International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. This year’s theme is #AccelerateAction for gender equality. At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity, according to data from the World Economic Forum. To celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we asked women from all backgrounds, ethnicity and ages to tell us what the day means to them and how they and their organisations are accelerating action.
“Women in tech are still fighting uphill battles—from receiving just 1.8% of venture capital funding to being overlooked for leadership roles. This isn’t just a pipeline issue; it’s a call for action. We know balanced teams drive innovation and profit—so why wait? It's time to invest in women, support mentorship, and build equitable workplaces that empower the next generation of female tech leaders."
Melissa Di Donato
Chair & CEO, Kyriba
“International Women’s Day is a time of reflection, celebrating the progress and achievements of the inspirational women in our lives. Whether it’s the female leaders shaping our future or the next generation breaking into industry, it’s important to use IWD to take stock and champion women, while also acknowledging and road-mapping the work still to be done to promote greater inclusivity over the next year, especially in sectors such as technology.”
Sheila Flavell CBE
COO, FDM Group
“In 1909, New York witnessed the birth of the first-ever Women’s Day. Over a century later, and we’ve made huge strides in addressing the challenges that women face worldwide. But progress remains far too slow. Putting this into perspective, the World Economic Forum predicts that, at our current pace, gender equality won’t be achieved until 2158 – that’s five generations from now. And this assumes that we don’t lose ground, even as hard-won progress faces threats across the globe. That’s why this year’s International Women’s Day theme of ‘Accelerating Action’ is particularly urgent. Because change in gender equality doesn’t just happen by chance. It happens when we actively break down barriers, champion women in leadership, and ensure equal access to opportunities at every level. In payments and fintech – industries built on disruption – we must lead by example, creating workplaces where gender is never a barrier to success. At PayFuture, diversity isn’t just something we talk about, it’s how we operate. Our 100-strong team comprises nearly 50% women, speaking over 20 languages and representing more than 20 nationalities. More than a statistic, diversity is our competitive edge, our lifeblood – and we’re growing fast as a result."
Roxanna Bashir
Chief People & Culture Officer, PayFuture
“I'm proud to lead an organisation that is 55% female – a rarity in the tech industry - and I see inspiring examples every day of women stepping into leadership roles, building their technical and business acumen, and delivering creative tech content marketing campaigns together with our male colleagues. Let's accelerate this action and foster environments where we recognise and reward top performance without bias or discrimination.”
Jean Lawrence
Vice President, Marketing & Communications, Nokia Cloud & Network Services
“At SUSE, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are central to our culture and the theme for International Women’s Day 2025 – Accelerate Action – resonates strongly with our broader commitment to driving progress for everyone across gender, race and neurodiversity. With AI very much in the headlines, we believe the technology also has an important role to play in advancing DEI and helping women unlock new possibilities, skills and ways to build innovation, creativity and efficiency into their work. As such, AI will help us to accelerate action in the years ahead.”
Lisa Sherwell
Chief People Officer, SUSE
“Empowerment is a powerful company value for us, and something which all organisations should prioritise. The barriers women in tech face can be both glaring and invisible, so removing them has to be a purposeful mission rather than just a side project. Women deserve to have successful, impactful, and diverse careers in tech. With the right facilities, openness, and culture, women can empower their own careers and others’ in the tech industry.”
Ruth Kennedy
CEO, TalkTalk Business
"10 years after I started my career in software development, I'm still a rarity. We need to accelerate action in encouraging women to code, to rectify years of damage to our society from stereotypes."
Jennifer Wagstaff
Senior Software Engineer, Shell
“One of the most valuable lessons in my leadership journey has been daring to step back at times. It may seem counterintuitive – leadership often feels deeply personal, more like a trait than a skill, and leadership positions for women in tech have not always been a given. But creating some separation can do two powerful things: it allows you to observe yourself more objectively, ensuring your actions truly support the team’s progress; and it reminds you that leadership is a role, not an identity – helping you set aside pride or prestige to focus on the best next decision.”
Paula Ingvar
General Manager, Candy Crush Saga, King
"IWD represents the power of creating environments where women uplift each other. When I joined Bloomberg, I immediately began leading women in tech initiatives, which gave me the confidence to catapult my career—securing meetings with key leaders and founding the Bloomberg Pan-Asian in Tech group within just two years. That’s the impact of inspiring and being inspired. These initiatives don’t just empower us, they drive us to pay it forward, bringing others to the table and creating lasting change.”
Eesha Irfan
Software Engineer, Bloomberg
"In a world where the conversation surrounding diversity is stalling, accelerating action for women in tech isn’t optional—it’s essential. The future of innovation depends on us breaking barriers, amplifying voices, and driving real change. At SheCanCode we will continue to push for this, no matter what."
Kayleigh Bateman
Managing Director, Community & Partnerships, SheCanCode
“At DocuWare, we simplify complex information so businesses and people can work smarter in every situation. We break down barriers and create truly inclusive environments where every voice is heard. I see firsthand how diverse perspectives fuel innovation and bring about better synergies. For us, championing equity isn't just a goal - it's how we build a future where every woman has value and everyone thrives."
Uta Dresch
Chief Operations Officer, DocuWare
“While progress has been made in closing the gender gap in the tech industry, women continue to be underrepresented in senior positions, and the gender pay gap persists. Without addressing these challenges, fewer women will want or be encouraged to pursue careers in tech. AI, despite its controversies, holds potential to drive change by, for example, reducing unconscious bias in recruitment and promotion processes - ultimately dismantling systemic barriers to gender equality in the sector.”
Paula Panarra
General Manager - UK, Avanade
“While gender equality in tech has improved throughout my career, more progress must be made to improve inclusivity. Women offer diverse perspectives and skills and, importantly, represent female users of technology; it is essential that we create environments where they feel valued and heard. Having women in leadership positions is key to achieving this. My advice to women in tech is to believe in yourself, seek out supportive networks, and surround yourself with people who challenge and uplift you.”
Paula Felstead
Chief Information Officer, HBX Group
"While we strive for a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, let’s remember that even if these challenges persist, we have the power to build our own tables, rather than wait for a seat at those that don’t make room for us."
Isabella Ghassemi-Smith
Head of The Aurora Tech Award
“It’s been 6 years of coding and growing for me. All I can say is, when diversity thrives, opportunities grow. Let’s encourage one another and code our way to the future “
Aishwarya Shivashankar
Senior Data Engineer, Shell
"The gaming industry needs more women at the table. Not just playing games, but building them. We need your creativity, your perspective, your ideas. Whether it's coding, design, production, or art, there’s a place for you in the Gaming Industry. The best way to change the game is to be in it. Let’s build the future of gaming for this and the next generation!"
Marta Cortiñas
Executive Producer, Candy Crush Solitaire, King
“My advice is to build your tribe. Never underestimate the power of your community to lean on when you need coaching, inspiration or advice. Look out for women's networks within your workplace, or if they don't exist, build your own. There are so many brilliant women who have helped me in my career and I believe in the importance of paying it forward to the next generation.”
Deborah Honig
Chief Customer Officer, Samsung UK
“For the women trying to break into careers in tech, or those like me, trying to forge a path forward – find your champions and the people that inspire you. It doesn’t matter their age, gender or stature, engage with them, ask questions and ask for guidance. It’s important to feel inspired and it’s wonderful to feel inspirational. If you approach someone because of a true respect for their work, I promise they’ll be happy to help.”
Fran Knight
Full Stack Software Engineer, Daemon
“This IWD is about urgency. Urgency for tech and innovation industries to go beyond promises and really deliver funding, policy change and action to support underrepresented founders. Biases shape the way we make decisions and how we see the world and we need to work harder on learning how to mitigate them. We need diverse voices to help us solve some of the biggest challenges out there and this needs to remain a priority.”
Gabi Matic
Co-Founder & Director, Metta
“Accelerating action toward gender equality requires more than just conversation—it demands intentional, sustained effort. We need to challenge biases at every level, from hiring practices to leadership opportunities, ensuring that diverse voices are truly heard and valued. Progress happens when companies commit to meaningful change, not just symbolic gestures. By fostering inclusive cultures, investing in mentorship, and holding ourselves accountable, we can drive real, lasting impact—because equality delayed is opportunity denied."
Jade Connolly
Design Director, SocialChain
“Inclusivity is the foundation of a stronger, more innovative organization. When people of all identities and backgrounds are heard, supported, and empowered, everyone thrives. This International Women’s Day let’s commit to building a culture where every voice matters, every perspective is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”
Anaëlle Sikich
Globalization Copywriter, King
“International Women’s Day is a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much more we can do to create a fairer world. For me, it’s about celebrating the incredible achievements of women in tech while acknowledging the work still ahead. It’s about breaking barriers, using technology to solve real problems, and building a future where gender doesn’t limit what’s possible. Together, we can accelerate the change we want to see."
