The tech industry in Poland is witnessing a dynamic shift towards inclusivity and diversity, driven by numerous organizations and initiatives dedicated to supporting women in technology. These initiatives play a crucial role in bridging the gender gap in tech, providing women with the resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship needed to thrive in this rapidly evolving field. Here’s an overview of some of the key initiatives making a significant impact in Poland.

1. Perspektywy Women in Tech Summit

The Perspektywy Women in Tech Summit is one of the largest and most influential tech events in Europe, specifically aimed at women in technology. This annual event offers a plethora of activities including conferences, workshops, hackathons, and networking opportunities. The summit attracts renowned speakers from global tech companies and academia, providing attendees with insights and inspiration from leaders in the field. This event is a cornerstone for women looking to advance their careers and expand their professional networks.

2. Geek Girls Carrots

Geek Girls Carrots is a global community that originated in Poland with a mission to connect, learn, and inspire women in technology. With chapters active in multiple cities across Poland and worldwide, this organization hosts regular meetups, workshops, mentoring programs, and hackathons. Geek Girls Carrots focuses on fostering a supportive environment where women can share knowledge, gain new skills, and collaborate on projects.

3. Women in Technology Poland

Women in Technology Poland is a network that supports women in STEM fields, advocating for gender equality within the tech industry. This organization offers workshops, training sessions, and networking events designed to empower women at various stages of their careers. By promoting diversity and inclusion, Women in Technology Poland aims to create a more balanced and equitable tech landscape.

4. Girls Who Code Poland

As part of the global Girls Who Code initiative, the Polish chapter works tirelessly to close the gender gap in technology. Girls Who Code Poland runs coding clubs, summer immersion programs, and partners with schools and tech companies to provide young women with the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in tech. This initiative is vital in nurturing the next generation of female tech leaders.

5. Women in Machine Learning and Data Science (WiMLDS)

WiMLDS is a global organization with a strong presence in Poland, dedicated to supporting women in machine learning and data science. The group organizes meetups, workshops, talks, and collaborative projects, offering a platform for women to engage with cutting-edge technologies and research. WiMLDS plays a critical role in ensuring that women are represented in the rapidly growing fields of AI and data science.

6. Tech Leaders

Tech Leaders is a mentorship program that provides guidance and support to women in tech from experienced professionals. Through one-on-one mentoring, webinars, and community events, Tech Leaders helps women navigate their career paths, develop leadership skills, and achieve their professional goals.

Key Events and Conferences

1. InfoShare

InfoShare is the largest tech conference in Central and Eastern Europe, featuring a dedicated Women in Tech track. The conference offers talks, workshops, networking sessions, and startup contests, providing a comprehensive platform for women in tech to learn, connect, and grow.

2. Women in Tech Summit by Future Processing

This annual event aims to inspire and connect women in the tech industry through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops. The Women in Tech Summit by Future Processing is an excellent opportunity for women to gain insights from industry leaders and expand their professional networks.

3. Code Europe

Code Europe is a tech conference series that includes sessions focused on diversity and inclusion, specifically targeting women in tech. The conference offers lectures, workshops, and networking opportunities, promoting a more inclusive tech community.

Support and Funding

1. SheXO Club

SheXO Club, an initiative by Deloitte, supports women in leadership, including those in tech. The club organizes networking events, leadership training, and mentorship programs to empower women and foster their professional growth.

2. Google for Startups – Women Founders Academy

Google for Startups’ Women Founders Academy supports female founders through training, mentorship, and resources. This program offers workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking events, helping women entrepreneurs succeed in the tech industry.

Community Groups

1. PyLadies Poland

PyLadies Poland is part of a global organization that helps women become active participants and leaders in the Python open-source community. The group organizes coding workshops, mentoring, and meetups, fostering a supportive community for women in tech.

2. Rails Girls

Rails Girls aims to give women the tools to understand technology and build their ideas through workshops on web development using Ruby on Rails. This community empowers women to create and innovate in the tech space.

Online Communities

1. Women in Tech Poland Facebook Group

This active online community provides a platform for women in tech to share resources, job opportunities, and advice. The Women in Tech Poland Facebook group is a valuable resource for online discussions, event postings, and resource sharing, helping women stay connected and informed.

These initiatives collectively contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for women in technology in Poland. By providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities for networking and professional growth, these organizations are helping to bridge the gender gap in tech and empower the next generation of female tech leaders.

Written by Karolina Wonchala