Powering the next generation of women in technology
Through her NGO ‘Women's Innovative Tech’ Nènè Aissata aims to close the digital gender gap and for girls to play a key role in Guinea's tech industry.
Driven by a strong ambition to encourage girls to pursue careers in technology, Nènè Aissata started her own NGO ‘Women’s Innovative Tech’ to create an inclusive environment where women can not only thrive, but also make a significant contribution to innovation and digital transformation in Guinea.
“I want a world where women are fully represented and valued in the field of technology; a world where they hold leadership positions and actively contribute to innovation and the creation of technological solutions for development,” says Nènè Aissata.
When women and girls have access to career opportunities in the information, communication and technology (ICT) industry, they can make a significant contribution to the workplace. ICT is revolutionising the human experience and transforming lives around the world, but many women in Guinea often find themselves on the wrong side of the digital divide simply because of their gender.
Increasing women’s representation in the tech industry
Despite the growing importance of technology in our daily lives and careers, women’s representation in the industry remains limited, particularly in Guinea. “I’ve been interested in technology ever since I was at secondary school, so it’s an area that’s close to my heart and one that I’m fighting to get more girls interested in,” explains Nènè Aissata.
Setting up the Women’s Innovative Tech organisation 4 years ago, Nènè Aissata’s goal is to see women play a key role part in the tech industry. “I am passionate about research and innovation and I want to succeed in encouraging women and girls to love and invest in technology.”
Currently studying computer engineering at the International School of Business and Technology, Nènè Aissata hopes to become an IT project manager when she graduates, and inspire the next generation of young women leaders.
“My life principle has always been to learn as much as possible by being curious and courageous, so I advise girls to learn as much as possible at school and in the trades, because that’s the best way for us to assert ourselves. Today we have access to the internet, which is a powerful tool for education, so let’s make the most of it to achieve our ambitions,” urges Nènè Aissata.
Girls in ICT Day event
Plan International recently worked alongside the Women’s Innovative Tech group to organise an event to mark Girls in ICT Day. “Plan International has shown its confidence in us by helping us to celebrate this day. The organisation worked with us to organise an event, and we thank them for all their actions for girls in our country,” shares Nènè Aissata.
The event in Conakry brought together girls and female professionals who are leaders in ICT, from organisations ranging from government ministries to tech companies and UN agencies. “Today, information and communication technology is a necessary step for the development of our nation, which is why we strongly encourage young girls to take an interest in this sector,” says Néné Aissata.
Closing the digital gender gap
The day was an opportunity for girls and young women to be inspired by speakers from the information, communication and technology sector. Discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities for women in ICT in Guinea and around the world with speakers encouraging the girls to take an interest in ICT so they can contribute to the development of the country.
Plan International’s Country Director in Guinea, Evariste Sindayigaya, who was a guest speaker at the event, asked the young women to challenge the stereotypes and gender norms placed on them by society. “Invest in digital knowledge and skills that expand your perspectives”, he said. “Girls and young women have the right to equal opportunities, the right to access, use, lead and design technology and innovation in a safe and meaningful manner.”
By harnessing the power of technology, we want to close the digital gender gap and create a world where women can reimagine their future and see ICT as an inclusive, working environment for all.
“True happiness does not come from things or people around us, but from our own way of thinking and seeing life,” says Nènè Aissata. “This saying reminds us that women and girls hold the power to change things and to fight for a better future.”
Categories: Youth empowerment
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