There was a time when I almost forgot about my superpower. Between the deadlines, the meetings, and the grind of my 9-to-5, I found myself getting lost in the routine. But sometimes, all it takes is one conversation to remind you of the things you can do that others can't even begin to comprehend.
I co-founded an animation company, and it’s been an incredible journey. But there was one conversation that really took me back to my roots and reminded me of my true strength. A friend of mine, one who had been with me since our time in training school, reminded me of something I had long forgotten. He brought up an incident that occurred years ago when we were sitting in a lecture, and I had corrected a math professor’s solution. He had been teaching the same lecture for six years, and no one had noticed the mistake until I pointed it out. It was a small moment, but it made me realize that the very foundation of who I am, my way of thinking, and my approach to problem-solving all stem from a deeper place.
You see, I’ve always had a love for the logical and analytical. Back in secondary school, I was drawn to subjects like further mathematics and physics. The thrill of solving complex problems was a rush I couldn’t resist, and it was this passion that eventually led me to study Electrical Engineering at university. Little did I know that the concepts I was absorbing during those years would play a pivotal role in my future.
Fast forward to 2021, when I ventured into the world of computer graphics. At first, it felt like an uphill battle. The learning curve was steep, and every new concept seemed like a mountain to climb. But I persevered. I began to see the connections—how everything I had learned from my days in secondary school, to university, to my career in reservoir engineering, all came together. It was as if I had unlocked a new level of understanding, where my past knowledge aligned perfectly with my present pursuits.
This week, as part of my ongoing journey into mastering computer graphics, I tackled the challenge of building flip solvers and smoke solvers from scratch. Though these skills may not be part of my everyday CG work, the process of learning them has been crucial. Understanding the rules of the craft allows me to break them and approach creative problems with a fresh perspective.
I still remember a time when I shared my enthusiasm for the detailed aspects of CG with a colleague. His response, though unintended, stuck with me. He called me a "GEEK." Instead of shrinking away or feeling insulted, I proudly embraced the label. Yes, I am a Geek Girl. I’m a woman in tech, and I love diving into the complexities of the fields I’m passionate about.
Being a Geek isn’t about fitting into a mold or living up to some stereotype. It’s about passion, curiosity, and embracing the challenges that come with the pursuit of knowledge. And for me, that journey is just beginning.
To all the girls out there who are wondering whether STEM is for them, or if they belong in tech or engineering, I want to say this: Yes, you do. There is a space for you, and the world needs more women who are fearless in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation. Whether it's coding, engineering, animation, or physics, your perspective and unique strengths will make a difference. So don’t shy away from the hard subjects, the tough questions, or the opportunities that seem daunting. Own your passion. Embrace your inner geek. Because when you do, you'll realize that your superpower was with you all along.
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