In a milestone for gender equality in the tech industry, Uzbekistan has become the first country in Central Asia to launch the Women in Tech project, aiming to introduce women to modern professions in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Ayumi Moore Aoki, the Founder and CEO of Women in Tech Global, shared her insights during the project's launch event, highlighting the importance of diversity and empowerment in the IT sector.
Reflecting on the IT sector in Uzbekistan, Ayumi expressed admiration for its dynamism and innovation. Since her arrival in Tashkent, she has observed the government's efforts in promoting innovation and empowering women, citing the country's youthful population and its potential as a promising hub for startups in the technical field. She emphasized the need for more women to join the technology sector and contribute to its growth in Uzbekistan.
“Uzbekistan is a young country, with 60% of its population being under 30 years old. It is also the most populous country in Central Asia, which I was not aware of. All these factors make it a very promising hub for startups in the technical field. My hope is that more women will come forward and contribute to this growing ecosystem, ensuring that more Uzbek women join the technology sector and help it grow in the country,” Ayumi voiced.
When asked about the representation of women in the IT sector, Ayumi emphasized the importance of empirical research to determine the exact figures in Uzbekistan. She outlined plans to conduct thorough research, including quantitative and qualitative data analysis, to identify areas for improvement and develop tailored programs. Ayumi stressed the organization's commitment to sharing knowledge and experiences with other countries in the region to foster gender diversity in the tech industry.
Addressing concerns about the diversity of backgrounds in the IT sector, Ayumi underscored the significance of inclusivity. She highlighted that while technical skills are essential, individuals from diverse backgrounds, including humanitarian or arts backgrounds, can make significant contributions to the sector. Ayumi emphasized the importance of passion for technology and a willingness to learn as key factors for success in the IT industry.
“It's important to have more women in computing and technical IT skills, but IT and technology involve more than just those areas. As someone with a background in fine arts, I believe that skills can be learned throughout one's career and that previous education and experiences can offer unique perspectives and assets. If you have a passion for technology, there is a place for you, and it's important to find the right path that fits your skills. Different backgrounds and experiences can be an asset in this field,” Ayumi shared.
Looking ahead, Ayumi expressed optimism about Uzbekistan's IT industry, stating her belief in the country's potential to lead the region. She expressed her hope to see more female leaders and even envisioned the emergence of a "female unicorn," symbolizing a highly successful female-led tech company.
Ayumi Moore Aoki's dedication to empowering women and girls in STEAM fields has garnered global recognition. With its main office located in Paris and operations spanning across 45 nations, Women in Tech Global boasts a membership exceeding 200,000 individuals. The organization's goal is to empower 5 mn women and girls in STEAM by the year 2030. Under her leadership, Women in Tech Global operates on four pillars: education, business, digital inclusion, and advocacy, driving positive change in the tech industry worldwide.
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