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NZTech UPDATE – Diversity, political debate and our digital future
Kia Ora Readers
In recent months, I have become very conscious of the gendered language I use, in particular, ‘hey guys’ or ‘thanks guys, great meeting’. My six year old daughter constantly mirrors this language and every time I hear her say ‘hey guys’ it gives me that fingernails down the blackboard feeling! The word ‘guys’ can make women feel left out, yet most of us are conditioned to default to this kind of language. On a daily basis, often without even realising, we are using gendered language and as a result, inherent gender bias.
Last week in Wellington, TechWomen hosted a panel discussion on Developing Diversity for over 115 people. Our panel, facilitated by Jen Rutherford, discussed empowering women at work. They shared personal experiences on inappropriate language, the culture inside, unconscious bias, the diversity awakening, the bubble of privilege and how we can advocate for change in our organisations. Last week, I also attended another fantastic event, the Christchurch Women’s Executive Lunch. It was a thought provoking event with highly engaged leaders. Delia Gill from IT Engine shared her experience on scaling up and non traditional leadership methods.
Meanwhile, we still require your input on the Digital Skills Survey. This survey will help influence policy decisions around digital education, immigration and investment in skills development. Please let us know if you need assistance with the survey. It will take about 15-20 minutes to complete but it is critical that your organisation contributes to ensure you can gain access to the best skills when you need them.
If you haven’t already seen an invitation in your inbox for our AGM, it’s coming up on 20 July in Auckland. The AGM will be followed by a political debate on the future of our people, our economy and our government as outlined in New Zealand’s Digital Future – Tech Manifesto 2017. It’s set to be lively discussion on the impact newly emerging tech could have on policy, education, investment and regulation. Please register to attend.
Enjoy the school holidays if you are taking some time off to spend with family.
Andrea Hancox
Member & Government Relations
NZTech
Read our Tech ManifestoCONNECT
Join NZSA tomorrow in Auckland for How to attract good people and smart money into your business with Josh Comrie, (replacing the previously advertised Rudi Bublitz).
This week, hear Alexandra Deschamps-Sonsino discuss IoT; A Revolution in Health and Wellbeing on 12 July in Christchurch. Join FinTechNZ Connect in Auckland on 17 July.
Join BANZ on 20 July in Auckland for Blockchain Networking. The next Blockchain Gathering is on 27 July, also in Auckland.
PROMOTE
Congratulations to the ecentre at Massey University for winning an incubator expansion contract. Congrats also to Te Papa’s Mahuki for securing additional funding.
Join WITSA’s 21st World Congress on IT, in Taipei, 10-13 September. This year’s theme is Fulfilling the Promise of the Digital Age, Building and Sharing the Dream.
Mark your diary for IBM’s Watson Summit 2017, 16 August in Auckland. This year, creating disruption and harnessing transformation by leveraging cognitive tech.
ADVANCE
Read @NZIoTAlliance research report, The Internet of Things – Accelerating a Connected New Zealand Read the report highlights, the free e-version and check out the New Zealand IoT Alliance online.
The Ministry of Education would like feedback on the proposed Digital Technology Curriculum, to be included from 2018. Submissions close 31 August. Learn more and share your views here.
Register for the NZRise Government Seminar on 13 July in Wellington. This year’s theme, Procuring the Future: Growing a Sustainable Digital Sector with Smart Procurement.
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