top of page

I realized I could create the career I wanted, rather than waiting for opportunities to come to me.

Hi, my name is Maartje Vennema, founder of Femmely. Since I was young, I’ve pursued career opportunities that challenged me. Alongside my studies in Computer Science and Business Economics, I’ve completed dozens of courses and gained experience in keynote speaking, event moderating, training, and sharing content on LinkedIn.

Realizing many women in IT want to take charge of their careers, I founded Femmely to help them do just that.

450A6669.JPG

"Shape your own career instead of waiting for opportunities that may or may not come."

WhatsApp Image 2024-11-26 at 15.17.31.jpeg
DSC_0344.jpg
AI Community days.jpg

During my bachelor’s in Computer Science, I discovered my passion for technical challenges. The idea that anything was possible through IT really resonated with me. However, I often didn’t find the surrounding environment inspiring. At the time, it wasn’t a major issue since I had a strong social network outside of my studies. What did bother me, though, was that while there were many events for women in tech, they mostly focused on the problems or solutions from a societal perspective. That’s valuable, but as a woman in tech, I believe we should also take action and own our careers. "Teach me, give me the tools!" I often thought.

I’ve always wanted more: more learning, more doing, and a bigger career. This drive led me to read books, take dozens of courses, and speak with hundreds of people. My mother always said, "If you want something, go for it." This mindset has been with me since I was young. For example, when I was 15, I wanted to be a Lifeguard, but you had to be over 18. My mother said, "Ask if you can shadow for a day." It was daunting, but I did it. Actions like these have always propelled me forward, both personally and professionally. Nowadays, these actions lead to career changes, moderating events, speaking, training, nominations, and new job opportunities.

When I worked as a Data Consultant, I noticed that the work environment didn’t inspire me. I often didn’t click with my colleagues, and I found myself laughing more at things than with them. At the same time, I struggled to talk about my technical passions with my friends. This contrast made it clear that my ambition and entrepreneurial drive didn’t fit within a regular 9-to-5 job.

That’s when I decided to forge my own path. My goal was clear: to seize career opportunities on my terms. Today, I help other young women in IT do the same: Shaping their own careers instead of waiting for opportunities that may or may not come.

If you want something, go for it.

Seek the right network and take control.

IMG_2108.JPG
bottom of page