has now also created her own business. Also, my mother, after pausing her career to stay home for my sister and me, decided to pursue her education and did a Ph.D. at ETH, and got back in the game. All these women taught me that you have to take risks and nothing comes in “easy” but the rewards are worth it. I am very grateful to have them in my life.
If you could talk with any powerful/influential woman in history, who would it be?
I often listen to history podcasts and there were/are tons of impressive women out there. I have a special admiration for all the women activists who, against all odds, fought for women’s right to vote as well as for the right to abortion.
What are you most proud of doing?
Sometimes I look back and can’t believe what we have accomplished with dimpora. I am very proud of where we are right now and the team we managed to, somehow, convince to work with us ;). If I can be an example for young girls to pursue science and/or create their own businesses then, I’ll be definitely very proud.
What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?
I grew up with the mindset to try things out even if I had the impression that I won’t be good at them. And at the same time, it’s not really cool to fail but it’s also not the end of the world.
What is the most important message you want to send out to young women and girls thinking about their careers?
It’s easy to tell yourself that you should not do something because you’ll probably fail at it. Don’t stop liking maths because you had a few bad grades, or don’t contain yourself from applying for a job or a promotion because you don’t perfectly meet all the requirements. Maybe it will not be perfect and you’ll have to work a lot for it to happen but it’ll be worth it. So be bold and be scared but always give it a try. Don’t be the first one telling “no” to yourself.
