How to Celebrate Digital Women’s Day

International Digital Women’s Day is an occasion to celebrate women in tech, amplify their voices, showcase their achievements, and develop actionable plans to help more women enter the IT industry.

In recognition of Digital Women’s Day, we’re examining the industry’s progress, the challenges that remain, and ways you can celebrate and support women in tech within your organization.

What is Digital Women’s Day?

Digital Women’s Day (‘Journée de la Femme Digitale’) is a global event held every April 17th. It was created by JFD, an international organization that accelerates growth for women who take bold technological bets and create disruptive innovations.

JFD’s mission is to open more doors for women in tech through a combination of education, visibility for female role models, and financial opportunities.

Women in tech: are we moving in the right direction?

Deloitte has found that, on average, tech companies are making gradual progress in increasing female workforce representation. They project that, women will make up one-third of the workforce in global tech firms. While this is an encouraging sign, the industry’s progress must continue.

However, this momentum is at risk of stalling. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to female employee dissatisfaction, decreased well-being, and lower motivation. Racially and ethnically diverse women have been even more negatively affected.

Despite progress, significant challenges remain. For example, Women in Tech reports that women leave tech roles at a rate of 47%, more than double the rate for men (17%). Contributing factors include gender pay gaps (78% of large tech organizations admit to this) and workplace gender discrimination, which over half of women surveyed reported experiencing.

Additionally, JFD highlights a staggering statistic: 98% of financing in the tech startup world is awarded to men, further compounding the challenges for female entrepreneurs.

How to celebrate Digital Women’s Day

Though the industry’s shortcomings are undeniable, Digital Women’s Day is about celebrating progress, recognizing achievements, and fostering meaningful change. Whether you’re a woman in tech, a male ally, or an organization, here are actionable ways to mark the occasion:

Get involved on social media

Use your private, professional, or brand social media accounts to raise awareness. Share content about Digital Women’s Day, discuss why it matters, and spotlight women’s experiences in tech. Leverage your platform to amplify their voices and start meaningful conversations.

Organize or attend events

Bring your community or organization together to engage in conversations about gender equality in tech. Hosting or attending events is a great way to inspire collaboration and action.

Spotlight key role models

A cornerstone of JFD’s mission is giving visibility to female role models. Recognizing inspiring women in tech, whether they’re high-profile leaders or colleagues within your organization, can have a powerful impact. Share their stories and journeys to raise awareness and empower others.

Consider extending this beyond your workplace by supporting employees who mentor aspiring women and girls in your local community.

Reflect on your position

Digital Women’s Day is an opportunity for introspection. If you’re in a leadership role, evaluate your hiring practices, workplace culture, and employee diversity. Ask yourself: Are you creating an inclusive environment where women can thrive?

Take steps to address gender pay gaps, support initiatives like JFD, and advocate for systemic changes across the industry.

On an individual level, reflect on your privilege and consider how you can use it to uplift and support others in their tech journeys.

Final thoughts

Digital Women’s Day is both a celebration and a call to action. By recognizing achievements, fostering inclusivity, and taking steps toward equality, we can all contribute to a tech industry where women have the space and support to succeed.