Which "David vs. Goliath" Battles? Both, the Women Replied
The artificial intelligence (AI) landscape has long been defined by the "David vs. Goliath" struggle: well-funded tech giants scale effortlessly, while smaller players fight for space. Yet, the AI breakthrough that shook Nasdaq in early 2025 revealed a fundamental truth: real innovation doesn't come from following the rules but from the courage to rethink the entire system, dismantle outdated norms, and rebuild from the ground up.
But this struggle isn't limited to businesses. Women in tech face a parallel fight within their workplaces.
Two Battles, One Fight
Like small AI startups, women often lack access to key resources and informal power networks. "In a male-dominated industry, women often find themselves needing to put in twice the effort to earn recognition and a seat at the discussion table. This challenge is even more pronounced in Asian cultures, where traditional upbringing has historically shaped expectations for women to take on more submissive roles at home", Audrey HK Teoh, a Cybersecurity & Digital Risk Leader, Board Advisor sees a similar trait in the fight.
Rocky Esguerra, Executive Coach, Ex-APAC CHRO (P&G, Pfizer, Heineken) shared from her coaching experience "Many women hit a glass ceiling not because of a lack of competence, but because they are excluded from informal power networks (like the 'Boys' Club'). They need to play the game strategically."
This growing gap makes a powerful, supportive network more essential than ever. Hanh Le, Deputy CEO of SmartOSC, emphasizes, "We want to bring together the most inspiring women in our industry - those who are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future".
Rewrite the Rules
This isn't just about career growth. It's about redefining how tech leaders approach success, innovation, and AI's role in shaping the future.
In 2025, the She Empowers Others campaign, part of the Forward network, including reports, a magazine, and a podcast, shines a light on both of these battles. Through firsthand stories from over 30 female leaders across APAC, the series uncovers pivotal Rethink moments - times when women challenged the status quo, shattered barriers, and redefined their careers while navigating AI's rapid evolution.
A common theme uniting all She Empowers Others speakers is a shared belief: innovation and human progress are not at odds. Even with the challenges AI presents, its potential to drive positive change makes the battle worthwhile.
"Based on two decades of working with incredible leaders, I believe that in this era of AI, it's more important than ever for women to lead with soul," says Siew Ting Foo, Transformational Growth Leader and author of Building Brands with Soul.
Sushmita Mohapatra, eB2B Digital Transformation Consultant at Reckitt, adds: "Women in tech bring unique skills - empathy and a deep understanding that innovation must coexist with human progress, not come at its expense."
"What excites me is how women in AI are blending these two elements: driving growth while ensuring AI benefits not only the bottom line but also the broader community. They're proving that business success doesn't have to come at the expense of ethical responsibility. The best leaders in AI are those who see the bigger picture - driving innovation that is both profitable and good for society." said Gen Lehn, Smart Tech Researcher, PhD.
Women are not just reacting to the AI revolution; they are actively shaping its direction, ensuring that innovation serves humanity with both intelligence and heart.
Sheila Berman, Global Data Product Excellence, BSP at Brenntag, acknowledges the reality of AI's complexities and difficulties: "No doubt, AI is exciting. We've only scratched the surface of its capabilities.
But there's a consensus that the technology isn't perfect - it requires massive investment in time, finances, and skills. And it's not easy."
"However, the belief that technology can be used for the greater good makes it all worthwhile" She concluded.
"One must always remember that technology is a great leveller – an innovative product whether funded at inception or at scale-up – if it creates impact, will be able to take on the Goliaths with far greater ease." Sushmita agrees.
The fights are far from over, but together, women are rewriting the rules.
About She Empowers Others
Following last year's "Great Breakup" campaign, which addressed discrimination and inequality, the global initiative She Empowers Others 2025, driven by the Forward content ecosystem, continues to provide guidance, mentorship, and strategic insights for female leaders. Through podcasts, events, and magazines, this global movement is building an ecosystem that empowers women to thrive in AI and lead its future.