Most leaders don’t grow up in caravan parks before assuming a senior role at one of the world’s biggest tech companies. However, Vanessa Sorenson is no ordinary executive. As Chief Partner Officer and Managing Director at Microsoft NZ, Vanessa has faced challenges head-on, rising above a turbulent childhood to become a fierce advocate for women in STEM and inclusivity in tech. So, what makes her a true mover and shaker? Gemma Acton sat down with this Game Changer to find out.
Finding strength in the struggle
“From the age of 12 or 13, I visualised a life for myself – with the house, the picket fence, the car, a decent job,” Vanessa reflects. That vision carried her through the toughest times – moving from town to town, going without basics like food and school shoes – and gave her the drive to seek out something better.
At just 17, Vanessa bought a one-way ticket back to New Zealand to reunite with her father, a move she credits as the true catalyst for her career. “I knocked on my dad’s door and said, ‘Hi, I’m your daughter.’ He was shocked! I’d called him a few months before and said I was coming, and thankfully he said yes. I’ve never wondered what would’ve happened if he’d said no. That moment truly spring boarded my career and how I landed where I am today.”
Facing the Imposter Monster
“I’d always been a worker,” says Vanessa. “My first job was in a bakery at 13. I had to pay for myself to go to school. So, when I showed up on my dad’s doorstep, I think it took him a week before he said, ‘You’re so annoying – you need a job!
“His next-door neighbour had started a tech startup and needed a receptionist. So I got a ‘day-by-day’ gig. That’s where I found my people. Tech was in its infancy 35 years ago. I remember asking for a holiday to Fiji, and the boss said, ‘No – buy Microsoft shares instead.’ (Who’s the silly one now?) I started answering phones, then asked if I could cold-call. I liked selling! That kick-started everything.”
But the road wasn’t without its hurdles. Entering the tech industry without a university degree or the “right” networks left Vanessa battling the infamous “imposter monster.”
“Entering tech 35 years ago, I would never have fit into Microsoft or IBM,” she said. “You needed a university degree or MBA. I didn’t have either. I went to nine different schools and left school at 16. So I’ve always had that ‘What if they find out?’ feeling. For years, I wouldn’t lead with my story. I worried people would think I wasn’t smart enough. And I don’t think this is just a female thing, but it’s definitely amplified when you’ve grown up the way I did.”
Learning to quiet that inner critic took years. And plenty of encouragement from her husband, her mentors, and inspirational female leaders she met along the way.
Empowering women and leading change
Today, as a senior leader, Vanessa is determined to lift others as she climbs. She launched Microsoft’s 10K Women program, offering free training and networking opportunities to help more women break into tech.
“One of the things I’m proudest of is our 10K Women program,” Vanessa said. “We created it to provide free training, networking, and confidence-building tools – so women can feel like they belong and can go for that role. People always say, ‘Just be more confident!’ But it doesn’t work like that. I’m not going to stand at an event with a drink hoping someone talks to me. We need pathways – like certificates that help HR take notice. We’re even tracking how many women have landed tech jobs from the program. It’s still not enough, but rising tides lift all boats.”
Her leadership style – rooted in empathy, trust, and bold feedback – sets the tone for a more inclusive tech world.
“Trust and empathy,” said Vanessa. “I’d never ask my team to do something I wouldn’t do. But, coaching is essential too. A lot of leaders avoid feedback, but humans crave it – if it’s from the heart. I hope I help my team grow by giving them the feedback they need. Not just what they want to hear. We’ve all got 9 or 10 hours in a day – so use it well. Be bold. Have a development plan. And seek leaders who help you become better.”
Vanessa also highlights the importance of partnerships, like Microsoft’s collaboration with Logicalis. Winning Azure Partner of the Year in 2024 was no small feat – and symbolises their shared commitment to real transformation.
