Marga Hoek is a three-time CEO.
As a business leader, she gained international recognition for her vision, innovative approach and performance on sustainability. She has authored several important books, notably The Trillion Dollar Shift and Tech for Good – works designed to guide finance and business to take charge in global sustainable development while grasping the urgent opportunities of the green transition.
This International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate not only the remarkable achievements of women in tech, but also the emerging opportunities that will shape tomorrow’s industries – and enhance women’s impact in science and innovation.
As technology evolves at a rapid pace, the unique strengths that women bring—such as creative problem-solving, empathetic leadership, and collaborative innovation to name a few—position them perfectly for success in the future of science.
AI & machine learning
AI is revolutionizing how we work and live. Women in tech are at the forefront of this revolution, integrating ethical, human-centred approaches into machine learning and automation. Woman’s natural ability to balance technical precision with creative insight ensures that AI systems are both efficient and inclusive. As one catchy mantra goes, “Empathy is the new algorithm”, meaning that the human touch in technology is vital.
Quantum computing
Quantum computing promises to solve problems beyond the reach of traditional computers. Women with a blend of strong analytical skills and visionary thinking are uniquely positioned to break new ground in this field. Their capacity to bridge the gap between abstract theory and practical application is turning quantum possibilities into real-world innovations. This expertise will become even more critical in the future, because our most complex challenges—from climate change modelling to personalized medicine—demand quantum leaps in computational power and innovative problem-solving.
Green tech
Sustainability is at the heart of modern innovation—no technology should exist without purpose, as I always say when highlighting the value of “Tech for Good.” Women can take the lead in green tech by developing renewable energy solutions combining the tech with the community angle, like smart grids, and eco-friendly innovations that help build sustainable cities. Imagine5 spotlighted tech startup ReGen Ventures, an example demonstrating how collaborative spirit and commitment to community-focused solutions are raising the bar for environmental responsibility in the tech industry.
The nexus between tech and women’s skills
The future of science and innovation is inherently interdisciplinary and per definition thrives on diversity. Women are proving that their unique competencies not only help close the tech gender gap, but also ignite groundbreaking solutions. As emerging industries continue to blur traditional boundaries, there has never been a better time for women to step into crucial leadership roles!
On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, let’s remember: “Empathy is the new algorithm.”, so when women code, the future stands to be redefined.
Way to go, women!
