International Women's Day 2023 Live Updates: Women Tech Leaders on "DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality"

Himani Mishra, MD - Brand Radiator

Amidst various impediments like gender bias, laxity of work life balance, dearth of talent pool in tech due to factors like brain drain leading to mass exodus, insufficiency of support networks and minimal representation, I've always guarded myself with the Pareto Principle, where 80 % of the productivity is the outcome of 20 % of invaluable inputs, be it in the form of supreme diligence or maintaining a tranquil mindset at the times of diversity. Additionally, I've resorted to technology for many of the complications that keep arising to muddle my goal. It's my advice to all the women out there, to bring unique perspectives and innovative ideas to the business world, create jobs, and help drive economic growth. Although the gender gap in digital technology has narrowed considerably in comparison to the past, there is still a tremendous opportunity to close the gap and eliminate gender bias in the specific field." 

For example, only 25 percent of women are less likely to use the mobile internet than their male counterparts. With the government on our side and our collaborative efforts, we can bring about a change that will be worth observing. Effective policies such as "The She Innovates Global Program" and policies encouraging more women to pursue STEM fields of study so that they can pursue technology as their primary contribution to the economy play a significant role in the development of the economy. To address India's low level of digital literacy, the government launched the Pradhan Mantri Digital Saksharta Abhiyan in 2017 in order to ensure digital literacy. The BRICS CCI has been phenomenal at promoting trade and industry in its member states. This award from BRICS is unique because my company, Brand Radiator, is the first female-led technology company in Bihar's tier-3 state, and it has received such a large recognition, which demonstrates BRICS's intention to identify women working in the field of technology in India's rural areas. I fervently hope that everyone in the digital technology field, regardless of gender, contributes significantly to our economy. 

Mona Singh, Co-Founder, India Accelerator

The accessibility to cloud technologies has provided an advantage to women entrepreneurs in crossing geographical and gender boundaries in the world of business. The effectiveness and efficiency of such technology tools have brought business communication closer to women balancing business and family responsibilities. 

Damini Mahajan, co-founder and CEO of WeMakeScholars

On this Women's day, I want to tell all the women entrepreneurs and the homemakers, who are an entrepreneur at heart, Life is not easy for us at any stage; when we are struggling to break the glass ceiling society has put on us OR when we are juggling to manage home, family and our dreams, but despite of this, we have the strength of Devi Kaali in us, so, we can definitely move forward whatsoever. We need to learn not to lose our goals and ambitions while fulfilling our responsibilities as a daughter, daughter-in-law, wife or as a mother. 

To all the young girls, I want to share that I started my company when I was 23. Coming from an orthodox family, 23 is the age to get married. No one wanted me to pursue an ambitious career, instead, get married and start a family. It takes a lot of courage in you to stand against all while having full faith in your dreams. But believe me if that day you take your stand, you are doing it not just for yourself, but for 100 other girls from your village or town. So, do it. And we women have everything in us, whatever it takes to succeed in life and be independent.

Sonica Aron, Managing Partner, Marching Sheep

According to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme, women make up 8.05 million or 13.76 percent of India's 58.5 million entrepreneurs. In shark tank season 2, 40% of the businesses being pitched were owned by women. The increasing number of women entrepreneurs and business owners is not only creating more job opportunities but also challenging deep-rooted gender norms and stereotypes and they are acting as role models for other young women. This will lead to a large-scale societal mindset shift. Today, you find women entrepreneurs in every walk of life, from the health industry to nutrition, to social causes, branding, handicraft, to e-commerce, to name it. Not only have they provided stability to their own families, by way of a second income, but are providing employment and growth opportunities across urban and rural India to other women, today’s youth."

Upasna Dash - Co-Founder, Jajabor Brand Consultancy

In recent years, technology has become a catalyst for social change, providing a platform for individuals to share their thoughts, ideas, and opinions without any form of discrimination. Its accessibility to the masses has helped to dissolve gender inequality by allowing women to leverage their skills and abilities on an equal playing field. As the leader of a consultancy firm that aims to bring the core messaging of each organization to the forefront, I am a firm believer in the potential of technology to empower individuals to put their best foot forward. With the help of technology, we can amplify the voices of those who have been historically marginalized, making it easier for them to showcase their talents and ideas on a global scale. Technology has the power to level the playing field and create a more equitable society for all individuals, regardless of gender or any other form of discrimination.

Yogita Tulsiani Director and co-founder of iXceed Solutions

Technology could be a breakthrough for women, if utilized in an efficient manner. It acts as a key enabler for women working in the gig economy while accessing technology and leadership skills. The abundance of learning and development opportunities offered by edtech platforms is creating strides in STEM business while encouraging women to be into tech fields,” said Yogita Tulsiani, Director and Co-founder, iXceed Solutions.