Women in IT Summit UK Agenda

All timings are in BST

Networking Breakfast & Registration
08:30  to  09:30
Welcome Remarks
09:30  to  09:40
Speakers:
Tania Ferreira. Director of Events. Women in IT Global Series.
Dr. Ghazaleh Samandari. Founder. 9Paths Development.
Opening Keynote: Impactful growth: Futureproofing Inclusive Tech
09:40  to  10:00

Many aspects of the working world, including office culture and our conceptions of success, were developed almost exclusively from the viewpoint of males. It is hardly surprising that participation costs are disproportionately greater for women and other underrepresented groups. There have been campaigns for diversity, equity, and inclusion over the years, while the statistics continue to improve, we are still a long way out, eventhough we now know evidentially that diversity has a huge impact on organisational success.  

As organisations are seeking growth after emerging from the pandemic and continuing to brave the economic and global odds of the moment, how can organisations speed impactful inclusive growth? 

Looking ahead 2 years out, what are the mechanism needed to provide an inclusive tech ecosystem, what do women need to do? 

This keynote will explore these theme and provide actionable solutions that organisations can implement. 

Panel: "Designing for Inclusion: Strategies from DEI and Product Management Experts for Embedding Inclusion in Products and Services
10:00  to  10:40
This panel of experts from product management and DEI fields will share their strategies for embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into the product and services development process. They will discuss the challenges and opportunities for creating inclusive products and services, as well as practical steps that organizations can take to ensure that their offerings are accessible and inclusive to all customers.
Speakers:
Natalilia Pelykh. Product Solutions Director. Ciklum.
Kelly Olsen. Chief Information Officer. PA Consulting.
Anna Barsby. Chief Product Officer. 888Holdings.
Fireside: "Women of Web3 "Exploring the Identity and Needs of Women in Web3 and the Metaverse"
10:40  to  11:10

This panel session aims to explore the experiences and needs of women in the metaverse. The panelists, who are experts and women in the industry, will discuss the current representation and challenges faced by women in the metaverse, as well as strategies for success and creating a more inclusive metaverse.

Discussion Points:

  • Web3 and other emergent technology skills women should have
  • Representation of women in the metaverse
  • Challenges faced by women in the metaverse
  • Strategies for success for women in the metaverse
  • Creating a more inclusive metaverse for women
  • The future of women in the metaverse
Speaker:
Lavinia Osbourne. Founder. Women in Blockchain Talks Ltd.
Networking Break
11:10  to  11:30
Panel: Great resignations to great reinventions: Keeping women and underrepresented groups alive in tech’s future equation
11:30  to  12:10
Resignations in the IT sector disproportionately hurt women and people of colour, jeopardising years of work on diversity, equity, and inclusion. This is made even more clear by statistics that demonstrate how many members of these underrepresented groups are represented in the sector developing new technologies that are anticipated to shape the future. Whether it is in the areas of AI, Web3, robots, or other technologies, these groups continue to fall behind. Where are the potential growth areas for the underrepresented in the rapidly developing world of future technologies, and what strategies can organisations employ to accelerate diverse representation that has a substantial impact and advance diversity, equality, and inclusion. "From the Great Resignation to the Great Reinvention" explores the challenges and opportunities facing individuals and organizations in a rapidly changing world. This theme highlights the need to adapt to new realities and find new ways of working and living in a world that is constantly in flux. It encourages individuals and organizations to embrace change, take risks, and think creatively in order to thrive in a world that is in a constant state of reinvention. It also touches on the importance of resilience and the ability to pivot during difficult times, and the potential for growth and success that comes with it.
Speakers:
Sasha Burgoyne. Co-Founder & Head of Partnership. TechSwicth.
Cheryl Cole. Editor. DiversityQ.
Barbara Gottardi. Chief Executive Officer. Wedlvr Ltd.
Crystal Downie. Executive Director. JP Morgan Chase & Co..
Kasia Wojciechowska. Regional Head of Client Accounts & Head of Growth - Novus. Capita.
Presentation/Fireside: AI and Humans: the age of hyper performance
12:10  to  12:40

Earlier perception of AI focused solely on its disruptive capacity and job displacement. With its gradual evolution and implementation in many aspects of our social life, discussion is gradually shifting to getting the best of the opportunities. Arising from the theme of the conference, this session explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive unprecedented levels of productivity and performance in various industries and sectors.

