Introducing Joyce Chu, NSW Branch Executive Committee

ACS NSW is excited to introduce a new Branch Executive Committee member, Joyce Chu. In this profile, Joyce demonstrates her passion for technology as a vehicle for transformation and social impact. As a self-identified creator and connected, her advice is to back yourself and be optimistic about the future and the myriad possibilities it holds.

Briefly describe your career history. What has been your contribution to the ICT community?

I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of technology, people, and purpose.

My journey in tech began as a Product Owner, where I worked at the crossroads of technology and human desires. I didn’t see technology as just a tool but a vehicle for transformation-something that could empower, connect, and reshape the way we work, live, and experience the world. That curiosity led me deeper into tech for social impact, where my work centres on designing information systems that solve real-world problems and create tangible value for users by leveraging information and optimising processes.

All of my work is driven by a simple idea: technology serves people, it is a medium for human connection, not a replacement for it. And this principle has shaped my practice over the years, namely developing gender equity tech solutions in United Nations startup incubation program, launching Ganesh-an inclusive database for fraud prevention, driving program design at Techies Without Borders (TWB)- a global CME non-profit, and conducting public healthcare systems research in underserved regions.

I’ve consistently dedicated my career to making technology accessible, ethical, and impactful, particularly in resource-constrained environments and diverse cultural landscapes. Now, as an ACS Executive Committee member, I see an incredible opportunity to continue bringing fresh ideas, bold conversations, and meaningful changes alongside our ICT community.

What is something that you are really proud of?

If you ask me what I’m most proud of, it’s never been titles or awards. It’s the impact.

It’s the moment I see floods of people registering to share their personal stories, knowing their voices will help shape better, more inclusive solutions. It’s the genuine engagement I witness when a technology proposal resonates with its users. It’s knowing that my contribution to bringing medical devices to rural clinics means better insights, enhanced patient care, and real, life-changing results. The rewarding moment is witnessing how thoughtful, human-centred design can give people more options, control, and opportunities.

I don’t believe in technology for technology’s sake. I believe in designing solutions that enrich lives when technology opens doors of possibilities and enables a life worth living, not just automating for the sake of ‘convenience’.

What are you passionate about?

At core, I’m a creator and connector.

I’m passionate about using technology as a bridge, not just between people, but between ideas, cultures, and possibilities. It’s important to remember that technology is a tool, not a destination. Technology should not only be innovative (something that has never existed before). Beyond being functional, it should be inclusive, intuitive, and empowering. It must solve real-world problems and leave no one behind. And therefore, it has to start with the people, and for the people.

I love talking to people, and I thrive on conversations. I enjoy learning about their challenges, dreams and realities and then designing solutions that fi t their worlds. To me, great design gives people more choices, more power, and better ways to shape their own future. That’s what excites me. That’s what keeps me going.

What advice would you provide to someone just starting their career?

If I could offer just one piece of advice, it would be to trust yourself and trust in the possibilities ahead of you. Life is beautiful and full of potential, but we don’t know what we don’t know. That’s why it’s essential to stay curious, work hard, explore relentlessly, and persevere until you bring your vision to life.

One of my favourite authors, Noam Chomsky, says: “Optimism is a strategy for making a better future. Because unless you believe that the future can be better, you are unlikely to step up and take responsibility for making it so.” So dare to dream, make your beliefs work for you, not the other way around. Life is ever-changing, but as long as you trust yourself, you will do great!

What do you want your legacy at ACS to be?

The next big thing in technology isn’t just AI, automation, or any alien innovation. It’s about understanding the human side of technology: how gender, culture, and identity shape access, adoption, and impact each other. I’m deeply invested in studying how we can design technology that gives people more decision-making power, especially in underrepresented communities. Because the future of ICT isn’t just about what we build, it’s about why, and who we build it for.

What do you think the next big thing is? Views for the future

I want my time at ACS to spark conversations that matter, about diversity, ethics, digital transformation, and the role of ICT in strengthening human connections. I want to shape an industry where diverse voices are heard, innovation is purposeful, and technology is a force for equity and empowerment.