Developing the next generation of high tech leaders at Bell

Q: Tell us about yourself.

 

I am thrilled to have recently graduated from Carleton University with a degree in electrical engineering. Currently, I am based in Bell's Elgin office in Ottawa, where my professional journey began as a network specialist. However, I soon realized my passion lies in software development, leading to a seamless transition into this exciting field. Outside work, I enjoy gaming, exploring diverse cuisines, traveling, and proudly participating in a laser tag team. With a well-rounded personality and a drive for growth, I look forward to contributing my skills and enthusiasm to the tech industry.

Zena Bamboat, Specialist, Software Developer

Growing up, I was an incredibly indecisive kid when it came to my dream job. I had a myriad of aspirations, ranging from becoming an actor, a chef, a fighter pilot, and even a secret service agent. However, my fascination with black holes led me towards the dream of becoming a scientist researching these enigmatic phenomena. In grade 6, I took my passion to another level by designing a spacecraft that I believed could surpass a black hole. I even went so far as to email NASA, expressing my interest in becoming their Vice President – all while still in grade 6. Despite my ever-changing ideas, the dream of studying black holes persisted until I accepted my university application.

 

 

Q: What made you apply to the Bell Graduate Leadership Program as a university student?

 

 

As a recent graduate, I applied to the Bell Graduate Leadership Program to explore career options in a supportive and growing environment. Hearing about Bell's exceptional graduate programs and nurturing workplace from classmates, it seemed like the ideal fit. I sought a structured setting to discover my potential, making Bell the perfect choice for personal and professional growth.

 

Q: What was your path into studying & working in high tech?

My path into high tech was driven by a passion for constant improvement and adaptability to ongoing changes. To broaden my skillset, I pursued coding and AI certified courses online. Embracing a tech-savvy approach, I read extensively about ongoing trends and tech advancements in high demand. Updating my LinkedIn played a crucial role in advancing my career and fostering valuable networking opportunities. Embracing a growth mindset, I embarked on a journey of continuous learning, paving the way to study and work in the dynamic world of high tech.

Q: What is your favorite memory from the Bell Graduate Leadership Program?

 

Definitely the Grad Summit. The event brought together all the new grads from Bell across various locations, and we flew to Toronto to participate. It was an incredible opportunity to network and connect with like-minded individuals on the same exciting journey as me. The summit provided a platform to showcase our talents and ideas while learning from experienced professionals in the company. The sense of community and support among the new grads and the chance to interact with higher-ups left a positive impact on my experience in the program.
 

 

Q: How has Bell supported your growth in the high tech space?

Bell has played a pivotal role in fostering my growth within the high-tech realm, providing invaluable support in expanding my skillset. Through exposure to challenging projects, I experienced a steep learning curve, collaborating closely with fellow new grads to implement cutting-edge technologies and explore diverse coding languages firsthand.

The company's focus on practical application enabled me to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world scenarios. Exceptional leadership and a supportive team environment facilitated my agile development, honing both technical expertise and business acumen.

Bell's emphasis on skill management proved instrumental in my technical evolution, particularly in cloud computing and networking. As a result, I have undergone a significant transformation, gaining confidence in handling independent tasks, leading meetings, and managing complex projects. This newfound proficiency has enabled me to contribute actively to the success of our team, thanks to Bell's robust learning opportunities and a progressive work culture that encourages continual growth.

Q: What is the coolest project you have worked on?

The coolest project I've worked on was automating the internal our regognition awards approval process for my department. Collaborating with talented senior developers, I had the opportunity to learn their coding techniques and explore new software languages. The project allowed me to interact with both technical and management teams, gaining valuable insights and enhancing my skills. The experience was both rewarding and enlightening, leaving a lasting impact on my professional growth and passion for high-tech innovation.
 

 

 

 

Q: How would you describe your experience in the Graduate Leadership Program in 3 words?

 

Transformative.

Empowering.

Enriching.

 

Want to learn more about our Graduate Leadership & Internship Programs? Check out our Students & Graduates page.