Louisa Olafuyi
Co-Founder & COO, Kunda Kids & Co-Creator, Kunda & Friends
“Change takes time. The gender balance in senior roles may not yet be equal, but professional women have more power than they realise. As more women become leaders, they will bring their compassion and empathy skills to the workplace and prove their considerable worth."
Rae Chowdhury
Regional Director UK&I, CoachHub
“Despite efforts to ensure equal opportunities, women remain significantly under-represented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. Many women who do pursue STEM careers often leave their prematurely, due to higher levels of discrimination compared to their male peers. However, recent trends show more women between 18-30 are now actively interested in STEM careers. While true equality remains a work in progress, these numbers suggest a bright future ahead."
Ayesha Iqbal
Senior Member of The IEEE & Engineering Trainer at the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre
“While there is still progress to be made in gender parity in tech, it makes me proud to see how women are progressing at Ordnance Survey. We have a vibrant Women+ Development Network which consistently provides career and personal mentoring and development opportunities, which encourage women to stretch themselves further and aim higher. Key to this progress is championing individual success and networking with women in the wider geospatial industry, fostering a supportive and inclusive community.”
Debbie Wilson
Head of Geospatial Data, Ordnance Survey
“This International Women’s Day, we must take bold action to #InspireInclusion in tech. My grandfather—an IBM leader—was my first mentor, encouraging me to break barriers. As a mom of boys, I’ve been intentional about fostering opportunity, co-teaching coding and computer science to kids of all ages. I started teaching #HourOfCode 15 years ago, inspired by organizations like SheCanCode, which champions mentorship, education, and representation to accelerate true gender equality in tech.”
Danielle Coady
VP & Cyber Resilience Evangelist, Index Engines
"Gender equality means fair representation across the workplace, especially at the decision-making level. Every strategic meeting should reflect diverse perspectives, as diversity drives better outcomes—essential for navigating real-world challenges. To achieve this, we must challenge outdated mindsets, rethink the 'traditional' C-suite, and prioritise gender equality by ensuring everyone, regardless of gender or background, has the opportunity to shape an organisation's direction."
Dr Naomi Wise
Chief Sustainability Officer, OXCCU
“Tech thrives on disruption—let’s harness that energy to break gender bias. Speak up, support female employees and advocate for policies that drive real change. By mentoring future leaders, fostering diversity and redefining workplace norms, we can build a more dynamic industry—one that thrives on innovation and inclusion. Once we create space for everyone to reach their full potential, we will unlock the true strength and possibility of our industry.”
Rebecca Harness
VP, Chief Information Security Officer, Deltek
International Women’s Day is a reminder that progress doesn’t happen by accident - it happens through action. To accelerate change, we need to amplify women’s voices, open more doors, and invest in the spaces that uplift us. When women support women, we all move forward."
Alison Simpson
Brand & Content Director, SheCanCode
“Representation matters. Accelerate action by volunteering your time to tech, mentor, or inspire the next generation of women in tech. By stepping up, we can amplify female voices and create a more inclusive and diverse sector together. At Ignite Hubs, we imagine a future where more girls feel confident, inspired and empowered to pursue careers in tech and STEM. A future where innovation is shaped by diverse perspectives, leading to better and more inclusive solutions. Together, we can build that future.”
Lin Vong
Founder, Ignite Hubs
“Women in cybersecurity drive progress by providing practical strategies to safeguard our digital systems from evolving cyber threats. In today’s landscape, where the misuse of AI presents new challenges, women play a pivotal role in developing smarter defences, fostering innovation, and building resilience. By championing inclusivity, women contribute to a stronger, more effective cybersecurity culture. However, there is still more work to be done in encouraging women to join the industry. Despite huge strides being made in recent years, men still outnumber women at a ratio of three to one, highlighting a significant pool of untapped talent. To help bridge this gap, Smarttech247 has founded a ‘Women in Cybersecurity Academy’, a program dedicated to equipping women with vital cybersecurity skills and increasing industry diversity. I believe International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the vital contributions and leadership of women in cybersecurity. It highlights how diverse perspectives drive innovation and play a key role in building a safer, more secure digital future for everyone.”
Miruna Coman
Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, Smarttech247
"To me, International Women’s Day is not only a celebration of achievements but also a moment to reflect on the journey ahead. In the tech industry, ongoing efforts toward gender equality face significant challenges, as women remain historically underrepresented. There is still substantial work to be done to foster inclusive environments that enable women to thrive and excel. Throughout my career in digital media, I have been fortunate to collaborate with supportive and inspiring female leaders who have motivated me to empower my own team. I strive to ensure that they are not only aware of their potential but also confident in their worth within the industry.”
Kate Hopkinson
Media Director, SMG
“I am convinced that global return-to-office mandates are derailing gender equality efforts in the tech industry. Women are being silently pushed out of the workforce – they are more likely to quit as work-life balance becomes unmanageable. It is a known fact that remote and flexible work options increase female job applicants and retention rates. We should champion companies that value and care about female talent."
Iwona Rajca
Senior Solutions Engineer EMEA, Protegrity
“For me, IWD is about amplifying the voices of women and allies, driving change at every level, and ensuring no one is left behind on the journey to gender parity."
Samantha Schefka
Partnerships Executive, SheCanCode
"True progress happens when women in tech and agriculture are not just included but empowered. Breaking stereotypes and investing in female-led innovations will drive the transformation of our food systems and create a more equitable world."
Nyifamu Manzo
Co-Founder & CEO, Farmatrix
“Breaking down biases and discrimination in technology will only happen when women develop confidence in their abilities and recognize their value. I advise my colleagues to embrace their experiences, support one another through challenges and lead by example. We need to take an active role in empowering other women and demonstrating success to help remove these barriers and create true gender equality in technology leadership.”
Sonny Patel
Chief Product & Technology Officer, Socotra
"I work a lot in the world of cybersecurity and incident response which is all about resilience, adaptability, and foresight: the same qualities that women have brought to every field they are a part of. Today, and every day, I am committed to championing a future where innovation is truly inclusive, and where women’s expertise isn’t just acknowledged, it’s expected as a valuable and vital contribution."
Sarah Pearce
Partner. Hunton Andrews Kurth
“We believe a diverse and inclusive workplace allows innovation and drives success. Championing equity means more than just policies; it's about daily actions that create real opportunities for women. Workplace transformations within our company are as important to us as the digital transformations that our software brings about! At DocuWare, we're proud to be building a culture where every woman has the support they need and everyone can succeed."
Sabina Molka
Senior Director, People & Culture, DocuWare
"International Women's Day is both a celebration and a call to action. While we honour the remarkable achievements of women in tech, we must also confront the reality that, at the current pace, full gender parity is over a century away. I am proud to have an inclusive team with brilliant future female leaders within it and I am committed to accelerating this progress by fostering inclusive hiring practices and building diverse teams. By taking swift and decisive action today, we can create a tech industry where gender equality is not a distant goal, but a present reality."
Sali Davies
Product Director, SMG
“A barrier to women’s careers is returning to work after children. 68% of parents and caregivers in the UK see AI as an opportunity to change that. Enabling automation and flexible working, AI helps mothers seamlessly return to the workforce, a huge equality milestone. Today is about breaking barriers and celebrating how far women in our field have come. Advancing technologies will continue to play a crucial role for mothers and women everywhere”
Mei Dent
CPTO, TeamViewer
“I feel fortunate to have been born in the 1970s, when women’s equality was widely recognised, and we saw women excelling in fields like politics, medicine, and business. While progress has been made in the tech industry, representation still falls short in developer and code leadership roles. These roles are demanding, but women excel at managing multiple responsibilities. Representation matters: when women see successful female leaders, they are inspired to overcome challenges and pursue leadership opportunities, helping to bridge this gap."
Shelly Landsmann
Chair of the Board of Advisors for NED
"From childhood, women are often told to play it safe, while men are encouraged to explore. In the tech world—the ultimate unknown—this unsurprisingly leads to male dominance. To change this, we need to help women build confidence to take that first leap. Especially with the evolving AI landscape, women’s strengths in guidance, creativity, and interpretation will become essential in shaping technology’s future."
Mujde Yilmaz
Head of Processing Operations, Streetbees
“Don’t like the idea of waiting 133 years for gender parity? Me neither. The good news is that AI could speed this up. But this won’t happen unless we approach this tech revolution differently. This means we need more than the usual tech bros at the table building and learning AI. The women of today owe it to the women of tomorrow to demand a seat at the AI table today. Don’t wait to be offered a chair.”
Kara Peterson
Co-Founder, Descrybe.ai
"One way to accelerate action for women in tech is through mentorship programmes and networking opportunities. This is especially important for women entering or in the early stages of their tech careers as it will help accelerate their progress and encourage them to continue working in the industry.”
