In this episode of Empowered in Tech: Women in Tech Netherlands, host Ilaria Severi sits down with Stefana Sopco—Marketing Manager at PortXchange and Spokesperson for Women in Tech NL—for a raw and powerful conversation about starting from zero, breaking through bias, and rising as a leader in sustainability and tech.

Stefana came to the Netherlands with just €80 in her pocket, no job, and no network. What followed was months of rejections, self-doubt, and hustle—until one spontaneous networking event changed everything. Today, Stefana is a two-time FortyUnder40 honoree and a recognized force in maritime innovation.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

• How Stefana turned rock bottom into a launchpad
• The career-changing power of networking and visibility
• Reclaiming your voice after toxic environments
• How to build a career in marketing with authenticity and resilience

✨ About Our Guest:
Stefana Sopco is not just a marketer—she’s a movement builder, a mentor, and an advocate for women in tech. Her story will inspire anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider to keep going.

🙌 Thanks to Our Sponsor:
This episode is brought to you by DMN-WESTINGHOUSE, a company actively committed to inclusion and hiring for diverse roles in tech. Connect with them on LinkedIn!

💡 Connect with Women in Tech Netherlands:
Visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn to stay inspired and engaged with our community.

🎧 Listen now and rediscover what’s possible when you stop waiting for permission and start showing up as yourself.