Empowering Diversity: The Mission and Impact of AnitaB.org India in the Tech Industry
CXOTodayhas engaged in an exclusive interview with Shreya Krishnan, Managing Director of AnitaB.org India,
- Can you briefly share what AnitaB.org is and what’s its mission? What motivated you to join AnitaB.org India, and how does its mission resonate with your personal and professional values?
AnitaB.org is an organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the tech industry, particularly for women and non-binary individuals. Through its array of programs, events, and initiatives, AnitaB.org strives to empower these individuals to thrive and excel in the field of technology.
I was drawn to join AnitaB.org India because I’ve long observed a significant gap in how our society, workplaces, and communities function, especially regarding the safety and representation of women and non-binary individuals. Having personally experienced discrimination and feeling the absence of representation throughout my life, I’ve felt a compelling need for initiatives that strive to create equality for all. This deeply resonates with my personal and professional values.
In my view, a sustainable, equitable, and safe world is one where empathy, kindness, and respect prevail, eliminating the conflicts and challenges we currently face, whether they be related to climate change, discrimination, or other societal issues. I believe in a world where everyone has equal opportunities and is judged fairly within a system that prioritizes social justice. Joining AnitaB.org aligns perfectly with these beliefs, as it works towards creating a more inclusive and just tech industry and society as a whole.
- What specific challenges do women and non-binary individuals face in the tech industry, and how does AnitaB.org India address these challenges through its support initiatives?
AnitaB.org India tackles these challenges through a multifaceted approach. Firstly, we prioritize the creation of safe spaces where these individuals can learn, collaborate, and grow together. Our vibrant community, comprising over 5,000 Members nationwide, serves as a crucial support system.
Moreover, we actively foster community building by investing in various initiatives aimed at bringing women and non-binary technologists together. Whether through organizing events, such as the upcoming Grace Hopper Celebration India (GHCI) in Bangalore, or partnering with corporations to provide platforms for their voices to be heard, we ensure visibility and celebration of their contributions.
Additionally, we guide corporate partners in creating more equitable workplaces and engage in public policy advocacy to ensure representation for these communities. Recognizing the importance of social impact, we invest in initiatives like girl child education, STEM programs, leadership development, and various training programs to facilitate growth and skill development.
Looking ahead, we are committed to establishing a comprehensive advisory program across different segments, ensuring representation and support for individuals from diverse backgrounds and intersections across the country.
- How does AnitaB.org India support women and non-binary individuals who are interested in entering the tech industry but may lack traditional educational backgrounds or experience?
AnitaB.org India provides comprehensive support to women and non-binary individuals interested in entering the tech industry, even if they lack traditional educational backgrounds or experience.
Through our online community and membership platform, we offer access to tech education, learning programs, and growth opportunities. These resources enable individuals to broaden their knowledge and skills, empowering them to pursue areas of interest and expertise within the tech field.
We also offer specialized corporate programs with mentorship pathways, focusing on long-term career development for women. These programs provide mentorship and support to help women navigate their careers, grow within their roles, and achieve their professional goals.
Additionally, our “Return to Work” program is designed specifically for women who have taken a career break. We support them in transitioning back into the workforce by offering mentoring, learning programs, and assistance in adjusting to their new roles. This includes equipping both the individuals and their workplaces with the tools and knowledge needed to ensure a smooth and successful reintegration process.
- In your experience, what are some effective strategies or approaches for companies and organizations to create inclusive workplaces that support the retention and advancement of women and non-binary individuals in technology?
Effective strategies for companies and organizations to foster inclusive workplaces stem from both organizational policies and structures, as well as the ethos and values upheld by the organization. Inclusion becomes ingrained in the culture, whereas diversity pertains to ensuring the right candidates are recruited. A workplace must be sufficiently inclusive to support a diverse workforce.
Key strategies involve approaching and hiring individuals without bias, maintaining ongoing educational awareness regarding diversity, equity, and belonging, and creating opportunities for storytelling and sharing perspectives to cultivate a sense of collective understanding. Implementing training programs designed to enhance awareness of necessary diversity is also essential.
- Beyond providing support and resources, how does AnitaB.org India advocate for policy changes or institutional reforms to promote gender equality and inclusivity in the tech sector?
AnitaB.org, both globally and within India, places significant emphasis on advocacy and policy reform. Recognizing that public policies shape the operating environment, the organization prioritizes understanding and engaging with them. Legal frameworks, including common laws, are crucial for comprehending and addressing socio-political issues. Therefore, AnitaB.org dedicates substantial effort to grasping public policies and advocacy, ensuring they remain central to the organization’s activities. Additionally, investing time in understanding governmental policies and laws enables AnitaB.org to ensure that its initiatives lead to sustainable and impactful changes.
- What efforts does AnitaB.org India undertake to raise awareness about the importance of gender diversity in technology?
As the tech industry continues its expansion, so do the disparities in opportunity, representation, and funding. Historical biases have directed resources primarily towards a narrow demographic, leaving a diverse pool of talent struggling for recognition and support.
Grace Hopper Celebration India (GHCI) stands out as the country’s premier event for women in tech, dedicated to promoting networking, learning, and career growth. It serves as a vital platform for fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry, featuring inspiring speakers, panels, and workshops.
GHCI 24 aims to set the tone for diversity and inclusivity in the Indian tech space. Through inspirational speakers, informative sessions, networking opportunities, passionate volunteers, dedicated Partners and Sponsors, and exhibits, the event will showcase and celebrate the accomplishments of women and non-binary people in tech. Under the theme “ME + WE,” GHCI 24 underscores the potential unleashed when women and non-binary technologists step boldly into their collective power.
AnitaB.org conducts multiple podcasts and seminars to highlight the significance of gender diversity. Among these initiatives is the “Let’s Take Charge” podcast, which specifically addresses gender diversity awareness. Recently, AnitaB.org hosted a seminar centered on neurodiversity, aimed at fostering understanding of working with neurodivergent individuals. The organization actively engages in partnerships with corporates, offering guidance on embedding gender awareness within their workforce.
Furthermore, AnitaB.org leverages various social media platforms to spread its message and elevate awareness regarding the critical role of gender diversity in the technology sector.
