Women in AI Africa (WAIA)

Women in AI in Africa in 2025_Private sector 1/2 In 2025, artificial intelligence (#AI) has become a key driver of economic and social development in Africa. However, #women remain underrepresented in this rapidly growing sector. According to the #OECD, emerging technologies like #AI present both challenges and opportunities for women, particularly regarding #inclusion in the labor market. OECD - OCDE https://lnkd.in/eNrD5ya5 This underrepresentation of women in AI has significant consequences. For instance, AI systems can amplify gender inequalities when trained on biased #data, potentially perpetuating stereotypes and discrimination according to #ONU Femmes https://lnkd.in/eWuqMw8z To bridge this gap, several initiatives have emerged. #UNESCO has provided #grants to 15 African women entrepreneurs in AI, enabling them to #leverage the #transformative power of this #technology for a positive impact on the continent. https://lnkd.in/eY8QtyRm #Influential #female #figures in AI in the world serve as inspiring role models. Fei-Fei Li, often called the "#godmother" of AI, played a crucial role in developing deep learning. Laurence Devillers, a French researcher, is recognized for her work on AI #ethics. Timnit Gebru, from #Ethiopia (the only women in this ranking), an AI ethics specialist, is known for her advocacy against #algorithmic #biases.. https://lnkd.in/easd6fsG Other women like Nozha Boujemaa and Aurélie JEAN, Ph.D. stand out for their significant contributions to AI, encouraging a new generation of women to engage in the field https://lnkd.in/er8Z-8b9 For their remarquable contribution, shout out to Joelle Pineau, Moojan Asghari , Allie K. Miller most followed voice in AI business. sokhar samb from Senegal, ChaVon (CJ) Clarke-Joell There are more #Influential #female #figures in #AI. We have to #celebrate them everyday for their impactful work. Name them in comments. #Promoting women's inclusion in Africa's AI industry is essential to ensuring a #representative and #equitable technology landscape. Increased efforts in #education, #training, and #mentorship are necessary to boost female participation in this strategic sector.

Have you ever wondered what ethical issues might arise from technological advancement such as Smart Cities and the Internet of Things? Delve into this topic with our very own Sharola Akoth Odipo as she discusses the good, the bad and the in between - https://lnkd.in/dwsrGKSy #digitaltransformation #iot #ai

This year is all about capacity development!! We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the incredible work of Cedric Scott, Jr. M.Ed. who continues to honor his mother’s legacy through the “Julia Elizabeth Legacy Scholarship”! Now in its fourth year, this initiative supports Black high school seniors pursuing STEM education, creating pathways for future innovators. We wouldn’t want our young ladies to miss this exciting opportunity, therefore, we are calling all young women and girls across Africa! If you’re a high school senior passionate about STEM, this essay-based scholarship is an amazing opportunity to fund your dreams. Let’s break barriers and redefine the future of AI and tech Apply today! Additionally, here is how everyone can help: ✅ Spread the word to students who qualify. ✅ Donate to support scholars (tax-deductible via the nonprofit platform). Together, we can uplift the next generation of African women leaders in STEM! Apply here, or donate to amplify impact: (https://lnkd.in/dnAf-gN4) Let’s rally behind Cedric’s vision and honor a legacy that fuels progress. Share this post to inspire young minds! #WomenInAIAfrica #WomenInSTEM #AfricaRising #EducationForAll #Empowerment #AIForGood #ScholarshipOpportunity Cedric Scott, Jr. M.Ed. Your work inspires us all! 👏 Apply now and let’s build a brighter future, one essay at a time!

