We are here. We belong. We lead.
Reflections on women showing up at NAB Show
Some events are big. Others are iconic. But few manage to be both massive and personal — that’s NAB Show. And for two women from Qualabs, 2025 marked a milestone: it was their first time at the show, their first time stepping into a space where the entire video tech universe meets in person — and their first time experiencing the real weight of being part of it all.
For Mica and Made, it wasn’t just about meeting people for the very first time — it was about finally reconnecting in person. Many of the relationships had already started through virtual calls, Slack messages, and shared projects across time zones. “It may sound cliché, but the expressions, the body language, the eye contact… they change everything.” Those brief in-person moments deepened bonds, grounded conversations, and turned digital connections into real-world relationships.
For a long time, women in the video tech industry have been used to navigating spaces where they were “the only ones.” But that’s changing.
“When I looked around at NAB, yeah — there were still mostly men. But I also saw change. I saw more women in leadership roles. Younger voices, new energy. It’s slow, but it’s happening,” shared Mica.
It was also her third anniversary at Qualabs — something that made the experience even more symbolic. “Three years ago I joined the company. I never imagined I’d be here, representing us at NAB. That still blows my mind.”
Building a tribe: Women supporting women
One of the most empowering parts of NAB 2025 was the visibility of women — not just attending, but organizing, leading, and shaping the narrative.
Mica was behind the creation of a 100% women-led panel, and it wasn’t about ticking a diversity box. It was about expertise.
They both highlighted how much women-centered communities like Women in Streaming Media, Rise, and others are doing to create space. “Even if you’re not part of one yet, just walk up. Introduce yourself. They’ll welcome you in,” said Made.
Tips for women in media tech
Want to attend NAB Show (or any major industry event)? Here’s what helped them make the most of it:
- Plan with purpose. Don’t overload your calendar with meetings just to be busy. Know what you want from each conversation — and respect everyone’s time.
- Do your homework. Look up booths, scout client stands, find potential partners. Drop by, say hi. That casual stop can be a future opportunity.
- Connect intentionally. If you meet someone and feel a spark — follow up. Send a message. Keep it alive.
- Find your people. Whether through communities like Women in Streaming Media or informal meetups, seek out those who inspire you and lift you up.
Most importantly? Go with confidence. Even in a male-dominated space, there are more women out there than you think — and every one of them adds something unique to the industry.
The industry is listening
Mica reflected on why she continues to push for women to be more visible in the industry:
“It motivates me, because I know women are ready. Sharp and experienced, we can share more of what we know.”
This isn’t just about representation for the sake of it. It’s about recognizing real talent and making room for new voices, different perspectives, and future leaders.
For Qualabs, this year marked a internal milestone too: more women than men attended NAB on behalf of the company. That wasn’t a goal. That was just reality.
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