The SWE Global Ambassador Program started in 2016 with a small but mighty group of 26 global SWE members spanning 14 countries. The goal was, and still is, to provide a way for individuals residing outside of the United States to serve in a leadership role and be an advocate for SWE’s mission in their area of the world while developing their leadership skills.
The program has grown over the last eight years to now include 213 participants spanning 32 countries. Global ambassadors serve one-year terms (1 July – 30 June) with the opportunity to rejoin each year to continue their leadership journey. This program has made a tremendous impact on SWE’s mission because of the incredible leaders who have dedicated their time and energy to amplify the voices of female engineers. This past year, it was estimated that volunteers dedicated over 8,900 hours through various responsibilities outlined on our Global Ambassador webpage.
As a way to celebrate, hear from global ambassadors through various tenure in the program and how it has made an impact on their lives and others. As we kick off this series, meet first-year ambassador from the United Kingdom, Kimberley Telemacque.
Kimberley Telemacque supports the Global Technical Operation Excellence team at Cummins Inc. as a cybersecurity engineer and manages key improvement projects within the technical organization.
She graduated from Midwestern State University with a B.S. in mechanical engineering and a minor in mathematics. Kimberley is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified and in the process of completing her PMP certification.
What Is a Memorable Moment Through Your Ambassador Experience?
The most remarkable experience during my first year as a SWE global ambassador was being able to have a direct impact on women and girls in STEM.
The ability to empower underrepresented groups and foster an environment of inclusion and accessibility to opportunities has been rewarding.
I’ve gained mentees by being transparent and sharing my own journey as a woman in tech and gained mentors by seeking guidance on professional development and best ways to celebrate wins and overcome challenges.
A Little Bit More About Kimberley…
I’m also an artist. Art has always been my passion from the time I was a kid. I love the fact that I can transfer my thoughts, feelings, and emotions all on canvas! I use different art mediums such as acrylic, charcoal, ink, and resin. My favorite is acrylic.
“We’re all magical beings and uniquely sculpted. Find that inner creativity within your soul and express it unapologetically. Be bold, be brave, be free, be YOU!” – Kimberley Telemacque, SWE global ambassador
As part of Kimberley’s role, she also participated as a guest speaker for the European Inspirational Session, “Making ERG’s Effective and Empowering.”
Learn more about the Global Ambassador Program here.
Kimberley is Awesome! 👏