Seleeta Watson

UK inclusion lead, Computacenter

What's the most surprising lesson 2024 has taught you so far?

2024 has reinforced the power of community and adaptability for me. Supporting initiatives has shown that people continue to want to rally together for diversity and inclusion, particularly when they feel valued and heard. And this is what we need to see, especially given some of the unfortunate events that have taken place this year. Momentum can build from even the smallest of actions, inspiring others and sparking wider transformation.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

I would love to have dinner with Haile Selassie. His leadership and resilience during times of significant political and social upheaval intrigue and inspire me. I’d be fascinated to learn about his perspective on unity, cultural identity, and the role of global alliances. His legacy as a symbol of strength and dignity would make for a truly enlightening conversation.

Which tech or channel figurehead has impressed you the most this year, and why?

Charlene Hunter, the founder and CEO of Coding Black Females, the UK's largest community for Black female developers. Charlene has been instrumental in addressing the underrepresentation of Black women in tech by creating a supportive network and providing training, mentoring, and career opportunities tailored to their needs.

Through her leadership, Coding Black Females has created pathways for many women to enter and thrive in tech roles, inspiring a new generation of diverse talent. Her dedication to inclusion makes her a remarkable and influential leader in the UK tech industry.

What technology trend do you think is being overhyped, and why?

While AI is transformative, some applications are too rushed or hyped. The focus needs to shift from simply implementing AI everywhere to using it thoughtfully and responsibly, ensuring ethical considerations aren’t left behind.

If you were stranded on a deserted island but could have one piece of tech with you, what would it be?

I’d go with a satellite phone. It would ensure I could stay connected with the world. Staying connected is essential, even in the most remote situations. Either that or a device that could play music.

What's your go-to productivity hack that keeps you on track during a busy day?

Using time-blocking and setting clear priorities. At the beginning of each day, I map out my top tasks and assign time slots, allowing me to stay focused and make progress on what matters most. It’s a habit that’s been invaluable for balancing priorities and keeping momentum.

If you had the time to learn one new skill, what would it be?

I love all things history and sci-fi related so I would be ecstatic if I were to develop the ability to decipher and understand ancient languages. Being able to read texts from ancient civilizations would open a window into the thoughts, beliefs, and knowledge of early societies. It would provide unique insights into the foundations of cultural identity and human development. Pretty cool if I may say so myself.