“Logicalis is a great cultural fit. Amazing people. And in 2024, they became our Azure Partner of the Year, which is extraordinary. It’s not easy to achieve that. They’ve been instrumental in our push into education – so many wins with universities. But what I really love is their approach. They focus on helping people understand the opportunity because if you don’t have that teacher or role model, we lose people before they even get to university.”
From helping universities like Western Sydney University move to the cloud to working with schools like Trinity Grammar, Vanessa sees the bigger picture.
“Always takes some conviction. But that’s where design thinking and collaboration come in. Logicalis, Microsoft, and the client – three legs of the same stool. We worked together to ensure it was successful. And Logicalis is great at checking in afterward: ‘Did we all do what we said we’d do?’ Moving to the cloud, securing systems – it’s all critical. But what’s coming next, with AI, is where the real opportunity lies. Companies need to lean into it. If you say, ‘We’ll look at it next year,’ you’ll be left behind.”
A message to women in tech
To women wondering if they belong in tech, Vanessa’s message is clear. “Number one – you are. I’m not your typical techie, and today’s female leaders are more tech-savvy than I’ll ever be. Everyone has a phone – you’re already technical. My daughter once said, ‘Mum, tech sounds boring.’ But it’s not. It’s about solving problems, creating change, working on sustainability, and skilling. It’s exciting.”
Despite her high-energy approach, Vanessa has also learned the value of slowing down. Whether it’s walking barefoot on the beach or simply breathing deeply, she prioritises self-care to stay grounded.
“I’m definitely an Energizer bunny, but I’ve learned to manage stress. Not perfectly, but I try. Like they say on planes – put your own oxygen mask on first. Self-care is critical. If I don’t do it, I can’t lead with energy. For me, it’s as simple as walking barefoot on the beach – feeling the earth. That grounds me.”
Vanessa’s final word’s of wisdom? “Have fun. Smile. Be optimistic. Bring energy. I love that song – ‘I get knocked down, but I get up again.’ It hasn’t been smooth sailing. I’ve been fired. I’ve been pulled down. And, I’ve had people not support me. But I’ve always leaned into the people who could help. Find your tribe. That’s the key. Self-help first. Because the world isn’t slowing down.”
Watch Vanessa Sorenson share more about her journey as a Game Changer, here.
whoah this blog is excellent i love reading your articles. Keep up the good work! You know, a lot of people are searching around for this info, you can aid them greatly.
I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post…
We absolutely love your blog and find most of your post’s to be precisely what I’m looking for. can you offer guest writers to write content for you personally? I wouldn’t mind writing a post or elaborating on many of the subjects you write concerning here. Again, awesome weblog!
This was such an inspiring read. I think a lot of people overlook how much resilience is built from those early, unstable years. It’s refreshing to see someone who didn’t just hide their background but used it as fuel.
You must participate in a contest for one of the best blogs on the web. I’ll advocate this site!
This design is spectacular! You most certainly know how to keep a reader entertained. Between your wit and your videos, I was almost moved to start my own blog (well, almost…HaHa!) Fantastic job. I really loved what you had to say, and more than that, how you presented it. Too cool!
certainly like your web site however you have to test the spelling on several of your posts. A number of them are rife with spelling issues and I find it very bothersome to inform the reality nevertheless I will surely come again again.
Discover how SBLC and Bank Guarantee monetization works in trade finance, including liquidity access, structured funding, risk management, and global trade financing solutions.
I cherished up to you will receive performed right here. The caricature is tasteful, your authored subject matter stylish. nonetheless, you command get bought an nervousness over that you wish be handing over the following. sick undoubtedly come further previously again as precisely the similar nearly very ceaselessly inside case you shield this hike.
I enjoy reading through and I believe this website got some genuinely utilitarian stuff on it! .
I couldn’t resist commenting
I discovered Stand Alone while exploring new casino games and the spins felt surprisingly smooth.
