Introduction to the Partnership
Supple, a leading tech company, has announced a strategic partnership with the TechnoGirl Trust to provide job-shadowing opportunities for 10 young women in South Africa. This initiative is a significant step towards addressing the gender disparity in the tech sector by empowering young women and supporting their career development. The program, set to begin in September 2024, will run three times a year over the next four years, offering participants invaluable insights into the tech industry.
Program Overview and Objectives
The partnership between Supple and TechnoGirl Trust is designed to expose young women to the various career opportunities in the tech sector. As these 10 participants embark on their journey, they will gain first-hand experience in different tech roles, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in this male-dominated industry. The structured job-shadowing program will continue until December 2027, aligning with the girls' high school completion.
Addressing Gender Disparity in Tech
Lea-Anne Moses, COO of Supple, highlighted the critical need to address the gender disparity in the tech sector. In South Africa, women represent only 23% of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) roles, with particularly low participation in emerging technologies such as cloud computing (14%) and artificial intelligence (28%). Moses emphasized that this imbalance is not due to a lack of ability among women but rather the underrepresentation in the industry.
"Male dominance in many industries is often mistaken for superior ability," said Moses. "Increasing the number of women pursuing careers in tech will help eliminate this imbalance."
Innovative Approach to Learning
In addition to job-shadowing, Supple is customizing the program to include a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. Participants will engage in hackathons and innovation labs, working on real-world problems, particularly those affecting South Africa. The program aims to foster a forward-thinking mindset and encourage a business-oriented approach within the tech industry.
"We're not just offering job-shadowing opportunities; we're customizing the program to support innovation and entrepreneurship," said Moses. "Participants will receive guidance on how to turn their ideas into actionable solutions."
Mentorship and Holistic Development
Each participant will be paired with dual mentors who will provide guidance not only in technical skills but also in leadership, career planning, and understanding the broader business landscape. This mentorship approach ensures that the young women receive a well-rounded development experience, preparing them to excel in the tech industry.
Supporting TechnoGirl Trust’s Mission
Beyond the job-shadowing program, Supple is also contributing to the TechnoGirl Trust by developing a platform to manage their student database and alumni network more efficiently. This initiative reflects Supple's commitment to advancing the next generation of women in tech while enhancing the operational capabilities of organizations that support them.
Expanding Horizons in the Tech Ecosystem
Prof. Eldrid Jordaan, CEO and Co-Founder of Supple, emphasized the diverse opportunities available within the tech sector, beyond technical roles. The industry offers various career paths, including management, marketing, finance, and human resources, all of which are essential for the growth of the tech ecosystem.
"We must ensure that these doors are held open for young women in South Africa," said Jordaan. "By providing these opportunities, we help them realize their potential while contributing to the growth of a more inclusive and innovative industry."
A Vision for the Future
Moses envisions this initiative as a catalyst for redefining the role of women in tech in South Africa. She emphasized the importance of creating environments where women can excel and lead with confidence, ensuring that the future of tech is more inclusive.
"The future of tech must be more inclusive," said Moses. "We must create spaces where everyone can thrive."
