A Tapestry of Voices: A South African Fellow’s Perspective on the Techwomen Alumnae Summit

I am still buzzing with inspiration after attending the Techwomen Alumnae Summit held from December 4-6, 2024, in Casablanca, Morocco. This incredible event brought together over 200 alumnae fellows and mentors from 21 countries, creating a vibrant atmosphere of shared experiences and collaboration. As a South African fellow who participated in the Techwomen Programme in 2013, this summit was extremely special for me. The programme not only transformed my career but also ignited my passion for empowering women in technology.

Attending the summit felt like coming full circle, as I reunited with alumnae who have also transformed their lives through this initiative. The sense of community was palpable, the energy electric and it was heartwarming to see how many of us have grown and evolved since our time in the program. Each story shared was a testament to the power of mentorship and support that the Techwomen initiative fosters. The connections made during the summit were not just professional; they were deeply personal, reminding us all of our shared mission to uplift one another in our journeys.

 For me, this summit was more than just an event; it was a celebration of resilience, innovation, and the unwavering spirit of women striving for excellence in their fields.

Key Themes from the Summit

1.     Women Leaders in STEM

The summit highlighted the vital role of mentorship in creating an environment where women can thrive in STEM fields. Engaging discussions emphasised strategies for increasing female representation and the importance of establishing pathways for young women to enter these industries. The call to action was clear: active support and mentorship for the next generation of female leaders are essential for sustained progress.

2.     Entrepreneurship Sessions

Insightful sessions on entrepreneurship showcased the summit's commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among women in technology. By focusing on practical funding strategies and sharing real-life journeys of successful entrepreneurs, these sessions aimed to equip us with the tools and inspiration necessary to pursue their business aspirations. The emphasis on tailored funding approaches reiterated the diverse challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, while personal narratives from panellists motivated us to overcome obstacles in their entrepreneurial journey.

3.     AI Sessions

Sessions aimed at improving our understanding of AI addressed both practical applications and critical ethical considerations surrounding its use. The emphasis on responsible AI practices highlighted the importance of ethical data collection and governance, particularly in emerging economies where regulatory frameworks are still developing. Wiebke Hutiri 's session sparked engaging debates and banter on ethical standards, accountability in AI, and how AI development can create lasting local economic opportunities.

4.     Pitch Competition

Another exciting aspect of the summit was the pitch competition, which not only showcased the entrepreneurial spirit among the fellows but also demonstrated how technology can be leveraged to solve some of the most pressing societal challenges. This platform allowed fellows to present their ideas to a panel of judges, creating a spirit of entrepreneurship and creativity. The diversity of pitches ranged from smart irrigation systems designed to optimise water usage in agriculture to digital finance solutions aimed at empowering women artisans.

I have to mention the inspiring pitch by Luleka Mkuzo PhD and Zandile Mboshane from South Africa, who pitched the UrGlobal Network. This social enterprise leverages technology and community engagement to address social and educational injustices that disadvantage rural communities. Their mission resonated deeply with me, especially coming from the Eastern Cape Province, where many of the challenges they highlighted are all too familiar.

 Luleka and Zandile articulated the pressing issues faced by their communities, stating, “We don’t come alone; we stand with traditional councils, 867,000 rural community members, 685,000 rural young people, and 2,400 teachers who have tech gadgets but no idea how to use them. Rural families survive on R800.00 or less per month.” Their words painted a vivid picture of the struggles many face and highlighted the urgent need for solutions that empower these communities through education and technology.

5.     Networking Opportunities

The summit provided invaluable networking opportunities that allowed participants to connect with fellow alumnae and mentors. These interactions were instrumental in sharing experiences, discussing challenges, and celebrating successes within our respective fields. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and support, reinforcing the idea that we are stronger together. Many attendees left with new connections that could lead to future collaborations or mentorship opportunities, further enhancing our professional networks.

6.     Cultural Exchange

During the cultural activities, we had the chance to explore some of Casablanca's most iconic sites. We visited the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, known for its breathtaking architecture and intricate tile work. Standing on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, it was a powerful reminder of Morocco's deep cultural roots and architectural prowess.

Another highlight was wandering through the Old Medina, where narrow streets are lined with vibrant souks selling everything from spices to handcrafted goods. This immersive experience allowed us to appreciate the local craftsmanship and engage with artisans, allowing for a deeper understanding of Moroccan traditions. 

We also enjoyed a stroll through Parc de la Ligue Arabe, a beautiful urban park in the heart of Casablanca. The park is filled with lush gardens, palm trees, and fountains, providing a serene environment for reflection and conversation.

I am extremely grateful to the amazing team from the U.S. Department of State and the Institute of International Education(IIE) for making this transformative experience possible. Your commitment to empowering women globally has had a profound impact on many lives, including mine. The support provided through this program has been instrumental in promoting personal and professional growth for countless women across various countries.

Overall, my experience at the Techwomen Alumnae Summit was profound. It was a reminder of the power of community, mentorship, and shared purpose among women leaders in STEM. As we reflected on our journeys, Marissa Scott, the US Consul General to Casablanca, inspired us with her powerful closing remarks which she wrapped up with this fierce quote: “Whatever you choose as your life's work, do it well. Don't be content with sheer mediocrity. Do your job so well that the host of heaven and earth will say here lies a woman who did her job so well that the heaven and the stars will say that it cannot, it will not ever be excelled.” 

 The meaningful connections and the insights gained during the summit will undoubtedly inspire me for years to come as I continue my journey in technology and leadership. This summit has truly invigorated me to stand tall and reaffirm my committed to uplifting others along the way, ensuring that we all contribute to a future where women in STEM thrive and realise that we have a voice and have been called to lead with confidence and purpose.