http://www.gsma.com/connectedwomen/girls-in-ict-day-why-we-need-more-women-in-the-tech-and-telecom-industries/

The GSMA hosted an interactive 3D printing and “upcycling” technology workshop to celebrate Girls in ICT Day, the ITU’s annual initiative to create a global environment that empowers young girls to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects in school and encourages young women to consider careers in ICT. A class of Year 8 (12-13 year-old) schoolgirls from east London school The Bridge Academy visited FabLab London, a purpose-built digital fabrication and prototyping workspace in the heart of the City, to gain hands-on experience and insights from successful leaders in technology.

GSMA Chief Strategy Officer Hyunmi Yang was joined by several additional inspirational speakers from across the industry, including:

• Tony Fish, Co-founder, FabLab London
• Karen Gaskill, Apprentice at Wirebox
• Laura Paterson, Senior Consultant, ThoughtWorks
• Francesca Rosella, Chief Creative Officer, Cute Circuit

Each speaker shared their personal career experiences in the world of technology, the benefits of working in this dynamic ICT industry, and ways that young women can get involved while still in school. The GSMA also worked with groups of students to mentor them for the morning and provide hands-on experience with mobile technology and 3D printing.

The schoolgirls tested their creative and technical skills through a range of activities at FabLab, including:

• 3D Printing and Design – The group was taken on a journey from designing 3D shapes and concepts to seeing them become a reality using a 3D printer, laser cutting and milling;

• Upcycling Technology – FabLab educated the schoolgirls on the science behind mobile device components and how they can be recycled, as well as how to create items like jewellery using recycled hardware; and

• Laser cutting and Engraving – The schoolgirls learnt how to use a laser cutting machine to create highly specialised parts in various shapes and sizes, as well as personalise their creations with engravings.

At the end of the day, the girls were enthusiastic and shared that they didn’t think that tech stuff could be so fun!