Mentoring and supporting others is part of what inspires Georgia Swanson, our Director of Strategy and Growth in our NCS Next, Global Innovation team at NCS. Georgia gets to work closely with our Chief Scientist’s office regionally in her role, a fun aspect of which is storytelling some of NCS’ innovative work with AI and tech that enables businesses and organisations to be set up for success today and for the day after tomorrow.
 

What or who inspired you to pursue a career in tech? 

I’ve always thrived in environments that challenge me - where there’s an opportunity to push boundaries, solve complex problems, and achieve something groundbreaking.  

As an ex-athlete, I was constantly striving to improve, to refine my skills, and to push past limits. That drive for achievement, for taking on something that feels impossible and making it possible, has followed me into my career in tech. Technology is one of the few industries where you are continuously learning, adapting, and innovating. It’s never stagnant - there’s always a new challenge to take on, whether it’s leveraging emerging technologies to solve real world business problems or rethinking how organisations operate in a digital first world. The problem solving aspect of tech excites me. I love being in an industry that forces me to think critically, to experiment.  

Beyond the personal challenge, what inspires me most is the ability to create meaningful change. Technology has the power to transform businesses, industries, and even people’s lives. Being part of that transformation, helping to drive innovation that makes a tangible impact, is what keeps me motivated every day.
 

What challenges have you faced and overcome? 

There have been many challenges, but one of the biggest was starting out as a woman in male dominated industries without a mentor to guide me. Early in my career, I found myself in environments where I was often the youngest in the room, the only woman at the table, and, in many cases, underestimated. I had to figure things out on my own - how to navigate corporate structures, how to advocate for myself, and how to ensure that my voice was heard. 

At times, I faced situations where my inexperience was exploited, where I wasn’t given the same respect or opportunities as others. Without a mentor or role model to look up to, I learned through trial and error. I had to build my own resilience, trust my instincts, and develop a strong sense of self belief. Those experiences shaped me, but they also highlighted how important it is to have women in leadership who actively support and uplift the next generation. 

That’s why mentorship is something I prioritise today. I want to be the role model I didn’t have, the person who makes sure young women in tech don’t have to figure it all out alone. I want to create spaces where they feel heard, valued, and empowered to take on leadership roles without having to fight for a seat at the table. If I can make someone else’s journey just a little bit easier, then that’s a challenge I’m proud to have turned into a purpose.
 

What has been your most exciting career project? 

One of the most exhilarating projects I’ve worked on was the launch of NCS Next a few years ago - an event that simultaneously took place across Singapore, Australia, and the metaverse. It was an incredibly ambitious vision, executed under extreme time pressure, but it’s exactly the kind of challenge I thrive on. 

We took over The LUME in Melbourne, an immersive digital art space, and worked with 152 unique digital screens to create an experience that was fully immersive, synchronised, and broadcast live across multiple locations. Every detail had to be carefully planned to ensure that the in person experiences across different regions and the metaverse activation all felt cohesive and seamless. 

And we did it - all within less than two months. It was a high-pressure, high-stakes project, but the energy, creativity, and collaboration that went into it made it one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Seeing it all come together - seeing the impact it had on the audience, the recognition it received, and the sheer scale of what we pulled off in such a short time = was an incredible moment.
 

What motivates you at work? 

I’m driven by the desire to create positive change - whether that’s through the impact of technology, the growth of the people I work with, or the transformation of businesses. 

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing people realise their potential - watching them push past their own doubts, solve problems they once thought were insurmountable, and come out the other side stronger. I love seeing individuals step into leadership, challenge themselves, and achieve things they didn’t think they could. 

At the core of my motivation is a belief that challenges are opportunities for growth. Whether it’s helping a business navigate digital transformation, mentoring someone through a tough career moment, or solving a complex problem, I find energy in helping others rise to the occasion. At the end of the day, my motivation is about making an impact - on people, on businesses, and on the future of technology.
 

What is your advice for women wanting to pursue a career in tech?  

Don’t wait for permission, step forward and take up space. Tech is evolving rapidly, and there’s no single path to success. The best thing you can do is stay curious, keep learning, and actively seek out opportunities where you can showcase your skills. 

Surround yourself with mentors and a strong network. I’ve learned so much from working with diverse teams and leaders who challenge me to think differently. Find those who support and uplift you, but also don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo when needed. 

Finally, be bold in advocating for yourself and others. Tech is at its best when it’s inclusive and innovative, and that starts with having diverse perspectives in the room. Whether it’s through your projects, leadership, or mentorship, always look for ways to open doors for the next generation of women in tech.