Aparna Kulkarni
Consultant, Daemon
“Empowering more women to take on senior roles is not just crucial, it's revolutionary. Providing relatable role models and fostering an inclusive and inspiring workplace will ignite the passions of the next generation, encouraging them to shatter barriers and redefine boundaries. Organisations must create a culture where people feel unafraid to ask questions and offer innovative suggestions. On a personal level, it requires the courage to say, 'I can make a difference. I belong in this conversation."
Jess Mant
Technology Solicitor, Womble Bond Dickinson
“International Women's Day is a fantastic chance to celebrate how far women have come, and to remind ourselves of the journey still ahead. While we've made progress, there's still a real gap in representation, especially in tech. It's up to all of us – employers, educators, and those of us already working in the field – to keep chipping away at the barriers that prevent women from accessing these exciting careers. This is especially crucial in AI. The technology we create reflects the perspectives of the people building it. If we want AI to truly benefit everyone, we need diverse voices at the table. Otherwise, we risk creating systems that only serve a narrow segment of society, potentially with unintended negative consequences.”
Dr Irina Mirkina
Chief Scientist AI, Fugro
“For me, ‘AcclerateAction’ is about engendering a culture of trust in business where women are encouraged to take a leadership role on a strategic or local level and to take risks. We must encourage women to feel brave enough to put their hand up in whatever role they may be in to voice their ideas. Risk taking can be scary, but we don’t learn anything or move forward if we don’t back ourselves and each other.”
Jemma Ashley
SVP of Strategy, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, Insurance, UK & Ireland
"I was fortunate to have male leaders early in my career who championed my potential, especially when female role models were scarce. Now, as we are beginning to see more of, and some of us become, women in leadership, we must all be champions for the next generation. I’m committed to challenging my own biases and to fostering the unique skills and perspectives women bring - especially when this can seem against the status quo of what we have so far defined as 'good'."
Viccy Winter
Director of Implementation EMEA, Moloco
"Gender equality in tech isn’t just the right thing — it’s the smart thing. The industry moves fast, and if we don’t take bold, decisive action now, we risk building the future with a narrow lens. The fastest-moving industries need the broadest perspectives to stay ahead, solve real problems, and drive innovation. We can’t wait for progress—we have to build it, by hiring, mentoring, and championing women at every level."
Patricia Silva
Senior Engineer, ustwo
“International Women’s Day has given us a platform to reflect on equality in the workplace. With this constant reflection, we’re able to better identify inequality of all forms across our workforce and make strides to address it. It’s no longer as simple as saying ‘we need more women studying STEM subjects’ – instead, we need to look at the patterns and find ways to incorporate people into IT, regardless of their background.”
Lisa Herbert
Managing Director, Infinity Group
"Access to education and capital defines who gets to lead and innovate. When we fund women and create equal opportunities from the start, we’re not just empowering individuals—we’re unlocking solutions, industries, and entire economies. The question isn’t whether women are capable. The question is whether we’re bold enough to invest in their success."
Thais Sterenberg
CEO, Elephan
"In order to accelerate action toward gender equality there is a requirement for immediate action such as implementing policies which enhance education in early years, addressing pay gaps, and promoting women's leadership in the workplace. In addition to this, investment in women owned businesses needs to increase as companies with female directors have lower insolvency rates and currently make up only 18% of UK businesses, yet £250 billion could be added to the UK economy if women were given the same investment opportunity as their male counterparts."
Heather Delaney
Founder & Managing Director, Gallium Ventures
“Creating a world free of bias and discrimination starts with inclusion and truly listening. We must address systemic barriers by creating spaces where women’s voices are heard. This means elevating and supporting women, both in and beyond the media and marketing industry. It’s about recognising opportunities to support women’s advancement and individuality. To achieve this, we must reframe our thinking and act with purpose, focusing not just on problems but on ways to do better."
Louise Quenzer
Head of Organic Content, Brave Bison
“To accelerate action for a world free from bias and discrimination, we can't wait for change—we have to create it. Start your own thing, build your own platform, and support workplaces that champion diversity. Bold choices, even scary ones, are the path to progress. Together, with knowledge and determination, we can dismantle stereotypes and amplify voices that embrace equity. The power to lead change starts with you."
Naomi Owusu
CEO & Co-Founder, Tickaroo
"Seeing is doing" when inspiring more women in tech. When young girls see women thriving as leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers, it sparks possibility and ambition. Showcasing their achievements empowers the next generation to pursue their passions. Let’s celebrate the incredible women shaping tech and continue uplifting young talent to thrive in this dynamic field.”
Aishling Meyer
AVP Technology, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, Insurance, UK & Ireland
"We need more women to be at the forefront of innovations, working with men to shape the future of AI policy and implementation. We cannot rely on outdated models to drive change. It's imperative to highlight senior women who have carved out extraordinary careers, offer ample opportunities for upskilling, and foster environments where open dialogue thrives. Together, let's commit to a culture of inclusivity and inspire the future leaders of the tech world."
Katie Simmonds
Data & Technology Lawyer, Womble Bond Dickinson
“Over my years of working in the digital media industry I've been lucky enough to work with some of the most remarkable women in the field and it’s great to see more and more women taking leading roles within the industry. However, there are massive strides to be made to close the gender gap in what still is a male dominated industry. Gender diversity is critical to ensure we continue to enhance creativity & innovation in the digital space. Now is the time to change the narrative and start encouraging more women to pursue careers in technology to help set us up for success in the future.”
April Hancock
Media Innovation Director, LS Eleven Media Services
“Gender equality needs to be represented in all aspects of corporate governance. It is relevant to drafting gender-neutral and sensitive job descriptions and making thoughtful hiring decisions. It should be considered and reflected in sustainable policies for parental, caregiving, and return-to-work programmes. Prioritised gender equality in the workplace results in well sponsored and rewarding employee advocacy groups and further supports breaking the glass ceiling for career advancements for all.”
Aditi Gupta
Senior Manager, Professional Services Consulting, Black Duck
“At YEO Messaging, we believe that empowering women in digital spaces isn't a goal—it’s a total necessity. On #IWD, we can reflect on how achieving gender equality means taking bold steps to break down barriers and insisting that the diversity strides we've made in recent years aren't eroded by political change. Action means mentoring the next generation of tech innovators as to what's fundamentally wrong in ours, challenging outdated norms, and ensuring collectively that we hear and respond to each other."
Sarah Bone
Co-Founder & CMO, YEO Messaging
“As a woman working in the male dominated technology industry, I believe equality will result from laying foundations fairly as well as ensuring opportunities are given in an equitable way. Equal foundations ensure that everybody has the same, fair access to education, knowledge, and information, regardless of their sex. Equal judgement means an absence of bias when it comes to being chosen for opportunities, in family, school, workplaces and throughout society as a whole."
Hao Zheng
Founder & CEO, RoboK
“With technology shaping our everyday infrastructure, we must keep carving space for women to be the architects and creators of tomorrow’s digital world. Women are not just participants; they are instrumental in driving change that benefits everyone. Let’s continue to ensure that our initiatives for equality remain strong—because the future of tech must be built by all of us for all of us."
Evie Wayne
Community Success Associate, SheCanCode
“I believe there are two main ways to tackle gender equality in tech: through policies and culture. By having inclusive policies like clear pay scales and enhanced parental leave for both women and men, you set up a strong foundation. It's also crucial to build a diverse culture, with more women in leadership roles. Having female leaders as role models do inspire others.”
Barbara Rodrigues
Insight Director, Boots Media Group
“This International Women’s Day is an opportunity to take a step back, celebrate what has been achieved so far and reflect on what still needs to be done. For the tech industry, recruitment and retention remain a challenge, despite ongoing efforts to attract more women into STEM roles. Awareness is key. Tech organisations, and the female leaders who already exist within them, have a responsibility to recognise the equality issues that must be addressed for the industry to continue moving forward. From taking steps to reduce unconscious bias and promote diversity, to creating positive and uplifting cultures that represent and support women, we all have a part to play.”
Dina Knight
Chief People Officer, Logicalis
“Progress has been made for women in tech, however there is still a long way to go. True equality comes from embracing diverse perspectives and ensuring women are represented at every level. The industry still often prioritises traditionally masculine leadership qualities, but championing inclusivity would create a stronger sector for everyone.”
Sammy Wilson
Head of Client Partnerships, G.Network
“IWD is a day to publicly acknowledge all the incredible women (and men who have championed the progressions and equality of women) who have smashed the glass ceiling globally and paved the way for people like me to have the opportunities we have today. As the daughter of an accountant, in an era when women often felt they had to give up their career to have children, today, I say thank you."
Ellen Keenan-O’Malley
Senior Associate, EIP
“To accelerate action on gender equality within the tech field, we need to tackle structural barriers head-on. Flexible work policies support career sustainability for women in high-pressure environments, while blind recruitment ensures talent is evaluated purely on merit, eliminating bias from the start. Leadership training on unconscious bias is essential to shift mindsets and create an inclusive culture where women can thrive. Achieving equality isn’t optional; it’s essential for the future of the industry."
