Jo Larby

‘I champion accessible technology and embed inclusive practices in development’

Part of the Tech Women Celebration 50 – a curated list of some of the most inspirational women working at all levels of tech

I’m a born-and-bred Geordie, having studied in Newcastle and earned a BSc in Computer Science from Northumbria University. I began my career as a Software Development placement student at Accenture, progressing to Technical Architect before becoming Technology Lead and Accessibility Community of Practice Lead at Leighton, the North’s leading AWS software consultancy.

Alongside my career, I’m passionate about supporting women in tech and the workplace. I’ve mentored women pivoting into tech through the TechUp Programme for over two years, and volunteered with SmartWorks, helping women overcome barriers to employment. I’ve also featured as a panellist for Women in Tech North East, promoting strong female role models in the industry.

What do you consider your biggest achievement to date?

My biggest achievement has been supporting and growing the tech community in the North of England. I’m proud of building partnerships with clients, charities, and education providers to create opportunities for others. At my previous company, I launched a charity partnership model that inspired wider industry collaboration. Advocacy and allyship are central to my work. I co-organised a Women in Tech event on allyship, will speak as a keynote panellist in Manchester, and actively mentor women re-skilling through TechUp Women. I’ve promoted tech careers through school assemblies, university talks, and TechSheCan initiatives, reaching hundreds of people and opening real opportunities for growth.

As someone of mixed ethnicity, visible representation drives my passion for inclusion. As Accessibility Community Lead, I champion accessible technology and embed inclusive practices in development. Pushing beyond my comfort zone into public speaking and community leadership has been deeply rewarding, as I’ve seen others inspired to step into tech, leadership, and advocacy.

What is the most significant challenge you have overcome?

My biggest challenge has been managing imposter syndrome while caring for my mum during her illness. Throughout my career, I’ve faced dismissive comments like “you only got that job because you’re a woman,” which fuelled self-doubt and a constant need to prove myself. When my mum was diagnosed with cancer in 2020, balancing work, care, and emotional strain while battling imposter syndrome was overwhelming. Yet, this period taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of self-compassion.

I’ve learned to recognise my achievements as earned and to bring that perspective into how I support others. Now, I speak openly about imposter syndrome at events and in mentoring, helping others see they’re not alone. What was once a private struggle has become a source of authenticity and connection, strengthening my advocacy for inclusion, accessibility, and representation in tech, and proving that vulnerability and strength can coexist.

Tell us something about you that people would find surprising

One thing that might surprise people about me is that I am an avid archer. I have been shooting for as long as I can remember at my local club and regularly competed in competitions throughout high school, culminating in making the England team in 2012.

Whilst I haven't competed since university, archery remains a hobby I enjoy whenever I have the time. The sport has taught me patience, focus, and resilience - qualities that have also shaped the way I approach challenges in my professional and community work. Archery has been a constant passion alongside my career, offering manual respite from an otherwise overwhelmingly digital world.