My Role as an Ambassador – Petya Kalcheva from Financial Times

Bio

Petya Kalcheva - Software Engineer at Financial Times

Petya Kalcheva is a Software Engineer at the Financial Times, where she’s been driving digital innovation for the past two years. Before entering the tech sector, Petya spent years as a mathematics teacher and ran a private education centre focused on nurturing curiosity in maths and informatics. She’s passionate about lifelong learning, creative collaboration, and empowering women, especially those returning to work after career breaks. As a mother of three and someone who re-entered the workforce after a long maternity leave and a personal transformation, Petya brings both empathy and encouragement to the Women Who Grow network.

What motivated you and your company to get involved in Women Who Grow, and what does it mean for you to serve as an Ambassador?

For me, this isn’t just another initiative; it’s something I’ve lived firsthand. After years at home with my children and going through a divorce, stepping back into the tech world was overwhelming. I questioned everything: my skills, my confidence, my right to belong. What changed everything was the support I received from other women. Their encouragement helped me rebuild my belief in myself. Women Who Grow represents exactly that: community, courage, and the power of sharing our stories. I joined to pay that support forward, so that no woman feels like she has to do it alone. At the Financial Times, I’ve found a place where collaboration is valued, and different voices are welcomed. I’ve been fortunate enough to work in a team that is mostly female, which is a rarity in IT. This environment is not only inspiring but empowering, reminding me daily that diversity fuels creativity, and representation matters. It’s not just about code; it’s about people, perspective, and growing together.

In what ways does your organisation support the mission of Women Who Grow and contribute to empowering women’s growth?

The FT has been instrumental in creating an inclusive environment where women, including working mothers like me, are seen, heard, and supported. From flexible working policies to open conversations around wellbeing and career progression, I’ve been encouraged to shape my path while staying true to my values. I believe that magic happens when women come together to share knowledge and support one another. The FT supports that too. Not just through policies, but through people who genuinely care.

What would you say to others considering joining the Women Who Grow community?

Come as you are. Whether you're a tech leader, a returning mother, or someone looking for connection and purpose, this network is for you. Growth isn’t linear, and it doesn’t have to be lonely. In this space, we lift each other, share openly, and grow stronger together. You don’t need to be fearless to start. You just need to be willing. The rest comes from each other.

Petya Kalcheva and her team at Financial Times