Chirine Riachy
Head of Data Science, Charles Clinkard
“Let’s change the narrative: Women represent an opportunity, not a problem. Low women participation in the workforce? It’s an opportunity for businesses to find ways to hire from this experienced and untapped pool, to solve their skill-gap problems. Yes, systemic corrections are needed, but there is also a need to reframe our role in society and the economy, one where we transform for the better what we put our minds to.”
Shreya Prakash
Co-Founder & CEO, FlexiBees
"I’ve always worked in male dominated industries, starting my career in the military before becoming a gas engineer. I would encourage any woman who is looking to get into a career that is traditionally seen as male oriented – to go for it and be your own advocate. Visibility really matters - when women see other women thriving, it reinforces that belonging. A strong, supportive network is essential for breaking down barriers and driving gender equality."
Sophie Potter
Service Excellence Coach, HomeServe
“Women can accelerate action by working on themselves. Throw off that fear of failure and risk-aversion. Instead reframe the often negative mindset we can have about our own abilities, what’s the worst that can happen? Key steps include appraising your own achievements, asking for feedback, which can be very enlightening and confidence-building, and be bold enough to ask people of influence for advocacy, for them to back you. The power is in our own hands.”
Gillian Whelan
Managing Director, Emagine
“Accelerate Action states rather alarmingly that at the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158 which is roughly five generations from now to reach full gender parity. Therefore, it's vital that as an industry we focus on accelerating our efforts to address systemic barriers and biases that women face. We must first identify what these barriers and biases are which are often deeply rooted in societal norms and structures that influence women's participation and advancement in various fields. Understanding the root causes of the under-representation of women, particularly in certain industries and at senior levels, is crucial. For instance, in many STEM subjects, female participation starts to decline as soon as students have elective choices. We need to explore why this happens. Is it cultural, educational, or something else? Does this phenomenon occur globally, or can we draw insight from regions where female representation is more balanced? A key part of addressing these issues is listening to women from diverse backgrounds and age groups. Without their voices, we risk making assumptions about what needs to change and possibly losing years pursuing ineffective solutions.”
Sarah Vaughan
Founder & Director, Angelica Solutions
“Achieving gender equality requires more than just conversation, it demands action. We can make an impact by setting clear goals, challenging barriers, and ensuring accountability at every level. It’s about creating a culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and making sure progression isn’t just talked about but actively delivered. Now is the time to be bold, challenge the status quo, and drive meaningful change.”
Dani Richardson
Senior Insight Manager, SMG
"IWD isn’t a celebration—it’s a reminder. A reminder that women are still paid less, promoted less, interrupted more, and expected to justify themselves in ways men never are. I spend my time in the airline and security industries, where I’m often the only woman in the room. IWD matters because ‘firsts’ shouldn’t still be happening in 2025. Because we still have to be twice as good to get half the credit. Because if we don’t actively create space for women—through hiring, funding, paying them properly—then nothing changes. One day, IWD will be redundant. But today isn’t that day."
Irra Ariella Khi
CEO & Co-Founder, Zamna
“As we enter into yet another unprecedented leap forward in technology — one which will profoundly re-shape work, culture and our professional lives — we must pause to consider the impact of bias in shaping this future. International Women’s Day provides the perfect opportunity for that. Never has there been a greater need for women in technology: our voices and perspectives are vital to fostering innovation that is inclusive, safe, and ethical."
Mina Ozdemir
Regional Communications Manager, Superprof
“For the longest time I didn’t see much being done about the gender disparity in the tech sector - even though we all knew it was there, and women knew it made our struggle disproportionately hard. However, now I see hope and inspiration all around me, in supportive female technologist groups like TechFoundHer and AwakenAngels, in the voices of women on stage at tech conferences. Now, the future feels bright."
Emily McDaid
Founder, Filter
“Build tolerance. Become the other. I grew most from experiences like working as an Americorps Construction Crew Lead at Habitat for Humanity – I lived and worked in diverse communities while performing a work role that defies standard gender stereotypes. Studying abroad, dropping into a completely different culture & language FORCED me into becoming the other. I joined another religion’s community centre soccer leagues and summer camps learning about different beliefs. I was the only woman in the meeting for the majority of my career. Reject sameness. Embrace adventuring out of your comfort zone to evolve humanity. Make intolerance unacceptable."
Liz Harvey
Director of Product Research, Huntress
"We need more women in tech, and leaders must lead by example to address gender imbalances. While the EU Pay Transparency Directive is a step in the right direction, I’m deeply concerned about the anti-DEI movement in the US. We must act now to prevent setbacks and ensure gender equality progresses. Therefore, it’s crucial to hold our companies and governments accountable for advancing and safeguarding gender equality."
Simone Mink
Product Operations Lead, Mendix
“Tech was once seen as a man’s game, but that narrative is changing. Seek out allies and tap into the incredible community of women who have overcome similar hurdles. By sharing experiences and supporting one another, we’ll shatter barriers, step up, and show the world the extraordinary possibilities that emerge when equality and innovation go hand in hand”
SheueChee Beh
Head of Partnerships for APAC, Yuno
“On International Women’s Day we aim to raise awareness about, and provide education to help eliminate stereotypes, discrimination and bias. We embrace the idea that diverse viewpoints lead to the best results and that everyone, regardless of gender, deserves equal opportunities to succeed.”
Joy Burkholder Meier
General Counsel & Chief Human Resources Officer, Black Duck
“One step leaders can take to accelerate action is offering mentorship to women in their workforce. I’ve been lucky to have many great mentors, and I try to pay that forward whenever I can. Mentoring can provide women with much-needed support, a safe space to discuss their anxieties and successes, and a confidence boost to propel them into their next role. Our careers are never solo ventures, and every leader should think critically about how they can play a role in developing the team around them. Consider the math: if a senior leader mentors three women, who each go on to mentor three others, nine female leaders have been developed in just two generations of mentorship. Today, I’m incredibly proud that four of my former direct reports have become Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs), and many more serve in marketing leadership roles. Inclusivity begets inclusivity, and we need to continue to pass on both advice and leadership opportunities to the next generation of female leaders. By deploying this approach at scale, businesses can truly accelerate action to help achieve gender parity.”
Tifenn Dano Kwan
CMO, Amplitude
"I would advise women in tech to be true to their beliefs and to advocate them confidently. Disagreements are part of growth – after all, we’re not ER doctors, and our debates don’t have life-or-death consequences. What truly matters is ensuring that we validate and amplify the voices of other women. Returning to work after becoming a mom has brought this home for me: support and empowerment is imperative. This International Women’s Day, let’s continue to lift each other up and take up the space we deserve.”
Valerie Mercurio
VP, Business Development, InfoSum
“We're still moving far too slowly toward gender parity in tech and venture capital. To accelerate change, we need to move beyond mentorship to active sponsorship and intentional investment in women-led startups. When we put capital behind female founders, promote women to decision-making roles, and challenge traditional funding patterns, we create lasting transformation across the entire tech ecosystem and economy.”
Dr Diana Röttger
Principal, APEX Ventures
“I entered the tech industry to challenge the outdated notion that it wasn’t a space for women, and I firmly believe in making a conscious effort to break down the barriers I once faced. Real progress comes from actively creating opportunities, challenging biases, and ensuring technology is accessible to everyone. International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder that we must take decisive action to empower women to lead, innovate, and shape the future of technology. There is still work to be done, and we must continue pushing forward to secure a seat at the table—not just for ourselves, but for future generations."
Kate Shaw
Sr Product Manager (Data & Platform), SnapLogic
“Making progress on diversity in the technology industry is to everyone’s benefit, and the proven ways to accelerate this are retraining and career switching and role modelling of diverse leaders in the industry. This is why IWD is such a great opportunity to support women into the industry…and showcase the amazing female leaders already there."
Zoe Cunningham
Director, Softwire
“According to the World Economic Forum it will take until 2158 to reach full gender parity at the current rate of progress. That's roughly five generations from now. Waiting over a century is not an option. Progress is happening, but it’s far too slow. It’s time to drive real change. We need more women not just entering tech, but leading and shaping its future. We must foster inclusion, invest in mentorship, and keep celebrating and shouting about women’s achievements - to inspire the next generation."
Nicky Bradley
Marketing Director, UniLED
“Now more than ever, we must come together to bridge the tech gender gap. Connecting, sharing experiences, and learning from one another is essential. Seeing more women thrive in tech isn’t just inspiring; it’s important for innovation. At Sleepwave, we’ve seen firsthand that the best ideas emerge when diverse perspectives come together. Trust your voice – it matters."
