2026-03-21 –, Teresa Yuchengco Auditorium (Main Hall)
The global tech ecosystem continues to grow, yet challenges like limited mentorship, a lack of role models, and fragmented community support hinder progress, especially for underrepresented groups. PyLadies offers a powerful model for bridging these gaps. This talk explores how PyLadies chapters worldwide foster technical growth, increase mentorship opportunities, and drive collaboration to create a more inclusive and sustainable global tech community.
We can contribute to the growth of the global tech ecosystem by leveraging the PyLadies model of an inclusive and sustainable community.
The strength of any tech ecosystem lies in its ability to grow, support, and sustain its members. However, many aspiring technologists from underrepresented backgrounds struggle to find mentorship, role models, and opportunities to thrive. PyLadies, a global network dedicated to increasing women's participation in the Python community, presents a proven model for addressing these challenges.
This talk will explore the impact of community-driven initiatives on the tech ecosystem, using PyLadies as a case study. We'll break down the discussion into three key sections:
Understanding the Challenges:
The barriers to entry and growth in tech for underrepresented groups
The role of mentorship and community in shaping successful careers
The PyLadies Model:
How PyLadies chapters empower individuals through mentorship, technical training, and networking
Success stories from PyLadies communities around the world
Scaling the Impact:
How local communities and organizations can adopt similar models to foster technical growth
Actionable steps for individuals and companies to contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable tech ecosystem
Through real-world examples, practical strategies, and interactive discussions, this talk aims to inspire attendees to take action, whether by starting or supporting PyLadies chapters, mentoring newcomers, or advocating for stronger community engagement.
By the end of the session, participants will leave with a clear understanding of how they can contribute to strengthening the global tech ecosystem and why investing in community-driven initiatives like PyLadies is key to sustainable growth.
OUTLINE
1. Introduction (2 mins)
Introduction
What inspired this talk (the importance of support systems in tech)
Overview of what to expect
2. Understanding the Challenges (8 mins)
A. Barriers for Underrepresented Groups
* Lack of access to mentorship, role models, and opportunities
* Imposter syndrome and systemic bias
* Financial, geographical, and cultural constraints
B. The Role of Community and Mentorship
* Why peer support matters
* How mentorship can transform career journeys
* Audience interaction: "Who here has been positively impacted by a tech community?"
The PyLadies Model (8 mins)
A. What is PyLadies?- Mission, history, and global reach
- Core activities: workshops, meetups, mentorship, speaker support
B. Empowerment Through Community - Technical training and exposure
- Networking and visibility for women in Python
- Community-led leadership development
C. Success Stories - Highlight stories from PyLadies chapters around the world
- Testimonials
Scaling the Impact (8 mins)
A. Adopting the Model Locally- How can any community replicate PyLadies' success
- Partnering with schools, companies, and global organizations
B. Individual & Organizational Action Steps - Starting or supporting a PyLadies chapter
- Mentoring newcomers or junior developers
- Advocating for inclusive hiring and speaker lineups
- Supporting infrastructure: funding, venues, visibility
Call to Action (4 mins)
Recap of key takeaways
Share a personal reflection on the power of community- Call to action:
i) Join/support PyLadies
ii) Become a mentor
iii) Create inclusive spaces in your local tech communities
- Call to action:
Q&A
Gertrude Abagale is a cybersecurity engineer and an active contributor to community-led open-source initiatives across Africa. She works extensively with Python to build secure backend systems and enterprise integrations. Beyond her professional work, she volunteers with PyLadies Ghana, Python Ghana, AWS Accra User Group, and Everything Open Source, mentoring women and underrepresented groups as they transition into tech. Her community work focuses on creating accessible pathways into open source and fostering sustainable, inclusive tech ecosystems.