Female technology industry leaders are set to share their advice and inspirational career journeys with students in Leeds.
University Centre Leeds (UC Leeds) will host the fourth annual Women in Leadership programme in March, when special guests will speak at a series of lunchtime sessions.
The speakers will include two chief officers from major AI-based businesses, as well as the founder of a tech recruitment agency.
The talks are aimed at inspiring women who are looking to launch their career in the industry, at a time where only 5% of tech leadership positions are held by females.
Deputy Head of Business at UC Leeds, Sarah Cook, believes that showcasing positive role models and the success stories of women in the industry will motivate learners to start their own journey.
She said: “Breaking barriers in tech requires not just coding skills, but resilience and determination. Women face unique challenges on the path to a tech career, overcoming existing biases and stereotypes.
“We have secured three brilliant speakers, who will each bring with them their own unique experiences and advice, which will make a real difference to attendees.
“We’ve had such positive feedback from students who have attended our previous events, so we’re delighted to be able to offer the programme once again.”
Sarah Hague - Wednesday 13th March
Sarah Hague, COO of BlackDice, a specialist cyber defence company, will be hosting the first session on Wednesday 13 March. She was recently named as one of the top 100 most influential women in UK tech and has an impressive track record in technological transformation.
Sarah said: “In a world where all organisations are digital, digital skills are not optional.
“We need diversity in the workforce, across all levels and sectors, to ensure that the broadest range of perspectives, skills and ideas are brought to the table.
“It took me years for me to finally realise that my non-technical skills are exactly what is needed to drive successful digital transformation.”
Blackdice
Hannah Brately - Wednesday 20th March
The programme’s second event, on Wednesday 20 March, will be led by CEO of Frame AI Hannah Brately, and will focus on inclusion and diversity in the sector.
Hannah said: “Empowering women to step into tech careers is pivotal for fostering innovation and driving change within the industry.
“My personal experience in technology has shown me the immense value of diverse perspectives in solving complex problems and creating impactful solutions.
“The Women in Tech Leadership events at UC Leeds are crucial in inspiring and guiding the next generation of women to break barriers and shape the future of technology.”
Frame AI
