What happens when not knowing something becomes your greatest advantage?
Data scientist Galina Chernikova reveals how her journey from Ukraine to London’s tech scene was shaped by what she didn’t know—and why that might be exactly what you need to hear.
Growing up in Eastern Europe with strong female role models, Galina never questioned whether she could pursue both a technical career and family life. This freedom from limitation became the foundation for her success in data science, a field she chose partly for its remarkable versatility across industries. “You can be a data scientist in pharmaceuticals, construction, BBC News, or doing open source investigations at the New York Times,” she explains, highlighting the portable nature of these valuable skills.
The conversation takes a fascinating turn when discussing gender barriers in tech. Galina references research showing parents consistently underestimate their daughters’ IQ scores while overestimating their sons’ – even within the same family. These early biases create ripple effects throughout education and careers, ultimately shaping leadership representation. Yet she’s optimistic about change, particularly since the pandemic normalized remote work, making tech more accessible to women balancing multiple life priorities.
Perhaps most surprisingly, Galina credits her early success to not understanding corporate hierarchy. Unburdened by concerns about titles or status, she fearlessly set up meetings across organizational levels, driven purely by curiosity and determination to solve problems. “Treat everyone the same, whether it’s the CEO, a peer, or someone just starting out,” she advises, a principle that continues to guide her professional interactions.
Ready to explore your own potential in tech? Galina recommends starting with free resources from institutions like Harvard and Coursera, finding mentors through communities like SheCanCode, and most importantly – letting go of limiting beliefs about what you can achieve. Subscribe now for more inspiring conversations with women who are reshaping the technology landscape and creating pathways for others to follow.