Erin Anderson
Head of Marketing, Sleepwave
“In a world of equal potential, we must also ensure equal opportunities. Diversity drives innovation, inclusion fosters resilience and equity creates fairness. As a woman in tech and innovation, I’ve seen how different perspectives can ignite progress. Throughout history we know women who have driven mentorship, allyship, and run policies that close the gap between different parties or situations. To accelerate gender equality today, let’s be as confident and proud and continue the same path of those historical leaders by building a future where every voice is heard, every talent valued, and every seat shared.”
Katre Kaarenperk-Vanatoa
CMO, Tactical Solutions & Co-Founder, Mentastic
“Accelerating gender equality in tech requires bold action. We need AI-driven mentorship, gender-balanced design teams to eliminate bias, and equity audits for algorithms shaping the future. Immersive VR training can transform leadership pipelines, while placing women at the forefront of AI, quantum computing, and green tech drives innovation. Companies with diverse leadership are 45% more likely to increase market share. When women lead, industries thrive—building a future where everyone rises.”
Carol Grunberg
Chief Business Officer, Yuno
“We all can be more proactive about gender equality in tech, and especially Web3, by speaking up in our own organizations. If you see yet another homogenous panel, voice your thoughts with the event organizers. Push yourself to source candidates outside your own circles. We will only move in the right direction if current leadership makes a real effort (and that doesn’t mean “loving women” and a post on International Women’s Day), it means taking real steps, and holding each other accountable.”
Kelsey McGuire
Chief Growth Officer, Shardeum
"Technology thrives on diverse skills and perspectives: it needs people from all walks of life. You don’t need a traditional tech background to make an impact. From advocating for a national semiconductor strategy to shaping the narrative for groundbreaking companies, there’s space for everyone to drive innovation. Women can do anything, and the future of tech is stronger for it."
Shivani Lodhia
Partner, Parisi Consulting
“Equity is only achievable through inclusion. While the social industry tends to have more women in leadership than traditional media, those women still tend to be from the same cultural and socio-economic background. We have a responsibility to develop, inspire and hire talent from under-represented groups, to proactively create opportunities and promote tech and creative as inclusive spaces. None of us are equal until all of us are equal, and we need to ensure nobody is left behind."
Beth Blance
Associate Creative Director, SocialChain
“Progress isn’t passive—it’s a choice we make every day. If we want gender equality, we must accelerate action by challenging bias, championing inclusion, and pushing for systemic change. The cost of waiting is lost potential, lost voices, and lost opportunities. Urgency isn’t about rushing—it’s about refusing to let another generation inherit the same battles. Change happens when we stop accepting ‘later’ and demand ‘now.’"
Dani Palmer
Chief Marketing Officer, Loqbox
“True progress in gender equality requires intentionality. In Web3, we must design our networking events, panels, and leadership teams to foster inclusivity and safety. Without these efforts, we risk losing out on exceptional female talent. There are already many talented women in technology, and my hope is to see these women continue to rise, push boundaries and inspire the next generation. It is the responsibility of every leadership team to build opportunities where women can excel and drive our industry forward.”
Harriet Browning
Executive Leader, Entrepreneur & Public Speaker
“There’s still much to be done to achieve true equality. We must continue to champion one another, challenge outdated norms, and inspire younger generations. My daughter, for instance, is currently studying at university and pursuing a career in STEM. I encourage her every step of the way, knowing that the progress we’ve made so far has opened doors that were once closed to women. With continued effort and support, I’m confident that the opportunities available to her will only grow.”
Teresa Cameron
Finance Director, Clear Junction
“Coding is no longer the only route women can take into successful tech careers. More than most, the tech industry is developing rapidly, the rise of AI is just one example. So we need to make sure we have an evolving skillset to keep up with this fast rate of change. Many of which we already excel at. From communication and relationship building to attention to detail and vision generation, these are all critical areas where we can shine. In an era of fast-paced development, the industry won’t be able to meet its ambitious goals without diverse skills and perspectives. Don’t be put off by what skills you don’t have yet, but celebrate the ones you do have, and use them to spark a career you love.”
Janet Robb
Director of Customer Enablement, ANS
"Funding, networks and role models – these shape who gets to start and scale a business. Women still get less investment and fewer second chances, but that’s changing. The rise of digital entrepreneurship means location, background and traditional gatekeepers matter less than ever. What matters is access: to markets, to mentorship, to communities that support rather than doubt. Women don’t need permission to lead – they need ecosystems that recognise and appreciate their value.”
Liina Vahtras
Managing Director, e-Residency
“Across the engineering industry, perceptions about gender specific roles are beginning to evolve. However, as this year’s International Women’s Day theme urges us to 'accelerate action,' it's clear that there's more to be done. It is important to promote gender diversity as a means of achieving a balanced workplace. This IWD, my focus is on ensuring that women receive the opportunities they deserve through their hard work. Progress and accelerated action go hand-in-hand, and I firmly believe that women can lead change within the engineering sector.”
Kate Watson
Executive Associate, Sutcliffe
“Accelerating action toward gender equality requires a deliberate shift from words to impactful deeds. It’s crucial that we create opportunities for women to thrive in all sectors, including those historically underrepresented, such as in media technology. For example, initiatives like Rise - an organisation dedicated towards fostering gender diversity within the broadcast and media sector - demonstrate how mentorship, training, and community support can dismantle biases and empower women to succeed. In my experience as a Rise Alumni, it was a common theme among fellow mentees to underestimate their abilities and not see themselves as technical, despite working in a technology-based industry. We must break away from that mindset. Women belong in technology and they continue to break barriers, inspire change and drive innovation. To truly create a world free of stereotypes and discrimination, organisations must embed inclusivity in their cultures, invest in diverse leadership, and hold themselves accountable for progress. Swift, decisive actions today will pave the way for an equitable future."
Kerry Stavri
Senior Product Manager, Vizrt
“Women industry trailblazers are some of the most active and positive influencers, and they have the power to inspire future generations of women innovators and entrepreneurs. I believe that our domain names empower female entrepreneurs to assert their narrative. They provide a personal platform that helps solidify their position as leaders within their industry, and share their experiences and knowledge in the digital world – inspiring and encouraging others to follow suit.”
Rachel Sterling
Chief Marketing Officer, Identity Digital
“Accelerating gender equality in tech requires a supportive but transparent workplace culture. The implementation of clear career frameworks and, importantly, mentorship at every career stage will actively nurture talent, build confidence and create opportunities that may otherwise be overlooked. Importantly, this transparency helps remove bias, often a challenge in male-dominated industries, fostering measurable progress and demonstrating further integrity in the workplace. Whilst not an overnight fix, it’s a vital step in quickening the progress towards a gender-equal workforce."
Charlotte Wigley
Strategy Director, MediaVision
“The tech industry is built on innovation, and true innovation comes when everyone has a seat at the table. Each of us holds the power to create a ripple effect of change. We need to choose to mentor women and underrepresented groups, advocate for diversity of voices and perspectives, embed policies that empower, and hold ourselves accountable to create change. It’s not enough to implement programs or policies without follow-through. Success should be measured by how many women are hired, promoted, mentored, and represented in decision-making roles. Metrics are vital to keep organizations accountable. The longer we wait, the more missed opportunities and talent we lose."
Louise Lunn
Vice President, Global Analytics Delivery, FICO
“Accelerating gender parity requires bold action and systemic change. From my own experience, returning to work after an extended maternity leave felt like starting from scratch, with assumptions about my capabilities creating an invisible barrier to my progress and shadowing my work. Entering the payments industry with minimal knowledge was equally challenging, but I was fortunate enough to have male mentors who not only guided me but also championed my potential. Their allyship reinforced the important role that advocacy and support play in driving equality. Yet, allyship alone isn’t enough. True progress demands concrete action – equal pay, flexible policies, and leadership pipelines tailored to empower women at every stage of their careers. Motherhood, and other key life stages, should never be seen as obstacles but as opportunities to rethink and redesign workplaces into truly inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.”
Nina Papazyan
Head of Product & Banking Integration, Clear Junction
“I feel passionately that women in positions of leadership have a responsibility to support other women in progressing their own careers. This is key to accelerating action to achieve a greater level of gender parity. That means being encouraging, supportive and inspiring. At a fundamental level, for me it is making time for your team and helping to ensure their voices are heard.”
Caroline Elliott-Grey
Senior Product Manager, Geospatial Intelligence, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, Insurance, UK & Ireland
“Changes happen when we move beyond the status quo. The current statistics for gender parity reflect a much-needed call for pivoting towards equality. Women have excelled in every field they are currently placed in, but the sense of inclusivity is still lacking, especially when it comes to leadership. As a founder and being in a leadership role in the industry, I believe diversity and inclusion for women isn’t just a ‘nice to have’ concept. It needs to be built into your values and hiring processes from the very beginning and your team needs to reflect the world around you. You need to instil in tools to mitigate bias at every stage. Actively sponsoring women in tech, measuring progress through promotion rates and creating an environment where they thrive and embrace their leadership styles and perspectives are some major thumb rules that need to be adapted, and soon. 2185 is a bit too far away to be waiting."
