MENTHER TECHNOLOGY
Overcoming Mental Health
O
n August 25 and 26 2021 AB4IR hosted the Worldwide Women in Innovation, Incubation and Technology Summit (W-WIITS). The intention of this summit is to rewrite the narrative on inclusivity of women in the ICT sector. The platform challenges the digital gender stereotypes and advocates for more women entrepreneurs in the digital space. At this event we had Ms Siphokazi Simandla; Managing Director: Bolunga Systems & e-Waste Social Enterprise as the keynote speaker. Ms Simandla is a well-rounded woman who has earned her accolades. During her address, she challenged the audience around the world to be their “sister’s keeper”. This is a concept so common and yet so vague in the
life we live. Concepts such as women in gaming, technology, drones, animation and so on, were created to consciously make room for women in spaces that were predominately male oriented, and women were considered inferior. Throughout history there has been specific moulds for men and women.
Technology like many other fields were moulded for men. Over the years the notion was challenged. Having walked the streets and platforms of women in this that and the other, I could not help but taste the loneliness and hardship that comes with it. One walks into a boardroom and is the only woman there. You state your point only to have it rejected then rephrased and celebrated as remarkable because it fell out of the lips of a man. Right there you want to say; “that is exactly what I just said.” At that moment, you wish you could make a face or gesture or anything at someone that sees things same way you do, another woman. Just this act can affect your mental wellbeing and affect your self-esteem
Inspire | Connect | Empower
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