At MortarCAPS, we are committed to fostering diversity, inclusion, and innovation, both within our organisation and across the sectors we serve.

This International Women’s Day, we were thrilled to have our CEO, Charlsey Pearce, take the stage as a speaker at the International Womens Day 2025 Breakfast.

Hosted by a dynamic group of organisations—Network of Women (NOW) University of Sydney, UTS Women in Business, UNSW Capital W, and MQU Women Entering Business (WEB)—the event brought together an inspiring community of future leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in STEM and leadership roles.

A Unique Perspective on Career Paths in Tech

Charlsey’s speech centered on her personal journey as a woman in STEM and the unique career path that led her to the world of technology. She shared insights from her experience as someone who did not follow the traditional route into the tech industry.

Charlsey’s story served as a powerful reminder that the path to leadership is not always linear, and there are countless ways to break barriers and pave new roads in tech.

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

Charlsey’s talk was just one part of an engaging and inspiring morning filled with discussions on women’s leadership, gender equity in the workplace, and the importance of diversity in tech. The event provided a valuable platform for sharing experiences and learning from others who have paved the way for women in leadership roles across industries.

The panel discussion featured esteemed voices like Prashant Murthy and Molly Benjamin, whose insights into the challenges and triumphs of leadership were both educational and inspiring. The session was expertly facilitated by Catherine Fox AM, whose expertise in corporate governance and leadership added another layer of depth to the discussions.

MortarCAPS: Advocating for Change in Higher Learning

At MortarCAPS, we are not only dedicated to advancing the global data standard for the higher learning sector but also to supporting diversity and inclusion across all fields. Charlsey’s participation in this event reinforces our commitment to empowering women and ensuring that leadership roles in technology and business remain accessible to everyone, regardless of background or gender.

As a not-for-profit organisation, MortarCAPS is proud to be part of the ongoing conversation about creating a more inclusive and equitable future for higher learning institutions worldwide.

By championing initiatives that improve data interoperability and accessibility, we aim to help transform the way the sector operates while ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Looking Ahead

We are grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this significant event, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to empower the next generation of leaders in tech and beyond. With Charlsey’s leadership and the support of passionate advocates across the sector, we are excited for the future of MortarCAPS and the global higher learning community.

Here’s to celebrating women in leadership and inspiring the change we wish to see in the world!