Conversations with the Inspiring Danielle Ganon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Ganon.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Danielle. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Although I call Arizona my home, I’ve only lived here for slightly over a decade. My story started in the Philippines where I was born and raised until I was about ten years old. When I look back on my life, I see it divided by the airplane ride from the Philippines to the United States (and a layover in Japan). I then spent the rest of my childhood years in Glendale, Arizona. I also went to high school in Glendale where I became interested in social media and fashion. Throwback to #ootd! Then, I attended Arizona State University from 2014 until I graduated in the Spring of 2018. I was able to move beyond my little West Valley bubble into a place with more diversity. I matured a lot throughout my college years being in a place so similar yet so different from my hometown. I decided to major in Computer Science because when I was in 8th grade, I loved developing websites so much that I wanted to have a career in technology, specifically with computers. During my undergrad, I realized that Computer Science is nothing like Web Development. I also realized that I like math enough to continue. By the time I was set on graduating, I came to the conclusion that I didn’t want to pursue a career in the tech industry as a software engineer or a programmer. Maybe it was the fatigue from senior year, but I wanted a breather. So, I got a full-time job at the digital marketing agency I’m at now where I learned and still am learning so much about SEO and social media strategy. The best part about is that I work with building and maintaining websites. Things have come to a full circle.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. A struggle is learning about American culture as well as making sure that I don’t forget my Filipino culture while I grow up in a different country. Another struggle is feeling like I belonged in the Computer Science program at ASU. The good grades and Dean’s List awards weren’t enough. I struggled to see my strengths and talents, and I think it had to do with the fact that my heart wasn’t in it. My advice for other women is to remind themselves that they are capable and talented. Also, follow your heart.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a Technical SEO Manager, and I’m proud of myself for essentially creating the processes at my work. It’s a lot of research, trial, and error. Frustration, even, trying to build a foundation for what the company does. However, it’s rewarding.

What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
I feel like the biggest barriers today in female leadership are antiquated ideas on how people believe women should act. An example is when people think that women are too emotional to be in positions of leadership. Another is the idea that women can’t both be interested in feminine activities and smart/assertive/whatever. Women can be girly and be a leader at the same time. I still see this sooo often. Perhaps being underestimated is a superpower though.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://danielleganon.com
• Email: ganon.danielle@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danni.gan/

Image Credit:
Kara Lay, Abby Zufelt, Grecia Olachea

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