Interested in learning more about the TechWomen program? Below, read some of our most frequently asked questions. Do you have a question that’s not listed? Let us know by posting a comment, and we’ll be sure to respond!
What is TechWomen?
Harnessing the power of business, technology and innovation, TechWomen brings emerging women leaders in technology sectors from the Middle East and North Africa together with their American counterparts for a professional mentorship and exchange program at leading companies in the United States.
Why was TechWomen created?
Pairing Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s vision of “smart power diplomacy” with “21st Century Statecraft,” TechWomen works to empower women and girls through technology. It connects and supports the next generation of women in technology sectors by providing them the access and opportunity needed to pursue careers in technology.
TechWomen is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). Under Secretary Clinton’s leadership, the United States has engaged in “smart power diplomacy,” thereby utilizing every asset at the United States’ disposal to create opportunities for greater understanding. A key tool in this effort is 21st Century Statecraft, which engages people across the world through the ever-changing technology mediums.
What are TechWomen’s objectives?
TechWomen strengthens participants’ professional capacity, expands and diversifies networks of technology professionals in the Middle East and North Africa region, fortifies partnerships and increases mutual understanding between key professional groups in the U.S. and the Middle East and North Africa, and expands girls’ interest in tech-based careers by exposing them to women role models in the technology field.
Who will participate in the program?
The TechWomen initiative will identify approximately 42 women who are emerging leaders in technology sectors for a five-week program, including project-based mentorships at leading companies in California, workshops, networking events, a conference for women in the technology sectors, and meetings in Washington, D.C.
Participants will be women engaged or rising in professional careers that require significant expertise/knowledge of technology and/or innovative application of these skills, and who already are – or show promise of being – role models for others in their countries, particularly for women. “Technology” should be interpreted broadly to include – but not be limited to – the fields of science, education, and business.
Where will TechWomen participants come from?
Mentorship participants will be selected from:
- Algeria
- Egypt
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- Morocco
- Palestinian Territories
- Tunisia
- Yemen
When will TechWomen take place?
The 2012 mentorships will take place in September and early October 2012.
What are the requirements to participate in TechWomen, and how do I apply?
Please click on Application for eligibility guidelines and TechWomen’s online Mentee application. To learn more about how to become a TechWomen Mentor, please click on Become a Mentor.
Always great to hear about more women in technology!