To continue our Women’s History Month celebrations, we’re sitting down with Nilushi Heshani, Senior Front-end Software Engineer at Openprovider to talk about her journey in the domain industry and get her view on how to accelerate action around gender equality.
- What inspired you to pursue a career in the domain industry, and what has your journey been like so far?
The domain industry excites me, and I thrive on learning new, challenging concepts. I’ve come to realize how essential domains are in defining online identities and driving business growth.
So far, my journey has been both educational and rewarding. I’ve gained insights into domain valuation and explored various strategies for acquiring and selling domains. I’ve also had the opportunity to apply my technical skills to our product, which has pushed me to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions.
The industry is constantly evolving, and I relish the challenges it presents. But most importantly, I truly enjoy what I do, and I’m excited to continue growing in this field.
- The domains industry is traditionally male-dominated. Has this posed any challenges for you, and how have you navigated them?
The domains industry has traditionally been male-dominated, but that has never discouraged me from pursuing my passion and curiosity. While challenges exist, I have navigated them with confidence, continuous learning, and the unwavering support of my colleagues and mentors.
- The IWD 2025 theme is ‘Accelerate Action.’ In your opinion, what key actions are needed to achieve gender equality in the industry?
To achieve gender equality in the industry, bold and consistent actions are essential:
Ensure equal opportunities in leadership, funding, and career growth for women.
Empower through mentorship, guiding women toward career advancement.
Advocate for inclusive workplace policies that promote pay equity, parental leave, and a healthy work-life balance.
Foster a culture of meritocracy, where talent is recognized beyond gender.
Amplify women’s voices, creating platforms that celebrate and uplift their contributions.
I’m proud that Openprovider champions equality, providing opportunities based on talent and merit, regardless of gender.
- What advice would you give to women looking to enter or advance in the domains industry?
Here are my tips for women looking to enter the domains industry:
Believe in yourself: The domain industry is dynamic and ever-evolving. Stay curious, embrace continuous learning, and trust in your abilities.
Build strong industry knowledge: Deepen your understanding of domain trends, DNS, cybersecurity, and the business side of domains. The more you know, the more confident you’ll become.
Seek mentorship: Connect with industry professionals, join domain communities, and find mentors who can guide and support your journey.
Speak up and take the initiative: Don’t shy away from challenges, ask questions, share your insights, and make your voice heard. Your perspective matters!
The domain industry thrives on innovation, and women bring immense value through leadership, creativity, and expertise. Step in with confidence – the industry needs you!
- How can organizations and industry leaders support and empower women to drive faster progress toward gender equality?
Organizations and industry leaders play a crucial role in advancing gender equality by actively supporting and empowering women. Building an inclusive workplace where women are respected, valued, and given a voice is essential. Providing equal opportunities, mentorship, and leadership development programs paves the way for women to grow and excel in their careers.
I believe in the power of continuous learning and embracing challenges. Companies should inspire women to take on new opportunities and step into roles that help them unlock their full potential. By recognizing their contributions, fostering a culture of respect, and implementing fair policies, organizations can create an environment where women truly thrive. When given the right support, women bring fresh ideas and innovation.
Here at Openprovider, I am honored to have equal opportunities and to be recognized for my contributions. Additionally, they have provided me with a flexible work environment that supports a healthy work-life balance.
- What women have inspired you in your personal and professional life? Are there any female colleagues or industry figures (or from the wider tech sector) who have inspired or influenced you in the past?
Throughout my personal and professional journey, I’ve been inspired by many incredible women. In my personal life, the strength of the women around me, especially my mother and friends, has motivated me to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges.
In my professional life, I deeply admire women in the tech industry who have paved the way for innovation and leadership, especially my mentors, whose guidance has been invaluable. Many of them have mastered the art of balancing demanding careers with personal commitments, proving that success does not come at the expense of well-being or family life.
Seeing them excel while maintaining a balance between work and personal life further reinforces my belief that women can truly thrive in every aspect of life with the right support and opportunities.
Women in tech are transforming the world with their creativity and leadership.
You can find out more about life and current opportunities at Openprovider here.
