High Five: Top 5 Moments That Made My 5 Years at Cisco Unforgettable!

It all started with my first interview, a moment that set the tone for everything to come at Cisco. Picture this: my manager (interviewer at the time) casually asked if I watched the show “Friends” and what my favourite episode was. This unexpected interview question surprised me at the time, but I’ve come to realize that it captured what Cisco is all about. This company isn’t just about the work; it’s about building genuine relationships and understanding who we are as individuals.

1. My World Expo Adventure: All Roads Led Here

Getting hired to manage the Expo 2020 Dubai project felt like landing on a rocket ship. It was a fantastic opportunity — with Cisco as Digital Network Partner, Dubai brought the region’s largest event of its kind to life, showcasing the diversity and innovation of the United Arab Emirates to 24 million international visitors — but I was convinced I’d been cast in the wrong role. Everyone around me seemed so much more experienced. My manager, however, encouraged me to speak up and draw on my previous experience from day one. Instead of second-guessing myself, I was empowered to shine.

This was a refreshing change. “Empowerment” gets tossed around a lot, but at Cisco, it is genuine. I learned that great leadership isn’t about swooping in to take credit; it’s about supporting your team to get the job done.

2. Dear Diary: They Put Me in Charge

What stood out was how openly career growth is encouraged here. At some places, sharing your goals might feel risky, but at Cisco, it’s almost like saying, “Hey, I’m thinking of running a marathon,” and your manager shows up the next day with a pair of running shoes. It’s not just about finding the next opportunity; it’s about finding one that fits you.

Becoming a leader for the first time at Cisco felt like I was handed the keys to a new sports car: exciting, a little terrifying, and filled with unexpected twists. When I landed my current role through an internal opportunity, it wasn’t just about taking on a new role; it was about stepping into a version of myself I hadn’t yet met.

One thing they don’t tell you in workshops, though, is that leadership isn’t about knowing everything. It’s about connecting. Over time, I learned that empathy and transparency are the secret sauce that turns a group of individuals into a team. Leading isn’t always easy, but it’s moments like big wins, tough conversations, and shared laughter that make you realize you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

3. In the Middle East and Africa, Relationships Are the Real Currency

People often refer to the Middle East and Africa as a special region, and let’s be honest, it totally is! Navigating the MEA landscape can feel like learning a new dance: 80 countries, a staggering 2000 languages, and a never-ending mix of cultures to embrace. Whether it is understanding cultural nuances or navigating market dynamics, I always feel proud to be part of an incredible team.

When anyone asks what the secret recipe to success in MEA is, my answer is always, “Building great relationships!” Cisco’s culture encourages reaching out and starting conversations. Need help? Just ask! This spirit of openness and collaboration is natural here and has given me the confidence to stand tall in my leadership role. Knowing someone at Cisco has my back, no matter the challenge, is incredibly reassuring.

4. High Heels and Higher Ambitions: Thriving in MEA

Being a woman in the corporate world isn’t always easy, especially when navigating a traditionally male-dominated region like MEA, often in high heels if you’re 5 foot 3, like me!

When I first heard the phrase, “If you can see it, you can be it,” it struck a chord. It perfectly captures why representation matters, particularly when forging your own path. While some women may have to work harder to prove themselves, it’s an inspirational reminder that we are capable of anything.

I’ve been fortunate to have a fantastic female executive as a mentor who has guided me through the tricky waters of leadership. Seeing women in high positions isn’t just inspiring; it’s essential. Diversity in leadership isn’t just beneficial for women; it elevates the entire organization. We all need role models to remind ourselves that we belong at the table, and I hope that by being in a leadership role myself, I can be that for others as well.

5. Capturing the Goldfish Wisdom

Let’s face it, work can be exhausting, and life often throws curveballs. With everything happening in the world, it’s vital to remember what truly matters. I love Ted Lasso’s advice about being a goldfish: do your best but also adopt a 10-second memory for tough times or failures. This way, you don’t dwell on mistakes and can embrace each new day with a fresh perspective.

It’s hard to go through five years at any company without encountering obstacles, failures, or moments where you feel you could have done better. Over time, I’ve learned to take those moments as opportunities to grow, allowing myself to learn from mistakes and then move on.

Five years might seem like a small chapter in a career, but for me, it’s been a transformational journey. The person who walked through the doors on day one is unrecognizable compared to who I am today, thanks to the incredible growth, support, and opportunities Cisco has provided. Here’s to five unforgettable years, and to the many more chapters yet to come.

Fostering a culture where everyone thrives is part of our purpose. Read more in our 2024 Purpose Report.

Subscribe to the WeAreCisco Blog.

Share: