HerStories
Laura’s Story
Laura Mercurio didn't actively seek out a tech career; but her drive for adventure led her to Switzerland, and that's where tech found her! Since then, Laura's tech pathway has taken her all over the world, resulting in an impressive resume of experience working with various tech companies with global reach and impact.
South Australia
My Tech Path
I didn’t choose tech—tech chose me! Back in uni, I was super involved in a student non-profit, learning all the stuff you don’t get in the lecture theatre. My career started in sales and marketing as an events coordinator in hospitality (yep, nothing to do with tech and lots to do with Parties!). Whilst at Uni I was very involved in several clubs and societies that taught me how to hustle, pitch to business leaders, and get comfortable asking for opportunities.
After Uni, I wanted to see the world, but I wasn’t about to just backpack around aimlessly—I wanted adventure and a career! So, I was selected as part of an international grad program and landed a project manager role at Citibank… in Switzerland. Here I was running tech projects in financial services—in a country where I didn’t even speak the language! I got my start in tech in the land of ski slopes, cheese, and chocolate. My boss saw my potential and after my 18-month grad experience, he kept me on and moved me to London, where my journey in tech really took off.
That’s when I realised tech wasn’t about being a genius coder—it was about solving problems, managing projects and people, and bringing ideas to life.
From Zurich, I moved to London and travelled the world, working on huge global tech programs and collaborating with amazing people from every corner of the planet. I’ve worked with large corporates, consultancy, startups, mentored entrepreneurs, and after 20+ years abroad, I’m back in Australia, helping more women kick down the doors to the tech world.
What’s the best advice you have ever received?
There are two types of people in the world: those who talk and those who do. Be the one who does. Even if you’re not 100% sure what you’re doing, take action—action beats overthinking every time!
Fail fast, learn faster, and always, always celebrate your wins.
The best lessons come from the losses, so embrace them and grow.
What would you tell your 15 year old self?
Forget what other people think—seriously, who cares? Everyone’s running their own race, so don’t waste time comparing yourself. Your journey is yours alone. And rejection? It’s just a redirection to something better. Keep showing up, keep pushing forward, and never be afraid to be you—that’s your superpower.
