Building Bridges In A Biased World

Joanne Lockwood speaks with engineer and energy-industry leader Sonia Pérez about what it means to navigate a biased world while holding multiple, sometimes competing identities. Sonia reflects on her experience as a woman in a male-dominated sector, including the everyday pressure to “fit in,” the impact of sexist jokes and expectations, and the coping strategies she developed—such as downplaying her capability—to avoid pushback.

A key thread is Sonia’s journey into understanding neurodiversity. Prompted by her daughter’s traits and early assessments, Sonia sought her own answers and was diagnosed with ADHD and giftedness. She describes the emotional impact of recognising a lifetime of masking, how neurodivergence can shape focus, motivation, and authority sensitivity, and why psychological safety matters when people are expected to constantly adapt.

The conversation also covers wellbeing and mental health, including Sonia’s reflections on eating and binge patterns, links she has researched between neurodivergence and eating disorders, and the role of belonging and isolation. Throughout, both Joanne and Sonia underline the importance of “finding your village”—supportive networks and communities at work and beyond—and the need for continued culture change so people can take up space, be themselves, and thrive.