Lenovo is deeply committed to advancing gender equality across all fronts – in the workplace, marketplace, and community. Recognizing our pivotal role in promoting women in STEM, Lenovo stands at the forefront of initiatives aimed at empowering women in technology.
Drawing inspiration from our community partners worldwide, Lenovo celebrated International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month by reflecting on the various ways these partners support women in embracing equity and overcoming the obstacles hindering their entry into STEM careers.
The roots of gender bias in STEM are deeply entrenched, often beginning in early education. According to UNICEF’s report on Mapping Gender Equality in STEM from School to Work, evidence of gender bias in STEM emerges as early as primary school. While a girl’s proficiency in STEM can initially be influenced by factors such as her place of birth and family’s socioeconomic status, prevalent barriers and biases persist even in the most developed countries, affecting girls from higher socioeconomic backgrounds.
In this context, Lenovo’s “Girls Belong in Tech” initiative, recently hosted at our Morrisville, NC headquarters, takes on even greater significance. This event, in partnership with education nonprofit NAF, symbolizes our collective commitment to nurturing the next generation of female tech leaders, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to thrive in the tech industry. More than 250 students from across NC participated in the half-day event.
The event showcased a range of activities designed to inspire, educate, and motivate young women in tech. From dynamic networking sessions to immersive coding workshops and insightful panel discussions, every aspect of the event was meticulously crafted to break down barriers and foster a culture of inclusivity and empowerment.
Girls Belong in Tech was designed four years ago by a high school intern working at Lenovo. The program has grown annually and received positive feedback from students and teachers. “The leaders of the event were very encouraging and welcoming” said an attendee this spring “They made me feel like I could be something more. “
Moreover, Lenovo’s dedication to gender equality extends beyond events like “Girls Belong in Tech.” As part of our broader commitment to advancing women in STEM, Lenovo actively engages in initiatives aimed at addressing the systemic barriers that hinder women’s participation and progression in STEM fields.
By leveraging our resources, expertise, and global reach, Lenovo strives to create a more equitable and inclusive world where women have equal opportunities to pursue and excel in STEM careers. Through collaboration with partners, advocacy for policy changes, and investment in educational programs, we are working towards a future where every girl, regardless of background or circumstance, can pursue her passion for technology and contribute her talents to shaping a better world.
