By Kgothatso Monono
Women in technology and finance took center stage as the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology's (FoICT) Girls in Tech initiative hosted empowering Heritage Month events at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Polokwane and Soshanguve campuses. Themed Digital Divas: Empowering Women through Tech and Finance, the gatherings brought together students, industry experts and thought leaders, creating dynamic platforms for dialogue, mentorship and empowerment aimed at preparing women to thrive in a fast-changing digital world.
At the Polokwane Campus, the programme kicked off with a warm welcome from Dr Appolonia Ilorah, Computer Science lecturer, followed by an inspiring testimonial from Thootse Lengolo, Managing Director at Nokulunga Consulting, who shared her journey of breaking barriers in both finance and technology. Industry voices added powerful momentum, with Standard Bank’s Donna Taylor and Yvonne Mguni offering practical lessons on financial literacy, while Philistus Motsekanatho Monama from the Motse Innovation Centre highlighted opportunities at Microsoft and the vast potential of tech careers.
The Soshanguve Campus focused on personal development and leadership. Monama emphasised personal branding, confidence and vision boards as key tools for graduates, while Grace Letseka, Head of Resilience and Data at FirstRand (FNB), encouraged students to seize opportunities in the tech industry. The message of resilience and innovation resonated strongly through the stories of Esnath Hwerengwe, Founder of Top Fin Services, who urged students to turn every skill into income, while Portia Maluleke, Business Information Security Officer at ABSA Group, shared her journey in cybersecurity.
Students also engaged in The Infinite Loop, an immersive virtual reality (VR) challenge that simulated a digital rescue mission. Beyond entertainment, the activity served as a metaphor for the modern digital workplace, highlighting teamwork, problem-solving and agility as critical skills for future leaders.
Reflecting on the initiative’s impact, Dr Thembeka Manetje, FoICT Marketer, traced the origins and mission of Girls in Tech, underscoring its role in creating inclusive platforms for women in ICT. During closing remarks from lecturers and campus leaders, including Essa Saadia and Elesa Ntuli, they thanked speakers and students for making the events a success.
By blending cultural celebration with forward-looking innovation, Girls in Tech honoured Heritage Month while reinforcing TUT’s commitment to equipping women with the skills, confidence and resilience to lead in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
