At WomenTech Network, we are fortunate to have a fantastic global community of ambassadors who play a crucial role in spreading the word about our mission to unite women in tech. To acquaint you with these remarkable individuals, we will be introducing you to some of our most active members.
Today, get to know Dragan Babić:
Dragan Babić is the CEO of The First International CyberSchool of the Future for New IT Generation “KiberOne” in Banja Luka and an accomplished Android developer from Bosnia and Herzegovina with over 4 years of professional experience and a profound understanding of mobile application development.
In addition to her work in Android development, Dragana is known for her commitment to making a positive impact in the tech industry in Banja Luka (Bosnia and Herzegovina). She is currently leading a groundbreaking international project in Banja Luka dedicated to providing advanced IT education for children aged 6-14. She has successfully established strategic partnerships with schools, community organizations, and technology companies to deliver high-quality education programs. She implemented a unique pedagogical approach that emphasizes hands-on learning, collaborative projects, and critical thinking, engaging children through gamification and adaptive learning techniques. She also effectively managed a diverse team of educators, managers, and technology experts to ensure program excellence and scalability.
Furthermore, Dragana is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment.
She firmly believes that it is never too late at any stage of life to make a difference. She emphasizes that everyone can contribute to work and life with a unique skill set, and that technology can amplify the impact even further and at a faster pace.
Possibility Unveiled: Navigating the Interplay of Dreams and Now
1. Do you notice a lack of women in technology? If so, why do you think that’s the case?
Yes, there is a noticeable lack of women in technology in general but in regions like Bosnia and Herzegovina where I came from, marked by underdevelopment, the gender disparity within the IT sector becomes even more pronounced. The challenges faced by women pursuing careers in technology are compounded by broader societal factors, including limited access to education and deeply ingrained gender norms. The realization of a significant gender gap underscores the importance of targeted efforts to promote STEM education for girls, challenge stereotypes, and create inclusive opportunities for women in the tech industry. Initiatives that address these specific challenges are crucial for narrowing the divide and fostering a more equitable and diverse landscape within the field of information technology.
2. Do you think we need to be writing code to be in the tech industry?
Writing code is one pathway into the tech industry and is a valuable skill, but it's not the only one. There are diverse roles in tech, and skills such as project management, design, and communication are equally crucial. It's about finding a niche that aligns with one's strengths and interests.
3. How can men help make the tech sector a better place for women?
Men can contribute to improving the tech sector for women by being allies and actively advocating for gender inclusivity. This involves providing mentorship, sponsoring women for career advancement, promoting an inclusive culture, addressing unconscious bias, supporting family-friendly policies, participating in educational initiatives, creating networking opportunities, and engaging in diversity and inclusion programs within organizations.
4. Do women in tech need to act like men to be successful?
Embracing and celebrating diversity is crucial for innovation and progress in the tech industry. Women bring a different set of experiences, insights, and problem-solving approaches that can greatly enrich the collaborative efforts within the field. It is essential to recognize that success is not confined to a particular set of behaviors associated with any gender.
Encouraging women to be authentic to their unique selves fosters a more inclusive and dynamic tech community. By appreciating and leveraging the diverse skills and perspectives that both men and women bring, the industry can achieve greater creativity, resilience, and success. It's not about conforming to stereotypes but rather about cultivating an environment that values and harnesses the strengths of everyone involved.
5. What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?
As a Women Tech Network ambassador, my advice to a woman considering a career in the tech industry would be to embrace the journey with confidence and resilience. It's essential to recognize the value of your unique perspectives and skills, contributing to the diversity that strengthens the industry.
I wish I had known earlier in my career the importance of networking and mentorship. Building a supportive network and seeking guidance from mentors can provide valuable insights and open doors to opportunities. The tech community is vast, and connecting with experienced professionals can offer guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Additionally, I encourage women entering the tech field to continuously expand their skills and stay updated on industry trends. Lifelong learning is a cornerstone of success in technology, and being adaptable to new developments will enhance your competitiveness and innovation.
6. What do you hope to gain from taking part in the conference and WomenTech Network as a whole?
As a Women Tech Network ambassador, my participation in the conference and engagement with WomenTech Network is driven by a collective aspiration for fostering inclusivity and empowerment in the tech industry. I hope to gain invaluable insights, forge meaningful connections, and contribute to the dialogue that propels women forward in technology. Together, let's create a platform where diverse voices thrive, ideas flourish, and women in tech not only succeed but lead with resilience, innovation, and a shared sense of purpose.
