Biography:
Natasha Sayce-Zelem is the Global Head of Partner Engineering at Amazon Prime Video and a prominent figure in the field of technology and digital development. Born in Leeds in 1983, Sayce-Zelem grew up in a family with strong ties to the creative industry. Her father, Eugene Zelem, was a props master in film and television, while her mother emigrated from Poland to Leeds.
Sayce-Zelem’s early interest in photography led her to begin her career as a freelance music photographer, capturing images of influential artists such as David Bowie and Rage Against the Machine. However, her passion for technology and digital media eventually led her to transition into the field where she would truly make her mark.
With a first-class degree from the Northern Film School, specializing in producing and editing, Sayce-Zelem embarked on a journey that would see her working for notable companies like ITV, BBC, Sky, and ultimately Amazon. Throughout her career, she has gained invaluable experience and honed her expertise, contributing to the growth and success of these organizations.
In addition to her professional achievements, Sayce-Zelem is also a staunch advocate for women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). In 2018, she founded the social enterprise Empowering Women with Tech with the goal of showcasing female role models working in digital media, science, and technology. The initiative aims to inspire more women to consider careers in STEM fields in England.
Through Empowering Women with Tech, Sayce-Zelem has organized numerous events that have drawn over 10,000 attendees. These events feature esteemed speakers such as Dr. Sue Black, Samantha Payne, Linda Liukas, and Sarah Beeny. By highlighting the achievements of women in STEM, Sayce-Zelem hopes to address the lack of visible female role models in the field and encourage more women to pursue careers in technology and digital development.
Sayce-Zelem’s contributions to the tech industry have not gone unnoticed. In 2021, she was named the 27th most influential woman working in tech, further solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in the field. She has also received recognition as part of Computer Weekly’s ‘Most Influential Women in UK Tech’ shortlist from 2018 to 2022.
Beyond her individual accolades, Sayce-Zelem has actively contributed to diversity and inclusion in technology. In 2018, she joined the steering group for the BIMA Diversity & Inclusion Council, working alongside notable figures like Sue Black, Amali de Alwis, and Pip Jamieson. Through her involvement, she strives to create a more inclusive and representative tech industry.
In 2021, Sayce-Zelem added yet another accomplishment to her impressive resume. She became a team member of the Newsubstance collective, one of the 10 commissioned projects for Festival UK 2022. The STEM-led commission aims to create a large-scale installation that celebrates the British weather and UK coastline while addressing global questions and eliciting joy.
Natasha Sayce-Zelem’s dedication to empowering women in tech, her distinguished career trajectory, and her commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the industry all contribute to her status as an influential figure. Her achievements not only inspire aspiring women in STEM but also leave a lasting impact on society as a whole.
Awards:
– STEM Leader of the Year for Yorkshire, North East, and Scotland (2017)