Birmingham’s first Diversity in Digital Festival is well under way but there's still time to get involved.
Diversity in Digital Festival (DIDFest) aims to change behaviour and close the digital diversity gap, this year focusing on women in tech, addressing the lack of gender diversity in the digital sector. It is running for four weeks, consisting of over 45 events across the city of Birmingham, covering four themes: play, inspire, community and leadership.
Faye Pressley, chief operating officer of Vanti (an internationally award winning technology and digital company), said: “We understand that making a difference to the gender imbalance that exists isn’t going to happen overnight, but we hope that the range of events happening throughout the festival, will help to encourage, empower and inspire more girls and women to get into STEM, and to thrive in STEM careers.” STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
“The festival wouldn’t have been possible without the support and time given by local organisations and individuals. It’s been put together with zero funding and sponsorship – just pure hard work, volunteered time and support. True Brum style!”
Each theme of DiDFest focuses on different groups of people, has clear ways for attendees to get more involved and to take the next steps in developing their understanding of how to join local communities.
The festival is focused on how to engage, attract, retain and develop more women in the tech industry, looking to educate organisational leaders on the benefits of an ‘inclusive workforce’ and to engage with:
It is said Birmingham is forecast to become the UK’s second plural city (where no ethnic group is the majority) by 2024, as one of the most diverse cities in the U.K.
Cities hit hardest by pandemic to see strongest growth, says report
Funding will help independent retailers and businesses bridge gap
Appointments significantly strengthen regional operations
Funding will help independent retailers and businesses bridge gap
Joel Blake - entrepreneur and diversity champion
Founder of MCG Digital Media
Reveal coincides with launch of inaugural Birmingham Tech Week
Lead Director, RightTrack Learning Ltd
Initiative aims to protect thousands of jobs at risk from pandemic
Property sector observer says focus should be on digital companies
Director of Lightbox Digital
European hub is launched in Birmingham
Director, In Front Digital
Expanding team now has more space to grow even further
Acquisition will "acclerate digital growth"
Chief information officer takes up new role
Digital landscape offers endless opportunities for firm
Firm funds university project in Uganda