I recently had the privilege of participating as a speed mentor at the Google Developer Group (GDG) Soweto’s Tech Escape Room event, hosted as part of the global Women Techmakers initiative. This dynamic gathering brought together passionate women in tech to connect, collaborate, and explore cutting-edge Google technologies.Reflecting on the experience, I am filled with both a deep sense of hope and a compelling urgency. The event’s theme, “Redefine Possible,” was more than just a slogan; it was a powerful call to action. It invited us to stretch the boundaries of our imagination and actively co-create a future rooted in inclusion, innovation, and empowerment.
Witnessing women redefining their roles in tech and leading conversations about inclusive digital futures left me inspired and committed to doing more to support this movement. As a data science enthusiast, technologist, and advocate for health equity, my participation in this event was about more than mentoring or tackling technical challenges. It was a powerful reminder that the true potential of technology lies in its ability to connect people, bridge divides, and create opportunities where they’ve long been denied.
“If we truly want to build an inclusive digital future, especially within the employment industry, we must start by reimagining the basics. Inclusion isn’t just about technology or access; it’s also about creating environments where everyone can participate fully. That means ensuring the presence of supportive infrastructure like nearby childcare facilities, gender-neutral restrooms, and dedicated breastfeeding rooms. These are not luxuries; they are essential tools for equity. By addressing such everyday needs, we begin to break down the barriers that prevent women and vulnerable communities from thriving in the modern workforce. This is how we start redefining what’s possible for all,” said Mamotingoe.
This insight cut through the technical dialogue and grounded our conversations in lived realities. It was a reminder that inclusion is not merely a principle; it is a practice that requires intentional policies, thoughtful design, and environments that respect the diverse needs of real people. The event was a wellspring of inspiration, with dynamic leaders and Women Techmakers sharing stories that embodied resilience, innovation, and a bold commitment to building a more inclusive future. These narratives echoed the mission at the heart of our ongoing work around International Women’s Day.
As a Tekano fellow, deeply rooted in advancing health equity and social justice, I felt a powerful alignment between our values and the transformative conversations unfolding in that space. To Redefine Possible means recognising that innovation is incomplete without equity. It means understanding that technology must not only serve the privileged but intentionally uplift those who have been historically excluded. It is a call to lead with empathy, to design with humanity, and to create spaces where every voice has power. My key takeaway is a renewed commitment to advocacy, inclusion, and the bold reimagining of what’s possible, not just in technology but across every system that shapes our lives.
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