Iwona Zalewska is the the Regional Director for the UK & Ireland and concurrently serves as DRAM Business Manager for the EMEA region at Kingston Technology.
How did Iwona get to where she is today?
Iwona’s professional journey is a testament to the power of consistency, curiosity, and a genuine passion for improvement. Throughout her career, she has been unwavering in her commitment to both her personal growth and the success of those around her.
Her approach to work is rooted in a desire to make processes more efficient and to create an environment where everyone can thrive. This drive to streamline operations and support her colleagues has been a defining feature of her leadership style.
As the Regional Director for the UK & Ireland and the DRAM Business Manager for the EMEA region at Kingston Technology, Iwona oversees sales and marketing efforts across multiple product lines, leads business development managers, and crafts strategies that drive growth and innovation. Her leadership is characterized by a hands-on approach—motivating her teams, setting clear goals, and always looking for ways to do things better.
Before stepping into her current leadership roles, Iwona built her expertise as a Sales Manager, where she was known for guiding her team to exceed targets through effective planning and mentorship.
Her career began in the SMB market at Stock and Asset Management, Ltd, where she learned the importance of adaptability and customer focus—skills that continue to shape her work today.
Iwona’s journey is also marked by her openness to learning and her willingness to embrace new challenges. Whether it’s keeping up with the latest trends in memory technology or finding innovative ways to support her team, she approaches every opportunity with energy and optimism. Fluent in both English and Polish, she brings a multicultural perspective to her work, and outside the office, she channels her drive into running, dancing, and strength training—activities that reflect her belief in balance and perseverance.
Ultimately, Iwona’s success comes from a blend of consistency, a love for improvement, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact—both in her organization and in the wider tech community.
What advice would Iwona give?
- When I think about what it means to thrive in STEM, I’m reminded that success isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s a journey—one built on habits, challenges, and those small but mighty breakthroughs that shape who we become. For every young woman dreaming of a future in STEM, I want to share a story—a story about curiosity, resilience, and the power of believing you belong. It all begins with curiosity. Imagine a young girl, notebook in hand, eyes wide with wonder as she asks, “Why does this work?” or “What if I tried it this way?”. Every innovation, from a new app to a scientific discovery, starts with a question. Don’t ever be afraid to ask why, how, or what if. Each question you ask is a step toward confidence, a spark that fuels your learning.
- I always encourage keeping a “STEM journal”—a place to jot down ideas, facts, or challenges you want to explore. Over time, you’ll see your thinking evolve, and that’s a beautiful thing.
- Curiosity alone isn’t enough. The real magic happens when you build consistent habits. Talent is wonderful, but it’s your daily actions—those regular moments spent studying, coding, experimenting, or building—that turn potential into progress. Think of it like planting seeds: small, steady steps will take you further than occasional bursts of effort. If you ever feel overwhelmed, try the Pomodoro technique: 25 minutes of focused work, followed by a short break. It’s a simple way to build focus and make even the toughest topics feel manageable.
- No one makes this journey alone. Along the way, seek out mentors and role models. Connect with teachers, join STEM clubs, or reach out to organizations like The Girls’ Network or WISE. Mentors can offer advice, open doors, and remind you that every expert started exactly where you are now. Representation matters—seeing women succeed in STEM shows you what’s possible and inspires you to keep going.
- Of course, there will be challenges—and mistakes. STEM isn’t about getting everything right the first time. It’s about testing, adjusting, and trying again. Don’t fear mistakes; learn from them. Each setback is a step toward mastery. Shift your mindset: instead of saying, “I failed,” try saying, “I learned what doesn’t work—now I’m closer to what does.” Every challenge is an opportunity to grow.
- Celebrate your progress, not perfection. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Take pride in the small wins—completing a project, mastering a new concept, or simply sticking with a tough topic. These moments build your confidence and keep your motivation high. At the end of each week, write down three things you’re proud of. Remember, progress is progress, no matter the size.
- Stay connected and give back. Join STEM communities, both in school and online. Collaboration leads to creativity, and you’ll gain new perspectives and support networks. And when you can, share what you’ve learned with others. Helping someone else learn reinforces your own skills—and inspires the next generation.
- And finally, believe you belong. This is perhaps the most important lesson of all. Your ideas, your curiosity, and your perspective matter. Good habits will help you stay focused, but belief in yourself will take you even further. The future of STEM needs your voice, your questions, and your determination.
So, to every young STEMette reading this: Be curious and consistent. Find mentors and ask questions. Learn from every challenge. Celebrate your growth. And above all, keep showing up—because the future of STEM truly does need you.
