Empowering Women in IT: Interview with Yuliya Yakovleva, Exadel Uzbekistan

We are convinced that a company is represented through its people. Exadel’s voice in Uzbekistan is being widely heard across multiple platforms thanks to Yuliya Yakovleva, General Manager and Ambassador of Women GAP in Tech. Yuliya has shared with us her view on the industry development in Uzbekistan and women’s contribution to the IT world.

What is your involvement in the IT Sector and how do you utilize your expertise?

Uzbekistan’s thriving IT market presents exciting opportunities. I’m engaged in various initiatives and actively collaborating with the Ministry of Digital Technologies and the Uzbekistan IT Park. My experience allows me to contribute to projects and educate young professionals through lectures and media appearances. Being part of Exadel inspires and motivates me to actively participate in external projects.

The company supports me in these actions, and establishes a robust presence and nurtures international relationships with other countries and enterprises.I’m actively involved in the Women GAP in Tech project, empowering women in IT and supporting Uzbekistan’s emerging talents. Recently, we donated some laptops to a State School in Tashkent, to ensure the pupils have the necessary equipment for the upcoming school year.

What motivates you to get involved in additional projects?

When Exadel entered the Uzbekistan market in 2019, we pieced together our team from various sources. While the IT sector has grown, it still needs skilled professionals and a solid infrastructure. Collaboration between government and business now prepares young talent and enriches the IT landscape. Holding a technical sciences degree, I’ve invested in this field and witnessed its growth, which motivates me to continue.

Empowering women in IT is a personal priority. While Uzbekistan’s culture often challenges women to balance careers and family, IT offers them flexibility. IT industry spans coding, design, leadership, and more and provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. The Women GAP in Tech project is a top priority, and I’m committed to supporting it.

What is the most important external project for you?

In addition to the Women GAP in Tech initiative, we launched the IT Community project this summer. In collaboration with IT Park, our initiative aims to nurture and assist startups in their development journey, facilitating the discovery of new opportunities and innovative ideas.

The overarching objective of this project is to shift away from the outsourcing-oriented model and cultivate a robust domestic product market. Our vision is to establish an ecosystem that empowers young talents to secure investments, receive support, and seek guidance from seasoned companies.

What is your secret: how do you find time and energy for all these projects?

The secret lies in one’s willingness and commitment to continuous improvement. Effective planning with the help of planners is crucial for task organization, resource allocation, and delegation. Yet, the most vital aspect is having a passion for the work. Engaging in CSR projects adds energy and vitality, enabling efficient allocation of time and resources for their success.

What advice would you offer to someone who aspires to embark on a career in IT?

First, don’t be afraid to try. All limitations are only within ourselves. Nowadays, everything around us is saturated with IT technologies, and it is no longer something distant and uncertain. It is everyday stuff. Secondly, choose what you like. Try new things and combine different spheres. After all, the most exciting things are born on the edges and junctions. Good luck!