Interview With SA Tech Entrepreneur Zandile Mkwanazi!
Interview With SA Tech Entrepreneur Zandile Mkwanazi! South African entrepreneur Zandile Mkwanazi has been at the forefront of bridging the gender gap in the tech industry. As the founder and CEO of GirlCode, she aims to revolutionise the domestic ICT sector by empowering young women across South Africa. We recently had a chat with her to discuss her journey as a tech entrepreneur, women empowerment in the tech industry and the role of GirlCode in the industry.
Can you tell us more about the moment or experience that inspired you to start GirlCode?
The spark for GirlCode ignited when I joined a software development company after completing my degree (BSc Honours in Computational and Applied Mathematics) and started to realise that there were a few women in the tech industry, and the disparity was stark. I saw firsthand the challenges women faced in breaking into the tech industry. I wanted to create a platform for young girls to explore their passions in tech, free from stereotypes and limitations and showcase their skills more so that our company could hire more women and that’s when the idea of GirlCode was born – initially as an all-women hackathon where we invited university female students to take part and potentially get hired within the company.
How has GirlCode evolved since its inception in 2014, and what are some of the key milestones you’ve achieved along the way?
Since its inception as a hackathon in 2014, GirlCode has grown into a comprehensive organisation offering a range of programmes to empower young girls and women in tech. We’ve expanded beyond coding workshops to include online bootcamps, mentorship, and learnerships. This holistic approach ensures that our participants develop not only technical skills but also the confidence and leadership qualities needed to succeed in the industry.
Key milestones include the establishment of our leadership in 2021, which provides intensive training for unemployed women who are aspiring developers. Additionally, the launch of the GirlCode Academy has allowed us to offer a structured learning path for girls of all ages. Building strong partnerships with industry leaders has been instrumental in providing our participants with real-world opportunities and mentorship.
What challenges do women face in the tech industry, and how is GirlCode addressing these issues?
Women in the tech industry encounter a unique set of challenges that often hinder their progress. One of the most prevalent issues is the lack of confidence and the pervasive imposter syndrome that afflicts many women in STEM fields. This stems from societal stereotypes and underrepresentation, leading to self-doubt and a fear of failure.
To combat this, GirlCode focuses on building confidence from a young age. Our programmes begin at the age of eight to instil a growth mindset and a belief in one’s abilities early on. By providing a supportive and encouraging environment where girls can learn and experiment, we aim to dismantle the barriers of self-doubt. Our mentorship programmes also play a crucial role in empowering young women by connecting them with successful female role models in the industry. Through these initiatives, we strive to cultivate a generation of confident and capable female tech leaders.
The statistics show a significant gender gap in the South African ICT industry. What strategies do you believe are most effective in closing this gap?
To effectively close the gender gap in South Africa’s ICT industry, we need a multi-pronged approach. GirlCode is committed to addressing this challenge through various initiatives.
One key strategy is our establishment of GirlCoder clubs in schools across the country. These clubs provide a platform for young girls to explore their interest in technology in a supportive environment. By introducing coding and tech concepts at an early age, we aim to cultivate a passion for the field.
Additionally, our 9-week mentorship programme pairs industry professionals with our GirlCoders. This invaluable experience offers mentorship, guidance, and exposure to real-world industry practices. By connecting young women with successful role models, we inspire them to pursue careers in tech and provide them with the necessary networks.
Beyond these initiatives, we believe it’s crucial to advocate for policies that support gender equality in the tech industry, collaborate with educational institutions to integrate STEM subjects into the curriculum, and promote digital literacy programmes for women of all ages.
How does GirlCode encourage young girls to pursue careers in STEM, and what impact have you seen from your initiative?
GirlCode inspires young girls to pursue STEM careers by creating a supportive and engaging environment where they can explore their passion for technology. Our coding clubs, online courses, and mentorship programmes provide opportunities for girls to learn, experiment, and discover the exciting world of tech. By highlighting the potential of technology to create positive change and address global challenges, we ignite their curiosity and ambition.
We’ve witnessed a remarkable impact through our initiatives. Many girls who participated in our programmes have gone on to pursue STEM subjects in higher education and secured fulfilling careers in the tech industry. Additionally, we’ve seen a growing number of young women starting their own tech ventures, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit fostered by GirlCode.
Can you share some success stories from the hackathons and skills development programmes you’ve conducted?
Absolutely! Our hackathons and skills development programmes have been instrumental in empowering young women and fostering a vibrant tech community.
One of the most rewarding aspects of our work is witnessing the long-term impact of our programmes. We’ve seen countless girls transform from hesitant coders to confident tech professionals. Many have secured fulfilling careers in the tech industry, both locally and internationally. In fact, over the past year alone, we’ve successfully placed over 100 beneficiaries in jobs through our network of tech partners. Additionally, eight exceptional young women have even landed international job opportunities, showcasing the global impact of our programme.
These achievements are a testament to the dedication and talent of our participants, as well as the supportive ecosystem we’ve cultivated. It’s incredibly inspiring to see the confidence and skills these young women develop, and we’re proud to have played a role in their journeys.
What are your long-term goals for GirlCode, and how do you plan to expand your impact?
GirlCode’s long-term vision is to create a future where technology is a powerful tool in the hands of every woman and girl. We aim to achieve this by empowering millions of young women with coding skills and career pathways in the tech industry.
To expand our impact, we are committed to scaling our programmes across the African continent and beyond. By 2030, we aspire to reach 10 million women and girls through our coding clubs and other initiatives. This expansion will involve strategic partnerships with governments, corporations, and NGOs to create sustainable and impactful programmes tailored to the specific needs of each community.
