One Year Changed How I See the Future of Women in STEM

Last February, I had an automatic switch when I joined Data Girl Technologies. After years in journalism and media, I stepped into the world of STEM, helping Data Girl Technologies share its mission to empower more women in tech.

At first, I saw STEM as a field of endless possibilities. It was difficult navigating through. But as I immersed myself in the work, I saw the challenges that continue to keep many women and girls from fully participating. I met brilliant women with passion, but lacked access to laptops, reliable internet, mentors or even the confidence that they belonged in technology. Sometimes they showed up, other times, they give up their dreams.

Working with Data Girl Technologies transformed the way I see the future. I have witnessed women and girls from non-tech backgrounds code, women who learned that they can create solutions instead of just consuming tech and much more. The workshops, trainings, graduation ceremonies and success stories are a reminder that investing in women in STEM is not charity. It is the smartest investment we can make for our communities and our economies.

When I think about what the future holds for women in STEM, I see a future where women and girls no longer need to ask if they belong in tech. They will know they do. Classrooms will be filled, women will be leading groundbreaking innovations, building startups and creating solutions that solve Africa's most pressing challenges.

This future will require more than technical skills. It will require collaboration, mentorship, leadership, and inclusive policies that ensure no woman is left behind because of her gender, background or financial situation. Hence, organizations, governments, educational institutions and communities all have a role to play in creating this future.

My journey with Data Girl Technologies has shown me that change begins with opportunity. One laptop, mentor, training program can transform and entire family. And when thousands of women are given those opportunities, nations will greatly change.

Now, this is the future I choose to believe in. Where women are shaping tech and not just participating. A future where African women are designing solutions for global challenges, leading and inspiring the next generation to dream even bigger.

As I continue this journey, I remain hopeful because every woman empowered through STEM creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond herself. The future is brighter when women are leading in STEM.

I am not a web developer, cybersecurity expert and so on, but I understand the importance of having representation in tech.

Data Girl is organizing the third edition of the Women in STEM Conference, come November 14, 2026. You could sponsor, partner, volunteer and support the initiative.