The way I see it, fear/paranoia of incompetence is common among a great many entry-level developers/engineers, the so-called "imposter syndrome". What I think Bryana did, talk to her manager to find the real reason behind a decision, is what I think anyone, male or female, who has any doubt about their job should do.
Nothing will dispel uncertainty better than getting the facts. The bar was not visibly lowered in Bryana's case. Her manager said the fact she is a woman never crossed his mind in giving her lead on a project. The good work she was putting in over her first year demonstrated to management she was ready to take lead on a project. If we're just honest with each other, we'll all be better off.
Nothing will dispel uncertainty better than getting the facts. The bar was not visibly lowered in Bryana's case. Her manager said the fact she is a woman never crossed his mind in giving her lead on a project. The good work she was putting in over her first year demonstrated to management she was ready to take lead on a project. If we're just honest with each other, we'll all be better off.