Mollie Claypool
Co-Founder & CEO, AUAR
"As a business leader and a mum, I refuse to accept that my son could grow up in a world where gender equality is still five generations away. If we want to accelerate change, we need to stop making excuses. Businesses must commit to real accountability, which means equal pay, flexible work, and more women in leadership. The time for ‘progress’ is over. The time for parity is now."
Kim Berkin
Managing Director, Charlie Oscar
“Embracing diversity and gender equity in tech isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a strategic advantage. I believe that fostering an inclusive environment fuels innovation, creativity, and empathy, all essential for solving complex challenges. With my experience in enterprise applications, product development, and strategy, I am passionate about building diverse teams and delivering solutions that streamline construction management. My goal is to drive meaningful change, and do my part to optimize the management of construction projects while supporting a more inclusive tech industry.”
Shanthi Rajan
CEO, Linarc
“The gender gap in tech is a systemic issue, with women making up 28.2% of the global tech workforce. But real inclusion isn’t just about quotas – it’s about creating opportunities, fostering mentorship and building stronger, more innovative teams. 'Accelerate Action’ means fixing the entire career journey – so women aren’t just brought in and pushed out, but supported, valued and set up to lead on their own terms. Progress starts with awareness, but lasting change requires consistent action."
Vicky Wills
Chief Technology Officer, Exclaimer
“Throughout my career in IT, I often found myself as the only woman in a room. While it’s encouraging to see progress, there’s still a significant journey ahead to achieve true diversity. It’s essential for women to be able to see how they fit within the broader IT landscape. Education plays a crucial role in this, as well as inclusive company policies that support women to stay in their chosen fields long-term."
Cynthia Overby
Director of Security & Customer Solutions Engineering, Rocket Software
“In our agency, we've made it a priority to increase the representation of female leaders. Now, 35% of our team is women, and we’ve seen a direct impact on the culture and retention of both staff and clients. Hiring women leaders brings fresh perspectives, strong communication, empathy, and collaboration, all qualities that improve team dynamics and drive success. The first step to achieving gender equality is recognising the benefits that women bring to leadership and management.”
Paige Coulthurst
Ops Director, Soap Media
“I have actively worked to build a more inclusive workplace by expanding my team with three talented female senior hires. But the 9-5 workday was always created with the male in mind – we need to reform and revolutionise the working day with both men and women in mind, in equal roles. The onus is on the tech companies to be more agile and truly inclusive for the nuanced needs and demands that modern women face.”
Ellie Burns
Head of Product & Customer Marketing, IDnow
“As a woman in a male-dominated field like tech, it's natural to feel doubt at times, but never let imposter syndrome overshadow your potential. You’ve earned your spot, and you deserve to be here. The secret to success lies in support - there are people who are ready to cheer you on and help you thrive. Never hesitate to lean into your network; they're eager to see you succeed. On International Women’s Day and beyond, know that there’s a worldwide community of voices ready to celebrate you.”
Lisa Simpson
SVP (Sales, Services & Marketing), Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise
“For women navigating the workplace, self-advocacy is essential. Too often, women accept salaries below market value or hesitate to negotiate for what they deserve. Being informed, networking within the industry and confidently negotiating compensation are all important steps toward financial and professional equity. If you feel undervalued, address it, just as any professional should. However, it is also critical for companies to foster an environment where fair pay and opportunities are standard, rather than leaving the burden of change solely on individuals.”
Ryta Zasiekina
Founder, CONCRYT
“Be loud and proud this IWD! Women want to work in tech careers but need affirmation there’s a lasting career path. Companies like SSP Broker make it possible to progress a successful career via flexible work-life policies, unconscious bias forums, gender pay gap reporting and showcasing female leaders. More companies should shout about their successful women, not just in the workplace, but also out in the community, with the message ‘change can and is happening now’!”
Nazia Majeed
Head of Product & Service Delivery, SSP Broker
"We need to move beyond the outdated concept of women in tech as exceptions. Women shouldn't be celebrated because they're succeeding in a 'male-dominated' industry; they should be recognised for their innovation, leadership, and expertise. We have to focus on their strengths, not the gendered context they’re often placed in. Language is crucial here - women in tech should be seen as leaders first, not defined by the barriers they've had to overcome.
Women need to see other women leading at every level. The more we highlight and support those who have broken through, the more others will be inspired to follow. But it's not just about visibility; it's about creating policies that foster true equity, policies that empower women to take on leadership roles and thrive in their careers. It’s all part of a wider picture.
True diversity goes beyond gender, it encompasses race, socio-economic background, sexuality and so on. To truly innovate, we need a diverse range of voices and perspectives at the table. The future of tech depends on it. We can't afford to wait for change to happen slowly. We need policies, mentorship, and a cultural shift that supports women to lead, innovate, and succeed on their own terms."
Sara Wilkes
CEO, Agilitas
"If we want to achieve true equality in the industry, companies must move beyond virtue signalling, performative gestures and purple-washing, as equality isn’t about optics, it’s about action. That means tackling pay disparities, calling out discriminatory behaviour and language, and providing the training needed to drive real change to build cultures where respect and inclusion are genuine priorities. Progress won’t come from slow, surface-level efforts. Deliberate and committed efforts are the only way forward."
Hannah Cooke
Head of Growth, Charlie Oscar
"Accelerating gender equality requires more than just policies and lip service. It needs genuine cultural change that is embedded in leadership and accountability. Progress is slow when it’s treated as a checkbox exercise, so we need to integrate equality into the fabric of organisations, measure impact, and hold leadership responsible. True change happens when diversity is not an initiative but a natural part of how businesses operate. Let's act with intent and urgency—because waiting 283 years for equity is simply not an option!"
Liz Parry
CEO, Lifecycle Software
“Women make up nearly half of emerging entrepreneurs, up from less than a third in 2019. Many of these are online: as accessibility to do-it-yourself website builders has improved, with the number of female-owned businesses leveraging unique top-level domains (TLDs) like .studio on the rise. These memorable domain names are helping women entrepreneurs to enhance their branding, reach their target audiences, build credibility and stand out against the competition online.”
Lisa Box
SVP, Strategic Alliances & Business Development, Identity Digital
"Money talks, and yet we are taught that talking about money is crass, and (God forbid!) unladylike. Despite that, it can be invaluable - open discussions about money have helped my peers and I to discover and recognise inequality in shared fields, and can help provide women with achievable goals and benchmarks. Normalising discussions on salary and benefits can accelerate action as a bottom-up approach, creating a sustainable method for implementing change."
Elfie Tan
Head of Marketing, Instep
“Spending my career in male-oriented environments has taught me that women can thrive with determination and an open mind. I have sometimes had to work harder to reach the same milestones as men, but being willing to take lessons from my colleagues in positive assertiveness and healthy competition has helped me to progress. There is plenty of scope for female talent to succeed in tech if they are prepared to pursue their dreams and grow.”
Barbara Schulz
VP of International Customer Experience, GoTo
"As a woman in tech, I’ve seen firsthand the biases we still need to overcome. For example, many people associate programmers with gamers or night owls, but coding is so much more—it’s about creativity, problem-solving, and endless possibilities. Technology is for everyone, and we must empower young women to see themselves in this field. The future of innovation depends on diverse perspectives shaping it."
Marie Dinand
Developer, Lifecycle Software
“A lot of engineering careers stall not because of ability, but because of access. Too often, leadership potential is judged by visibility – who speaks up the most, who takes on the most public projects – rather than by impact. The best engineers don’t always fit that mold, and when companies broaden their view of leadership, they tap into talent that drives innovation forward and expands what’s possible.”
Linn Foster
Head of Engineering Management, Exclaimer
“Male employees often have sponsors; usually other men, who advocate for them and celebrate their achievements when they are not in the room. Women are more likely to have mentors rather than sponsors. Women’s successes and talents need to be echoed more in the right places if we want to improve equal access to leadership opportunities.”
Kelly Blasco
Senior Manager, Advisory Services, FreeWheel
“This International Women's Day, I'm reflecting on the importance of amplifying women's voices in tech and creating pathways for them to thrive. My own journey, from CMO to CEO of Smart Communications, highlights how crucial supportive environments, strong mentorship, and a willingness to challenge biases are for women to reach their full potential. This inclusivity leads to broader perspectives, stronger innovation, better decision-making, and high-performing cultures. Let’s continue to champion inclusivity and empower the next generation of female leaders in technology.”
