The Computer Society of Sri Lanka's Women in ICT Special Interest Group hosted a transformative event in the form of the 2024 Action Planning Workshop. The workshop, held with the aim of fostering empowerment and inclusivity in the tech industry, brought together esteemed speakers, industry representatives, and advocates for women in technology.
The event featured distinguished speakers, including CSSL Fellow Member Ms. Nayani Fernando, who also serves as the Ambassador for Women in Tech Sri Lanka. Her wealth of experience and expertise set the stage for insightful discussions on the challenges and opportunities for women in the ICT sector. Ms. Fernando's contributions during the workshop aimed to inspire and guide participants toward breaking barriers and achieving success in the tech field.
Adding to the diverse perspectives were Ms. Chathini Uduwana, General Manager at Sarvodaya Fusion, and Ms. Maithree Malwaththegoda, Founder and CEO of Makers Global. Both speakers shared their journeys, highlighting the significance of women's contributions to the tech landscape. Their experiences offered valuable insights into navigating the industry, overcoming obstacles, and fostering a supportive environment for women in technology. Navindree Premarathna, the Founder and CEO of Makers Global, brought an entrepreneurial perspective to the workshop. Her presence served as an inspiration for aspiring women in tech, demonstrating the possibilities of leadership and innovation in the field. Ms. Premarathna's insights into founding and leading a tech-focused company added depth to the discussions on women's roles in shaping the future of ICT.
Representatives from different segments of the ICT industry, including both private and public sectors, enriched the workshop with their diverse perspectives. The inclusion of voices from various sectors facilitated a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities that women encounter in different professional settings. A noteworthy aspect of the workshop was the participation of representatives from the GenZ chapters of CSSL. The engagement of the younger generation highlighted the importance of mentorship and knowledge transfer in empowering future leaders in the ICT field. The interaction between seasoned professionals and the emerging generation paved the way for valuable insights and collaborative initiatives.
workshop welcomed representatives from private and public sector universities, emphasizing the importance of educational institutions in shaping the future of women in ICT. The collaboration between industry experts and academia showcased a commitment to equipping the next generation of women with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the tech landscape. The CSSL's Women in ICT SIG 2024 Action Planning Workshop was a dynamic and inclusive event that brought together a spectrum of voices and experiences. The insights shared by esteemed speakers, industry representatives, and the emerging generation underscored the significance of collective action in promoting gender diversity and inclusivity in the ICT sector. As the workshop concluded, the momentum generated is expected to translate into tangible initiatives that will shape a more equitable and empowered future for women in Sri Lanka's technology landscape.