Let's Talk About Allyship!

In this special episode of Tech Inspired, we bring you the thought-provoking closing panel from the #wetechtogether conference 2024, which focused on the powerful theme of allyship. This year’s edition, held on 27 -28 September in Zurich, gathered industry leaders, researchers, and advocates to discuss one of the most pressing issues in the tech world today: how can we truly foster inclusion and equality through allyship?

What is Allyship, and Why Does It Matter? 🌍

Allyship isn’t just a buzzword - it’s about action, learning, and supporting people across diverse backgrounds, not just in words but in meaningful ways. This panel breaks down the concept, offering insights and real-world examples from leaders who live it every day. Moderated by Priska Burkard, TechFace’s Managing Director, this engaging session features four expert voices from the field:

• Research Meets Reality: Eugenia Bajet Mestre - Research Assistant at the ⁠University of St. Gallen brings insights from her research, shedding light on why true allyship requires ongoing learning and self-reflection.

• Real Allyship Talk: ⁠Marc Maurer⁠ - CEO at ⁠⁠Mitt Liv⁠⁠ emphasises that allyship is about listening and involving people from all backgrounds - especially those not usually included in D&I conversations.
• Breaking Down Privilege: ⁠Markus Macrini⁠ - Head Product Management & Sales at ⁠⁠Siemens Switzerland⁠⁠ shares his candid perspective on understanding privilege and how men can actively foster inclusion.

• From Minority to Advocate: Martina Niggli - Entrepreneur and Organiser at ⁠Hello 50:50 World⁠ speaks on her experience in male-dominated environments and how initiatives like Hello 50:50 World foster impactful allyship through shared experiences.

What Makes This Discussion Unique?

This panel doesn’t shy away from hard truths about diversity and privilege. It explores why we need to challenge traditional mindsets and how allyship is essential in reshaping workplaces to be inclusive for everyone. The conversation offers a mix of practical advice and academic insights, providing listeners with tools to take immediate action in their own environments.

Whether you're in tech, HR, leadership, or simply someone committed to making a difference, this episode will inspire you to take the next step in building a more inclusive future.

🎧 Tune in now to hear from these industry experts and gain valuable insights on how we can all contribute to a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered. Let's build a future where inclusion is the norm, not the exception!

Join us on the latest episode of Tech Inspired as Priska sits down with Martina Niggli, a passionate advocate for diversity in tech and builder of an online toolbox for conflict resolution at the workplace. Martina shares her fascinating journey from a curious child eager to learn to navigate the challenges of studying physics and eventually stepping into the tech world with experience at companies like Sharley and Digitec Galaxus.

Allyship is all the talk these days for the TechFace team, as it's the main theme of the upcoming #wetechtogether conference 2024, happening on 27-28 September in Zurich. Martina will be joining the conference as part of the Panel on Allyship, so consider this a teaser!

In this episode, we explore:

• Allyship in Action: Martina discusses the importance of allyship in tech, especially for underrepresented groups, and how meaningful support can make all the difference.
• Journey to Tech: From her early love of solving riddles to founding a tech startup, Martina’s path is anything but conventional. She talks about the highs, lows, and the critical moments that shaped her career.
• Building Inclusive Spaces: Discover how Martina’s work with Hello 50:50 World and her tech startup are helping create more inclusive, supportive environments for everyone in the workplace.

Don't miss this episode filled with insights and practical advice on how to thrive in the tech industry while supporting others along the way. Whether you're looking to become a better ally or seeking inspiration for your own tech journey, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. 🌟

Connect with Martina Niggli on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and stay updated on her latest projects!

On this episode of "Tech Inspired," we sit down with Marion Schleifer, the Head of Developer Education at HASURA and founder of Code Blossom. Marion’s story is one of determination and passion, from her beginnings in multilingual communication to becoming a leading figure in tech education. 🚀

Key moments from the episode:

• Transition to Tech: Discover how Marion transitioned from a background in languages and business administration to tech, thanks to a three-week coding bootcamp and a supportive partner.
• Building Community: Hear about her impactful work at HASURA, where she leads the developer education team and supports the open-source community.
• Overcoming Challenges: Marion shares her journey of breaking into the tech industry, the importance of perseverance, of challenging stereotypes, and how mentorship played a crucial role in her success.
• Global Impact: Learn about Marion’s nonprofit - Code Blossom and its mission to bridge the tech gender gap in developing countries, providing opportunities for women to achieve financial independence and thrive in the tech sector.

Marion’s journey is filled with valuable insights into tech, continuous education, and making a real difference. Tune in to get inspired and start your own tech adventure! 🌍💻

Connect with Marion on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and follow Code Blossom for updates.