Leigh Segall
CEO, Smart Communications
“For many years, the tech industry has been male-dominated, with limited space for women to contribute and be recognised. International Women's Day is a great opportunity to look at how much the industry has changed and to celebrate the essential role women now play in accelerating global processes and solutions, driving innovation and inspiring the new generations. Women are changing the game and setting the agenda every day in IT and other fields that were previously restricted to us. I am proud to be part of this force and excited by the endless opportunities that the tech industry offers. My advice to all women in tech (and not just tech) is to remember that true innovation thrives when every voice is heard, so don't be afraid to raise your voice. Keep pushing forward - your contribution matters.”
Charlotte Webb
Marketing & Operations Director, Hyve
"The latest World Economic Forum data is a reminder that progress on gender equality is still far too slow. While awareness has increased — helped by moments like International Women’s Day — awareness alone isn’t enough. Real change comes from action: driving better policies, challenging outdated stereotypes, and creating environments where women can thrive in leadership and beyond. Rather than just reflecting on how far we’ve come, we need to focus on the steps still needed to create real, lasting progress."
Freya Dickens
Head of Sales & Success UK, Tradebyte
"Companies need to keep the human touch in their hiring processes. The current system of multiple application stages where 'only the fittest survive' actively pushes away diverse talent. Companies also need new approaches to qualification requirements in job adverts, recognising varied backgrounds, and valuing transferable skills instead of just degrees. Job labels like 'graduate' or 'intern' might be putting off amazing career changers, especially women over 40. These titles might seem small, but they're closing doors for professionals who could bring different values in. Also, please advertise your salaries! Being transparent about the salary and offering the same opportunities to a graduate as you would to a junior is key because they will all be doing the same job within a few months."
Dionne Macintosh
Test Engineer, 2i
“International Women’s Day is a chance to celebrate not only the progress we’ve made but also the unique strengths that women contribute. Research consistently shows that when women are empowered to lead, innovation flourishes, collaboration thrives, and productivity reaches new heights. Women think differently, create differently, and approach challenges with a perspective that drives growth and transformation. However, despite these undeniable contributions, we still face a significant gap in leadership roles. To #AccelerateAction and truly close this gap, organizations must identify and support women with leadership potential, providing mentorship and career development opportunities that pave the way for equitable advancement.”
Terra Davidson
VP, People, Zadara
“I am passionate about mentoring women aspiring to careers in our field. I aim to inspire and empower them to stand out, rise up and be chosen first. Mentoring can have so many positives, for both the mentor and mentee, from personal growth, skill building and knowledge sharing. By having an active programme and providing this guidance and support, we can help foster a more inclusive community where women can thrive and lead.”
Beth Carter
Lead Developer, MarkerStudy
“Gender equality in one’s own workplace is important, but to drive real change, looking beyond a business’ own initiatives, to support female talent across the board, is what will accelerate true gender equality. Gender parity, especially in tech, is a challenge in itself– meaning it needs an industry-wide solution. Businesses need to contribute to the wider landscape of under-represented entrepreneurs, including women, to level the playing field. By sharing our philanthropy, technology, and expertise, businesses like us can play a crucial role in empowering women in the tech industry."
Jeene Sharma
Director, Customer Success, Cloudways
“Growing up, I often wondered why I was one of the few girls in my programming classes. Surrounded by boys, I didn’t see many peers or role models who looked like me. It wasn’t until university that I met other women eager to learn and build careers in tech. That’s when I realised: the more we share our stories, the more we inspire the next generation. Your story might be exactly what someone needs to hear.”
Maria Gercas
Senior Director of Product, Exclaimer
"Embracing diverse backgrounds strengthens teams, especially in the tech industry. This means broadening the talent pool to foster real change, including hiring women who bring unique strengths and experiences that make a positive impact. My advice to women is to be bold, be seen, and be unapologetically vocal. When we support and empower each other, we can create a lasting impact."
Teri Blackford
Head of Customer Connections, G. Network
“This year’s International Women’s Day theme is particularly apt. Progress in DE&I is happening, but it's too slow and not far-reaching enough. Rather than just sharing inspirational stories and coming together to discuss the importance of empowerment, real change will require everyone taking positive and continuous action so that inclusion becomes part of our individual, company, industry, and societal DNA. I believe there are many people who want to make a difference, but are unsure where to start or how. As an industry, we need to come together to provide them with practical steps and tangible actions that give guidance on how to contribute to things like closing the gender pay gap, raising awareness of women's health issues in the workplace, creating psychologically safe environments and building fintech solutions that are inclusive by design. This starts with including actionable steps in every discussion we have on DE&I. The call to action could be as simple as asking people to share case studies on initiatives that have had a positive impact for their company or community, or sharing the details of how to join a relevant initiative or membership organisation like EWPN, of which I am UK Country Ambassador. The bigger and broader the action, the better, but it's often the accumulation of smaller, more sustained commitments, that move the dial. Lastly, we mustn't forget that to create inclusion and equity, we need to involve as many diverse people and groups as possible. For instance, we shouldn't ever just talk to women about inclusion for women – we need allies and advocates of all genders to take an interest and be an active agent of change.”
Helen Owen
Vice President of Marketing, BR-DGE
“For me, International women’s Day is a reminder for people, men and women that don’t necessarily think about the strides that women have made across the world on a day to day basis or who regularly experience the amount of work that still is ahead of us. International women’s day isn’t about my thoughts to be reminded to myself, because I think about this on an everyday basis, unfortunately sexism and misogyny exists every single day in our world, I feel outraged unfortunately on a regular basis, for example, my daughter is returning home in 2025 angry and infuriated that a boy has told her girls should not play football and to leave the football pitch. Unfortunately, on a day-to-day basis equal opportunity, diverse thoughts and perspectives on different ideas to problem solve, can be overlooked or indeed not be given the space for that to be heard even. and so as I say to my teenage daughter and my seven-year-old tomboy daughter, be brave, be courageous, use your voice, find that inner girl power in your belly and use it, you can be strong, and you will feel proud of yourself, because you were born to speak and you were born to be heard.”
Cassie Petrie
Managing Director SMB EMEA, SAP Concur
“I grew up in a place where opportunities felt out of reach, but tech gave me a path forward. We can’t wait five generations for equality—we need to accelerate action now by breaking down barriers, funding talent in overlooked areas, and making tech truly inclusive. Representation matters, so does mentorship. We have a responsibility to lift as we climb, empowering future generations to go even further."
Jess Kane
Data Reporting & Systems Director, Homes for Students
“Gender equality allows for a future where we all thrive. It’s not just about having a seat at the table; it’s about having a valued powerful voice at that table. We must act now; equality should not be a wish-list item. The benefits of diversity are immediate and transformative. Addressing existing inequalities is crucial as they perpetuate gender discrimination and harm marginalised communities. We should be harnessing diverse thinking for a more equitable world.”
Rearna Ackord
Senior Product Owner, MarkerStudy
“To Accelerate Action it is vital that I along with other senior women in our business act as key advocates for other women we employ. That has involved coaching team members and facilitating a Virtual Connected Women panel discussion with Female Leaders across the business. We need to be great sounding boards, never judgmental but ready to steer without stepping on toes.”
Louise Johnson
Director of Product Management, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, Insurance, UK & Ireland
“We can cultivate a healthy workplace environment by embracing the impactful contributions made by individuals with diverse backgrounds who bring a variety of experiences, skill sets, and perspectives. Organisations should strive to encourage the growth of a collaborative workplace that celebrates diversity and is focused on achieving a healthy culture that is reflective of various expertise and contributes to positive business momentum.”
Pooja Garg
Principal Consultant, Black Duck
“If we want lasting change, we must shift attitudes about women’s participation in technology at every level, starting with early education. A person’s community plays a significant role in shaping their career choices, including the stereotypes associated with certain industries. That’s why communities, schools, and workplaces must actively mentor and support women in tech from these early stages.”
Dr Yvonne Bernard
CTO, HornetSecurity
"Having been a female in the IT and telephony world for over 30 years it is so important to get more women into this industry at senior positions. It is an interesting, varied and a very well-paid career. Women are losing out because they don't go into tech - and when they do, don't go for the senior positions in sales and engineering. We need to consolidate our ground, smash through the jargon that seems unfathomable, and keep the ladder in place to pull those just starting out in tech up and keep them climbing."
Louise Forgan
Account Director, IPI
"Women bring different ideas, different ways of leading and different solutions to problems – and that’s exactly why entrepreneurship needs them. Businesses don’t just succeed because they follow the traditional playbook; they succeed because they challenge it. Yet too often, the traits that make women strong entrepreneurs – collaboration, long-term thinking, adaptability – are undervalued. Estonia has shown that business doesn’t need borders. The same should go for who gets to lead.”
Ülane Vilumets
Team Lead Business Development, e-Residency
"Breaking down barriers for Women in the IT industry involves a combination of individual actions, and we need to accelerate action to create a more inclusive environment. We need to encourage and raise more awareness of female-led workshops, where you will find inspiration by connecting with like-minded women who are passionate about advancing their careers in the tech industry. We need more female leaders to guide and inspire the next generation."
