At Infoblox, we know that innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when people feel supported, seen and empowered to do their best work. That belief was front and center at the Leadership Summit: Women in Technology, AI & Cyber in Sydney, Australia. An event dedicated to elevating diverse voices and creating real pathways for growth across the tech industry.
As a sponsor of the Summit, Infoblox was honored to be part of a conversation focused not just on leadership, but on what it truly takes to get there. A key highlight of the event was Scott Morris, Infoblox managing Sales Director for Australia and New Zealand, joining the panel discussion: “The Power of Mentoring and Advocacy in Achieving Your Goals.”
Mentorship, Advocacy and the Power of Being Seen
During the panel on “The Power of Mentoring and Advocacy in Achieving Your Goals,” Scott shared candid reflections on how mentorship shaped his own career—and why advocacy is often the missing piece for many high-potential professionals.
A recurring theme throughout the panel was intentionality and self-advocacy. Successful mentoring relationships work best when mentees come prepared, bringing goals, questions and a willingness to speak openly about challenges, skill gaps and aspirations. Seeking mentors both inside and outside your organization can provide broader perspective and unlock new ways of thinking.
Coaching, Mentoring and Knowing What You Need
The discussion also distinguished between mentoring and coaching, two tools that serve different but equally important purposes. While mentoring draws on lived experience and guidance, coaching focuses on unlocking potential, challenging assumptions and building new capabilities. Knowing which support is needed, and when, can make a meaningful difference in a mentee’s growth journey.
Why Advocacy Changes Everything
If mentorship sharpens perspective, advocacy creates momentum.
One of the most powerful insights from the panel was Scott’s message on advocacy saying, “Advocacy gets you the next role—especially when you’re not in the room.” Sponsors use their influence to champion others, create visibility and open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
The conversation highlighted a critical gap: many women have mentors, but far fewer have sponsors actively advocating for them. Advocacy is built on trust and leaders are more likely to sponsor individuals who consistently deliver, communicate clearly and keep their “operational house” in order. But advocacy also requires self-advocacy. Leaders can’t support ambitions they don’t know about.
Saying yes to pilot projects, speaking up about career goals and demonstrating readiness for the next challenge all help build the credibility that sponsors look for.
Turning Insight into Action
Beyond inspiration, the Summit emphasized action. Attendees were encouraged to take ownership of their growth by speaking up about their ambitions, saying yes to stretch opportunities and build a trusted network of mentors and sponsors. From creating a personal career playbook to assembling a “board of directors” for professional guidance, the message was clear: momentum is built intentionally.
This message resonated strongly with the Summit’s broader theme of “Give to Gain,” a reminder that investing in others and in yourself creates ripple effects far beyond a single role or moment.
Our Commitment to Inclusive Leadership
Supporting events like the Leadership Summit reflects Infoblox’s ongoing commitment to empowering professionals across cybersecurity and technology. We believe diverse leadership teams build stronger organizations, fuel smarter innovation, and create cultures where people can thrive.
We’re proud to champion the women shaping the future of AI, cyber and technology, and to continue fostering environments where mentorship, advocacy and opportunity thrive together.
Because when more voices are heard, everyone moves forward.
