Women Techmakers (WTM) and Women in STEM Leaders Network in collaboration with IEEE UoN Women in Engineering, Google Be Internet Awesome, Google CS First and Internet for Education SIG, will be launching the Internet Safety for Girls, and Women as Mentors Program at a series of events between the 12th and the 26th of April, 2025.
The "Internet Safety for Girls, and Women as Mentors" progam is a dynamic and inclusive initiative aimed at equipping young girls and women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate the digital world safely. With a focus on mentorship, this event fosters a supportive network where experienced women professionals guide and inspire younger participants to become responsible digital citizens and advocates for online safety.
Target Audience
• Young girls (ages 10–18)• Female university students and early-career professionals• Women mentors from various sectors, including technology, education, law, and digital rights advocacy• Parents, educators, and community leaders interested in fostering digital safety
Event Objectives
• Educate participants on internet safety best practices, including privacy, cybersecurity, and protection against online threats such as cyberbullying, phishing, and misinformation.• Empower girls to build digital resilience and confidence in using technology safely.• Connect young girls with women mentors who can guide them in their digital and professional journeys.• Promote Inclusion by ensuring diverse representation and participation from marginalized communities.
Planned Activities
1. Keynote Address & Panel
Discussions Insights from experts in cybersecurity, digital rights, and women empowerment. Discussion on gender-specific online risks and solutions.
2. Breakout Sessions & Workshops
Online Privacy & Security: Understanding passwords, data protection, and safe browsing habits.Recognizing & Responding to Cyber Threats: How to handle cyberbullying, online harassment, and scams.Safe Digital Storytelling & Content Creation: Encouraging girls to use the internet to share their voices positively and safely.Career Pathways in Tech & Cybersecurity: Showcasing opportunities for women in technology fields.
3. Mentorship & Networking
One-on-one mentorship pairings between young girls and women professionals.Roundtable discussions where mentors share their experiences navigating the digital space safely.
4. Interactive Role-Playing & Scenario-Based Training
Real-life simulations on responding to online threats.Group problem-solving exercises to reinforce digital safety concepts.
5. Digital Literacy & Advocacy Initiatives
Introduction to digital rights, online activism, and advocating for safer online spaces.Encouragement for participants to take leadership in promoting internet safety within their communities.Diversity & Inclusion MeasuresAccessibility: Providing sign language interpretation and translation for multilingual participants.Scholarships & Transport Support: Offering financial assistance for girls from underserved areas to attend.Representation: Ensuring panelists, speakers, and mentors include women from diverse ethnic, socio-economic, and professional backgrounds.Safe Space Policy: Establishing a code of conduct to ensure all participants feel respected and heard.
Expected OutcomesIncreased awareness and knowledge of internet safety among young girls.Strengthened mentorship networks between women professionals and young girls.Greater participation of women in tech and cybersecurity-related careers.Improved advocacy for safe and inclusive online spaces for women and girls.
This program will be a transformative experience, equipping girls with the confidence to navigate the digital space safely while inspiring them to become future leaders in technology and cybersecurity.