Rowena Lee
Service Desk Team Lead, IPI
“Creating any kind of change in the tech industry first requires breaking the mold. Women in tech leadership roles often have to fight for a seat at the table—not only for ourselves, but for all the deserving women that will come after us. Progress doesn’t happen passively; we have to challenge the status quo to foster environments that embrace diverse talents and perspectives. This means rethinking hiring practices to be equitable in action, not just intent, championing diverse leadership by making space for non-stereotypical voices, and building cultures rooted in respect and equity. I’ve seen first hand how prioritising inclusivity accelerates innovation and strengthens businesses. When organisations continuously and intentionally support and uplift underrepresented individuals, everyone wins.”
Cat Starkey
Chief Technology Officer, Expel
“While insurance in general still feels like a ‘boys club’, huge strides have been made over the past 10 years and Woodgate & Clark is a positive outlier with the almost 50/50 split in the senior leadership team. To accelerate this progress we need more family friendly policies that benefit both parents including fair paternity leave, offering flexible working options and hybrid working arrangements.”
Nia Roberts
Head of Risk & Compliance, Woodgate & Clark
“As an insurance loss adjuster in film and TV, I am fortunate to work with many talented people but gender parity at work will remain a challenge for as long as childcare is regarded as primarily a female responsibility. We need greater flexibility for men and women to share family responsibilities - this is key to accelerating action. It is also vital for successful women to mentor younger women and inspire them on their own career journeys.”
Marion Jones
Director, Spotlite Claims
“Every day, we witness remarkable innovation pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in technology. Yet, progress towards a diverse workforce remains frustratingly slow. Representation profoundly shapes how people perceive themselves and their place in the world. That's why it's crucial to introduce girls to STEM in ways that spark their passion and foster a sense of belonging. Mentorship, upskilling, and access to opportunities are equally vital. Ensuring women have the tools and support systems they need to build successful careers is when real change happens."
Cindi Howson
Chief AI & Data Strategy Officer, ThoughtSpot
“To accelerate gender equality, the path forward requires both individual action and institutional change. For the women entering tech, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Your voice shapes not only your success but the future of technology itself. Advancements in technology are powered by collaboration, so your skills and strengths aren't just valuable - they're essential! At an institutional level, it is so important companies understand that mentorship, representation, and access to opportunities for all are essential in closing the gender gap. By embracing diversity at every level, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world where everyone has the support to thrive.”
Florence Concepcion
Lead Vacuum Engineer, Aquark Technologies
“The hardest aspect of progression was breaking through into male dominated environments and the social networks that surround the roles, providing critical opportunities for future development. Because of this challenge, there were many occasions where I had to work harder to earn the respect of my male colleagues. We are lucky to have so many ambitious, high calibre women in the work force and we need to build networks of support to help lift others.”
Marie Quinn
Director of Regional Operations, Midlands, Woodgate & Clark
“Embrace the chaos and seize every opportunity that comes your way. As a woman in tech, you bring a unique perspective that is incredibly valuable. Remember, women are more powerful than they often realise and can achieve remarkable things, even while balancing family life. Let’s inspire the next generation by showing them the endless possibilities available to them.”
Claire McInnes
Head of Intelligent Automation, MarkerStudy
"The tech sector's greatest strength comes from diverse perspectives tackling complex problems. Technologies being developed today, like quantum, will be the everyday technologies of the future, and so they need people from all backgrounds to play an active part in building them. To accelerate gender equality in the industry, we need to demystify the fields that are more niche or may appear as intimidating, such as quantum engineering, while also building safe and welcoming workplace cultures. Creating truly diverse teams isn't just about equality — it helps drive innovation through accessing and respecting multiple viewpoints."
Lauren Reid
Photonics Engineer, Aquark Technologies
“Over the course of my career, I’ve seen the power of opportunity firsthand. The tech industry is an incredibly diverse ecosystem, and I've been fortunate to work across various domains. Every major wave of technological change creates new opportunities and a more level playing field. Over the last two decades, AI research has been driven by the ML community, but the rise of generative AI is making it more accessible for everyone to participate. Women flourish when they have the freedom to explore different paths and discover their passions. As more women join the ranks of developers, data scientists, and AI leaders, they bring with them a range of perspectives that enrich our field and also inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”
Hema Magesh
VP President of Engineering, ThoughtSpot
"Extensive research shows a high correlation between greater gender equality and a company’s overall performance. Gender equality isn’t just about fairness, but innovation, business success, and building and delivering better products for all. On an individual level, constantly advocate for yourself, whether it is for fair pay, promotions, professional development or other leadership opportunities. Within organizations, women leaders and male allies must continue to champion women and build inclusive, supportive working cultures."
Bernadette Bulacan
Chief Evangelist, Icertis
“Women in tech bring unique strengths—structured thinking, resilience, and innovation - but we still face challenges in proving our capabilities and balancing career growth. Early in my cybersecurity career, I realised that while men often dive straight into coding, my systematic approach helped solve complex problems more efficiently. My advice? Believe in yourself, seek mentors, and take up space. The industry needs more women - not for diversity’s sake, but because we excel in tech.”
Aziza Bonk
SOC Analyst & Forensic Investigator, Keepit
"International Women’s Day is a celebration of progress fuelled by purpose-driven leadership. As CFO here at Deputy, I’m proud to have played a role in leading our company to unicorn status - not just through financial strategy but by championing diverse voices, fostering innovation, and shaping a culture that empowers every team member. What makes me even prouder is being part of a leadership team that is 80% women and is passionate about laying the foundations for the next generation of leaders in tech and finance. That foundation is built through action: embedding financial literacy and career development at every level, and ensuring our investments - in people, technology, and programs are creating a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and succeed."
Emma Seymour
CFO, Deputy
“To me, true equality isn't about diminishing the achievements of any gender; it's about creating an equitable environment where everyone has the same opportunities and responsibilities in their careers and personal lives. This is not to ignore the still existing challenges faced by women in the technology industry, especially those balancing professional success with motherhood. I am lucky to have found a balance between my job and being a mother. I am fortunate to have a fantastic network. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and I have found that village with my teammates, my friends and family and my partner. This support has allowed me to combine both worlds and get the best out of both. On this International Women's Day, I want to accelerate action by acknowledging and celebrating our networks around us. We still have a long way to go to achieve full gender equality, but I want to encourage everyone to take part in it."
Grace Ensell
Sales Manager, Western Digital UK
“This International Women’s Day, let’s accelerate action by recognising the importance of balance and self-care. Women carry so many responsibilities, for me it was leading a company, a first time funding round, and navigating a difficult pregnancy journey all at once - and finding time for myself was essential to succeeding through all of that. Every day brings new challenges, but it’s essential to acknowledge when we need to pause, recharge, and nurture ourselves. That way, we can ensure that we have the energy and perspective to keep leading with strength and resilience. Self-care is vital for this journey. Taking small moments for yourself can help to reset mentally and emotionally, ensuring that we can continue to show up as our best selves, whether we’re leaders, partners, parents, colleagues or all in one. We must be kind to ourselves - sometimes we are our own worst critic but we should give ourselves some slack.”
Charlotte Lucy Hall
Co-Founder & CMO, Zinc
“International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, talent, and leadership of women who continue to break barriers in industries traditionally seen as male-dominated. It’s also a call to action—to support, connect, inspire, and uplift the next generation while honoring the women who have continually proven that talent and leadership are not defined by gender. Where talent shortages persist, we all must take an active role in mentoring and empowering more women to step forward with confidence. As Mahatma Gandhi said, 'Be the change you want to see in the world."
Kams Narayan
Director of Product Management for APIM, SnapLogic
"This International Women's Day, we are committed to accelerating progress toward gender parity. To me, that means empowering everyone to carve their own career path—no matter how unconventional. Women's careers often take unexpected turns; my own journey from engineering to marketing wasn’t planned, yet it has been deeply fulfilling. To break down barriers and drive real change, we must champion those who embrace new opportunities and work together to create a world where everyone can thrive."
Monica Kumar
CMO, Extreme Networks
“The most inspiring people I’ve worked with share one common trait: they care. They care not just about results, but about the people around them, about bringing value, and about doing meaningful work. To young women starting their careers: care deeply about the work you do and the value you bring to others. When you lead with care, opportunities open, relationships grow, and work becomes more meaningful.”
Katherine Kostereva
CEO, Creatio
"International Women’s Day is not only a time to celebrate but also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of diversity in tech. While progress has been made, gender disparities remain, and there is more work to be done. By acknowledging these challenges and taking meaningful steps toward inclusivity, we can help create a more balanced and welcoming industry for everyone."
Holly Anschutz
Director of Sales UK&I, Extreme Networks
