We had the good fortune of connecting with Adya Roy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Adya, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risks have been my middle name through my career. My initial plan was to go into Manufacturing as a WOC. I wanted to fight against the patriarchy, call out racism and sexism in the workplace, all as a recent immigrant. Within 5 months, I realized that we can fight racism and sexism on an individual level but the deck was stacked against me at a systemic level in my company. I took a risk, moved to a different company, within Manufacturing, only to find out that overt racism and sexism had turned into subtleties and being blocked from promotions and being underpaid. Salary transparency eventually led me to leave my job midway without a backup offer for atleast a month. Thankfully my current company has been as good as they advertised.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It was definitely not easy, its been multiple career changes within 2 years of graduating and it has not come easy. What I want the world to know: Do Not Settle. Don’t do the “I’ll leave in a few months”, NO. If something is unacceptable to you, you stand up NOW.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Seattle is an amazing spot: I would take them to all the rooftop bars, kayaking on Lake Union, and so many more fun water activities!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My account is called The Desi Career Woman, encouraging South Asian women to pursue careers rather than fall into what society expects. My Mom is actually the original DCW and she was a sole breadwinner while my Dad was studying and continues to be my inspiration.

Instagram: Instagram.com/thedesicareerwoman

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adyaroy

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.