'People assume I'm the assistant': Filipina CEO on the extra work women do to get ahead in the tech world

In a board room of middle aged tech men, CEO and founder of Xenai Digital Pauline Pangan shares that she's the 'odd one'; but while this difference means she constantly needs to prove herself, she anchors herself in being part of a Filipino culture that sees female leadership as a norm.

Pauline Pangan is the CEO and founder of Xenai Digital, a business she established in the Philippines and further expanded in Singapore and Australia. Credit: Pauline Pangan

Key Points

• Pauline Pangan is the CEO and founder of Xenai Digital.
• She established her company in the Philippines and further expanded it to Singapore and Australia.
• Pangan admits that she feels a certain 'imposter syndrome', especially since she constantly needs to prove herself as a woman and migrant.

LISTEN TO

'People assume I'm the assistant': Filipina CEO on the extra work women do to get ahead in the tech world

SBS Filipino

12:53Filipino

My business parter...we're co-equal, but when we enter into a room, the first assumption is I'm his assistant. Then I give my business card and they're shocked. From that perspective, the way I have to prove myself is different.

Pauline Pangan, CEO and founder of Xenai Digital

📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino

or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.