Black Americans have demonstrated perseverance, resilience and ingenuity in the technology industry and beyond. Calling upon values, the strength of family and a commitment to serving as examples for others, four Kyndryls share insights into where they came from, what guides their lives and careers, and their visions for the future.
As we celebrate Black History Month, these stories shed light on our interconnectedness and common goals.
Lorenza Surgers
Field Marketing Lead, Technology, Media
and Telecommunications at Kyndryl
Fostering community
I actively promote belonging to all Kyndryls by engaging deeply with our various communities. I host events that foster personal and professional growth for Kyndryls and help celebrate their achievements.
Advancing intergenerational values
I come from a long line of hardworking individuals who bring humility to all their endeavors. My grandfather, the longest-serving employee at Florida A&M University, exemplifies this dedication — and he has no plans to retire, even after 61 years! I strive to embody that same persistence and humility in my personal and professional life.
Best piece of advice
One piece of advice that has profoundly influenced my career is the idea of falling in love with the process, not the result. This mindset has fostered consistent growth and immense satisfaction from the journey itself.
“Embracing a process-driven mindset has enabled me to concentrate on making incremental progress each day.”
Steven J. Gundy, II
Senior Lead, Global Procurement/
Contract Management at Kyndryl
A tradition of service
I am the third generation to serve my country in the U.S. Armed Forces. Both my grandfather and father went on to successful corporate-sector careers after their military service. They were strong and positive role models for me. I’ve always felt it was important for me to be an example for others to follow, as I’ve followed in the footsteps of those who came before me.
Championing inclusion at work
I champion inclusion by looking for opportunities where we can embrace our differences and be bold enough to act in humility when those moments happen. We may not always understand every aspect of it, but we should have an openness toward it.
Sources of inspiration
I draw inspiration from many sources, including my family, community, film, literature and scripture. I feel strongly that if we’re growing, then all things will intersect when and how they should.
Cultural influences
I come from a large, closely knit, multigenerational and culturally diverse family. As a result, I value teamwork and collaboration, which has also shaped my ability to connect with diverse colleagues and clients.
Advice to her younger self
My grandparents instilled in me the importance of recognizing my worth, as others will not if I don’t. They also taught me to embrace change without fear and to decline opportunities that aren’t a good fit, as there will always be more.
Championing inclusion at work
I create an inclusive environment through small, everyday actions like asking someone how to pronounce their name correctly, engaging in continuous learning, and actively supporting and participating in various Kyndryl Inclusion Network (KIN) celebrations and events. Our KINs help to demonstrate genuine allyship and respect.
Harriet-Marcia Shakir
Vice President, Global Strategic
Alliances at Kyndryl
Cultural influences
My cultural heritage is a big part of who I am, so it’s difficult to separate it from my career journey. It’s like asking how having brown eyes or being able-bodied has shaped my career. I can say that I bring my full, authentic self to everything I do, including my joy for life and gratitude for my blessings.
Best piece of advice
My best advice is to always keep learning, lean into change with confidence and stay true to yourself. One book I often recommend is Spencer Johnson’s business fable, "Who Moved My Cheese.” The lessons from this book have been a cornerstone of my career and have served me well.
Championing inclusion at work
My team, which spans 10 countries, reflects tremendous diversity in culture, abilities, ethnicities, gender and experiences. We value every voice equally. We use Design Thinking to ensure everyone is heard, from managers to individual performers. This approach helps us innovate for the future while determining what to keep and what to change.
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