In this episode of Tenacity with Sonia C, Sonia Couto welcomed Noelia Orantes, a Product Specialist at MenuSano. Noelia’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, adaptability, and self-belief. From migrating to Canada as a young girl, navigating cultural and language barriers, to breaking into the tech industry later in life, Noelia embodies the essence of tenacity, making her story one of women in tech overcoming fear.
From Migration to Integration: The Early Challenges
Noelia migrated to Canada at 12, facing a new culture, harsh winters, and a language she didn’t speak. These initial challenges were tough, but she adapted, made friendships, and learned resilience from her experiences as the oldest sibling in a large family. Her upbringing taught her responsibility, leadership, and the importance of showing courage even when she was scared, a true journey of women in tech overcoming fear.
Breaking into Tech: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Noelia candidly shares how entering the tech industry was initially intimidating. Like many women, she associated tech with coding and thought she needed technical expertise to succeed. However, her role at MenuSano quickly evolved beyond customer support to influencing product development and assisting sales teams. She emphasizes the value of communication, leadership, and problem-solving over purely technical skills. For many, this story echoes themes of women in tech overcoming fear.
Embracing the Role of ‘Office Mom’
Affectionately referred to as the ‘Office Mom’ by her team, Noelia brings authenticity, care, and mentorship to the workplace. Her leadership style is grounded in empathy and approachability, building trust and strong team dynamics. Her ability to balance professionalism with genuine human connection has made her an invaluable part of the MenuSano team.
Words of Advice for Women Aspiring to Join Tech
Noelia’s advice to women considering a tech career is clear: Don’t let fear stop you. She emphasizes that tech isn’t solely about coding but also about creativity, problem-solving, and communication. Noelia encourages women to lean into their strengths, build strong support networks, and believe in their unique contributions. This advice perfectly encapsulates the theme of women in tech overcoming fear.
The Power of Story: Launching a Podcast
Noelia is also launching her podcast, Power of Story, where she aims to create a space for raw, authentic conversations. Her mission is to share inspiring stories that foster connection and remind listeners that they are not alone in their struggles.
Takeaway from Sonia:
Sonia reflects on Noelia’s journey and highlights the importance of self-belief and resilience. Whether overcoming internal fears or adapting to new environments, Noelia’s story reminds us that growth often comes from embracing discomfort.
Noelia’s journey is a powerful testament to the fact that success in tech—and life—is less about knowing everything upfront and more about showing up, staying open to learning, and believing in your ability to contribute meaningfully. Her story stands as a shining example of women in tech overcoming fear.
If you’re a woman considering a tech career, let Noelia’s story inspire you to take the leap. You are more capable than you think.
About Sonia Couto
With over 20 years of experience in tech leadership, Sonia Couto is a two-time tech founder, managing director, board of directors, and podcast host. She specializes in:
- Start-up Growth Strategies
- Founder Mentorship
- Software Development
- Minimal Viable Product Development
- Marketing & Sales Strategies
- Pivoting Strategies
Through her podcast Tenacity with Sonia C, Sonia shares conversations with industry leaders to inspire professionals to pursue entrepreneurship with intention and resilience.
