In the heart of Central Asia’s majestic mountains and vibrant cultural tapestry lies Tajikistan, a nation brimming with history, natural beauty, and a growing spirit of innovation. This spring season, we embarked on a transformative journey to Tajikistan, reinforcing our dedication to global collaboration and sustainable development, with women in STEM at the forefront of the TechWomen mentorship mission. Through a series of dynamic events, workshops, and discussions, our delegation aimed to empower local women, foster meaningful connections, and drive positive change in the realms of technology, entrepreneurship and sustainability.
The TechWomen delegation to Tajikistan kicked off with a warm welcome in Dushanbe. Fellows from Tajikistan welcomed the delegates and introduced them to the rich cultural and natural heritage of Tajikistan with a tour of Hisor Fortress, a traditional open-air lunch at Green Wood House, and explorations of Iskanderkul Lake.
The following day, they visited the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe for a briefing on U.S. Tajiki diplomatic relations and collaborative efforts to advance business, technology and women’s involvement in both. Later in the week, the delegation would accept an invitation to the residence of U.S. Ambassador Manuel Micaller to convene once more with U.S. Embassy staff, as well as with local stakeholders and USG program alumni, to further foster networks and discussions on strengthening connections in the tech and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Onward with the program, the delegation connected with over 50 women entrepreneurs and SME leaders at the Ismaili Center to host on “Women in Tech Entrepreneurship and Small Business,” an afternoon composed of inspiring discussion on career success, marketing growth, and leadership development. The event featured presentations on personal branding and leveraging leadership strengths to inspire change, followed by group mentoring sessions where delegates and attendees shared business challenges and strategies.
Another highlight was a visit to Contofield International School, where the delegation hosted an engaging morning of empowering STEM talks and hands-on learning activities with high-school aged learners. The delegates were treated to a cultural exhibition of Tajik dance from students. They reciprocated with STEM career-focused lightning talks and an interactive workshop, “Moon Rover,” where they challenged teams of students to use innovative thought in designing and building rubber band-powered rovers.
The theme of youth mentorship continued with the next event, “Engaging Teens in Technology for Tomorrow”, hosted with IT-RUN. This collaboration, aimed at encouraging young adults to develop their tech skills and entrepreneurial spirits, featured workshops on computer programming and opportunities for pitch practice.
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