Research shows that technology and an equivalent of related courses are considered to be a “males” forte, besides Kenya being ranked as one of the most digitally advanced nations globally, with internet speeds competing well among global rankings coming 14th in the list of countries offering top mobile internet speeds, we can’t ignore the fact that we haven’t achieved a gender gap in this rapidly growing sectors as technology cuts across almost all the fields.
This challenge is not only experienced in Kenya and Africa in general but also worldwide, with only 20% of women comprising an executive committee globally, 4% CEO positions and 13% board seats. This challenge has called an action and seen a consistent campaign come up, with women in these industries working hard towards bridging the gender gap through available tools, including social media but besides this hyped evangelism, we have witnessed various initiatives being born such as digitizeHer and organizations such as Akirachix who not only offer mentorship but also impact practical technology skills to women for them to thrive in their careers.
In addition to equipping women with skills and mentorship opportunities to empower and make them market ready, Akirachix also aims at maintaining a network of women, who inspire other women and the generations after, and therefore conferences and events such as Africa Women in Tech Conference (AWTC) were born. The AWTC was launched in 2014 and for the last four years, AWTC has been held with different themes and inspirations to help more women access opportunities to connect and learn.
This space offers an environment for women in diverse sectors to share their knowledge on their different fields of expertise, as well as connect and share opportunities, resources and information that exists, through discussions such as securing online space for women, how can women better build and answering critical questions such as how can technology serve and its applications together with its impacts when applied correctly.
Into the bargain, they also invite various startups and organization to showcase their products and/or services, as well as provide hands-on skills to the attendees making them better access opportunities and knowledge. There are no dull moments at AWTC as it is one of its kind which always ends with fun sessions for participants such as entertainment from famous bands.
This year, AWTC will be held on 10th Nov at Radisson Blu. There will be job fairs, tech fairs and various hands-on workshops with sessions from Facebook, Google and more. Also, there will be an awarding of key contributors in the community moreover an invite for women from all over Kenya to present their initiatives.
“Ladies should look forward to a day of amazing hands-on workshops that should inspire them all as well as our first ever award segment recognizing women who continue to excel in various ways. The theme is “celebration” and we really hope that women come out to learn, celebrate and have a good time,” said Nyandia Kamawe, Lead Organizer, AWTC.
Tickets to this year’s AWTC are already on sale for Kes.1500 and can be purchased here.