I take pleasure in, cause I discovered just what I used to be looking for. You have ended my 4 day lengthy hunt! God Bless you man. Have a nice day. Bye
The very crux of your writing while appearing agreeable at first, did not really settle well with me after some time. Somewhere throughout the sentences you managed to make me a believer but just for a short while. I however have got a problem with your jumps in assumptions and one would do nicely to fill in all those breaks. When you can accomplish that, I could certainly be fascinated.
Nice post. I was checking constantly this blog and I am impressed! Extremely useful information particularly the last part 🙂 I care for such information a lot. I was seeking this certain information for a long time. Thank you and good luck.
The other day, while I was at work, my cousin stole my iphone and tested to see if it can survive a 40 foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My iPad is now broken and she has 83 views. I know this is completely off topic but I had to share it with someone!
You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this matter to be actually something that I think I would never understand. It seems too complicated and extremely broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next post, I will try to get the hang of it!
I do agree with all of the ideas you’ve presented in your post. They are very convincing and will definitely work. Still, the posts are too short for beginners. Could you please extend them a bit from next time? Thanks for the post.
I’m really inspired together with your writing talents as neatly as with the structure to your blog. Is that this a paid topic or did you customize it your self? Anyway stay up the excellent high quality writing, it’s uncommon to peer a nice blog like this one nowadays..
Rattling wonderful visual appeal on this web site, I’d value it 10 10.
Very interesting information!Perfect just what I was searching for!
Good day! Would you mind if I share your blog with my facebook group? There’s a lot of people that I think would really appreciate your content. Please let me know. Many thanks
I was suggested this web site by my cousin. I am not certain whether this submit is written by means of him as nobody else understand such specified approximately my trouble. You’re wonderful! Thanks!
Hey there! Do you know if they make any plugins to help with SEO? I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m not seeing very good results. If you know of any please share. Appreciate it!
I’m usually to running a blog and i really respect your content. The article has really peaks my interest. I’m going to bookmark your website and keep checking for brand spanking new information.
I would like to get across my passion for your kind-heartedness giving support to persons who must have guidance on in this area of interest. Your real dedication to passing the message all through appeared to be remarkably valuable and has really made others just like me to realize their targets. Your personal warm and helpful recommendations denotes this much a person like me and even more to my peers. Many thanks; from everyone of us.
This actually answered my problem, thank you!
I’m truly enjoying the design and layout of your website. It’s a very easy on the eyes which makes it much more enjoyable for me to come here and visit more often. Did you hire out a designer to create your theme? Outstanding work!
Hi are using WordPress for your site platform? I’m new to the blog world but I’m trying to get started and set up my own. Do you require any html coding knowledge to make your own blog? Any help would be really appreciated!
Merely a smiling visitant here to share the love (:, btw outstanding pattern. “Reading well is one of the great pleasures that solitude can afford you.” by Harold Bloom.
Pretty nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have truly enjoyed browsing your blog posts. In any case I will be subscribing to your feed and I hope you write again soon!
Hello.This article was extremely interesting, especially because I was investigating for thoughts on this issue last Thursday.
of course like your website however you have to test the spelling on several of your posts. Several of them are rife with spelling issues and I find it very bothersome to tell the reality nevertheless I’ll definitely come back again.
Perfect piece of work you have done, this website is really cool with wonderful information.
I found your journey from caravan parks to corporate leadership truly inspiring. It’s not often we read about such raw resilience in the business world—your story reminds me of my own struggles growing up in a small town. How did you manage to stay grounded while climbing the corporate ladder?
Hey There. I discovered your weblog the usage of msn. That is a very smartly written article. I will make sure to bookmark it and return to learn more of your helpful information. Thank you for the post. I will definitely comeback.
I was wondering if you ever considered changing the page layout of your website? Its very well written; I love what youve got to say. But maybe you could a little more in the way of content so people could connect with it better. Youve got an awful lot of text for only having one or 2 images. Maybe you could space it out better?
Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything like this before. So nice to find anyone with some authentic ideas on this subject. realy thanks for starting this up. this web site is something that’s wanted on the net, someone with a bit of originality. helpful job for bringing one thing new to the internet!
