Why communities are key for female tech experts looking to lead

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As a proud Nigerian woman, I believe empowering the greatest and most diverse number of people is essential to building a better future for all. My commitment to innovation and inclusivity has been a cornerstone of my tech advocacy, and I’m passionate about empowering female tech experts and connecting them in communities. 

As a Director at Women Who Code in Barcelona, I  actively work towards empowering women in the tech industry. I am  a changemaker on World Pulse, where I consistently champion inclusion in the tech sector, underscoring technology’s pivotal role in shaping a better world. That’s why alongside my advocacy work, I’m studying for a doctorate in communication. My research is centred around leveraging technology to enhance digital literacy.

I joined Outvise’s Tora Karlborg in the Outvise Insights podcast to talk about empowering female tech entrepreneurs, the significance of communities as support pillars, and how we can nurture growth and advocate for women in technology. You can listen to the full interview on Google, Apple, and Spotify podcasts. 

Or, to find out more about my perspective, keep reading. In this article, I’ll share why I think diverse tech teams are the key to innovation and the communities female tech professionals can join to develop their careers.

Diversity and innovation go hand-in-hand

Diversity is a driving force behind innovation. When diverse teams unite individuals with distinct perspectives, varied experiences and diverse problem-solving approaches, the result is an environment ripe for novel solutions and products. This principle stands as an undeniable truth in the tech industry.

When cultivating an inclusive work environment, it is imperative to achieve near-equal representation of women and men. The significance of balanced gender representation in the tech industry will inevitably create more supportive and inclusive workplaces. This equilibrium forms the bedrock for fostering an atmosphere conducive to growth and innovation. 

For instance, female tech experts will be integral in addressing biases ingrained in technology. Technology is, in many ways, far from neutral. It can harbour biases in seemingly innocuous elements like algorithms or software codes. A diverse workforce is a crucial asset in identifying and mitigating these biases, especially in the age of AI. The absence of such diversity may lead to unintentional biases in products and services, potentially impacting specific user groups.

Moreover, diverse teams that include women with unique skills and approaches are more effective in addressing challenges. Their ability to tackle problems from different perspectives culminates in comprehensive and practical solutions, creating a synergistic effect when combined with the skills of their male counterparts.

The impact extends beyond tackling bias and finding solutions to wider economic empowerment. Augmenting the representation of women in the tech sector becomes a catalyst for economic empowerment, offering women access to high-paying jobs and opportunities for career progression. This contributes to a more equitable distribution of wealth and resources, actively participating in reducing economic disparities.

What do women in tech groups do?

Role models are essential to encouraging more women into the industry. But how many female tech founders are there? There are, in fact, many. Some of the most inspiring scientists of the past century have been female; today, women act as trailblazers in the industry..  

The visibility of women as role models in technology serves as a beacon, inspiring more women and girls to embark on careers in STEM. Increased representation is a powerful antidote to stereotypes, exemplifying that women can not only navigate but excel in these fields. It’s essential that we, as female tech professionals, get together to get the message out there.

This is where supportive communities stand as instrumental in empowering women to assume leadership roles within the tech industry. Communities such as Women Who Code contribute substantially to the professional and personal development of women in technology. In my experience, these communities are indispensable in several aspects.

Networking

The first is networking, a lynchpin of professional advancement. Mutually supportive communities provide opportunities for women to connect with peers, mentors, and industry professionals, offering a platform for exchanging ideas, career advice and job opportunities. As a first-timer in  Barcelona, the communities I joined played a crucial role in making me feel welcome and empowered, opening avenues for networking that proved invaluable in my tech journey.

Mentorship

Mentorship and guidance form another integral aspect. Many female tech professional communities, including those mentioned, administer mentorship programmes where experienced professionals guide women navigating their tech careers. Mentorship proves instrumental in helping women overcome challenges, set career goals and gain insights from industry veterans who have successfully navigated the field.

Job opportunities and professional development

These communities create a space where women can access job opportunities and career support. Communities, such as Women Who Code, CodeWomen or TechFems serve as platforms to share job openings, internships and information about career events. They offer essential career support services like resume reviews, interview preparation and career counselling. 

These communities are also packed with opportunities for skill development and training, whether they’re organised by the community itself or a third party. Workshops, training sessions, and skill-building events enhance technical knowledge and leadership capabilities. Plus, enhanced access to educational resources and continuous learning opportunities ensures that women in tech remain competitive and advance in their careers.

