Sehar Macan-Markar’s professional dream is to combine her passion for marketing and creativity with the power of data and analytics to create strategies that will solve large problems for consumers.

“I would love to work for a large company and really make impactful decisions and strategies,” says this New Face of Tech winner and student at Saint Joseph’s University. “I would also love to one day start a nonprofit that is able to help women of color within underrepresented fields, such as business and technology. There is such benefit within diversity, and no one should be forced to give up their dreams and passions because of barriers from underrepresentation.”

What does being the New Face of Tech mean to you?

It truly means a lot to be considered the New Face of Tech. As a woman of color, being selected makes me feel hopeful for the future of tech. I think that it is so important that people of different backgrounds and identities are given opportunities, as that is where innovation is truly created.

Women are underrepresented in STEAM. How can we change this?

I think giving women opportunities at every stage is important. Careers in STEAM can seem intimidating and inaccessible for women, but we need to motivate women and give them the opportunities to make STEAM accessible. From internships to support groups to scholarships, I think there are various ways that careers in STEAM can become something that is both possible and exciting for women. If women are given the opportunity to become a part of STEAM, and they no longer have the barriers that may prevent them, I believe that we will see a lot more women in STEAM.

What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?

I have faced both personal and financial challenges in my journey. There have been times where I have been condescended or not taken seriously throughout my time in STEAM, due to my gender and race. Education is also costly, and with my sister being in university at the same time as me, affording it has been difficult at times. I believe my passion for learning and technology has guided me through these challenges.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

Since I am so passionate about my future and what I want to do, I’m able to channel that to fuel my motivation. I always remind myself of the sacrifices my parents made for me, and I want the opportunity to repay them.

How will funding from the 1,000 Dreams Fund and HARMAN help you reach your goals?

It will help me to stay in school and reach my goal of graduating college. This will take such a burden off of my family and me.