#WICxCloudCollective Microstory – Nancy Watt: A Master Connector, Champion of Creativity, and Advocate for Economic Access

Nancy Watt's journey within Women in Cloud is a testament to the transformative power of creativity, connection, and collective action. As a Women in Cloud brand ambassador and advisory board member, Nancy’s dedication to unlocking $1 billion in economic access is evident in every event she attends, every workshop she leads, and every conversation she initiates. But her story goes beyond her roles—it’s about her ability to use humor, leadership, and unwavering commitment to make a lasting impact.

A Pivotal Moment at TIFF

Nancy recalls a pivotal moment in her journey at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2024, where she watched Chaitra Vedullapalli deliver a compelling keynote. 

"That workshop was a game-changer for women in film, women in tech, and pracademics like me," she shares. 

The packed room sat in hushed focus as Chaitra shared impactful stats and strategies for women breaking barriers in male-dominated industries. For Nancy, it wasn’t just a speech; it was a call to action that ignited her resolve to help more women claim their space in leadership.  

Nancy’s superpower lies in her ability to connect with people from all walks of life. At events like TIFF, #empowHERaccess Awards, she’s a networking whirlwind, forging connections with representatives from major festivals like BAFTA and Red Sea, engaging with distributors and investors, and ensuring that Women in Cloud’s mission resonates across industries. Her colleagues marvel at her ability to navigate these environments with effortless grace, turning every handshake into a meaningful opportunity.  

This ability stems from her unwavering belief in the power of humor as a tool for connection. "I invest heavily in what is true, what is good, and what is necessary," Nancy explains. "Humor—the currency of comedy—teaches us to embrace multiple perspectives and unlock tremendous potential for leadership, teams, and organizations. It’s also just better to laugh while we learn together." Nancy’s workshops and keynotes are infused with this philosophy, helping leaders see the value of creativity and connection in their roles.  

Nancy’s preparation for leadership is as intentional as it is inspiring. She’s a voracious reader and writer, constantly pushing herself to step out of her comfort zone and take risks that lead to growth.

"Get waaaay out of your comfort zone to feel some necessary risk and ultimate reward," she advises.

Her commitment to personal and professional development is coupled with her dedication to uplifting others. "Do for others without expectation of return, and watch reciprocity explode," she says—a mantra that has guided her journey and opened countless doors for collaboration and impact.  

Women in Cloud: A Laboratory for Growth

Her involvement in Women in Cloud has provided her with a unique "laboratory" to experiment with ideas and refine her craft. Through her work on the advisory board and in the broader community, Nancy has developed workshops that not only educate but inspire.

"Few people use creativity, comedy, and connection as a learning modality like my agency. WIC has been like a laboratory where I’ve been allowed to experiment with ideas to develop better workshops, collect honest feedback, and learn from others. My effort and time commitment as an Advisory Board member is something I take very seriously, and I enjoy being in the company of men and women who are so engaged and active in pursuing our mandate of economic access." she reflects.

Women in Cloud has given her the platform to test these ideas, gather honest feedback, and iterate on her approach to leadership development.

Nancy’s impact extends beyond events and workshops. Her presence at Women in Cloud panels, such as the one she attended with Chaitra and Monica at TIFF, creates moments of inspiration and learning for all who participate. The packed room and engaged audience were a testament to her ability to amplify key messages and build momentum for initiatives that matter.  

Her advice for aspiring leaders in tech? "Buckle up." Nancy’s journey underscores the importance of resilience, courage, and intentionality. She reminds us that leadership is about stepping into the unknown, embracing risks, and creating opportunities for yourself and others. Her story is a rallying cry for anyone ready to claim their space and lead with purpose.

Nancy Watt’s story is a powerful example of how creativity, humor, and collective action can drive meaningful change. 

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