City celebrates International Women’s Day with Women in Tech

27 March 2025

Yesterday, the City of Cape Town’s Corporate Services Directorate led by the City’s Mayoral Committee Member, Alderman Theresa Uys, hosted over 120 senior women leaders in Digital, IT and Technology from across private and public sectors to empower, uplift and open doors for one another in tech industries. This Women-in-Digital event formed part of the City’s recognition and celebration of International Women’s Day 2025. This year’s theme is Accelerate Action.

‘Technology is not just about codes and circuits. It is about solving real-world problems, enhancing lives and creating a better future. Yet, even in the 21st  century, women remain underrepresented in the tech industry. The question is, why? It is not a lack of talent, drive or passion. It is a matter of opportunity, access and support,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, Alderman Theresa Uys.

The Women-in-Digital event provided an opportunity for the audience, both internal and external, to listen to other inspirational women who are driving transformational initiatives for youth and women in Cape Town.

The keynote speech was delivered by Saffron Baggallay, the Founder and CEO of the Personal Mastery Lab, who shared valuable insights on accelerating action for humans in business.

This was followed by a panel discussion on Digital-for-good projects led by:
• Jessica Hawkey - Founder and Managing Director of redAcademy
• Aveena Mothilall - Strategist and thought leader
• Ninnie Steyn - Director Library and Information Services

Yandiswa Mazwane, the founder of Masiphumelele Creative Hub also shared her experience in providing safe spaces for community members to access safe and educational environments to overcome challenges.

‘We need to address the gender gap in technology by advocating for more inclusive workplaces and mentorship opportunities. Companies must prioritise diversity, not just because it is the right thing to do, but because diverse teams create better solutions. Studies have shown that companies with inclusive cultures are more innovative and financially successful. When women thrive, the industry thrives. Let’s commit to action. Let’s support one another, mentor the next generation and challenge the status quo,’ said Alderman Uys.

Images from the event are available here.
 

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office