Empowering Women in ICT: FEMIN-ICT National Webinars Make Strides
In the dynamic landscape of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), fostering gender inclusivity was not just a goal but a necessity. The FEMIN-ICT project, a collaborative initiative across several European countries, actively addressed this need through a series of national webinars. These events served as powerful platforms to empower women in the ICT sector, break stereotypes, and provide valuable insights.
Cyprus: Negotiation and Assertiveness Skills
The Cyprus-CSI webinar, held online, focused on “Negotiation and Assertiveness Skills,” aiming to empower women in the ICT field. Real-life scenarios were integrated into the presentation, offering practical insights and concrete strategies. Participants left the session equipped with tools to manage challenges, fostering assertiveness and empowerment in the ICT business.
Greece: Tackling Gender Bias in ICT
In Athens, Greece, the STIMMULI-WoT team organized a workshop on “How to tackle gender bias and gender stereotypes in the ICT.” Through engaging activities and discussions, participants explored the underlying issues of gender bias and stereotypes, fostering a deeper understanding. The workshop not only shed light on the urgent need to address these issues but also provided a space for participants to reflect on their experiences.
Italy: Role Models and Networking
In Florence, Italy, CO CO hosted a participatory conference with dynamic sessions, including ice-breaking activities about gender stereotypes and a world café after role model speeches. The day saw representation from various stakeholders, creating a successful networking environment. Testimonies of young women who ventured into STEM paths despite diverse academic backgrounds added inspiration to the event.
Spain: Empowering Women in ICT Leadership
Ikigai in Spain contributed to the project by focusing on the ICT sector’s leadership path for women. By providing insights into personal branding and networking in the digital age, the webinar encouraged participants to build their online and offline presence. The event aimed to break down self-promotion barriers and emphasized the unique role of women in promoting their brands.
Sweden: Self-Branding and Networking
IMPACT HUB in Sweden organized a webinar on “Self-branding and Networking in a Digital Age.” The session delved into the importance of personal branding for women in ICT, addressing self-promotion barriers. Participants engaged in exercises using tools presented, brainstorming their brand in a group activity. The session highlighted the crucial role of personal branding in professional life.
Reflections on the Events
The events generated positive feedback, with participants actively engaging in discussions and activities. The Cyprus webinar, with its focus on negotiation skills, provided practical tools for empowerment. The Greek workshop addressed gender bias, encouraging participants to share experiences and reflect on the impact of stereotypes.
In Italy, the participatory conference brought together a diverse audience, fostering meaningful conversations about challenges and opportunities for women in the ICT sector. The Spanish event on leadership aimed to inspire and equip women with tools for career advancement, while the Swedish webinar emphasized the Nordic perspective on personal branding, providing crucial insights for effective networking.
Moving Forward
These national webinars under the FEMIN-ICT project served as pivotal steps towards a more inclusive ICT sector. By addressing key issues, providing practical tools, and fostering networking opportunities, the project empowered women to navigate and succeed in the digital landscape. The diversity of topics and approaches showcased the multifaceted nature of gender inclusivity in the ICT sector, demonstrating that empowerment came in various forms.
As the project continued its journey, the impact of these webinars would likely resonate, creating a ripple effect in the professional lives of women in the ICT sector. By breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a supportive community, the FEMIN-ICT project contributed significantly to the ongoing dialogue on gender inclusivity in the tech world.
