Tech Beyond Gender

Envision a future where Gender Equality is not an aspiration
but a reality within Technology roles and workplaces

OUR VISION

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Insights

Insights of women in the tech sector

Make a difference

Initiate change in your organisation

upcoming

Collaborate with us on our next research study

WHAT WE DO?

Acknowledge and accredit organisations that actively implement measures to cultivate a supportive technology workplace environment for women and gender diverse professionals.

Enable and coordinate in-depth research within New Zealand, offering actionable insights to organisations to foster gender equity within the technology sector.

Establish a platform within the New Zealand technology sector for individuals to serve as mentors, providing guidance to those in need.

Provide a platform for organisations to support women and professionals from gender diverse groups in accessing opportunities within the New Zealand technology sector.

BOOK A CHAT WITH US

PODCASTS

Tune in to our podcasts featuring tech industry leaders and professionals sharing their journeys in technology. Hear from tech gurus and senior leaders about the challenges they overcame and the obstacles they faced as they advanced in their careers. You’ll also hear from courageous individuals who transitioned into tech later in their professional lives. Get inspired, encouraged, and guided in your own personal journey in technology.

PODCASTS

ACCREDITATION

Get the TechBeyondGender Accreditation and position your organisation as a leader in fostering inclusivity within the tech industry

Process for Accreditation

Register as a research partner here
Complete self-assessment form.
Submit supporting documentation and workforce demographics.
Undergo virtual assessment with assessors.
Receive feedback and recommendations.
Implement measures (or provide evidence) to enhance gender equity.
Final evaluation and accreditation decision.

Cost of Accreditation

There is no fee for accreditation, but we do need your participation in ensuring that the NZ Tech community becomes an inclusive and enriching space for people of all genders.

You need to:

Become our research partners by encouraging and promoting women and other gender diverse IT professionals to participate in ongoing research in this area.
Host at least one event per year for women and gender diverse professionals, inviting your staff and others in the tech sector.
Implement measures and provide evidence of actions to enhance gender equity at your workplace

GET ACCREDITED

A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY IN THE WORLD OF TECH IN NZ

Whether you’re considering a transition into the tech sector or seeking support as a current professional, we’re here to empower you on your journey.

At Tech Beyond Gender, we understand the unique challenges and barriers faced by gender diverse individuals in the Tech Industry. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive space where you can request guidance and mentorship to thrive in your career.

Why Join Tech Beyond Gender?

Resources and Tools: Gain access to a wealth of resources, including career development seminars, technical certification vouchers and internship opportunities.

Mentorship Program: Take advantage of our mentorship program, where you’ll be paired with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support tailored to your goals.

Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network and connect with industry leaders through our networking events and forums.

Career Counselling: Receive personalised career counselling and support to help you navigate your career path, overcome challenges, and achieve your professional goals.

Community Support: Connect with like-minded individuals who understand your experiences and can offer valuable support and advice.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, Tech Beyond Gender is here to support you every step of the way. Join our community today and take the next step towards a rewarding career in technology.

Ready to get started? Register your interest now! Together, we can create a more inclusive and diverse Tech Industry for all.

INVITE TO ORGANISATIONS

Find out how you can make a difference in your workplace for Women in Technology.

Below are some proposed actions from our recent study.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eCareer Transition Programmesu003c/spanu003e

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eInternal Career Transition Program for Women u003c/spanu003e

Introduce tailored Career Transition Programs to Technology Teams through initiatives like Secondment Opportunities or Rotational Assignments.

These programs will be widely promoted across organisations, emphasising successful transitions and offering mentorship opportunities.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eExternal Career Transition Program for Women u003c/spanu003e

Develop initiatives similar to Graduate Recruitment or Internship programs, specifically targeting women from diverse backgrounds. This offers them a pathway into technical roles, irrespective of their current field.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eSensitivity Training Programmesu003c/spanu003e

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eSensitivity Training Sessionsu003c/spanu003e

Implement comprehensive sensitivity training sessions for staff to understand the impact of such behaviours on individuals.

These sessions will include engaging activities, group discussions, and exercises facilitated by experienced trainers or guest speakers specialising in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eOngoing Support and Resourcesu003c/spanu003e

Offer continuous support and access to resources for staff to further their learning beyond the training sessions.

Utilise various tools such as videos, quizzes, and visual aids to reinforce learning objectives and encourage ongoing education.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eRetain and Grow Technical Workforceu003c/spanu003e

Promote opportunities for women to advance into roles traditionally dominated by men, such as Network, Security, or Infrastructure positions.

