Five9 Women in Tech: Ariana Karzai

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Kendall Taylor Corporate Communications Manager

Kendall Taylor specializes in social media, internal communications, media relations, employee advocacy, and corporate communications. She is a huge fan of Inferno Pilates, the Kansas City Chiefs, and Arrested Development. Kendall holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism with an emphasis in strategic communications from the University of Nevada.

February 18, 2020

I am excited to introduce our new Five9 Women in Technology (WiT) Spotlight series! Every other week, I will introduce you to one of our amazing female Five9ers, who are making an impact in the tech industry.

We are kicking off this series with a spotlight featuring Ariana Karzai, Compliance & Privacy Manager - Commercial, and Five9 WiT President.

Tell us about your background: What are you doing now and where did you get your start?

I found myself getting involved in WiT after I went through a series of personal events in 2010, which made me realize the importance of advocacy and empowerment for women. As a result I started my 501c, non-profit and quickly networked with global women’s rights movements, both grassroots and well established organizations, to create and work towards similar objectives. Though the issues women face vary from community to community and country to country, the single most important issue they all face is hope. When they see other women standing for their rights, and advocating for betterment and empowerment, they get encouraged. Empowerment works on every level and is very important in corporate world.

One word to describe yourself: Resilient

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

Let go of the past, don’t worry about the future, just be present.

Who or what motivates you? Nature.

What are your tips for young women who are considering a career in technology?

To keep a positive attitude, the grass is greener on the other side. In this case, men are welcoming women in tech. The feedback from male management in Five9 is they wish for more female resumes to come across their desks.

What is your favorite part about working at Five9?

My favorite part of working at Five9 is our culture. Individual and team contributors, work towards a common goal and see their own success in each other’s success, which creates a positive and supportive environment for everyone.

Stay tuned to meet more of our Five9 WiT members and to learn about the Five9 career opportunities, click here.