Through our efforts, we aim to cultivate a global network of tech-savvy women who are equipped to drive innovation, challenge the status quo, and create a more equitable world.
What keeps you motivated and passionate about empowering women in tech?
The incredible potential of young women and the transformative power of technology fuel my passion for empowering women in tech. Seeing the impact GirlCode has on the lives of our participants is incredibly inspiring. Every success story, every newfound confidence, and every career opportunity achieved by our girls reinforces my belief in the importance of our mission.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your journey with GirlCode, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges has been securing sustainable funding to support our programmes and reach more girls. To overcome this, we’ve diversified our funding sources, including grants, corporate sponsorships, and partnerships. Additionally, we’ve focused on building a strong and engaged community of supporters who believe in our mission.
Another challenge has been addressing stereotypes and biases that persist in the tech industry. We’ve countered this by highlighting the achievements of our graduates, partnering with like-minded organisations, and advocating for gender equality in the workplace.
How have partnerships, like the one with Vuma, contributed to the success of GirlCode?
Partnerships have been instrumental in driving GirlCode’s success. Collaborations with organisations like Vuma have amplified our impact by providing funding, access to resources, and a wider network.
The partnership with Vuma has been pivotal in expanding our reach. Vuma’s infrastructure and community engagement have allowed us to connect with a broader audience, particularly in underserved communities, thereby increasing our industry exposure. Vuma’s role in the GirlCode Career Days has been key in introducing young girls in primary and high school to various tech career options.
Through direct industry insights, these career days inspire girls to explore STEM subjects and consider tech-related careers. Vuma’s industry connections have provided our participants with valuable career opportunities. By working together, we have created a more significant and lasting impact on the lives of young women and the tech ecosystem.
As a parent, how do you balance your professional and personal life, and how has being a mother influenced your work with GirlCode?
To be honest, there is no such thing as balance, focus on your career but also on family is a constant challenge, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. As a mother, I understand the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation. This drives my passion for GirlCode and fuels my determination to make a difference.
I prioritise effective time management, delegation, and setting clear boundaries between work and personal life, especially on weekends. Additionally, I have a strong support system of family who help me juggle my responsibilities. Being a mother has deepened my empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by young women, which has directly influenced GirlCode’s programmes and initiatives.
You mentioned the challenge of unlearning cultural rules. How do you address these issues within the communities you work with?
Unlearning cultural norms that limit women’s potential is a significant challenge we address at GirlCode. To overcome these barriers, we’ve implemented a multifaceted approach.
First, we provide strong female role models through mentorship programmes. These women serve as inspirations, demonstrating that success in tech is attainable for girls from all backgrounds. Second, we create safe spaces where girls can explore their interests without fear of judgment, fostering confidence and a growth mindset.
Crucially, we recognise the pivotal roles of parents and teachers in shaping a girl’s belief in her abilities. To this end, we collaborate with communities to emphasise the importance of nurturing girls’ interest in STEM subjects from a young age. By empowering parents to instil a belief in their daughters’ potential and encouraging teachers to reinforce this message in the classroom, we aim to create a supportive ecosystem where girls can thrive.
How did the Covid-19 pandemic affect GirlCode’s activities, and what adaptations did you make to continue your mission?
The Covid-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for GirlCode’s in-person programmes. To ensure continuity of our mission, we swiftly pivoted to a digital-first approach. This involved a comprehensive overhaul of our programme delivery, emphasising accessibility and inclusivity.
A cornerstone of our response was the launch of a three-month online bootcamp designed to upskill unemployed IT graduates with the latest technological advancements. This intensive programme equipped participants with in-demand skills, preparing them for the evolving job market. Upon completion, we facilitated connections with tech companies, providing graduates with valuable opportunities to enter the workforce.
To inspire and connect our community, we hosted a series of online summits featuring prominent women in tech. These virtual events offered invaluable insights, mentorship, and networking opportunities for our participants. Additionally, we expanded our GirlCoder clubs to include online Saturday classes, providing flexible learning options for young girls eager to explore the world of coding.
By embracing digital platforms and innovative programming, GirlCode not only weathered the storm of the pandemic but emerged stronger, with a broader reach and an enhanced ability to empower women and girls through technology.
What advice would you give to young women who aspire to enter the tech industry?
My advice to young women aspiring to enter the tech industry is to embrace your unique perspective and skills. The tech industry is in dire need of diverse voices, and your background brings a valuable lens to problem-solving. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and pursue your passions within the field.
Build a strong foundation in technology, but also focus on developing your soft skills like communication, leadership, and teamwork. These skills are equally important for success in the tech world.
Networking is crucial, so build relationships with other women in tech. Seek mentors who can guide you and offer support. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and there is a strong community of women cheering you on.
Lastly, believe in yourself. The tech industry can be challenging, but with perseverance and determination, you can achieve your goals.
How do you envision the future of women in tech, both in South Africa and globally?
I am optimistic about the future of women in tech. There is a growing awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry, which is driving positive change.
I envision a future where women are equally represented at all levels of tech organisations, from entry-level positions to leadership roles. We will see more women-led tech startups and innovations that address the unique needs of women and girls.
In South Africa, I believe we have the potential to become a global leader in women in tech. By investing in education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship programmes, we can create a thriving ecosystem for women to excel.
Globally, I see a future where women are driving technological advancements and shaping the world we live in. With continued progress and collaboration, we can achieve gender equality in the tech industry and unlock the full potential of women as innovators and leaders.
