Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum “WWLF” was thrilled to co-sponsor and participate in the Global System for Mobile Communications Association’s “GSMA” Tech4Girls workshops during Mobile World Congress Las Vegas. Sponsors included T-Mobile for Business and Verizon Business. This was the second year GSMA organized this successful initiative, which is dedicated to supporting, inspiring, and encouraging young women to pursue careers in the telecommunications sector. Tech4Girls is committed to fostering gender diversity and empowering the next generation of women leaders. Attendees included current students aged 18 and above from local schools, universities, and colleges.
The dynamic workshops took place over two days, October 9th, and 10th. Day one focused on an overview of the world of wireless telecommunications and exploration of various career paths within our industry. Sessions were led by current industry leaders and role models, including participation from GSMA and event sponsors. WWLF Representatives included Lynn Whitcher, President, and Beth Yglesias, Co-Director. Lynn and I were honored to share our personal experience and perspective relating to building successful careers in telecom, as well as emphasize the vast variety of career paths to include business management, finance, sales, legal, engineering, project management, real estate, construction, project control, supply chain, etc.
Asisat Oshoala, a successful Nigerian Professional footballer served as a special guest and speaker. She is known for being one of the best female players in the sport. Asisat shared her current work running a program to empower young Nigerian girls to not only train them in football but how to positively utilize technology for good and personal improvement, stressing education. Day one wrapped up with a guided tour of the MWC showroom floor, providing a special overview of the latest innovation and technologies. Attendees were enthusiastic, engaged, and inspired.
The second day focused heavily on career development. Sessions included insights from professionals on navigating job searching. Speakers shared practical advice on crafting a digital presence and brand, as well as how to prepare for interviews. Attendees were given examples of typical questions that are asked during interviews and then participated in real time practice with professional advice on best ways to answer. To round off the workshop, GSMA provided a professional photographer for headshots to enhance the student’s LinkedIn profiles.
It is truly inspiring to support and serve young women as they navigate their future, and it is the hope of WWLF they have impactful mentors and role models for guidance throughout their careers.
