Innovative technology program inspires young women in Leeds

Ahead Partnership recently brought together female leaders in technology and innovation to celebrate the sixth edition of Girl Tech Leeds.

Inspired women from some of the city’s most influential businesses have come together to engage with young women across the city and equip them with rich insights into the sector before they choose their GCSE options.

The interactive digital information day was designed by ESG specialist Ahead Partnership and aims to reach young women who lack awareness or connections to the tech sector.

By introducing them to the growing wealth of roles and opportunities in the sector, it aims not only to boost their personal development, but to help employers build a diverse talent book for the future.

The day gave 153 young women from 11 Leeds schools access to a catalog of events including panel sessions, workshops and networking with models and industry leaders.

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Ahead Partnership supported this year’s event with the support of a number of long-standing partners and employers, including Leeds City Council, Netcompany and the multi-billion pound organization Sulzer.

Representatives from the organizations had the unique opportunity to network and share personal knowledge with the next generation of young female talent, encouraging them to consider a future in technology and innovation.

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“The technology skills gap is growing, so it’s critical to engage with young people early and showcase the opportunities available to them,” said Dr. Suzanne Thoma, executive chairman of Sulzer.

“This is especially important for young women; with only 24% of UK tech workers being women, the need for change is clear. As long-standing champions of diversity and inclusion, we are very proud to have teamed up with Ahead Partnership to help lead this change.

“It was fantastic to see the young women who took part in each of today’s activities grow in confidence throughout the day and I hope it will have a lasting impact on each of them as they consider the many opportunities available in the future.”

Girl Tech is the flagship event of Ahead Partnership’s Growing Talent Digital Leeds programme. Led and funded by some of the city’s top employers, the initiative harnesses the combined resources of employers and key partners to inspire and encourage young people aged 10-18 to pursue a career in digital; to address industry-specific skills shortages; and create a comprehensive, diverse and skilled talent pipeline.

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