Tēnā koe,
This years International Women’s Day (IWD) theme was #EmbraceEquity. In essence, the theme was about why equal opportunities for women aren’t enough. People start from different places, so true inclusion and belonging require equitable action. Equity recognises that each person has different circumstances, and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.
Our work at TechWomen focuses on providing those additional resources and opportunities to the women of Aotearoa. We do this through programmes such as Mentoring Circles, which supports women already in the tech workforce by connecting them with senior leaders in the industry and a peer support group. Many women feel isolated in their workplaces being the minority, and find it hard to find senior women to look up to. This programme seeks to level the playing field and support women to grow and develop themselves in a safe environment. We are delighted to be able to bring back Mentoring Circles again this year. Applications opening soon!
Another programme we are proud of is ShadowTech which shows high school girls the multitude of careers available to them in the tech sector, and breaks down some of the stereotypes and perceived barriers they have to the industry. We are still looking for financial sponsorship for ShadowTech. Thank you so much to those organisations that have already put their hand up, we really appreciate it, but we need more! If you know any organisation who wants to align their brand with ShadowTech and support more young women coming into the tech world, please let them know we need their help. For more information or to register your interest to support, click here.
Ngā mihi
Eva Sherwood
Co-Chair, TechWomen
Read more: #EmbraceEquity
