In a bold step towards closing the gender gap in the technology sector, Huawei South Africa in partnership with Henley Business School Africa has unveiled the fourth edition of its Women in Tech Digital Skills Training Programme. This year, 40 women entrepreneurs, innovators, and government leaders have been selected to take part in the initiative, signaling a continued commitment to fostering female leadership in South Africa’s digital economy.
The programme is designed to equip participants with cutting-edge digital leadership skills, practical knowledge in business transformation, and tools to drive innovation in their communities and industries. Beyond technical skills, the training emphasizes strategic thinking, problem-solving, and confidence-building, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in both corporate and public sectors.
Skills, Mentorship, and Networks
Speaking at the launch, Huawei South Africa’s leadership emphasized that empowering women with digital skills is not just a corporate responsibility but a strategic imperative for Africa’s growth. “Women remain underrepresented in the ICT sector, yet they are the backbone of Africa’s entrepreneurial and innovative spirit,” said a Huawei spokesperson. “This programme ensures they have the knowledge and confidence to shape the future of the digital economy.”
Henley Business School Africa highlighted the programme’s focus on building networks of influence. The training is designed not only to impart skills but also to create lasting connections, giving participants access to mentorship, peer support, and industry guidance that extend far beyond the classroom. By cultivating a community of empowered women, the initiative strengthens the broader ecosystem of tech leaders in South Africa.
Inclusive and Long-Term Impact
The selected women come from a wide range of sectors, reflecting the programme’s inclusive approach. Participants include individuals from government, corporate leadership, and entrepreneurial ventures, all united by a shared goal of leveraging technology for meaningful impact. Over the course of the programme, they gain insight into digital strategy, leadership in the age of artificial intelligence, and the application of technology to real-world challenges.
Over the past three years, previous editions have created an active alumni network of women leaders who continue to collaborate, mentor, and inspire others in the digital space. Many have gone on to launch new initiatives, scale existing ventures, and champion digital inclusion in both urban and rural communities. This continuity underscores the programme’s commitment to long-term empowerment rather than short-term training.
Building a More Inclusive Digital Future
The programme also reflects broader trends in corporate social responsibility, where global technology companies are investing in skills development and empowerment initiatives that directly benefit local communities. By providing access to resources, mentorship, and high-quality training, initiatives like this help ensure that women are not only participants in the digital economy but are also drivers of innovation and change.
Huawei South Africa and Henley Business School Africa are sending a clear message: investing in women’s leadership is investing in the future of the country’s digital economy. For the 40 women selected this year, participation represents more than training – it is an opportunity to shape policy, innovate within their fields, and contribute to South Africa’s digital transformation.
As the fourth edition gets underway, the programme reinforces a critical truth: empowered women in technology empower the nation. With the right support, mentorship, and training, these 40 leaders are poised to make a lasting impact – not just in their own careers, but in the broader landscape of South Africa’s digital economy.