We are a gaggle of volunteers and opening a brand new scheme in our community. Your web site offered us with valuable information to work on. You have done an impressive task and our entire community can be thankful to you.
Appreciate it for this grand post, I am glad I found this site on yahoo.
Howdy this is somewhat of off topic but I was wondering if blogs use WYSIWYG editors or if you have to manually code with HTML. I’m starting a blog soon but have no coding expertise so I wanted to get advice from someone with experience. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Generally I do not read article on blogs, but I would like to say that this write-up very forced me to try and do so! Your writing style has been surprised me. Thanks, very nice post.
WONDERFUL Post.thanks for share..more wait .. …
I am really impressed with your writing skills as well as with the layout on your blog. Is this a paid theme or did you modify it yourself? Anyway keep up the nice quality writing, it’s rare to see a great blog like this one today..
References:
Hollywood casino kansas https://sashagpze424007.blogdemls.com/41324540/casino-of-gold-dein-ultimativer-guide
References:
Vicksburg ms casinos miranda-cullen.hubstack.net
References:
Mobile casino online mattiespyd891434.blog2freedom.com
References:
Grand portage lodge and casino uchkombinat.com.ua
References:
Walking dead time slot xtuml.org
References:
Casino 580 http://www.annunciogratis.net
References:
Maryland live casino reviews adrestyt.ru
References:
Casino sharon stone classifieds.ocala-news.com
References:
Make money online australia https://neoclassical.space/
References:
Mobile blackjack commonwiki.space
I have recently started a web site, the information you provide on this site has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work. “The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.” by Vince Lombardi.
References:
Casino windsor https://wallace-friis-4.technetbloggers.de/aktionen-bonus-und-live-games-spiele
You should take part in a contest for one of the best blogs on the web. I will recommend this site!
hey there and thanks for your info – I have certainly picked up anything new from proper here. I did alternatively experience a few technical points the usage of this site, as I experienced to reload the website many occasions previous to I may just get it to load correctly. I have been thinking about if your web host is OK? No longer that I am complaining, however slow loading cases instances will very frequently impact your placement in google and could damage your high-quality score if ads and ***********|advertising|advertising|advertising and *********** with Adwords. Anyway I’m adding this RSS to my e-mail and can glance out for a lot extra of your respective fascinating content. Ensure that you update this again soon..
Great read. It’s inspiring to see how resilience and determination can bridge such a wide gap in circumstances. I’m curious if Vanessa attributes her success more to specific mentors or to innate grit?
I’ll right away grasp your rss feed as I can’t to find your email subscription hyperlink or newsletter service. Do you have any? Kindly allow me recognize so that I may subscribe. Thanks.
References:
Hacienda casino https://gamingwiki.space/wiki/Das_offizielle_HitnSpin_Casino_in_Deutschland
Well I definitely liked studying it. This article procured by you is very constructive for accurate planning.
I get pleasure from, cause I found just what I was looking for. You’ve ended my four day long hunt! God Bless you man. Have a great day. Bye
Very wonderful info can be found on weblog. “You don’t get harmony when everybody sings the same note.” by Doug Floyd.
Thank you for another wonderful post. Where else could anybody get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I’m on the look for such information.
This is really interesting, You are a very skilled blogger. I’ve joined your feed and look forward to seeking more of your fantastic post. Also, I have shared your website in my social networks!
Hi my family member! I want to say that this article is amazing, great written and come with almost all significant infos. I would like to look more posts like this .
I think this is one of the most significant info for me. And i am glad reading your article. But wanna remark on few general things, The website style is great, the articles is really excellent :D. Good job, cheers
It’s arduous to seek out educated folks on this subject, however you sound like you recognize what you’re speaking about! Thanks
Hello! Do you know if they make any plugins to safeguard against hackers? I’m kinda paranoid about losing everything I’ve worked hard on. Any tips?
I think other web site proprietors should take this site as an model, very clean and excellent user genial style and design, as well as the content. You’re an expert in this topic!
Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as though you relied on the video to make your point. You clearly know what youre talking about, why throw away your intelligence on just posting videos to your weblog when you could be giving us something enlightening to read?
This internet site is my inhalation, really superb design and perfect articles.
That is really fascinating, You’re a very professional blogger. I have joined your rss feed and sit up for in search of more of your wonderful post. Also, I’ve shared your web site in my social networks!
I like this website so much, saved to favorites.
This was a really inspiring read. It’s rare to see someone so openly credit their unconventional upbringing—like living in caravan parks—with teaching them resilience and resourcefulness. I’d be curious to know how she maintains that grounded perspective now that she’s in a corporate role.
Hello! I could have sworn I’ve been to this site before but after checking through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Anyhow, I’m definitely delighted I found it and I’ll be bookmarking and checking back often!
you’re really a good webmaster. The website loading speed is incredible. It seems that you are doing any unique trick. In addition, The contents are masterpiece. you’ve done a excellent job on this topic!
I enjoy your writing style genuinely loving this internet site.
I like this blog so much, saved to my bookmarks.
I think this website has got some really wonderful info for everyone :D.
Can I simply say what a aid to search out someone who really is aware of what theyre speaking about on the internet. You definitely know easy methods to carry a difficulty to gentle and make it important. More folks have to read this and perceive this facet of the story. I cant consider youre no more in style because you positively have the gift.
I was reading through some of your articles on this internet site and I believe this site is rattling informative ! Keep posting.
You have noted very interesting points! ps nice site.
Keep up the superb work, I read few blog posts on this site and I believe that your website is real interesting and has got circles of excellent information.
Thanks for the marvelous posting! I really enjoyed reading it, you could be a great author.I will ensure that I bookmark your blog and will often come back sometime soon. I want to encourage you to ultimately continue your great posts, have a nice weekend!
Real fantastic information can be found on web site. “The only thing you take with you when you’re gone is what you leave behind.” by John Allston.
Your style is so unique compared to many other people. Thank you for publishing when you have the opportunity,Guess I will just make this bookmarked.
Wohh exactly what I was searching for, regards for putting up.
I am very happy to read this. This is the type of manual that needs to be given and not the accidental misinformation that’s at the other blogs. Appreciate your sharing this greatest doc.
Good day very cool website!! Man .. Excellent .. Amazing .. I’ll bookmark your site and take the feeds also?KI’m glad to search out a lot of helpful information right here in the post, we need work out more strategies in this regard, thank you for sharing. . . . . .
I do agree with all of the ideas you’ve presented in your post. They are very convincing and will definitely work. Still, the posts are very short for novices. Could you please extend them a bit from next time? Thanks for the post.
Hmm it seems like your website ate my first comment (it was super long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I wrote and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog. I as well am an aspiring blog blogger but I’m still new to the whole thing. Do you have any tips and hints for inexperienced blog writers? I’d really appreciate it.
Thankyou for this fantastic post, I am glad I noticed this website on yahoo.
Heya i’m for the first time here. I found this board and I find It really useful & it helped me out a lot. I hope to give something back and aid others like you aided me.
I’d have to examine with you here. Which is not one thing I usually do! I take pleasure in reading a post that may make folks think. Additionally, thanks for permitting me to comment!
Very interesting info !Perfect just what I was searching for!
I would like to thank you for the efforts you have put in writing this web site. I am hoping the same high-grade website post from you in the upcoming also. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own blog now. Really the blogging is spreading its wings quickly. Your write up is a great example of it.
Admiring the time and effort you put into your blog and detailed information you present. It’s good to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same out of date rehashed material. Fantastic read! I’ve bookmarked your site and I’m including your RSS feeds to my Google account.
I am often to blogging and i really appreciate your content. The article has really peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your site and keep checking for new information.
It’s really a nice and helpful piece of information. I’m satisfied that you shared this useful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.