The tech ecosystem is evolving, and women are taking their rightful place at the forefront of this transformation. Impact360, in collaboration with Women in AI Africa (WAIA), has created a powerful platform to connect women to the resources, mentorship, and capacity-building opportunities they need to thrive in the tech and AI space. Together, we’re breaking barriers and building a future where women are not just participants but leaders in the tech revolution. 📊 Why This Matters: The Data Speaks - Women make up only 22% of AI professionals globally, highlighting a significant gender gap in the industry. (Source: World Economic Forum) - In Africa, women represent less than 30% of the tech workforce, despite the continent’s rapid digital transformation. (Source: UNESCO) - Studies show that diverse teams are 15% more likely to outperform their peers, proving that gender inclusion isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a business necessity. (Source: McKinsey) Impact360 and Women in AI Africa are committed to changing these statistics by creating pathways for women to access training, mentorship, and opportunities in AI and tech. 💡 How We’re Making an Impact 1. Resource Connection: We’re bridging the gap by connecting women to cutting-edge tools, funding opportunities, and networks that empower them to innovate and lead. 2. Capacity Building: Through workshops, bootcamps, and mentorship programs, we’re equipping women with the skills needed to excel in AI, data science, and tech entrepreneurship. 3. Community Building: We’re fostering a supportive ecosystem where women can share ideas, collaborate, and inspire one another to reach new heights. Inspiring Change: Sharola Akoth Odipo’s Vision Sharola Odipo, a beacon of inspiration in the tech space, has shown us what’s possible when women are empowered to lead. Her dedication to gender equality and innovation continues to motivate us as we push forward with initiatives like #FGISM (Forward with Gender Inclusion in STEM). 🚀 What’s Next? We’re excited to share updates on upcoming initiatives aimed at accelerating women’s participation in tech. From mentorship drives to innovation hubs, we’re committed to creating a future where every woman has the tools and support she needs to succeed. 💬 Join the Movement Let’s work together to close the gender gap in tech and AI. Whether you’re a woman looking to break into the industry, a mentor willing to share your expertise, or an organization ready to support this cause—your voice matters. 💻 Follow Impact360 and Women in AI Africa (WAIA) to stay updated on our programs and be part of this transformative journey. Together, we can build a tech ecosystem that’s inclusive, innovative, and unstoppable. #WomenInTech #WomenInAI #Impact360 #GenderEquality #STEM #FGISM #Empowerment #Innovation #AfricaRising

Guess What!!!!! Workshop Success: From Learning to Leading in Kabarak, Nakuru! We’re thrilled to share the highlights from our recent workshop, “Empowering Women in AI,” hosted in partnership with Impact360 The event brought together a huge number of participants to explore the theme “From Learning to Leading” and empower the next generation of women in AI. A special highlight was the presentation by Sharola Akoth Odipo our guest speaker, who inspired the audience with her journey of shifting from an employee mindset to a CEO mindset. Her message was particularly impactful for the female students in attendance, encouraging them to dream bigger, take ownership of their careers, and see themselves as future leaders in tech. Key takeaways from the workshop: ✅ The importance of mentorship and community support in breaking barriers. This saw the beginning of a mentorship program between ChaVon (CJ) Clarke-Joell a well seasoned professional in the innovative space and also the head of Global relations for Women in AI Africa (WAIA) and Carla Cheruto Lagat. Congratulations to Carla Cheruto Lagat !!! ✅ How to transition from a learner to a leader in the AI space. ✅ The need for more inclusive policies and educational opportunities for women in tech. A heartfelt thank you to our partners, speakers, and participants for making this event a success. Together, we’re building a brighter, more inclusive future for WAIA. Stay tuned for more events and initiatives as we continue to empower women in tech across Africa. Let’s grow together! #WomenInAIAfrica #FromLearningToLeading #AfricaInnovation #CEOMindset #Empowerment #KabarakWorkshop"

On Saturday, we successfully launched our inaugural Impact360 program under the theme: From Learning to Leading. A huge thank you to our incredible speakers Sharola Akoth Odipo, John Linus, Joe Karanja and O'Maxwell Gad who guided us through the entrepreneurial journey—from ideation to scaling—helping us uncover what it truly takes to build and grow impactful ventures. Stay tuned for the next edition!

We are thrilled to announce a powerful partnership with Impact360 in support of their upcoming transformative event themed -From Learning to Leading – Transforming #Education into Innovation, Ethical AI, and Entrepreneurship in the Tech Age. At Women in AI Africa (WAIA) we believe in the power of gender inclusivity and the importance of equipping women with the skills and opportunities to thrive in the tech and AI space. That’s why, as part of our commitment to capacity development, WAIA has proudly sponsored a group of talented women to attend this workshop. These incredible individuals will gain invaluable insights, network with industry leaders, and contribute to shaping a more inclusive future in tech at the County level and beyond. This partnership is just the beginning! In 2025, Women in AI Africa will actively participate, collaborate, and spearhead capacity development initiatives in the innovative space. We are dedicated to: ~ Promoting gender inclusivity in AI and tech education. ~ Empowering women to lead and innovate in the digital age. ~ Driving impactful change across Africa through ethical AI and entrepreneurship. We are excited to join forces with Impact360 and other like-minded organizations to create a future where women are not just participants but leaders in the tech revolution. 📅 **Event Date**: 1st February 2025 📍 **Venue**: Lake Bogoria Spa Resort, Kabarak ⏰ **Time**: 3 PM – 9 PM Let’s work together to build a more inclusive and innovative Africa! #WomenInAIAfrica #AIForGood #GenderInclusivity #Innovation #CapacityDevelopment #EthicalAI #AfricaRising #Impact360 #Partnerships

🚀 Exciting News! 🚀 We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership between Impact360 and Women in AI Africa (WAIA)! Together, we are on a mission to democratize technological knowledge and resources, ensuring that innovation reaches beyond the major tech cities and into underserved regions. Women in AI Africa is dedicated to capacity building and fostering diversity in technology and entrepreneurship. Their aim is to empower women and underserved communities by providing access to technological knowledge, resources, and opportunities. Through initiatives like this, they strive to bridge the gap in the tech industry, fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that women are at the forefront of technological innovation and leadership. As part of this collaboration, Women in AI Africa has generously sponsored five students to attend our pilot workshop event at Kabarak on February 1, 2025. This event will focus on empowering participants through leadership, entrepreneurship, and technology, equipping them with the tools to lead and innovate in their communities. We are honored to have Sharola Akoth Odipo, Founder of Women in AI Africa (WAIA), alongside our founder and other esteemed speakers, leading the day with inspiring sessions that will foster a spirit of leadership, innovation, and empowerment. Stay tuned for more updates as we work together to shape the future of technology and entrepreneurship! #Impact360 #WomenInAIAfrica #TechnologicalDemocracy #CapacityBuilding #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #KabarakWorkshop #FutureOfTech #EmpoweringWomen #InclusiveTechnology

Our capacity development journey has officially begun!

I am deeply humbled and sincerely thankful for everyone who supported our first X space conversation this year for Unesco Youth Forum Kenya on "Youth Perspectives on #AI and #Education." Despite the short notice, you showed unwavering commitment and support, even amidst your busy schedules. A special thank you to those who helped design the campaign materials Nimrod Butala Enock Wanyama and to everyone who joined in. I extend my gratitude to our amazing speakers Dr. Joe Bonga Marion Stetchy shawn philip Andreann Ndebu Who shared detailed information on the above topic , my secretariat led by Marion Wachia who proudly moderatorated the space,the co host Mohammed A. Yusuf Boniface Harrison and all those who helped make this event a success.Kabi Paudel 🇳🇵 It's evident that young people can drive positive change, and this is just the beginning. I urge all to take action in promoting ethical AI practices and to engage in fostering a future where no youth is left behind. Your support is making a difference, and together, we can create meaningful change. As the Chairperson of UNESCO Youth Forum Kenya, I am dedicated to ensuring that all youth voices are heard, valued, and empowered, supported by the efforts of various stakeholders. Let’s continue to work together to advance education, innovation, and ethical AI practices for all! Gabriela Ramos Begoña Lasagabaster Aisha Addo Diana Nziu Diana Nyakundi Teresia Munywoki Enos Masinde Weswa Nepurko Keiwua Edward Mwasi Zhanar Makhambetova Naima Umiryayeva Wayne Holmes Forbes Africa Arif Neky Lillian Ngala Hugue Ngandeu Joel Ongoto, PhD Shikoh Gitau Sharola Akoth Odipo #YouthLead #AI #EthicalAI #EducationForAll #UNESCOYouthForum