2024-12-07 –, Activities & Open Spaces
Language: English
"Empowering Change: Building and Amplifying the PyLadies Community as Black Women in Tech" the pivotal role that Black women play in strengthening and expanding the PyLadies community, particularly within the broader tech industry. Through a dynamic conversation, our panelists will share insights on navigating and overcoming unique challenges, breaking barriers, and fostering an inclusive space within the Python ecosystem. This panel will bring together trailblazers from diverse technical backgrounds who are dedicated to fostering a thriving and supportive network within PyLadies.
Panelists will share their journeys in tech, discussing how they’ve used their skills and platforms to uplift others while advancing their own careers. Topics will include strategies for effective community-building, mentorship, and advocacy within the Python ecosystem. Emphasis will also be placed on the significance of creating spaces where underrepresented voices can not only be heard but also celebrated and supported.
Through this discussion, attendees will gain actionable strategies for community-building, mentorship, and leadership, while also learning about initiatives designed to support diversity, equity, and representation. Additionally, panelists will highlight ongoing initiatives and actionable steps to support diversity and representation within PyLadies and the broader tech field.
This session is designed to inspire Black women and other underrepresented groups, encouraging them to take active roles in the Python community. By focusing on empowerment and inclusivity, the panel aims to leave attendees with tools and motivation to shape a more equitable future in tech for everyone.
This two-part panel series, "Empowering Change: Building and Amplifying the PyLadies Community as Black Women in Tech," will feature conversations with leaders, trailblazers, and community organizers dedicated to driving inclusivity and resilience within the Python and tech communities. Focused on the unique experiences and contributions of Black women, the sessions will address the challenges they face, the opportunities they pursue, and the impact they are making through PyLadies and beyond.
The panel will be split into two thematic sessions and 40 mins for each, each designed to inspire and equip attendees with the tools, insights, and encouragement necessary to thrive in tech.
Panel Session 1: Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
In the first session, panelists will discuss the specific experiences and opportunities that Black women face in the tech industry. This segment is dedicated to opening up honest conversations on overcoming adversity, embracing opportunities, and building community.
Unique Challenges Faced by Black Women in Tech; Black women in tech often navigate a range of challenges, including underrepresentation, workplace biases, and limited access to mentorship and resources. This part of the discussion will spotlight the obstacles that come with being a Black woman in a field where their numbers remain low. Panelists will draw on personal experiences to share how they address and overcome these challenges, fostering resilience along the way. By providing visibility into these unique challenges, the panel aims to encourage solidarity, validate experiences, and empower others facing similar struggles.
Opportunities for Growth and Empowerment; Despite the challenges, Black women in tech have continuously found and leveraged opportunities for growth. This segment will explore the various pathways for advancement available to women in the Python community. Panelists will discuss how to identify growth opportunities, from professional networking and career development to leadership training. Additionally, they’ll share advice on amplifying one’s voice, contributing to open-source projects, and using community resources as a launchpad for personal and professional empowerment. The discussion will highlight practical approaches to taking charge of one's career and the support systems that make it possible.
Impact of PyLadies in Fostering Inclusivity; As a global network dedicated to promoting women in Python, PyLadies has become a vital space for inclusivity and community building. This part of the panel will look at how PyLadies fosters an environment where women feel empowered, supported, and represented. Panelists will discuss the role PyLadies plays in addressing the needs of Black women in tech and the ways in which it has provided a safe space for sharing resources, building connections, and advancing careers. Attendees will learn about PyLadies’ ongoing initiatives, the significance of creating such inclusive spaces, and how they can get involved in these efforts to amplify diversity in tech.
Panel Session 2: Building Community, Mentorship, and Confidence
In the second session, the conversation will shift to practical strategies for growth, the importance of mentorship, and the role of self-confidence in navigating the tech industry. This segment is designed to empower attendees with actionable tools for building a community-driven and personally fulfilling career.
Strategies for Community Growth and Impact; A thriving community is essential for lasting change and progress. In this segment, panelists will share strategies they have used within the PyLadies community to foster growth and create a positive impact. Topics will include how to structure local events, initiatives that attract new members, and ways to create a supportive environment where members feel empowered to contribute. Panelists will also discuss the importance of inclusive programming and sustainable community building practices. By the end of this discussion, attendees will have learned tangible strategies to apply to their own communities, whether locally or globally, to encourage growth and amplify impact.
