The GirlCode Summit this year aims to create more supportive communities where networking and collaboration are possible, says GirlCode founder and CEO Zandile Mkwazani.

“In an era where technology is reshaping every aspect of our lives – from how we work and connect to how we solve global challenges – the question isn't whether we need more women in tech, but how fast we can get them there,” she says, ahead of the summit on April 24.

Mkwazani explains women remain underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields in South Africa, with women making up just a fraction of the technology workforce.

She cites a survey finding that 13% of STEM graduates in the country are women – compared with the global average of 35%. Additionally, only 39.5% of employees in the information, communication and technology sector are women.

“There cannot be any diversity of thought, not to mention true innovation, if there aren’t more women with a seat at the table, and this can’t happen unless more platforms are created to drive learning and professional development,” Mkwazani emphasises.

“That being said, it’s also incredibly important for young girls to be able to see themselves in women who are leaders and innovators in STEM, which is why it’s so important to create supportive communities where networking and collaboration are possible.”

Hence the focus of the GirlCode Summit this year being on having seasoned professionals sit alongside first-time coders, where recruiters meet future talent and where career-shaping advise flows freely.

This year’s programme features a keynote by Dr Mmaki Jantjies – one of South Africa’s foremost leaders in digital transformation and innovation, currently heading up innovation and transformation at Telkom – as well as a fireside chat between Mkwanazi and Foschini Group platforms and operations CTO Nirvani Dhevcharran.

“From inspiring talks and panel discussions to networking sessions with top tech companies, attendees [will] walk away with tools, contacts, and – most importantly – confidence,” Mkwazani says.

She adds that this year’s summit comes at a time when the world is undergoing an AI revolution, increasing digitisation and a greater push for inclusive economies.

Mkwazani notes if women are to thrive in this future, they need to be equipped now, not just with technical skills but with leadership, visibility and community.

Behind the scenes of the event, GirlCode’s mission is to provide year-round coding bootcamps, online learning programmes and mentorship opportunities for girls and women who would not otherwise have access to these resources.

The company aims to provide more opportunities for growth in the technology sector, affording more women a chance to reach their full potential.

“The lack of female representation in the tech industry is a symptom of a problem at grassroots level, where young girls aren’t being exposed to quality educational resources in the classroom,” Mkwazani explains, adding that, for too long, the technology field has been a gate-kept industry.  

She believes industry, government and educational institutions all have a role to play in dismantling the systemic barriers that hold women back. From sponsoring bursaries and internships, to supporting inclusive hiring practices and creating more family-friendly work environments, there’s an urgent need for a collective response.

Notably, Mkwazani, points out, empowering women is not just a social imperative but a business benefit. “Diverse teams build better products, innovate faster and create technologies that reflect and serve the real world more effectively.”

Ultimately, closing the gender gap in tech will require a long-term investment in both people and ecosystems.

While events such as the GirlCode Summit are a powerful spark, lasting change can only come from consistent and sustained action to make sure women stay in the sector, as well as grow and lead.