In an era where technology defines the fabric of our daily lives, discovering how to elevate women’s voices in the tech sector is crucial to ensure a future that reflects inclusivity and innovation. Explore how women can reshape the digital economy and take charge in building a more equitable future for all.
Image: Supplied.
As South Africa grapples with a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the narrative surrounding women in technology is shifting dramatically.
No longer is the focus merely on increasing access, the pressing issue now is whether women are genuinely influencing the systems, decisions, and innovations steering the future of work.
Seugnet van den Berg, co-founder of Bizmod, shed light on the imperative for women to move beyond mere representation in the tech sector.
"Having women present is not the same as giving them real influence. If women aren’t actively shaping decisions and outcomes, then digital transformation simply reinforces the same structures organisations are trying to move away from. Inclusion on its own isn’t enough," van den Berg said.
Closing the digital gender gap requires a profound commitment that transcends Corporate Social Investment initiatives, according to van den Berg.
"For true progress, inclusion must be interwoven into the operational fabric of organisations, influencing decision-making and technological deployment. When women take on integral roles in developing and applying emergent technologies, especially generative AI, their diverse perspectives can significantly dictate adoption trends, usability, and long-term benefits," van den Berg said.
“Technology has real human consequences. It changes how people work, learn, and access opportunities. When those effects aren’t prioritised from the beginning, systems struggle to gain traction. Including women in design and decision-making improves adoption and leads to better business outcomes,” van den Berg added.
She said that the onus of empowerment lies not solely with organisations, individuals must also cultivate the confidence to take part.
"Participation in the digital economy translates to a proactive approach, building digital literacy, capabilities, and aspiring for one’s contributions to make a difference," she said.
Engaging initiatives at schools and community levels, such as hackathons and digital bootcamps are essential to dispel these myths, showcasing that technology extends far beyond coding to encompass problem-solving, creativity, and tangible societal impact, according to van den Berg.
“Teachers can only guide learners towards careers they understand themselves," van den Berg said.
As artificial intelligence and automation continue to redefine the workplace landscape, van den Berg said that it is crucial that women's participation in technology extends beyond individual roles into leadership and governance.
"Women in executive positions must embrace the dual responsibility of mentorship and sponsorship. The upcoming generation of women requires guidance that reflects the complexities of navigating ambition amid cultural expectations and systemic bias. Change happens when women lead visibly and confidently, supporting one another and setting a different standard for what leadership looks like in practice,” van den Berg said.
Ultimately, women’s involvement in technology cannot simply be a matter of representation, it is a necessity.
The future of work relies on diverse thinking, ethical leadership, and actionable solutions that resonate with the populace.
Without women's active participation in shaping the digital economy, the potential for genuine inclusivity and advancement remains tantalisingly out of reach.
Follow Business Report on Facebook, X and on LinkedIn for the latest Business and tech news.