Imperial Spotlight: Miri Rodriguez & Izabela Duiwe on 50 Years of Microsoft & The Future of Women in Tech

Celebrating the Legacy & Launch of The Women of Microsoft: Empowering Stories from the Minds that Coded the World

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future

As Microsoft celebrates 50 years of innovation, one question stands at the forefront: What do the next 50 years hold for women in technology?

Authors Miri Rodriguez and Izabela Duiwe explore this very question in The Women of Microsoft, a powerful collection of stories that honor the women who helped build one of the world’s most influential tech companies—while paving the way for the next generation of leaders.

At Empressa, we recognize that legacy isn’t just about looking back—it’s about shaping what comes next. Miri and Izabela’s book aligns with our mission: to amplify the voices of women in tech, safeguard their expertise, and ensure their contributions are seen, valued, and built upon.

“This isn’t just about you. This is about legacy.”As we stand on the edge of a new era in AI, quantum computing, and digital transformation, The Women of Microsoft challenges us to ask: How will women define the future of technology?

Behind the Book: A Love Letter to Women in Tech

At its core, The Women of Microsoft is more than a history—it’s a roadmap for the future.

What makes this book so unique is its origin: two women, connected across time zones and technology, bridging distances to tell a collective story. When Izabela Duiwe first reached out to Miri Rodriguez with the seed of an idea, neither of them imagined the impact it would have.

Their collaboration mirrors the very theme of this book: women lifting each other up, creating space, and leaving a lasting imprint on the industry.

“Through these stories, we hope you find not just inspiration, but practical wisdom for navigating your own path. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll see yourself reflected in these pages.” – Miri Rodriguez

Key Highlights from The Women of Microsoft

📖 Chapter 1: She, the People

Meet the women who shaped Microsoft’s foundation and left their mark on the technology you use every day.

🛤 Chapter 2: All Roads Lead to Microsoft

No two journeys look the same. This chapter proves that success isn’t a straight line—it’s uniquely yours.

🏡 Chapter 3: Dream House

How women have transformed Microsoft from the inside out, turning every space into one of creativity, belonging, and leadership.

⚖️ Chapter 4: Diversity—Damned if You Do, Damned if You Don’t

Beyond corporate buzzwords—what real diversity, equity, and inclusion look like in tech.

🦸 Chapter 5: Resilience and the Bias Monster

Stories of women who refused to be sidelined by bias and how they turned barriers into breakthroughs.

📝 Chapter 6: Write Your Story, or Someone Else Will

A call to action: Own your narrative, or risk letting someone else write it for you.

😂 Chapter 7: Let’s Laugh at Perfectionism

Why perfectionism is the enemy of progress—and how women in tech have broken free from its grip.

🔥 Chapter 8: Stay on Fire but Don’t Burn Out

Balancing ambition and well-being—because burnout isn’t a badge of honor.

📚 Chapter 9: Learn-HER-Alls

How Microsoft’s culture of learning has empowered women to evolve, grow, and lead.

👑 Chapter 10: Fitting Room—The Shapes and Sizes of Leadership

Redefining leadership—on your own terms, in your own way.

🚀 Chapter 11: Get That Promotion

Lessons from women who took bold career leaps and climbed the corporate ladder.

🔮 Chapter 12: To Microsoft and Beyond

A glimpse into the next 50 years—AI, quantum, cloud, and the women leading the charge.

Why This Matters to Empressa

As we celebrate Microsoft’s 50-year milestone, we recognize that the future of tech is being written now. The Women of Microsoft is a testament to the trailblazers who paved the way—and a challenge to all of us to continue shaping what comes next.

At Empressa, we believe that every woman’s expertise deserves recognition, protection, and compensation. Just like this book ensures the stories of Microsoft’s women aren’t forgotten, Empressa ensures that women’s knowledge is safeguarded, monetized, and used to empower the next generation.

“Women have always been at the forefront of innovation. Now, we make sure their names are, too.”📖 Pre-order your copy HERE  and join the movement.

Ready to Shape the Next 50 Years of Women in Tech?

At Empressa, we don’t just tell women’s stories—we ensure they’re recognized, valued, and rewarded. Just like The Women of Microsoft honors the past and future of women in tech, Empressa empowers you to safeguard your expertise, connect with a global network, and build your legacy.

💡 Want to turn your insights into impact?
🔗 Join the Imperial Council today and take your place among the leaders shaping the future.