Breaking Barriers and Accelerating Action, Every Day
CFG Ambassador, Erin Byrne reflects ahead of international women's day on the importance to accelerate action and drive lasting change.
Each year, International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s achievements. It’s a moment to reflect on the progress women have made, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges they continue to face.
As an ambassador for Code First Girls, the 2025 theme of ‘Accelerate Action’ feels particularly relevant this year. It perfectly aligns with the mission we are tirelessly driving, which is not only to advocate for change but to actively create opportunities for women and non-binary individuals to access free tech education and excel in the world of tech. Over the past few years, women’s contributions to technology have grown exponentially—and today we’ve empowered over 250,000 women to learn coding skills, and the number continues to rise.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the strides made and keep pushing for the acceleration of opportunity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Why does representation in tech matter?
The tech industry has long been seen as male-dominated, but today, more women than ever are breaking barriers and reshaping what it means to be a leader in technology. From driving AI innovations to leading major tech companies, women are transforming the way we approach technology and its societal impact.
However, significant challenges remain. Despite the progress, women still make up only a quarter of the tech workforce, according to recent studies. Diversity and inclusion are critical to fostering a workplace that thrives. When employees feel valued and comfortable expressing themselves, innovation flourishes. Encouraging a culture where everyone is empowered to contribute leads to growth—not only for companies but also for the tech industry as a whole. By creating a space for women in tech, we open the door to fresh perspectives, helping to build more inclusive technologies and work environments.
Representation matters. It’s essential for women to see others like them succeeding in their dream careers. When women excel in tech, they inspire the next generation to aim higher and reach further.
Here at Code First Girls we’re making huge strides, with over 67% of our community members coming from underrepresented ethnic backgrounds, and nearly 48% being the first in their families to attend university. These trailblazers are not only breaking new ground for themselves but also creating pathways for others to follow.
Despite the progress, women still make up only a quarter of the tech workforce, according to recent studies.
How can you make a meaningful impact when it comes to diversity and inclusion in tech?
Here are a few ways we can accelerate progress, not just for International Women’s Day, but every day:
Champion Inclusivity
- Create a supportive environment: Find ways that your workplace can help to fosters a culture where women feel encouraged and valued and advocate for initiatives such as flexible working hours and opportunities for training and growth.
- Curate safe spaces: Empower women by creating environments where they feel respected and confident and giving everyone the platform to speak up and ensure their contributions are heard and respected.
Promote Education and Awareness
- Develop skills: Invest in the growth of women around you by supporting their learning and development, this can be in the form of mentorship, sharing helpful resources and tips or as simple as offering encouragement and motivation.
- Share educational opportunities: Sharing access to free, flexible courses (like our Tech Tasters and Kickstarter Classes), goes a long way to help women and non-binary individuals them to advance their careers.
Celebrate Success Stories
- Honour historical pioneers: Ada Lovelace, considered the first programmer, made groundbreaking contributions to technology in the mid-19th century. Remembering women like her underscores how integral women have always been to the tech world and highlights how many have been overlooked in history.
- Share your own victories: Every success counts. By celebrating your wins, big or small, you inspire others. Don’t hesitate to take up space in a male-dominated field.
- Recognise the trailblazers: Honour the women who paved the way by acknowledging the challenges we still face. Together, we can ensure the future of technology remains diverse, inclusive, and empowering for all.
By championing inclusivity, promoting education, and celebrating achievements, we’re creating a more equitable future—one where women can thrive and contribute to the world of technology in meaningful ways. Let’s keep pushing forward.
SMALL STEPS TODAY, TO MAKE BIG CHANGE
Whether you want to break into the world of tech, progress or advocate for change, check out our resources below to start making small changes today:
