Femmes Digitales- Supporting Women in Tech Public Union in collaboration with SHE (Smart, Happy, Equal) Congress, presented a thought-provoking TECH panel session aimed at advancing gender equality in the technology industry. Held on May 17, 2023, at the JW Marriott Absheron Baku, SHE Congress has established itself as the region’s premier women’s leadership event, fostering personal and professional development for women while promoting gender parity.
Themed “OWN YOUR LIFE” this year’s Congress will feature an intensive program designed to motivate women and encourage them to embrace their capabilities. Distinguished speakers from various industries and countries including Hijran Huseynova – Member of Parliament, Head of the Committee for Family, Women and Children; Michael Nehrbass – Mission Director, USAID/Azerbaijan; Gulem Kaya Ozden – Regional Head of Brand, BOSCH; Orkhan Mammadov – Chairman, KOBIA; Soraya Beheshti – Managing Director of Crimson Education, EMEA Region; Tatyana Mikayilova – Founder, Azerbaijan Business Women, and others delivered engaging presentations, fostering inspiration and empowerment. The event will also include panel discussions and valuable networking opportunities.
Femmes Digitales Public Union, with the financial support of USAID/Azerbaijan Private Sector Development project, actively contributed to SHE Congress by presenting the “Female make ICT, STEAM, Tech and AI” panel session. This initiative aligned with the objectives of the Azerbaijan Women’s National Business Agenda, aiming to raise awareness in the ICT industry.
The panel consisted of experts in the TECH industry, including diversity and inclusion advocates, and C-level male and female leaders from prominent tech companies panelists including Fidan Farzaliyeva –Advisor to the Minister and Head of HR, Ministry of Digital Development and Transport; Jana Krimpe – Founder and CEO, B.EST Solutions, Founder and Chair of Femmes Digitales Public Union; Leyla Nasrullayeva – Commercial Director, Eurodesign CSC, Board Member of AKTA; Eldar Jahangirov – General Director, Span Azerbaijan and moderator Hayala Nagiyeva – Member of the Executive Board, PASHA Bank OJSC.
During the panel session, the experts analyzed the gender gap and gender-based pay gap in the TECH field, sharing their experiences and insights. They explored strategies to enhance company practices and discussed the challenges that hinder women’s career progression in the industry, starting from childhood. The panelists also emphasized the benefits of fostering a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture, highlighting its positive impact on company performance.
The main goal of the panel session is to raise awareness among decision makers, identify challenges and opportunities for strengthening women’s positions in the TECH sector, engage in dialogue, and establish best practices to regulate this high-demand issue. Additionally, the launch of an advocacy and awareness campaign on social media is planned to amplify the panel’s impact. Following this session, successful practices and achievements will be shared through social media channels the Femmes Digitales website (www.femmesdigitales.az).
SHE Congress 2023 serves as a catalyst for positive change, driving progress towards Sustainable Development Goals #5 – gender equality – and other SDGs. By empowering women and advocating for a more equitable TECH industry, the event contributes to creating a sustainable world.
