Sorrel Kesby has shared insights on tackling gender inequality in business through AI innovation, following her win at the 2026 Women Leading Tech Awards for Entrepreneur and Founder.
Founder of EvenBetter.ai, Australia’s first AI-powered platform built to diagnose and reduce gender-based pay inequality, Kesby has spent the past year helping organisations understand and act on structural bias in the workplace. Her clients include Knight Frank, Dyno Nobel, Qoria, Fuji Australia, and Teachers Mutual Bank.
Speaking to B&T after accepting the award, Kesby reflected on the journey that brought her to this point.
“Look, it’s taken 15 years of working in the tech industry and recognising that this beautiful industry, just like so many others, requires a lot more female input and a lot more diversity,” she said. “And here we are, and what you guys are doing at B&T each and every year is building that.”
“But there’s still a whole lot more work to do,” she admitted.
Kesby emphasised the real business case for diversity, beyond the social imperative.
“All of the research now shows that businesses that build diverse teams and diverse ways of thinking are better businesses – not just from a vibes thing, but from baseline business metrics: revenue, profit margins, growth,” she said. “Without diverse voices in the room, you are not going to build a business that is representative and servicing your actual customers.”
Her own career path was far from linear. Originally a rugby journalist, Kesby transitioned into digital publishing and then advertising, eventually landing in technology.
“I absolutely didn’t plan to be in tech,” she said. “But I’m absolutely thrilled that it’s where I’ve landed.”
Kesby also highlighted the importance of leadership, mentorship, and modelling the values she advocates for. Through EvenBetter.ai, she is helping women progress in technology, supporting them with practical tools and direct mentorship.
“Building the best teams, leading with resilience, accountability, and focus – that’s what allows change to happen,” she said. “It’s not just about words; it’s about tangible action that drives outcomes for women across organisations.”
