At the WomenTech Network, we’re fortunate to have a wonderful, global community of ambassadors who help us spread the word about our work and who helped us make the WomenTech Global Conference 2020 a success and continue helping us on or mission to unite women in tech. We would like you to meet these wonderful people as well; therefore, we’re going to be introducing you to some of our most active members.

Today, get to know Mariam Avakova:

Mariam Avakova is a 27-years-old freelance journalist, Youth Trainer in non-formal education topics, and mentor in entrepreneurship for teenagers. She is from Georgia, where Mariam has organized interesting initiatives like GEOWheat and GEPSED. Her journalism endeavors started in 2013 in online media. In 2018, Mariam joined TOK TV. Now, she operates as an independent writer. Mariam graduated with an MSc in Environmental Studies.

In Mariam’s Own Words:

• What can tech conferences do to increase the number of women in technology?

They can lead by example; they can provide opportunities for peers to learn from each other, for mentees to find mentors, for companies to discover talent. They can support women interested in tech by connecting them to internship opportunities and vocational programs. 

• What is the role of educators and parents?

Very important. Good educators can inspire and motivate. 

Parents have to allow their children freedom in their choices, like following their intuition and dreams. Parents can be immensly helpful by working toward eliminating stigma and stereotypes in the communities they inhabit with their children.

• Do you notice a lack of women in technology? If so, why do you think that’s the case?

I am from Georgia, Sakartvelo. We are a country grounded in tradition. It's not popular for women to work in tech yet. 

It's an ongoing process, and we're still facing a lack of females in techology. This is unfortunate as many studies show that more women in tech can have a great impact on economic growth. 

• What is the best part of being a woman in the tech industry?

It is an opportunity to explore new opportunities, achieve more, and live a life without fearing whether your next job will come from. There are many talented females in tech and they can change the industry for the better.