This week, the Women On IT community was buzzing with the grassroots energy that defines our mission: bringing "heart to the hustle." Our guest, Nicole Singh, co-founder of Medi Mentor, joined us to share a powerful "Positivity Hack" centered on the intersection of immersive technology and human psychology. Nicole reminded us that building for the future isn't just about the code we write, but the empathy we weave into the user experience.
Why This Conversation Matters?
The "Seat at the Table" Mindset: Nicole challenges the traditional path of waiting for permission. Her journey illustrates that being the youngest person in the room is a "flex," not a flaw. By owning your unique perspective, you transform from a participant into a creator of your own opportunities.
Empathy as a Technical Specification: Moving beyond simple functionality, this conversation highlights that technology—specifically VR—must be designed to hold space for human vulnerability. Whether it's training for end-of-life care or difficult conversations, the "human skill" is the most complex component to code.
The Resilience of Self-Leadership: Leadership isn't just about managing others; it's about the internal discipline of mindset. Nicole shares how intentionality, such as her $0 gratitude hack, serves as the essential fuel needed to navigate the unpredictable turbulence of the startup world.
Breaking the "Surprise" Barrier: True inclusion in tech means normalizing female leadership to the point where it no longer evokes shock. This session explores how allies can help build an ecosystem where women don't just survive but are expected to lead at "eye level" with their peers.
This conversation is an essential listen for anyone looking to bridge the gap between technical expertise and human-centered leadership. Nicole’s warmth and startup insights make complex topics like VR psychology and team dynamics feel incredibly accessible and actionable. It left us feeling energized and reminded that our unique perspectives are not just "nice to have," but are our most potent professional tools.
The Quick Hits: Deep Dive Q&A
1. The Career Game-Changer 📖
The Question: What is the number one book you wish you’d read before starting your career?
Nicole’s Pick: Atomic Habits by James Clear or The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg.
The "Why": Nicole emphasized that she didn't realize early on how critical healthy, prioritized habits are to maintaining your energy. These books teach the importance of knowing when to push forward and when to pull back to breathe.
2. The Dream Breakfast Scenario ☕
The Guest: Shireen Singh (Nicole’s mother and co-founder).
The Location: A quiet vacation spot, far away from the daily grind.
The Insight: Despite working together daily, the hustle of a startup and their respective studies often prevents them from having an "uninterrupted" moment. This choice reveals Nicole’s deep value for family, legacy, and the need for intentional rest with the people who grounded her.
3. Words to Live By ✨
Favorite Life Lesson Quote: > "Everything happens for a reason, and it’s a good reason." — Nicole Singh (Rooted in her personal spiritual outlook).
Key Takeaways & Positivity Hacks
The "Feedback Loop" Hack: Don't rush to solve a problem until you have "fleshed it out." Nicole suggests identifying the core issue first and creating a team Mind Map. Solving the wrong problem is a waste of energy; understanding the challenge is 50% of the solution.
The Empathy Edge: In VR, empathy isn't just a buzzword—it's a design requirement. Medi Mentor uses VR to teach soft skills like "announcing a death" in aged care, proving that tech can facilitate the high-stakes emotional practice that textbooks simply cannot reach.
Allies in Action: For men in tech, Nicole challenges the "surprise" factor. Supporting women means meeting them at "eye level"—not acting surprised when a woman holds a leadership role, but rather creating a safe space where ideas can be produced without the fear of ridicule.
The Nicole Singh Quote Vault
"Reach for the stars, and if you fall, you fall on mountains."
"Don’t wait for opportunities. Create them."
"Being vulnerable and facing your challenges straight on helps you understand where you are lacking, and that helps you grow."
"Technology is ever-changing. To be the person to open that door is life-changing."
"There isn’t a bigger flex than being a woman walking into a room full of men... you definitely deserve where you are."
Wrapping Up: Join the Conversation
Nicole’s story is a testament to the power of "Self-Leadership." Even if you don't have a team yet, you can lead yourself by utilizing the resources around you and refusing to wait for a "seat" to be offered.
Watch the Replay: