Women in Tech News

Woman of Week: Siphokazi Magaya

Aug 30, 2023 in IT, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Siphokazi Magaya
Designation:  IT officer
Company: Umzimkhulu Local Municipality

1. What do you do every day?
I specialise in active directory monitoring  and management of security systems. I also play a role in IP telephone management.

2. How did you get into the tech space?
I studied IT at a private college after completing matric in 2006 and landed my job in 2013.

3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Focus on growing yourself in IT knowledge. It is evolving and will never lose its credibility.

4.What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
It is the most interesting space, just your niche and flow with it.

5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
Solving new problems and learning new things everyday.

6.What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
I would like to be the head of security in a financial institution.

Woman of the Week: Lucille Britz

Aug 30, 2023 in Head of security, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Lucille Britz
Designation: Head of security
Company: MTN

1. What do you do every day?
I am responsible for maintaining and improving the security for SEA and MENA OPCO’s. This means leading, directing and co-ordinating various tasks across functional and regional sectors.

The most important part of my job is the line management as part of the vertical structure that was implemented around tw years ago.

2. How did you get into the tech space?
It just happened, much like the way my career took off. My career kicked off with Telkom where I coached trainers in the technology and data areas.

After five years, my career took a turn towards project and change management on network projects still within the technology domain.

After ten years of exposure in the telecoms space I decided to explore the financial industry and worked for three major banks for about 15 years, looking after security and technology operations.

A wonderful challenging opportunity was presented by MTN in group information security and I enjoyed the MENA Regional work for about three years.

In my current position I am head of  security for SEA and MENA. I still have a lot to learn but I am always ready for the next challenge.

3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Take it minute by minute!

4.What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
Nothing is personal and your best is good enough. Just do it and make understanding technology your everyday business.

Look at available positions in the technology and security sectors.

Concentrate on skills development and education, work with a plan to get yourself ready.

5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
My love for life and exploring new places.
My job happens to be one of my passions.

6.What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
A Tech Savvy COO or VP. But before I reach this goal, I need to understand how to excel in delivery on a regional CTIO level and give myself another 1-2 years to master execution in close collaboration with technology leaders.

Woman of the Week: Jacquie Hough

Aug 27, 2023 in MSP specialist, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Jacquie Hough
Designation: MSP specialist
Company: ESET Southern Africa

1. What do you do every day?
I lead the Managed Service Providers (MSP) and Internet Service Providers (ISP) business units at ESET SA, providing support to the sales team in achieving their targets and assisting their partners.

Most often, I will be onboarding new partners into our MSP program, getting them trained and on the path to creating a successful MSP business of their own, however if I am not holding onboarding meetings, I can usually be found with my head in some form of data analysis or product management and process building, or working with marketing on events, copy for articles, social media engagements, etc.

No two days are the same, and no partner is the same as another, and I make it my personal mantra to know each of them by name and they know me.

2. How did you get into the tech space?
I have always been interested in technology from a young age, and discovered coding (HTML, Javascript, etc.) and website design in the late 90’s after doing a graphic design degree.

The next few years I was a technical consultant in an engineering business, and then I moved to London in 2004.
In 2005, I was offered a temporary maternity cover position at a company specialising in disaster recovery  and business continuity. It soon became obvious that I had found my happy place with a career in technology, and was made permanent within three months. For the next ten years, I made it my business to know everything I could about the business of DR and BC.

I was lucky enough to be among the first to build our “Cloud” server farm, and dip my toes in emerging Cloud technology.

After returning to SA in 2015, I began working with an ISP in CT, and then started at ESET in 2021 as their MSP/ISP Business Specialist.

So, never pass up an opportunity – even a temporary one -, because you never know where it might lead.

3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
My dad has always said one thing: “Remain humble.”

While this seems to be very simple advice, it is often difficult to do and we can get carried away on our career journey with all the shiny opportunities that come along, but equally, his advice has served me well during my career, gotten me to where I am now, and where my career will continue to take me.

4.What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
Do it with all you might! But find something that you are passionate about in the tech space because it is HUGE and constantly evolving.

I’ve always loved tech and design, but it was not until I started working at ESET, that I found my path. I have no doubt that my path will change and evolve and have many twists and turns, but that is what a career that you are passionate about will do. It’s meant to challenge and change and stretch you.

5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
Aside from my triathlon coaches with some (un)reasonable early morning training, I’d say the people I work with and where I work. There is always something new to learn every day be it from a personal growth perspective or something in the tech world that catches my eye and gives me reason to pause, usually followed by: “I wonder if I could do that” (not by being self-limiting, but from a resources and ‘how to/how long’ perspective).

And finally, not forgetting that all important work/life balance when I close my laptop at the end of another successful day, and can relax until it all starts again the next day.

6.What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
Just me.

Woman of the Week: Rinah Letsebe

Aug 23, 2023 in Environmental Health and Safety Analyst, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Rinah Letsebe
Designation: Environmental Health and Safety Analyst
Company: Eaton

1. What do you do every day?
As an EHS Analyst and Internal Auditor for ISO 45001 and 14001, I evaluate environmental health and safety risks in both the electrical and industrial sectors. I monitor compliance with legal guidelines and perform surveys, inspections, and audits. I guide the project management team on OH&S management systems. Additionally, I lead a Zero Incident Safety Culture, where every employee feels responsible for workplace safety, protecting their personal well-being as well as the well-being of their colleagues.

2. How did you get into the tech space? I studied Electrical Infrastructure and Constructions and entered the field through an electrical engineering apprenticeship, ultimately qualifying as an Electrician. I then pursued further studies in Project Management and Environmental Health and Safety Management.

3. What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
 Do what you are afraid to do. Sometimes, the one thing you need for growth is the one thing you are most afraid of doing. Be afraid and do it anyway. Pray before every decision, whether big or small.

4.What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into tech?
The tech industry is broad, so you must be open to continuous improvement and willing to learn.

5. What motivates you to get out of bed every day?
The small daily goals I’ve set for myself motivate me to keep working. These small wins lead to big victories.

6.What do you want to be when you grow up one day?
 I want to become the best version of myself and inspire women who still believe it’s not possible.

 

Paving the way to a brighter business future – Rochelle Roos

Aug 21, 2023 in Mentoring, Profiles, Woman of the Week, Women in Tech

Name: Rochelle Roos
Designation: Coach and trainer
Company: www.wedochange.io

This Women’s Month, we introduce you to Rochelle Roos, a pioneering woman in the South African business space.

As a dedicated Agile coach and organisational transformation specialist, Rochelle has been disrupting the status quo and creating a more inclusive and collaborative work environment for all. Her journey from a startup team member to a successful business owner is nothing short of inspirational, and her commitment to empowering women in the tech sector shines through in her advocacy for gender equality and diversity.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is enabling my clients to have a clear direction and focus on their endeavours. As a woman business owner in tech, I take pride in guiding organisations to achieve quantifiable success across all areas of their business. Being able to contribute to their growth and success brings immense satisfaction,” she says.

How did you get into the tech space?

Rochelle’s path into the business space began when she joined a startup, where she wore multiple hats and discovered her passion for Agile and Scrum methodologies. She was immediately drawn to the potential of these methodologies in improving software development processes and creating a more inclusive and collaborative work environment.

“I was inspired by the Agile approach’s emphasis on open communication and the value placed on ideas, regardless of hierarchy. I saw first-hand how Agile empowered teams and fostered a culture of continuous improvement.”

After honing her craft, Rochelle now finds great joy and purpose in helping individuals and organisations take ownership of their own roles, experience job satisfaction and happiness, and prosper while growing, learning, and developing into the best version of themselves.

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness my clients flourish in their professional journeys, especially female clients, who often face greater challenges. As a business owner, I actively support and advocate for policy changes that promote gender equality and diversity in the tech and business sector. By engaging with policymakers, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse landscape.”

Ten important tips for women in business

Rochelle’s advice for other women looking to find their niche in the tech and business world can be summarised in these ten simple points:

  • Believe in Yourself: Trust your abilities and believe that you belong in the field. Be confident in your skills and knowledge, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back.
  • Seek Supportive Networks: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Seek mentors, allies, and peers who encourage your growth and help you navigate challenges.
  • Embrace Your Uniqueness: Embrace your unique perspectives and experiences. The business industry thrives on diverse ideas, and your authentic voice can contribute to innovation.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay curious and committed to learning, personal growth, and development. Technology and business are ever evolving, and being open to new knowledge will enhance your skills and adaptability.
  • Network and Collaborate: Engage with industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities. Build relationships with professionals in the sector and collaborate on projects that interest you
  • Take Initiative: Don’t be afraid to take on new challenges and opportunities. Show initiative and seek out projects or roles that align with your passions and career goals.
  • Be Resilient: The business world can be demanding, but resilience is key to overcoming obstacles and setbacks. Learn from failures and keep pushing forward.
  • Advocate for Yourself: Be your own advocate and communicate your aspirations and contributions effectively. Ensure that your ideas and achievements are recognised and valued.
  • Create a Supportive Space: Create a supportive work environment where your authentic self can flourish. Foster a culture that values diversity and empowers all employees to thrive.
  • Explore Different Opportunities: In business, there are numerous opportunities and roles to explore so don’t limit yourself. Be open to trying different paths until you find the one that resonates best with you, your skills and personality and your goals.

For more about WE DO CHANGE or to engage with Rochelle Roos or one of their experts visit: www.wedochange.io  or email: info@wedochange.io.

Will AI make life easier? What are the limits? ARE there limits? 

Aug 14, 2023 in News

Bhavna Namlal, Technology Director at Ignition Group, speaks on the future of Artificial Intelligence.

Artificial Intelligence has been around for decades now, but as it evolves and becomes more integrated into our lives, questions, possibilities and concerns are being raised. 

In 2001, which really wasn’t that long ago, the movie A.I. was released, and it helped many people understand parts of the AI process and its possibilities. The movie portrayed a combination of robotics, artificial intelligence and major science fiction technology while incorporating humanisation of machines to help audiences better understand the impact and possibilities of AI.  

This in turn set the stage for how we relate to this type of advancement. Just 20 years after the release of this movie, which was most definitely both futuristic and science fiction, that fiction has become fact: humans have spearheaded technological advancement to a point that AI has now become part of our daily lives and has become so mainstream that no one really flinches when AI is mentioned  

The vision of AI has rapidly advanced and is now used in even the simplest of tasks in both the workplace and our personal spaces. In some instances, what is technically AI technology has become so commonplace that it is no longer referred to as such, and the expectations of ‘AI’ have become more sophisticated. For example, we expect social media platforms to automatically identify individuals in our pictures as we upload them. This was once a feature that made most humans feel uneasy. 

However, as AI is used more and more, questions are also being asked: is AI coming for our jobs, our livelihoods, and how will it affect our lifestyles? Will it make life easier? What are the limits? ARE there limits?  

Three significant concerns regarding AI have emerged: the human reaction, the lack of regulation and the data consumption.  

1.     Human reaction 

With regards to the human reaction to AI, a lot of the concerns raised have been around the fact that people are afraid of AI because they don’t understand it. That argument can, however, be extrapolated retroactively with other technology – ‘I don’t know how a car works but I use it without fear.’ While not a new concept, individuals particularly grapple with change in the technological spaces, often basing their feelings on what particular systems can do for them.  

2.     Lack of regulation  

Currently, many AI platforms are entirely unregulated and unchecked. If not controlled, this can compromise data particularly in payment spaces, play with user psychologically and even allow the creation of illegal content such as personality fraud. Government always takes time to catch up with new technology, and until it does there will be grey areas that unscrupulous entities can take advantage of.  

3.     Data collection 

Currently, a major application of AI is data collection. Any output the user gets is often dependent on what the user shares with the program. Users therefore need to be aware that they are sharing their data when they are utilising these platforms or tools; the way they think, the way they process and the way they interact with it. It is possible that data collection can be done without consent, too, depending on the nature of the interaction on the platform or system. While it may not track every single detail about the user, their behaviour is monitored and used to improve their experience.  

 

As with other forms of developing technology, when used correctly Artificial Intelligence can significantly improve our lives, as we are already experiencing. If we look at what has become available even in 2022, we can see that what we have to look forward to from this rapidly evolving sector can scarcely enter our imaginations. From tech industries, healthcare, finance to education and start-ups, we’re set to see a greater influence from AI. Here are some of the innovations that are particularly exciting: 

Generative Artificial Intelligence 

Recent developments in AI include Generative AI. Essentially, this means using AI to turn inputs such as text prompts, audio or images to generate content. Dall-e takes simple text prompts and converts it into original works of art, the Open AI playground uses a few words to generate complete poems and articles on any subject, and ExcelFormulaBot will build an Excel formula for you from some text instructions. 

These developments are incredibly exciting, creating endless opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses, but also individuals. A small business can use Phrasee to develop a complete brand language for an entire marketing campaign with the help of AI or generate assets such as logos using looka.com.  

This is definitely one of the most exciting and promising developments for AI.  

Societal and environmental impact  

As AI learns more and advances in its ability to interpret data, so it gives the opportunity for it to assist society. For example, accessibility to objective, neutral advice from AI is already becoming available in areas such as financial services, legal services, and career development. AI driven financial advisors such as Robo Adviser can provide unemotional, unbiased financial advice based on a person’s individual needs. 

AI is already capable of giving solid data-driven guidance, and this is only going to increase. AI systems and tools are also primed to help us in vital industries like agriculture, where sensors will inform an AI system on growing conditions and allow for perfectly controlled micro-environments for plants. From food security to improved food quality through automated functions, these systems will have immense forecasting capabilities based off the information we provide.  

Everyday life 

What was once only science fiction is becoming closer to reality and will create a world of convenience thanks to automations and AI. As our basic needs are catered for by AI, we will have more time and intellectual capacity to focus on the things that matter most to us on an individual level. These AI systems will help us with everything from payments to shopping experiences, healthcare to education. Ignition has embraced the use of AI to streamline our billing and payment systems to great effect and take our customer engagement journeys to the next level. Our AI driven platforms open up a world of opportunity and allow us to tackle challenges in the realm of payments and customer engagement in new and innovative ways, augmented by AI.  

Conclusion 

As Technology Director of a company as technologically driven as Ignition, I am incredibly lucky to be able to work and play in this field. We are at the forefront of developing AI tools and systems to improve the way we do business, and I get to bring our visions to life with our pioneering development teams.  If we look at how far AI has come in 20 years, it is reasonable to say that we can’t imagine how AI will look in another 20 years. Our lives will be vastly different to what they are now, and AI will be dominant factor in every sector of daily life. It is such a stimulating field, and there has never been a more exciting time to be involved in it. 

GirlCode AI hackathon inspires innovative ideas

Aug 14, 2023 in Events, News

In an event that brought together innovation, collaboration, and empowerment, GirlCode has announced the completion of the Ai4Women All-Women Hackathon.

As a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to bridging the gender gap in technology, GirlCode has once again demonstrated its commitment to fostering diversity and excellence in the world of coding and artificial intelligence.

The Ai4Women All-Women Hackathon, held on August 5-6, 2023, marked a milestone in its mission to empower young women with the skills and confidence to excel in the tech industry. With the theme “AI for Women,” the event provided a platform for aspiring female coders, engineers, and tech enthusiasts to explore the limitless possibilities of artificial intelligence and its applications.

Throughout the hackathon, participants were immersed in an environment of learning, creativity, and camaraderie. They formed diverse teams, collaborating to develop innovative AI-driven solutions addressing real-world challenges faced by women today. From healthcare to education, sustainability to social justice, the projects showcased the participants’ exceptional talents and their dedication to driving positive change.

“We are proud of the achievements of all the participants in the Ai4Women All-Women Hackathon,” says Zandile Mkwanazi, CEO of GirlCode. “This event not only showcased the incredible potential of AI to impact the lives of women worldwide but also underscored the importance of women’s representation in the technology sector. By providing a platform for these talented individuals to come together, collaborate, and innovate, we are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the tech industry.”

The hackathon took place at three well-equipped venue sponsors across three provinces namely: Riversands Ihub in Johannesburg, Workshop17 in Cape Town, and Ikhokha in Durban. These locations provided conducive environments for collaboration, innovation, and teamwork, contributing to the participants’ immersive experience.

The Ai4Women All-Women Hackathon would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, partners such as the Takealot Group, Vumatel, Mint Group, Chenosis, Ninety One, Royal HaskoningDHV, and Wunderman Thompson. These organisations showcased their commitment to diversity, gender equality, and the advancement of technology. We are grateful to all the mentors and volunteers who share our vision of a more equitable tech landscape. Their dedication and contributions have played a pivotal role in making this event a resounding success.

As the event concluded, participants presented their projects to a panel of judges comprising industry experts and leaders. The quality and creativity exhibited by each project were truly remarkable, making the judging process a testament to the potential that exists when women are given the opportunity to excel in the field of technology.

The winning concept was carefully selected based on its innovative approach, technical implementation, and potential impact on the lives of women. The overall winners were team “Clueless” from Durban, who built an SOS app that can be triggered by pressing it 3 times, which would send an alert to your emergency contacts that you are in danger. The application of the app goes beyond Gender Based Violence and can be used for a wide range of scenarios in which women find themselves in danger. The winners walked away with laptops, JBL headphones, R1000 Takealot vouchers sponsored by the Takealot Group and an impressive cash prize of R40,000.

GirlCode remains committed to nurturing and expanding the talents of women in technology, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions acknowledged. Through events like the GirlCode Hackathon, we continue to drive progress toward a more inclusive and innovative world.