In an era where technology is reshaping every aspect of our lives – from how we work and connect to how we solve global challenges – the question isn’t whether we need more women in tech, but how fast we can get them there. The numbers remain stark. Women remain underrepresented in STEM fields globally in South Africa, they make up just a fraction of the tech workforce. According to a recent survey, women constitute just 13% of STEM graduates in the country (a stark contrast to the global average of 35%) while only 39.5% of employees in the ICT sector as a whole are female.
“There cannot be any diversity of thought, not to mention true innovation, if there aren’t more women with a seat at the table, and this can’t happen unless more platforms are created to drive learning and professional development,” says Zandile Mkwanazi, CEO and founder of GirlCode. “That being said, it’s also incredibly important for young girls to be able to see themselves in women who are leaders and innovators in STEM, which is why it’s so important to create supportive communities where networking and collaboration are possible.”
The GirlCode Summit 2025 aims to achieve just that, says Mkwanazi, offering a space that’s equal parts inspiration, upskilling, and hard-hitting conversations. More than your average conference, the Summit is where seasoned professionals sit alongside first-time coders, where recruiters meet future talent, and where career-shaping advice flows as freely as the coffee.
This year’s programme features a keynote by Dr Mmaki Jantjies – one of South Africa’s foremost leaders in digital transformation and innovation, currently heading up innovation and transformation at Telkom – as well as a fireside chat between GirlCode’s Zandile Mkwanazi and Nirvani Dhevcharran, CTO: Platforms and Operations at The Foschini Group. From inspiring talks and panel discussions to networking sessions with top tech companies, attendees walk away with tools, contacts, and – most importantly – confidence.
“The 2025 Summit comes at a time when the world is facing an AI revolution, increasing digitisation, and a greater push for inclusive economies. If we want women to thrive in this future, we need to equip them now, not just with technical skills but with leadership, visibility and community,” adds Mkwanazi.
Behind the scenes of the event, GirlCode mission is to provide year-round coding bootcamps, online learning programmes, and mentorship opportunities for girls and women who wouldn’t otherwise have access to these resources. Its purpose it to provide more opportunities for growth in tech, affording more women a chance to reach their full potential.
“The lack of female representation in the tech industry is a symptom of a problem at grassroots level, where young girls aren’t being exposed to quality educational resources in the classroom,” adds Mkwanazi. “For too long, tech has been a gate-kept industry. We’re here to build a new door and then hold it open.”
Industry, government and educational institutions all have a role to play in dismantling the systemic barriers that hold women back. From sponsoring bursaries and internships, to supporting inclusive hiring practices and creating more family-friendly work environments, there’s an urgent need for a collective response. It’s worth keeping in mind that empowering women in tech isn’t just a social imperative – it’s also good for business. Diverse teams build better products, innovate faster and create technologies that reflect and serve the real world more effectively.
Ultimately, closing the gender gap in tech will require a long-term investment in both people and ecosystems. Events like the GirlCode Summit are a powerful spark, but lasting change will come from consistent, sustained action. The question, then, is not whether women belong in tech – that’s been answered many times over. The real question is: what are we doing, today, to make sure they stay, grow and lead?
Tickets for the GirlCode Summit 2025 are now available – whether you’re an aspiring coder, seasoned developer or ally in the industry, this is the space to connect, learn and be part of the movement. Businesses looking to support real change are also encouraged to come on board as sponsors and partners. For more information, visit www.girlcode.co.za.