Mentorship and Community-Driven Change; Mentorship is a cornerstone of support for Black women in tech, providing them with access to guidance, knowledge, and career advancement opportunities. This part of the session will delve into the role of mentorship in driving positive change within PyLadies and beyond. Panelists will discuss how mentorship within the PyLadies community has empowered them and those they mentor to develop skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. They will also highlight the importance of “paying it forward” by becoming mentors themselves. Attendees will come away with insights on how to seek and provide mentorship, as well as how to leverage community-driven mentorship programs to promote diversity and inclusivity.
Overcoming Impostor Syndrome and Building Confidence; Impostor syndrome and self-doubt are common struggles, particularly for Black women in predominantly male-dominated fields. This part of the panel will address the effects of impostor syndrome on career progression, productivity, and mental health. Panelists will share their own experiences of overcoming self-doubt and the tools they’ve used to build self-confidence in challenging environments. They’ll offer practical advice on how to reframe negative thoughts, recognize achievements, and take ownership of one’s unique skills and contributions. By exploring these personal journeys, attendees will gain a fresh perspective on navigating self-doubt and building confidence as they move forward in their careers.
This panel series is designed to leave attendees with a renewed sense of purpose, actionable strategies for growth, and an empowered mindset. We aim to inspire attendees to contribute actively to their own communities and to take steps toward a more diverse and inclusive tech industry. Join us to explore, connect, and be part of an ongoing movement to empower Black women in tech.
Mesrenyame is an Open Source Community Builder, Programs Manager, Researcher and STEM Education advocate from Ghana who loves the power that Open Source can put in people’s hands. She wants to help create more awareness, through community building, advocacy and research.
Naa Ashiorkor is a versatile and passionate data scientist. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Data Science at Tampere University while contributing as a research assistant.
She contributes to the tech community through volunteering and mentorship. She is an active member of PyLadies Ghana and Python Ghana. Also, she recently joined as an organizer for conferences such as PyConDE & PyData and Europython.
Theresa Seyram Agbenyegah, a dedicated backend developer, Open Source Advocate/contributor, a PSF contributing member and social entrepreneur committed to impacting lives and improving society through giving and empowering the less privileged. I am a member of Python Ghana , As the PyLadies Ghana Programmes and Event Lead, i plays a vital role in promoting inclusivity and skill development among women in tech. Additionally, as an organizer of Black Python Devs Ghana, they work to foster a supportive environment for Black Python developers.
With a strong focus on education and community building, I co-organized PyCon Ghana 2022 DjangoGirls, providing mentorship and resources to aspiring developers. I also serve as the LOC Programmes Team Lead for PyCon Africa 2024 and organizer for DjangoGirls Pycon Africa 2024..
Joyce Dzifa Lokko is a software engineer, service delivery manager and tech enthusiast with a passion for driving impactful initiatives. With extensive experience in communications, strategic project management, and fostering inclusion in the tech space, she’s committed to empowering underrepresented communities through STEM education and innovation.
Dzifa has led various projects and teams, showcasing her skills in leadership, collaboration, and delivering measurable results. She’s an advocate for women in technology and actively contributes to initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion.
Dorothy is a dynamic software engineer and community leader passionate about driving inclusivity and empowering underrepresented voices in tech. With years of experience in full-stack development, Dorothy has worked on transformative projects, including a Church Attendance and Reporting App and AI-driven solutions to enhance the software development lifecycle. Currently, she is a contigent developer at Morgan Stanley, leveraging technologies like Java Springboot, Angular, and DSL to deliver innovative solutions.
Dorothy’s impact extends beyond her technical expertise. She has served as the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) lead for PyCon Africa, where she successfully brought together diverse participants to celebrate Python’s vibrant ecosystem. As an active member of PyLadies Ghana, Python Ghana, and other tech communities, she mentors young women, fostering growth and representation in STEM.
Her advocacy focuses on creating safe, inclusive spaces where Black women and other minorities can thrive. She believes in the power of community-driven initiatives, mentorship, and storytelling to inspire and build confidence.
Dorothy holds a vision of a tech industry where diversity is celebrated, and every voice matters. Through her work, she aims to bridge gaps and pave the way for the next generation of innovators.