Starting a few years ago as a modest Early in Career (EIC) community for young professionals, the community has rapidly evolved into one of LebNet's most active communities. Presently, it boasts over 150 members and hosts regular webinars and networking events. This article's first segment will spotlight the remarkable women who form the community's steering committee, delving into their journey, ambitions, and plans for LebNet.
Stephanie Ferzli, EIC Community Lead and Emerging Mobility Planner at HNTB
Stephanie has a Bachelor in Engineering in Civil Engineering from the American University of Beirut, and a Master of Science in Civil Engineering focused on Transportation and City and Regional Planning from the Ohio State University. In her current role, she concentrates on emerging mobility and transportation technologies, such as electric, automated, and connected vehicles, alongside other innovative mobility strategies and solutions. The most rewarding aspect of her job is contributing to the transformation of cities and communities toward a more efficient and sustainable future in transportation.
“LebNet provides a valuable platform for supporting and connecting Lebanese professionals in tech-related industries. I wanted to be a part of this mission and contribute my insights and experiences to guide the organization's efforts,” said Stephanie about the reason she joined the EIC committee. Her future goals involve facilitating networking, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities for young Lebanese tech professionals early in their careers. She expressed excitement about expanding their scholarship program to aid more young Lebanese individuals pursuing graduate studies in tech in North America. Drawing from her own experience, she highlighted the profound impact such initiatives can have on individuals' aspirations and dreams, emphasizing the value of Lebanese supporting fellow Lebanese.
Stephanie's advice to fellow professionals is to “be bold and don't be afraid to take chances and embark on new opportunities when they come your way. Moving to the United States on my own four years ago was challenging, but I found something really exciting and rewarding in throwing myself into the unknown and having to figure things out on my own in a completely new environment, location, and culture.”
Rebecca Adaimi, Machine Learning Data Scientist at OURA
Rebecca has a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the American University of Beirut, and a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. In her current role as a Machine Learning Data Scientist at OURA, she dives into vast amounts of data, uncovers valuable insights, and builds new algorithms that help people take charge of their health and well-being. “It's incredibly fulfilling to know that the work I do has a real-world application and contributes to individuals improving their quality of life.”
Rebecca has a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the American University of Beirut, and a PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. In her current role as a Machine Learning Data Scientist at OURA, she dives into vast amounts of data, uncovers valuable insights, and builds new algorithms that help people take charge of their health and well-being. “It's incredibly fulfilling to know that the work I do has a real-world application and contributes to individuals improving their quality of life.”
Rebecca acknowledged that one of the most challenging aspects of her journey, akin to many Lebanese individuals, was leaving her family in Lebanon to move to Austin. The transition posed significant challenges, including homesickness and adapting to a new environment and culture. Nevertheless, these experiences were pivotal in her professional growth, shaping her into a resilient and determined individual. Rebecca aspires to be a leader in machine learning and data science, pioneering research initiatives to leverage emerging AI techniques and shaping the future of health technology. Her motivation to join the EIC committee stems from her desire to provide the support she wished she had during her early years in the U.S.
Her future plans for the community encompass a focus on mentorship, networking, connectivity, and skill development through workshops. She aims to actively engage with young professionals, offering mentorship and guidance to navigate the challenges encountered at the outset of their careers. Rebecca's advice to young professionals is to remain focused, curious, and hungry for knowledge, seeking projects and roles that align with their passions, embracing failure, and giving back to the community.
Teresa Bismar, Associate Managing Consultant at MasterCard
Teresa has a Bachelor of Electrical and Computer Engineering from AUB and an MBA from the University of Toronto. In her current capacity as an Associate Managing Consultant at Mastercard, she collaborates with diverse clients across various industries and sectors to help solve their business problems. Teresa's motivation to join the EIC community arises from her desire to support fellow Lebanese individuals in their journeys. She sees LebNet as an ideal platform to aid young adults of Lebanese descent in succeeding both regionally and globally.
Teresa's plans for the community involve guiding and supporting young professionals in the tech sector, particularly in Canada where she is based, with a focus on mentoring. She advises individuals, akin to her own journey, to always stay curious, network, and learn from the experiences and career paths of other professionals.
In the second part of this series, we will delve into the backgrounds and aspirations of the other EIC steering committee members. If you are a young professional with five years or less of work experience in the tech field, of Lebanese descent, and residing in North America, we encourage you to join our community so we can offer you assistance and support in your career.
