TechHer: Empowering women to shape the future of technology
TechHer, Microsoft’s digital skills programme for women, held an open event broadcast live across London, Manchester, Reading and Edinburgh, recently. The theme was ‘Empowering Women to Shape the Future of Technology’. What were the key learnings from the day?
Accenture alumna Emma Tolhurst set the tone, saying: “In a world where technology is evolving at lightning speed, ensuring women are empowered and represented in the tech industry is more critical than ever.
“The need for diverse perspectives, emotional intelligence, and inclusive innovation has never been greater.”
Yet women remain under-represented across sectors, from tech and finance to healthcare and media, despite their proven ability to drive change, add value, and shape the future, she said.
“It’s time to be visible, take the leap, and lead the change we want to see“
Whether correcting AI bias, leading sustainable tech initiatives, or reshaping financial systems with purpose, the future needed women’s voices, leadership, and boldness, she argued.
“It’s time to be visible, take the leap, and lead the change we want to see.”
Need for focus
A day of panel discussions, motivational speakers and networking saw a wide range of topics covered. For example, Francesca Parmigiani, Microsoft Research Leader and a panellist keenly attuned to the dynamics of human-AI interaction, spoke about the need for focus.
“Focusing on work is a practice,” she explained. “You need to block a certain part of the day to be distraction-free. That means no mobile, no Teams calls or messages, no filling the dishwasher.
“This time allows you genuinely to focus on your work and creativity.”
Achieving this level of concentration is no easy feat, Francesca admitted, yet the rewards are transformative.
With deliberate effort, professionals can empower themselves to reach new levels of productivity and innovation, she said.
Simplifying life and work
Another key theme of the day was the role AI can play in enhancing productivity and solving complex challenges.
Alkim Mete, Microsoft Azure Data and AI Lead, shared her perspective on how to use AI effectively, not just for its novelty, but for its ability to simplify processes and iron out wrinkles in the way we work.
“I use AI to improve my productivity or resolve something across my role or team that I couldn’t do myself,” she said.
Alkim observed that the tech industry was trending toward optimisation and simplification.
“How do we simplify in a way that resolves customer pain points?” she asked. “How is AI supporting how you work or how you live your life?”
She urged participants to reflect on these questions, highlighting the delicate balance between embracing innovation and staying present in one’s professional and personal life.
Meetings that matter
Lina Chan, Holland & Barrett’s Director of Women’s Health, championed the concept of “purposeful meetings” as a cornerstone of effective teamwork.
“We set an agenda in every invitation and make the proposed outcome very clear,” she explained.
“This approach ensures meetings are productive and targeted, respecting the time and energy of all participants.”
Beyond meetings, technology facilitates autonomy and flexibility in the workplace, she said. The panellists agreed that tools like scheduled messages and out-of-office replies enabled people to manage their time effectively while reducing pressure on colleagues.
“Technology is there to enable you to work at your own time without pressuring others to do the same,” Alkim noted, highlighting how thoughtful use of tech can empower teams to thrive.
Space to recharge
Many TechHer conference participants agreed that work-life balance remained a significant challenge, particularly for those working from home, where the boundaries between professional and personal life can blur.
Alkim suggested “divider activities” as a way to decompress and transition from work to home life.
“Something like a work-out class, talking to a loved one, or meditation – it splits the working day and helps you decompress,” she advised.
Lina also encouraged stepping back when work becomes overwhelming.
“It’s so easy for us to want to react instantly, but the best thing to do is to take time to react. Find what works for you to calm down.
“When work gets difficult, the absolute best thing you can do is step back,” she said.
The panellists all agreed that mindfulness and intentionality were highly valuable in maintaining balance.
Authentic networking
In a candid moment, Jalila Keita, CGI’s Global Contracts Manager, reflected on universal feelings of self-doubt and the shared humanity of navigating insecurities: “The feeling of not being enough is so personal,” she said.
“We all have insecurities – even the most confident board member. It’s part of being human. We’ve all got things we need to deal with.”
“TechHer is …a movement to empower women to shape the future of technology“
Her vulnerability and authenticity epitomised the spirit of TechHer, a space where women can share their journeys and support one another in overcoming challenges.
As the conversation turned toward networking, participants recognised the immense power of connection in professional growth and collaboration, with many highlighting that building meaningful relationships within the tech industry strengthens not only individual careers, but also women’s collective impact.
Catalyst for change
“For many participants, TechHer is clearly more than a programme – it’s a movement to empower women to shape the future of technology,” said Lauren Dixon, Chair of TechHer.
“In fostering focus, embracing balance, and championing purposeful connections, TechHer provides a platform to address industry challenges and celebrate women’s contributions to innovation.”
As experts and thought leaders shared their insights throughout a buzzing day, the consistent message was about resilience, authenticity, and empowerment.
“Through initiatives like TechHer, women are not just participating in technology, they are transforming it, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future,” Lauren concluded.