Author: Christina Naidoo

In traditional finance, capital is a key driver of economic power. Similarly, digital access is a foundational form of capital for women today. It determines access to opportunities, economic participation, and social mobility. Those with tech skills, digital access, and a strong industry presence secure their futures and shape the global landscape. However, without intentional action, we risk deepening the gender gap rather than closing it. This International Women’s Day, under the theme “Accelerate Action,” we must go beyond acknowledging these disparities and take decisive steps to drive measurable progress in gender equality within the digital economy. Technology is the…

The world runs on algorithms. They power economies, industries, and the way we experience daily life, but algorithms are only as good as the data they are built on. The structures governing STEM have been trained on flawed inputs, reinforcing patterns that have kept women on the margins of industries shaping the future. Women make up nearly 50% of the global population but represent only 35% of the workforce in science and engineering fields. In emerging industries—such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and quantum computing—the gender gap is even wider. A report by the World Economic Forum found that only 22%…

I believe that technology mirrors life in its diversity and vibrancy. Take something as simple as choosing a lipstick colour – it’s a personal expression. How often have you chosen a shade of lipstick that represents more than your style but your stance against the norm? Now, imagine AI as an extension of that choice. It’s not just about technology; it’s about redefining the boundaries of what’s possible, challenging the norms, and expanding our understanding of intelligence. In my mind, if AI wore lipstick—it would embrace the boldness, nuance, and complexity that come with understanding and representing the diverse spectrum…

Women mentors must inspire the next generation of women science and tech leaders write Christina Naidoo, COO of Huawei SA in marking The International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2021. Most of the world’s population are women. It is therefore one of our society’s ongoing injustices that the people who wield power across the planet are overwhelmingly male. The UN notes that women make up less than 7% of world leaders, and only  24% of lawmakers. This leadership discrepancy extends not just to politics. In almost every industry, men are in positions of power, while women are relegated…