This April, Toronto’s top technology and creativity conference - FITC - brought together thousands of passionate innovators, developers, designers, creatives, marketers, and students for three packed days of talks, events, and workshops.Among this diverse mix of attendees were almost twenty youth from the YWCA of Toronto’s Girls’ Centre and hEr VOLUTION, all of whom received free passes to participate.
Throughout the three days of the conference, these enthusiastic students explored trends and innovations across all aspects of digital, design and technology. Their highlights included exploring various booths that featured emerging technology - everything from VR to digital art.
Careers in Technology
Many of these students have professional aspirations related to digital innovation. One youth shared her plans to enrol in Ryerson this fall, to pursue a degree in new media. Others’ interests ranged from healthcare to computer science.
“It was really cool to see women who strive for these goals, have been through these processes, and actually made it. They’re inspiring so many girls like me”- YWCA Participant
For many, FITC was a window into many previously unheard of opportunities. As the saying goes ‘if you can see it, you can be it,’ and the first step in a journey towards a career in a traditionally male industry is discovering a heartening role model.
Women in STEM at FITC
The Together team spoke to numerous professionals in various tech-related fields about their experiences as women in their respective industries.The students were particularly excited to speak with Lindsay Munro, who relayed her years of expertise in social media, influencer/brand relations, and building an online platform.Her advice to all young women in pursuit of tech careers was:
“At the end of the day, if you only answer to yourself and you try your best at everything, there’s nothing that should stop you.”- Lindsay Munro
Having these open conversations with female professionals enabled the students to ask honest, frank questions, and connect with women who’ve pioneered their paths. The speakers were generous with their time and enthusiastic to share their wisdom. This year’s FITC talks, workshops, and networking sessions proved to be outstanding opportunities for women across Gen X, Y & Z, inspiring and empowering youth to pursue careers in technology, while reinvigorating the elder women in these industries with the rush of mentorship.
Be part of the change
We’d like to thank FITC for welcoming YWCA Toronto’s Girls’ Centre and hEr VOLUTION to the conference. This event has helped inspire a new generation of digital professionals and we’re always thrilled to see and hear how passionate the students are about technology, creativity, and design.
If you’d like to help us contribute to a more inclusive digital community, get in touch! Email us at together@weare.to or volunteer now.