The digitalization of the human world began in the 19th century. New scientific discoveries and technological developments transformed the world. It was not, however, till the early 20th century that Digital earning and Digital skills flourished exponentially. Everything went through a transformational process- everything except the status of women in technology.
History of women in technology
Women have been part of technology since the very beginning despite the constant discouragement. The best-known example is Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer. Ada Lovelace is the woman who laid the foundation of computer programming which changed the world for the better.
Similarly, Hedy Lamarr is known as the inventor of modern-day WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth system. She gave the idea of a wireless communication system and laid the foundation of wireless technology.
Annie Easley-the NASA Rocket Scientist, Radia Perlman-The Mother of the Internet, Elizabeth Feinler-The Original Search Engine Developer, and Cristina Ivancius-The Leader in Tech are some of the famous women in technology.
At the present time, women entrepreneurs are playing roles in paving paths for other females. Many initiatives are striving to empower women through entrepreneurship education. One of the prominent names among them is FEMPROW.
FEMPROW is a social initiative to help advance women’s professional growth and economic empowerment through offline and online entrepreneurship education, support, and capacity building.
Tech-women in Gilgit Baltistan
The glorious history of women in tech could not persuade people about the abilities of Women in Technology. Resultantly, technology is still considered to be a masculine field. The unfortunate phenomenon is observed around the globe but most prominently in Pakistan, particularly Gilgit Baltistan.
The situation, however, seems to be changing for the better. The initiation of National Incubation Centers and Software Technology Parks proved to be the most awaited breakthrough. These platforms not only stirred technological advancement across the country but also paved the way for women’s empowerment. An exemplary story of this is SheDev Pvt Ltd.
SheDev- Tech Startup
SheDev is the first and only Women-led and women-owned tech startup in Gilgit Baltistan. The foundation was laid on 13 December 2020 in STP, Gilgit, in collaboration with TechScape.
It aims at providing a safe and accessible work environment to the Women of Gilgit Baltistan. SheDev works for Women’s empowerment through digital skills and atypical means of income.
Keeping the ever-increasing freelancing industry in view, SheDev provides training in freelancing and digital skills. The main services include Web Development, Digital Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Business Consultancy, SEO, and Content Writing.
The data analysis of SheDev provides a clear picture of the immense women’s potential in technology. The startup has trained over 750 females and employed more than 46 trainees. Moreover, several of the trainees have started their startups and are continuing the chain of self-dependency and entrepreneurship.
Future of Women in Technology
SheDev believes in persistence and is aiming at including more women in its Learn and Earn Program. Starting with Digital literacy SheDev to increase the digital labor of women. The Digital Literacy program focuses on the better utilization of digital equipment and technology.
The skill development workshops provides an opportunity for women to learn and excel in any Digital skill. The learning process is assisted by professional mentors at every step.
Last but not least is the Advanced Freelancing stage where women are trained for online revenue generation. This includes an introduction to online platforms and their proper use to better sell digital skills and earn money.
Conclusion
Years ago, Participation of women in technology was not highly appreciated globally. Regardless of the proud worthy history of Women in tech and famous tech women such as Hedy Lamarr, Ada Lovelace, and many more.
In Pakistan, particularly in Gilgit Baltistan, the formation of NICs and STPs has played a vital role in paving the way toward women’s empowerment through digitalization. SheDev, the first women-led and women-owned tech startup was also formed because of the said provision of accessible work platforms.
SheDev has and is still working for women’s empowerment through digital skills and freelancing. It aims at creating a safe and secure workplace for women meanwhile training them to earn through atypical means.