Our CaRe Outreach full-time program enables women IT professionals to return to a supportive and collaborative workplace from a career break and build a lasting career. Ramya joined CGI in our pilot batch of the returnship program launched in 2022.

Early days and how I got to where I am today

After a 10-year-long stint in the IT industry, I decided to take a break to spend more time with my family, especially my kids. What was intended to be a short break became a long career gap of eight years.

When contemplating returning to work, I came across CGI’s Career Relaunch (CaRe) Outreach program. I attended MeetHer, organised by CGI, a networking event aimed at women professionals who want to return to the workforce. We were a group of 200 enthusiastic women who attended this event, and we got an opportunity to meet CGI leaders and members and learn more about the culture.

I was impressed by the empathy CGI leaders and members showed in understanding our apprehensions about returning to the workforce. They patiently answered everyone’s questions and allayed our fears, which made me realise, I wanted to join an organisation which was supportive and empathetic to its members, such as CGI. This event gave me the final push to take the leap of faith to return to work.

CGI CaRe program

The CaRe program is a wonderful initiative by CGI, which has helped women professionals like me who have been on an extended career break to transition back to the workforce smoothly. As part of the program, we received extensive training in the latest technologies in the industry, which aids us in integrating and performing to the best potential in our projects. We also receive support and guidance from mentors and have several 1:1 connects with them to ease into our project and CGI.

What I like most about working in CGI is the inclusive work environment, the support, and the empathy our leaders show in understanding our abilities and guiding us to fulfil our potential. It allows me to focus on my career and family and has helped me ease back into working full-time.

Are you looking to rejoin the workforce? Join us to be a part of a supportive environment and build new experiences, head to our careers page for open roles.