  • How humans and AI can work together to achieve hyper performance
  • The use of AI in decision-making
  • The use of AI in enhancing human performance by providing real-time feedback, coaching, and guidance.
  • The impact of AI on job market – job displacements and new skills
  • Ethical implications of AI including bias, privacy, and accountability
  • The role of education in preparing for an AI-driven future – Knowledge and skills
  • The potential impact of AI on society as a whole, including diversity, the distribution of wealth, the future of work, and the role of AI in shaping the future of humanity.
Speaker:
Sarah Rench. Avanade.
Networking Lunch
12:40  to  13:40
Impact Ideas Stage
13:40  to  14:25

A Competition for "Innovative Solutions" that invites members of the Women in IT community and any other interested individuals to submit their most impactful and innovative ideas for boosting representation of women in the British technology industry. The submitted ideas will be scrutinized by a panel of experts and the best ones will be selected to be pitched. The audience will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite idea, and the winning idea will be given recognition and support to be implemented to make a tangible impact on the industry. The competition aims to create a platform for women in technology to showcase their ideas, network with industry leaders, and make an impact on the industry.

Speakers:
Freddie Quek. Chief Technology Officer. Times Higher Education.
Faiza Choudhury. Co-Founder. Slync.
Workshop Hour
14:25  to  15:10
  • In the Room, Now Own It: Steps to Overcome Impostor Syndrome  

  • Am I an Inclusive Leader? Equipping managers with the tools to drive impactful teams  

  • Mentor Me: Key steps to Becoming the Mentor you Lacked 

Speaker:
Michael R. Anderson. Leadership Mindset Pioneer.
Solutions Room
14:25  to  15:10
The solutions room, which was first included in the WIT UK format for the 2022 summit series and received rave feedback from attendees, is back. You can seek peer-supported guidance on your tech, DEI, or professional development-related problems in the solution room. We'll provide you the time and space to exchange ideas and insights. Just come prepared with the problems you're facing, the worries that have surfaced, and any questions you might have for other like-minded professionals. Let’s solve those problems together.
Speaker:
Yota Trom. Founder. Together in Tech.
Networking Break
15:10  to  15:20
Think Tank
15:20  to  16:20

According to a recent national study by the UK Department of Health and Social Care, UK employers are failing to put in place workplace policies to assist women's healthcare needs in general and for reproductive needs in particular. The poll revealed that many respondents either didn't have or weren't aware of any special workplace policy to help people suffering from miscarriage, the menopause, or infertility. The UK has endured decades of gender health inequity.  

As more action is being taken, it is a pivotal time to bring women who are concerned together to proffer solutions to their problems within the context of organisations. 

The think tank session will take a critical look at the gaps that exist around the issues of women health in organisations. 

How can we impact change through policy, technology and innovative new insurance products that protect and cater to the specific needs of women. With your team of delegates, choose one of the three focus areas to design an innovative solution, and create long term impact as a collective 

Focus solution areas:  

  1. Organizational policy  

  1. Technology   

  1. Insurance products  

Key problems: gaps in current policies, workplace culture and women’s health, menopause in the workplace, fertility and reproductive rights, miscarriage and pregnancy loss, same-sex couples and adoption leave, parental leave and retention, insurance and women’s health, and best practices. 

Closing Keynote: Aiming for the Stars
16:20  to  16:35

"Aiming for the Stars," is a call to action for individuals to strive for greatness and reach their full potential. The speech aims to inspire the audience to believe in themselves and their abilities to achieve success. The message emphasizes that everyone has the potential to be a shining example to others and encourages them to embrace their unique talents and strengths.  

Drawing from their own personal journey and successes, the speaker will provide actionable strategies and tips for attendees to apply in their own lives. With a focus on practicality and real-world application, the speaker's insights will help the audience turn their aspirations into tangible goals and actionable steps towards success. Overall, the keynote session promises to be a powerful and transformative experience for all those in attendance. 

Closing Remarks
16:35  to  16:40
Networking Drinks
16:40  to  18:30