Women in Technology 2020

Shout out to Ayumi Moore Aoki, Founder & President of Women in Tech, H.H. Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority “Shurooq”; H.E. Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Governmental Relations Department in Sharjah; H.E. Sheikha Dr. Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, first  Ministerial post in the UAE, and H.E. Najla Al Midfa, Executive Director of the Sharjah Entrepreneur Center “Sheraa” and the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Complex for hosting one of the most interesting and talked about forums for 2020 and what will most likely still be discussed and influencing its attendees for a some time to come.

The Forum saw the attendance of prominent figures such as global science organizations, women’s empowerment organizations and women entrepreneurs, as well as the directors of Government Authorities and representatives from civil society all brought about by an incredible passion and hope to elevate Women in Tech.

This forum is the first event of its kind in the region. Its importance comes through focusing on women’s leadership in scientific research and technological innovation. The forum plays a significant role in various areas of life and contributes to the leadership of society, embracing a number of global issues that highlight the role of women and their accomplishments with the aim to encourage and enhance a level playing field for Women in Tech. The Forum aims to highlight the role of women in technology and innovation, enhancing their impact at the global level, and maximizing their contributions to social and economic development, as well as inspiring future generations of women to participate actively in building the country.

Key notes coming away were summed up by H.E. Sheikha Lubna AlQasimi, calling on all female attendees to go back into their work place and make time to mentor, encourage and train and upskill one female employment in their organization to encourage women to push themselves further up the corporate hierarchy and into those senior leadership roles.  Sophie Smith, Co-founder and CEO at Nabta Health reminded us of the ‘invisible women’ throughout history which struck a chord with today’s women in Tech and Business. There is a turn in the tide in the right direction and we all play a part if true and real change is to come about. Whatever the journey is ahead of us what is clear is that the Women in Tech Forum is here to stay and for many years to come with I am confident to say we will see many success stories originate from this initiative.

I recommend senior female managers or leaders reading this promote a policy and program in your company today with a focus on supporting females in having a vision and a voice whereby they are encouraged to ‘speak up’ in meetings,  group discussion, company presentations and become visible within the organization as key leadership employees. Trans Skills are happy to look at inhouse training program for your company to enhance and encourage women into a more clear visible leadership role with your organization.