Young Women In Tech Face Challenges Under Faculty Of ICT Hacker Society

Young Women In Tech Face Challenges Under Faculty Of ICT Hacker Society. The Hacker Society of the Faculty of ICT at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) hosted an inspiring event titled “Why Women” at the Student Centre in Soshanguve South. This initiative was designed to highlight the underrepresentation of women in the tech industry, a critical issue that has been gaining attention globally. The event not only provided a platform for women to share their experiences and challenges but also aimed to inspire young women to pursue careers in technology.
The Importance of Representation
The tech industry has historically been male-dominated, leading to a lack of female role models for aspiring young women. Events like “Why Women” play a vital role in addressing this imbalance by showcasing successful women in tech who can serve as mentors and inspiration. The Hacker Society, in collaboration with Girl-Code and supported by sponsors like eTalente and Enviro365 IT Solutions, aimed to create a supportive community that uplifts women in technology.
Event Highlights
Engaging Speakers and Interactive Sessions
The “Why Women” event featured a diverse lineup of speakers who shared their personal journeys in the tech field. Notable moments included an address by Pearl Mahlanga, a facilitator at Girl-Code, who emphasized the importance of finding one’s path in the tech industry. She encouraged attendees to embrace their unique journeys and seek out opportunities for growth and learning.
Tshegofatso Dingaan, a developer at Enviro365 IT Solutions, spoke candidly about overcoming imposter syndrome, a common challenge that many women in tech face. Her insights resonated with many attendees, as she shared strategies for building confidence and self-advocacy in a competitive environment.
Gugu Mokwena, an IBM Administrator Intern at WeThinkCode, also addressed the audience, discussing the unique challenges women encounter in tech. She highlighted the importance of letting one’s work speak for itself, especially in an industry where women often feel scrutinized. Her message of resilience and determination inspired many young women in attendance.
Networking Opportunities
The event also featured interactive networking sessions that allowed participants to connect and forge valuable relationships. These sessions were designed to facilitate discussions about career paths, mentorship opportunities, and industry trends. Attendees provided positive feedback, noting that they felt more confident and motivated to pursue careers in technology after engaging with the speakers and fellow participants.
Challenges Faced by Women in Tech
Recognizing the unique challenges that women face in the tech industry is crucial for fostering an inclusive environment. Limited access to resources, mentorship, and professional networks can hinder women’s progress in technology careers. The Hacker Society developed the “Why Women” initiative to bridge these gaps and create a supportive community for women in tech.
Addressing Access to Resources
One of the main challenges identified during the event was the lack of access to resources. Many young women in tech reported feeling isolated and unsure about how to navigate their careers. The Hacker Society is committed to providing resources and support through mentorship programs, workshops, and networking events that empower women to pursue their aspirations.
Mentorship as a Key Component
Mentorship is vital for personal and professional development. By connecting young women with experienced professionals in the tech field, mentorship programs can help foster growth and confidence. The “Why Women” event emphasized the importance of building a network of female mentors who can provide guidance, encouragement, and support as young women navigate their careers in tech.
Future Initiatives
Building on the success of the “Why Women” event, the Hacker Society plans to host similar initiatives aimed at empowering young women in technology. Upcoming workshops will focus on emerging tech trends, coding skills, and project management, while hackathons will emphasize social impact, encouraging participants to develop solutions for pressing societal issues.
Conclusion
The “Why Women” event at Tshwane University of Technology was a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of women in the tech industry. By highlighting the achievements of successful women, addressing the challenges they face, and fostering a supportive community, the Hacker Society is making significant strides toward increasing female representation in technology.