Women in Tech: Leading the Digital Transformation

Women in Tech: Leading the Digital Transformation

On April 24 2025 Ulysseus is hosting “Women in Tech: Leading the Digital Transformation,” an engaging roundtable discussion designed to inspire and empower students interested in ICT careers. This event will bring together students, alumni, and professionals from Ulysseus to share their experiences, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities in the ever-evolving tech industry. The event will also highlight the importance of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in the technology sector, fostering an environment that supports and encourages women to pursue careers in these fields.

24 April | International Day of Girls in ICT

Women in Tech: Leading the Digital Transformation

Join us on April 24 for “Women in Tech: Leading the Digital Transformation,” an engaging roundtable discussion designed to inspire and empower students interested in ICT careers. This event will bring together students, alumni, and professionals from Ulysseus to share their experiences, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Through this discussion, attendees will gain valuable insights into the world of ICT and STEM, learning about career possibilities in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, and data science. The event will also highlight the importance of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in the technology sector, fostering an environment that supports and encourages women to pursue careers in these fields.

The roundtable will feature four panelists, including students, alumni, and ICT professionals from Ulysseus partner universities, alongside a moderator. This is a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse community, ask questions, and network with like-minded peers.

Whether you are a student considering a future in technology, an aspiring ICT professional, or an educator looking to support young talent, this event is the perfect space to gain inspiration and practical advice. Mark your calendar and join us for an insightful conversation on how women are shaping the digital future.

About International Day of Girls in ICT

International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of April each year. It is a global celebration held every year to inspire and empower young women to explore careers in technology. In a world where digital skills are more important than ever, this day highlights the incredible opportunities available in fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, and software development. It’s a chance to break stereotypes, challenge gender gaps, and show that the tech industry is open to everyone—regardless of gender.

By sharing stories of women who are shaping the digital future, International Girls in ICT Day encourages students to dream big and consider a career in innovation. It’s not just about coding; it’s about solving problems, creating new technologies, and making a real impact on the world. Whether you’re curious about computers, love solving puzzles, or want to make a difference through tech, this day is for you. The future of ICT needs more brilliant minds—why not yours?

Agenda

1. Welcome & Introduction 

  • Introduction of panelists, including their backgrounds and expertise in ICT.

2. Key Topic Presentations

  • Discussion on emerging fields in technology, including AI, cybersecurity, robotics, and data science.
  • Panelists share short presentations on projects they have worked on or are currently involved in.

3. Panel Discussion 
The roundtable discussion will center on the experiences, challenges, and opportunities that women face in the field of ICT. Panelists will share what initially inspired them to pursue careers in technology, reflecting on the moments that shaped their journeys. They will also discuss the obstacles they have encountered, including biases, stereotypes, and self-doubt, and explore the strategies they used to overcome them.

4. Final Remarks & Advice

Come and join us in the roundtable Women in Tech

Panelists

Jasna Zeković

University of Montenegro

Jasna Zeković is a graduate in Electrical Engineering and Applied Mathematics, recognized with multiple awards in Mathematics and Physics. With extensive experience in business process optimization, software solutions coordination, and system automation, Jasna is highly skilled in CRM process architecture, cross-department communication, and technical documentation. Eager to apply and expand the programming knowledge gained through highly rated studies, Jasna is passionate about continuous learning and professional growth in software development.

In addition to a technical background, Jasna is a dedicated science educator with extensive experience in mentoring young talents and promoting scientific literacy. As the founder of the Montenegrin Science Association STEMATICS, Jasna is committed to advancing scientific and technical education while fostering interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among youth. Through various initiatives, including educational workshops, conferences, and research-driven activities, Jasna actively contributes to the growth of the STEM community. With a strong background in education and leadership, Jasna develops strategies that integrate science, technology, and entrepreneurship, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

 

Lenka Hlinkova

Ženský Algoritmus, Ulysseus Associated Partner

Lenka Hlinková is the co-founder of Female Algorithm, a social enterprise she built from the ground up with her team. Over five years, the team delivered more than 60 award-winning projects focused on diversity, technology education, and women’s empowerment. Lenka actively fosters cross-sector collaboration, connecting businesses, public institutions, and academia to drive systemic change. By building inclusive innovation ecosystems, she supports ethical leadership, talent development, and equal opportunities in the digital era.

Janina Bruntfeldt

Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences

Janina Brunfeldt is an Information Technology student at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences with a strong background in digital services and ICT infrastructure. She combines her tech expertise with experience from national and local student organizations. Passionate about using technology to promote inclusion and equality, Janina advocates for accessible education, internationalization, and human rights. Her analytical mindset and people-first approach allow her to bridge the gap between technical solutions and social impact—creating meaningful change in both the digital world and society.

Noelia López Durán

Universidad de Sevilla

Noelia López Durán is a 23-year-old graduate in Computer Engineering – Software Engineering from the University of Seville, where she is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Software Engineering: Cloud Computing, Data, and IT Management. She works as a research assistant at DiversoLab, focusing on software product lines (SPL) and variability analysis. Her research includes the application of SPL to marketing automation, sensor configuration for deficit irrigation systems, and the detection and classification of configuration issues, among other areas. She is particularly interested in how SPL can enhance adaptability, reuse, and reliability in diverse and complex software data-intensive systems.

Belén Cisneros Juárez

Université Côte D’Azur

Belén Cisneros Juárez is a distinguished professional in design and communication, with a strong academic background and broad experience in university teaching in Mexico. She is currently pursuing an MSc in SmartEd-Tech at Université Côte D’Azur, supported by the IDEX Excellence and Erasmus+ scholarships. She holds a master’s in Design, Information and Communication, and a bachelor’s in Communication Sciences, supplemented by specialized training in audiovisual production, animation, and scriptwriting. As a Full-Time Associate Professor at Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Lerma, she teaches in the Department of Cultural Studies and has lectured at various esteemed institutions. Her work spans education technology, design, animation, and marketing. She has also contributed to creative projects in video games, VR, and performing arts. Recognized with several academic honors, Belén is known for her commitment to innovation, artistic expression, and excellence in teaching and research, inspiring students and peers alike.

Facilitator

Rita Bencivenga

University of Genoa 

Photo of Rita Bencivenga

Rita Bencivenga is a researcher with over 35 years of experience in gender studies, equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), particularly in STEM and ICT. She holds a PhD from the University of Paris X Nanterre with a thesis on gender and ICT.

She has held academic positions at institutions such as Université Paris 8 Vincennes – Saint-Denis, Université Lumière Lyon 2 and Trinity College Dublin. She was also a visiting scholar at Queen’s University Belfast. She currently works at the University of Genoa, Italy.

Her academic work has been published in journals such as Studies in the Education of Adults, European Journal for Research on the Education and Learning of Adults, SOCIETIES, and GENDER. In her book “Femmes et hommes devant l’ordinateur” (L’Harmattan), Rita analysed from a materialist-feminist perspective how both women and men develop a positive relationship with the computer.

Since 1993, she has been regularly invited to evaluate ICT-related programmes and projects funded by the EU. In doing so, she brings a gender-sensitive perspective that critically addresses systemic inequalities and embedded biases.