Implement Secondment opportunities and other career progression pathways to facilitate this transition.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eEstablish Transparent Career Pathwaysu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/spanu003e

Introduce and communicate clear career pathways for both technical and non-technical roles.

Provide women with explicit options for career advancement, eliminating reliance on implicit social cues.

Recognise and accommodate family commitments that women may have.

Ensure that after-hours support requirements do not exclude women from technical roles solely due to their personal responsibilities.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eCreate Mentorship and Networking opportunities for womenu003c/spanu003e

Organisations should actively support women’s involvement in technical conferences, providing opportunities for them to represent the company and deliver presentations.

This exposure enhances visibility and fosters professional growth.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eEncourage Mentorship Programsu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/spanu003e

Promote mentorship opportunities for women in technology, including specialized programs aimed at guiding graduates and other women in the industry.

By fostering a supportive mentorship network, Organisations can empower women to navigate challenges and pursue advancement.

Highlight successful women in specialised technical roles as role models within the Organisation.

These role models serve as inspiration for other women, encouraging them to pursue similar career pathways and challenging gender stereotypes.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003ePromote balance in job descriptionsu003c/spanu003e

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eReview and Balance Job Descriptionsu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/spanu003e

Ensure job descriptions reflect a balanced emphasis on technical skills and soft skills.

Incorporate language that highlights the importance of personal traits such as communication and collaboration alongside technical competencies.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eEmphasise Culture and Commitmentu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/spanu003e

Articulate Organisation’s commitment to fostering gender balance, continuous learning, and development in job descriptions.

Highlight the importance of adaptability and readiness to learn in a dynamic workplace environment.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eCollaborative Approachu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/spanu003e

Facilitate collaboration between HR, hiring managers, and current employees to identify key soft skills and personal traits crucial for success in an Organisation.

Encourage input from women and underrepresented groups to ensure inclusivity.

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Seek feedback from employees, especially women and underrepresented groups, to improve job descriptions and promote inclusivity.

Implement metrics to measure the effectiveness of balanced job descriptions in attracting diverse applicants and ensuring employee satisfaction with role expectations.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eCreate Awareness of Gender Dynamics in the Interview Processu003c/spanu003e

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eAwareness and Educationu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/spanu003e

Educate interviewers about the influence of cultural norms and structural inequalities on women’s experiences during interviews.

Raise awareness about unconscious biases that may affect perceptions of confidence and competence.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eRevise Interview Processesu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/spanu003e

Re-evaluate interview processes to ensure inclusivity and fairness.

Avoid using identical recruitment and interview processes that may inadvertently disadvantage women. Instead, structure interviews to allow candidates, particularly women, to showcase their unique qualities and experiences relevant to the roles.

u003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022 style=u0022color: rgb(250, 250, 255); font-weight: 700;u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eu003cstrongu003eEmphasise Value of Contributionsu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/strongu003eu003c/spanu003e

Place greater emphasis on valuing the experiences and contributions of all candidates, regardless of gender.

Provide opportunities for candidates to articulate their current responsibilities and highlight their distinctive qualities during interviews.

Are you keen to be a part of our upcoming studies to make a difference in the NZ Technology sector?

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HOW TO COLLABORATE

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! – Are you currently working in the technology sector wishing to support those who need help? Support our mission in one of the following ways:

If you are a Researcher or have Research background, we would love for you to assist in the study we conduct.
Offer expertise, time, and resources by volunteering to take care of our administrative functions.
If you are keen to be a mentor – please register here and we will get in touch with you.
Advocate for policy changes and corporate initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the tech industry. This could involve engaging with lawmakers, policymakers, and corporate leaders to raise awareness and drive change.
Help raise awareness about our mission and initiatives by sharing information on social media, participating in events, or inviting speakers to present at conferences and workshops.

Register your interest here.

Are you an organisation interested to collaborate with us in achieving gender equality? You can support us in any of the following ways:

Partnering: We are open to partnering with other organisations, businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies to amplify the impact of initiatives aimed at addressing gender disparities in technology.
Training and Education: Offer training sessions, exam vouchers, workshops, or educational resources to help build skills and empower individuals from under-represented gender identities to pursue careers in technology.
Sponsorship: Provide financial or in-kind support to fund initiatives or events or scholarships aimed at empowering under-represented gender identities in the tech sector.

Register your interest here

KEY INSIGHTS FROM THE 2023/2024 STUDY ON NZ WOMEN IN TECH

“Just as we feel disoriented when attempting to mimic someone else’s behaviour, women may struggle to assimilate into environments still largely dominated by men. Recognising the inherent differences in how men and women operate and the unique traits they bring can be transformative.”
Meena Satishkumar

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