Aline Harmand, Cybersecurity Evangelist at Trend Micro, stepped into leadership by letting go of who she was told to be, and embracing who she really is.

Early in her career, she was told to “work like a man” to succeed in tech. But real growth came when she stopped performing and started leading with empathy, authenticity, and her own voice.

Her advice? Don’t shrink or over-explain. Speak up, stay true, and remember: being a woman isn’t a weakness, it’s your edge.

Her mantra? Lead with empathy. Set strong boundaries. And be the kind of leader you wish you’d had.

Read more from Aline here…

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What has been your career-defining moment as a woman in business?

The moment I stepped into a managerial role was truly transformative, not because of the title, but because of what it taught me.

I found myself leading a diverse, multicultural team after years in technical roles where I had been told to “work like a man” to succeed.

Initially, I struggled. I was too direct, too focused on performance, and expected everyone to operate like me.

"Stop trying to be someone else and start leading as myself."

That’s when two incredible women stepped in. They encouraged me to stop trying to be someone else and start leading as myself. They taught me how to truly listen, to show empathy, and to coach rather than push. And it clicked- suddenly, leadership became easier, more natural.

I realised that being a woman wasn’t a hurdle, it was my strength.

This shift not only reshaped my career but changed how I show up in my personal life, especially as a mother.

Seeing my two boys grow into respectful, compassionate young men reminds me that the values we live and lead with leave a lasting legacy, at home and at work.

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome as a woman in business?

Absolutely. When I started in IT, women were a rare presence,  especially in technical roles. I constantly had to prove I belonged. I was often side-lined, underestimated, and told I was only progressing because of quotas, while quietly putting in double the effort to prove I was qualified.

What surprised me most, though, was that the toughest resistance didn’t come from men;  it often came from other women in leadership.

It was disheartening at times, but also pushed me to become the kind of leader I wish I’d had: someone who supports, not competes.

What advice would you give to a younger woman looking to join your industry?

Speak up. Be unapologetically yourself. Don’t overextend just to please others, and don’t waste energy over-explaining your right to be where you are.

You earned your place, through hard work, qualifications, and perspective. Use your voice. Bring your unique view. That’s exactly what this industry needs.

If you could do one thing to accelerate the pace of change for gender equality, what would it be?

I would give every woman the power to say “no” without fear. To speak from the heart without being labelled “emotional,” “difficult,” or “unfit.”

"Real equality starts with letting women be fully themselves"

Real equality starts with letting women be fully themselves- in every room they walk into.

What compelled you to attend a Panelle event?

Early in my career, I lacked role models who truly had my back. I would have loved to connect with women who offered support instead of competition.

That’s why I show up today- to be that presence for others. If I can offer even a small piece of advice or encouragement, I’ll consider it time well spent.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Don’t believe the voices telling you to change in order to succeed. You will build a career by staying true to who you are,  and you’ll enjoy the journey a lot more that way.

What’s your go-to advice for preventing burnout?

Even if you love your job, don’t let it consume you. Make space for something that brings you joy outside of work, whether it’s volunteering, sports, pottery, or simply picking up a loved one from school once a week.

"There’s more to life than the next meeting."

Create boundaries that remind you there’s more to life than the next meeting.

Why do you think it’s important for women to help other women win?

Because we get each other. Women are often more empathetic, more open to different perspectives, and more willing to create safe spaces.

When women support each other, it becomes easier for everyone to show up authentically and thrive.

Put the spotlight on a woman who inspires you or has pulled out the seat for you.

Christelle Vezzani, who worked in HR at Dell Montpellier over a decade ago, had a profound impact on me. Long before diversity and wellbeing became buzzwords, she was living and advocating for them with passion and authenticity.

She created safe, empowering spaces that helped people grow, myself included.

Today, she runs her own business dedicated to this mission, and I couldn’t be happier for everyone who now benefits from her wisdom. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without her influence.

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