Visibility

Visibility and recognition emerge as empowering forces. These communities actively promote the achievements and contributions of women in tech, increasing their visibility in the industry. For instance, the recognition I received through the Women Who Code platform has significantly elevated my profile. These communities counter stereotypes and biases by fostering an environment where women’s expertise is not only acknowledged but valued.

Feeling at home

Creating safe spaces for sharing experiences is a cornerstone of female-focused tech communities. Many women in tech suffer from imposter syndrome, but by fostering positive and encouraging environments, these communities empower women to overcome challenges, build confidence and grow resilience. 

Celebrating achievements, no matter how small, becomes a shared endeavour, reinforcing the importance of mutual support. In these communities, we can be each others’ biggest cheerleaders, recognising that self-empowerment is key when external validation might be lacking.

Work-life balance is an often-discussed topic in these forums, acknowledging the unique challenges women often face in juggling multiple responsibilities. These communities provide members with environments where they can candidly discuss challenges, share experiences and seek advice without fear of judgement. Such spaces foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie, alleviating the isolation that some women may experience in male-dominated tech environments.

Female tech communities to check out

The role of communities in empowering women in tech is multifaceted, encompassing networking, mentorship, skill development, visibility, and the creation of safe spaces. Their significance resonates in the transformative impact they have on the professional journey of women in technology.

These tech communities also act as dynamic hubs, not confined only to individuals directly involved in technology. The broader spectrum includes those in marketing, sales, and other fields, bringing diverse skills and valuable perspectives. They showcase that anyone passionate about empowering women in tech can play a crucial role, irrespective of their specific technical expertise.

The world of women’s tech communities is extensive, offering many opportunities for freelancers to join and engage. Here are some notable groups if you’re considering growing your network. 

1. Women Who Code. Of course, I have to mention Women Who Code! We’re a premier community fostering women’s participation in technology, providing networking, mentorship and skill development opportunities.

2. Women in Tech Forum. Based in London, the Women in Tech Forum aims to support women worldwide at all stages of their careers in companies of any size. 

3. Google Women Techmakers. Affiliated with Google, Google Women Techmakers focuses on empowering women in tech through various programs, resources, and events.

4. Women Go Tech. Operating in the Baltics, Women Go Tech stands out for its impactful programs transcending the European landscape. They offer valuable opportunities for career development.

These are just a few examples, and the list goes on. National programmes, like the Women in Tech programme in Africa, further demonstrate the widespread availability of communities dedicated to supporting women in tech globally. Or, for changemakers in any field, World Pulse is a global community uniting women from around the world, serving as a platform to connect, share experience and support one another. 

What can the industry do to support female tech talent?

We can do our bit to encourage, support and advocate for each other, but there are essential moves the industry needs to make to make this innovation-rich future a reality. A key initiative is to increase representation across all levels, from entry positions to leadership roles. Efforts to attract women to STEM education and initiatives for retention and advancement within tech companies can foster a more balanced industry. Diverse leadership teams are a crucial part of this vision, associated with better decision-making and innovation, ultimately leading to the success of tech companies.

A crucial aspect of this future is closing the gender pay gap. Ongoing efforts to address gender disparities and achieve pay parity contribute to creating fair and inclusive work environments and attracting top talent. Inclusive work cultures that value diversity and provide equal opportunities for career growth are envisioned, fostering creativity, collaboration and employee satisfaction.

Supportive policies and practices are essential. Tech companies are urged to adopt and enforce policies addressing biases, promoting work-life balance and creating environments conducive to women’s success. Initiatives such as flexible work arrangements, mentorship programs and family-friendly policies are essential for a more supportive workplace.

The future’s bright, the future is female

Ethical and inclusive technology development will be integral to building a brighter future, with women in tech well-positioned to contribute. We must build diverse teams to mitigate algorithm biases and ensure fairness in AI applications. I envision a collaborative future where women worldwide can work together on projects, share experiences, and contribute to interconnected and innovative tech ecosystems.

The future should see tech education accessible to all, breaking down gender stereotypes and encouraging girls and women to pursue STEM paths. Collaborative communities are essential for the growth of women in tech, providing mentorship, knowledge sharing, and a sense of belonging within the industry.

The overall outlook is positive, bright and optimistic. The journey towards this future is seen as a gradual progression, but whether by walking or flying, we must emphasise that the brightness of that future depends on our collective actions now. This vision aims to inspire and reassure, recognising the importance of support for female tech experts and the potential for a vibrant and inclusive future.