Kgothatso Monono
The Tshwane University of Technology, Faculty of Information and Communication Technology’s "Girls in Tech”, hosted a panel discussion at the Soshanguve South Campus to celebrate Women’s Month and empower women in technology.
The event brought together students, faculty members and industry professionals to honour the contributions of women in the field of technology and to inspire the next generation of female tech leaders.
Students, Faculty members, and Industry professionals who attended the panel discussion
The Girls in Tech initiative, a cornerstone of the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, aims to empower young women pursuing careers in technology by providing them with the tools, resources and mentorship necessary to succeed in this dynamic field. The Women’s Month celebration was a testament to the initiative’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for female students in ICT.
In her welcome address, Professor Joey Jansen van Vuuren from Computer Sciences, provided a summary of the historical challenges women have faced in the computing field over years. She highlighted the importance of women trusting and believing in themselves, as they possess more power than they realise.
The event featured a lineup of inspiring speakers, including successful females in the industry who shared their journeys and insights. They discussed the challenges they faced in the male-dominated tech industry and how they overcame these through perseverance, innovation and the support of mentors and allies.
Jeanet Rapetswa and Dr Phumzile Mtseteka, both Faculty of Information and Communication Technology graduates, detailed their career paths in the tech sector. They highlighted the significance of being authentic and remaining steadfast in achieving their aspirations. Their success in their respective roles illustrates that TUT is adept at producing well-prepared graduates who are ready for the future.
Dr Noxolo Kubheka Dlamini, Chief Digital and Information Officer at Telkom, delivered the keynote, passionately advocating how to handle failure in personal and professional development.
She stressed that failure is a learning experience and a path to increased strength and resilience, not a fatal obstacle. Dr Dlamini highlighted the value of time, noting that it is irreplaceable once lost. She urged students to use their time wisely, since consistent effort and dedication lead to inevitable outcomes, whether positive or negative.
In addition to the speeches, the panel discussion provided ample networking opportunities through question and answer session, allowing students to connect with industry professionals and have a better understanding of the field and how to cope as a woman in an industry known to be male dominated. The session was crucial for young women entering the tech field, as it provided the guidance and support needed to navigate the challenges of the industry.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, initiatives like Girls in Tech will play an essential role in shaping a more inclusive and diverse future.
The Faculty of Information and Communication Technology’s commitment to empowering women through education, mentorship and community-building activities is paving the way for a new generation of female tech leaders who will drive innovation and change in the years to come.