In a major step to enhance gender diversity in the tech sector, Indian multinational technology company Zoho, known for its software and web-based business tools, has partnered with She Code Africa. She Code Africa is a prominent organization focused on empowering women in technology throughout Africa. This partnership represents a significant effort to tackle gender imbalance in tech by providing women with the resources and opportunities needed to succeed in the digital era.
Through this partnership, Zoho will conduct “Train the Trainer” sessions for She Code Africa (SCA) Academy trainers, focusing on Zoho Creator, the company’s low-code app development platform. These sessions will provide trainers with the skills needed to use Zoho Creator effectively. After receiving training, these trainers will share their knowledge with SCA students, teaching them how to create impactful applications using low-code technology. The goal is to empower these students to address real business challenges with their newfound skills.
Zoho will supply resources such as software licenses, cloud services, and other tech tools to back the projects and initiatives led by She Code Africa. This will allow participants to gain hands-on experience with advanced technologies and build practical skills.
The upskilling sessions are part of Zoho Creator’s broader initiative known as the ‘Young Creators Program’ (YCP). Launched globally in 2022, the YCP aims to equip future business leaders with advanced digital skills and foster technological innovation. The program is designed to train and prepare the next generation of tech-savvy leaders and innovators.
The collaboration between Zoho and She Code Africa is poised to make a substantial impact on the landscape of technology in Africa. By addressing the challenges faced by women in tech and providing them with valuable resources and opportunities, this partnership has the potential to inspire a new generation of female technologists and leaders.
Moreover, the initiative aligns with the broader goal of creating a more inclusive and diverse tech industry globally. As more organizations recognize the value of diversity in driving innovation and growth, partnerships like this one will play a crucial role in shaping the future of technology.
“At Zoho, we believe in supporting local communities by upskilling and hiring local talent, empowering local businesses with our technology, and promoting responsible and sustainable development. Our growth strategy, known as transnational localism, embodies these values. In continuation of this commitment to support progress at the grassroots, we are partnering with She Code Africa to equip Nigerian students with critical tech skills,” said Kehinde Ogundare, Country Head, Zoho Nigeria.
The program has equipped over 2,000 students globally with practical training in Zoho Creator, offering them completion certificates and appealing rewards. It not only enhances skills but also builds confidence, promotes personal growth, and creates new opportunities in the tech industry. By investing in young talent, Zoho aims to ignite creativity and innovation, making essential tools accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or resources.
Zoho’s partnership with She Code Africa is a promising step toward empowering women in technology and addressing the gender disparities that persist in the tech industry. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to diversity, this collaboration has the potential to make a meaningful difference in the lives of aspiring female tech professionals across Africa. As the partnership progresses, it will undoubtedly serve as a model for other organizations seeking to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive tech landscape.
The partnership will help build a supportive tech community for women through collaborative events, hackathons, and conferences. These gatherings will offer opportunities to share knowledge, showcase talent, and forge valuable connections within the tech industry.