Akua Opong – WE50 Winner 2025


This is an IT role focusing on end-user computing, with responsibilities that include providing technical support for hardware and software, managing projects, and ensuring the smooth operation of AV/VC (audio-visual/video conferencing) systems for employees and external consultants and clients. The role requires a strong understanding of IT support processes, Microsoft Teams Meeting Rooms, and troubleshooting AV-related issues, especially for large-scale events. 

 Key responsibilities:

– Technical support: Provide high-quality technical support for end-user devices like laptops, desktops, and mobile devices for LSEG’s London-based staff.
– AV/VC support: Manage day-to-day audio-visual and video conferencing requirements, including supporting large-scale events and global meetings.
– Project work: Participate in and complete project-based work related to end-user computing and AV/VC infrastructure.
Sustainability and audits: Management of stock, asset control, e-waste and recycling hardware with an external vendor

What does a typical day at work look like for you?

A typical day at LSEG London is split between proactive project work and reactive support, focusing on audio-visual (AV) and video conferencing (VC) systems checks. Dealing with joiners, movers, leavers including preparing IT equipment for those employees being onboarded and checking their accounts. Also handling both planned and urgent support requests from staff

Morning:

Ticket system: Reviewing requests and incidents
Project work: Work on ongoing projects, which could involve designing new systems, testing new technologies, or planning a large-scale deployment.
Stakeholder meetings: Attend meetings to discuss project requirements, report on progress, or ensure that AV/VC needs for upcoming meetings and events are met.

Afternoon:

Reactive support: Respond to and resolve user-reported issues. This can range from fixing a broken microphone in a meeting room to troubleshooting a complex global event setup.
Collaboration: Liaise with other internal teams (local and global) and potentially external vendors to address issues, share information, and ensure seamless service delivery. 
End of day

Reporting and improvement: Stock audits, updating data on spreadsheets, system performance, and project status.
Documentation: Update documentation for new system designs, troubleshooting steps, or user guides.
Review of tickets: Creating a task list for the next day.”

What advice would you give to your 15 year old self

There will be obstacles but have faith in your abilities. Build a community of champions who see your potential and advocate for you. Nurture your development. Ask for what you need and negotiate unapologetically. And through it all, stay true to your values. Always shoot for the stars and turn your dreams into reality. You got this!

Who or what inspired you to get into engineering?

Growing up, I first became interested in STEM as a teenager wanting to be a paediatrician, then an Intelligence Officer in the Army before Technology in NGOs and Social enterprises. I have a passion for using Technology for social impact, helping others and making a difference. I believe using technology, I can do all three and help others.  

As a result, I became a mentor to provide knowledge on my career path and different Technology roles. The information includes inspirational videos, motivational quotes, masterclass, sharing educational resources and giving talks in schools with a Q&A section. I want younger people to feel confident in their abilities and empowered.



I was always fixing things at home as a child, I loved science, was creative and had a nurturing aspect of my personality. I was always destined for a STEM-related career. It is interesting, as I started fundraising as a 15-year-old and still fundraising and supporting charities outside of my main role 20 years later. Community and helping others is at the heart of everything I do.

I don’t know much out women in engineering to be honest due to the lack of seeing role models. 
However, I think Katherine Johnson, the NASA mathematician was incredible and inspiring.

What are the best and worst things about the job?

Best, no day is ever the same but you carve your own path. I learnt a lot over time.

I learn about new technology every day and the most effective way to use it. Every day there are enhancements in technology, so this role involves reading about Technology advancements, attending webinars, networking and reading articles.

I have a methodical and analytical approach to problem-solving while maintaining the highest standards. I am passionate about technology with the ability to learn new technology and adapt to different situations.  I want to use technology to help others and this is why I enjoy Tech Sustainability such as repurposing equipment and speaking about STEM careers at coding clubs, schools and career fairs. I want to be a role model, coach and mentor to others. Also helps remove any barriers that they face and a fair distribution of resources.

Worse, it can be tough as the only woman in some spaces and meetings. It has got better over time.

Where do you see your industry in 25 – 30 years time?

I definitely see my industry growing with an emphasis on AI and Tech for Good. I really just want to see more women in senior roles and paving the way for future generations

What is your involvement, if any, with the Women’s Engineering Society?

I am a member of the WES society, attend events and live networking with individuals. My mentor is part of the WES community as well.