The women of Bombora Technologies gathered over breakfast to celebrate the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Girls in ICT Day. Joined at The Botanical restaurant in Melbourne by guests from the .au Domain Administration (auDA), staff heard from Cheryl Langdon-Orr, vice-chair of ICANN’s At-Large Advisory Committee (ALAC).

Ms Langdon-Orr spoke of the importance of ‘early intervention’ with young girls; explaining that “it is vital to give them permission to be themselves, to build self-esteem and courage and to teach them that anything is possible and it is okay to make mistakes.”

She challenged those in attendance to take their efforts beyond today’s breakfast and to encourage, mentor and empower girls to take an interest in science and technology fields.

The breakfast also gave Bombora’s female staff an opportunity to recognise and celebrate one another’s achievements and to socialise with colleagues.

Prior to the breakfast, we produced a series of profiles of some of our talented female staff as an example of the diverse skills required for a career in ICT and the opportunities available to women. (Neha Zakhmi , Suhita Das and Zsofia Bende)

At the breakfast, staff shared their views on the industry and the contributions women can and do make to the technology sector.

When asked about the benefits of working in technology, they commented;

“It’s an exciting, evolving industry and being involved in the development and witnessing new technology is very rewarding.”

“I feel very proud when I see thousands of Australians using applications that I helped develop, which is helping them deal with their daily work.”

The women also commented on why more girls should get involved in technology;

“They excel in so many specific skills that are vital for the industry and have ways of working that contribute in a special way.”

“We need to bring more diversity to the industry, and it offers a rewarding and well-paid career.”

Bombora hopes to grow its involvement in Girls in ICT Day over the coming years and will look to partner with girls’ schools in Melbourne to host and participate in events.