Woah! I’m really loving the template/theme of this website. It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s very difficult to get that “perfect balance” between user friendliness and visual appeal. I must say you’ve done a excellent job with this. Additionally, the blog loads super quick for me on Internet explorer. Exceptional Blog!
Please let me know if you’re looking for a article author for your weblog. You have some really great articles and I feel I would be a good asset. If you ever want to take some of the load off, I’d really like to write some content for your blog in exchange for a link back to mine. Please shoot me an e-mail if interested. Many thanks!
Good day! I know this is kind of off topic but I was wondering which blog platform are you using for this website? I’m getting sick and tired of WordPress because I’ve had problems with hackers and I’m looking at options for another platform. I would be fantastic if you could point me in the direction of a good platform.
Have you ever thought about adding a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is valuable and everything. Nevertheless think of if you added some great images or video clips to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with images and clips, this blog could definitely be one of the most beneficial in its field. Wonderful blog!
I am happy that I detected this weblog, just the right information that I was looking for! .
Hey there, I think your website might be having browser compatibility issues. When I look at your blog site in Opera, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, wonderful blog!
Fantastic website. Lots of useful information here. I’m sending it to a few pals ans additionally sharing in delicious. And naturally, thank you on your effort!
Whoa! This blog looks just like my old one! It’s on a entirely different topic but it has pretty much the same page layout and design. Superb choice of colors!
I truly treasure your piece of work, Great post.
I enjoy your work, thankyou for all the informative blog posts.
I am extremely impressed with your writing skills as well as with the layout on your blog. Is this a paid theme or did you customize it yourself? Anyway keep up the nice quality writing, it’s rare to see a great blog like this one nowadays..
Hello there! I know this is kinda off topic but I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in trading links or maybe guest authoring a blog post or vice-versa? My site covers a lot of the same subjects as yours and I feel we could greatly benefit from each other. If you happen to be interested feel free to shoot me an email. I look forward to hearing from you! Wonderful blog by the way!
Hello, i believe that i saw you visited my weblog thus i got here to “return the want”.I’m trying to find issues to enhance my web site!I suppose its adequate to use a few of your concepts!!
I’m really inspired along with your writing abilities as well as with the layout to your weblog. Is this a paid subject or did you modify it yourself? Either way keep up the nice high quality writing, it’s rare to peer a nice weblog like this one these days..
I got what you mean , thankyou for posting.Woh I am happy to find this website through google.
We’re a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community. Your website provided us with valuable information to work on. You have done a formidable job and our whole community will be grateful to you.
This web page is mostly a stroll-by way of for all the info you wanted about this and didn’t know who to ask. Glimpse right here, and you’ll definitely uncover it.
fantastic post, very informative. I wonder why the other experts of this sector do not notice this. You must continue your writing. I am sure, you’ve a great readers’ base already!
Hi! I’ve been following your website for a long time now and finally got the bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Porter Texas! Just wanted to tell you keep up the fantastic job!
Rattling informative and fantastic body structure of written content, now that’s user friendly (:.
Hi my loved one! I want to say that this article is amazing, nice written and come with almost all significant infos. I would like to peer extra posts like this .
Rattling clear web site, thanks for this post.
I went over this internet site and I conceive you have a lot of excellent info, saved to bookmarks (:.
Undeniably believe that which you said. Your favorite justification appeared to be on the net the simplest thing to be aware of. I say to you, I definitely get irked while people consider worries that they just do not know about. You managed to hit the nail upon the top as well as defined out the whole thing without having side effect , people can take a signal. Will probably be back to get more. Thanks
Fantastic site you have here but I was curious about if you knew of any message boards that cover the same topics talked about in this article? I’d really love to be a part of community where I can get opinions from other experienced individuals that share the same interest. If you have any suggestions, please let me know. Thank you!
Thank you a bunch for sharing this with all of us you actually recognise what you are speaking about! Bookmarked. Kindly also talk over with my site =). We will have a link alternate agreement between us!