LEADING ICT LADY OF THE YEAR

Criteria nominees need to meet:

• Belgian woman or woman working in a Belgian company or organisation (private + public)
• Working in an ICT/technology company or in an ICT/digital organisation/department.
• C-level executive or a direct report
• Leadership Excellence: Exhibit exemplary leadership skills, inspiring and empowering others in the ICT sector, and demonstrating the ability to drive change, influence stakeholders, and achieve remarkable results.
• Impressive career and/or extraordinary career path and/or a proven track record in IT-companies and/or successful ICT/digital projects.
• Ambitious
• Industry Impact: Make a significant impact on the ICT industry through transformative initiatives, groundbreaking projects, or influential leadership, shaping the direction and advancement of the field.
• Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy: Actively promote diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, advocating for underrepresented groups, and working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem.
• Business Acumen: Demonstrate strategic thinking, showcasing the ability to navigate complex market dynamics, drive organizational growth, and make sound decisions that contribute to business success in the ICT sector.
• Willingness to fully be(come) a female rolemodel in tech and act upon.
• Inspire other women, future leaders and entrepreneurs

 

Additional criteria to be considered:

• Empowerment and Community Building: Engage in initiatives that empower and uplift women in the ICT field, whether through mentorship, training programs, or community-building efforts, creating opportunities for growth and advancement.
• Thought Leadership and Innovation: Be recognized as a thought leader, contributing to the ICT field through innovative ideas and/or cutting-edge research and/or pioneering technological advancements that push the boundaries of the industry.
• Influential Network: Build a strong and influential network within the ICT industry, including key stakeholders, policymakers, industry leaders, and experts, fostering collaborations and strategic partnerships to drive collective progress.
• Mentorship and Advocacy: Actively engage in mentorship programs, initiatives, or activities that support and mentor women in ICT, promoting gender equality, diversity, and inclusion within the industry.
• Policy and Regulation Influence: Engage in policy discussions and advocacy efforts
• Recognition and Awards: Already received prestigious awards, honors, or recognition within the ICT sector, highlighting achievements, contributions, and impact, and serving as a role model for aspiring professionals
• Global Perspective: Exhibit a global mindset and engagement, participating in international ICT forums, conferences, and initiatives, promoting cross-border collaboration, and contributing to global ICT development.

RISING TECH STAR OF THE YEAR

Criteria nominees need to meet:

• Belgian woman or woman working in a Belgian company or organisation (private + public)
• Working in an ICT company or IT department or ICT related projects
• Maximum age: 40 years old
• Leadership Potential: Exhibit strong leadership qualities, displaying the ability to inspire and motivate others, and show potential for assuming leadership roles in the tech field.
• First experiences in technology related projects with positive outcome or results
• Passionate about ICT and technology
• Clear ambition and vision
• Professional Growth: Demonstrate continuous professional growth and a commitment to staying updated with the latest trends, advancements, and best practices in the tech industry.
• Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy: Actively promote (or willing to promote) diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, advocating for underrepresented groups, and working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem.
• Willingness to fully be(come) a female rolemodel in tech and act upon.
• Be an inspiration to young women and/or female students

 

Additional criteria to be considered:

• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrate a high level of technical expertise in a specific area of technology, showcasing exceptional skills and knowledge in her field.
• Innovation and Creativity: Display a track record of innovative thinking, problem-solving, and creative approaches to technology, contributing fresh perspectives and ideas to the industry.
• Mentorship and Advocacy: Engage in mentorship programs, initiatives, or activities that support and empower other women in the tech industry, demonstrating a commitment to helping others succeed.
• Industry Recognition: Already received recognition and accolades within the tech community, such as awards, nominations, or invitations to speak at conferences, demonstrating industry-wide acknowledgment of her achievements.
• Collaboration and Networking: Actively engage in collaborative projects, partnerships, and networking opportunities, building connections within the tech industry and establishing a strong professional network.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Exhibit an entrepreneurial mindset, showcasing the ability to identify opportunities, take risks, and drive innovative tech ventures or startups.
• Thought Leadership: Contribute to the tech industry’s thought leadership by sharing insights, publishing articles, participating in panels or discussions, and actively engaging in conversations around technology.

INCLUSIVE TECH CHAMPION OF THE YEAR

Criteria we’re looking at (nominees don’t have to meet all checkboxes!):

• Belgian w/m/x
• Advocacy for Diversity: Show a strong commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within the tech industry, actively advocating for underrepresented groups and marginalized communities.
• Accessibility Focus: Prioritize creating accessible technology solutions that can be used by people with diverse abilities, ensuring that products and services are inclusive and usable for all.
• Inclusive Hiring Practices: Implement inclusive hiring practices that actively seek out diverse talent, remove bias from the hiring process, and provide equal opportunities for underrepresented groups.
• Mentorship and Support: Engage in mentorship programs and initiatives that support and empower individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, providing guidance, resources, and opportunities to help them succeed in the tech industry.
• Community Engagement: Actively engage with diverse tech communities, both online and offline, by participating in events, conferences, and workshops that foster inclusion, representation, and collaboration.
• Education and Outreach: Promote tech education and training initiatives that reach underprivileged communities, offering resources, scholarships, and programs to develop digital skills and bridge the digital divide.
• Inclusive Design: Embrace inclusive design principles, considering the needs and perspectives of diverse users during the development process, and ensuring that products and services are usable by all, regardless of their background or abilities.
• Diversity in Leadership: Advocate for diversity in leadership roles within the tech industry, striving for inclusive representation at all levels, including management, executive, and board positions.
• Policy and Advocacy: Engage in policy discussions and advocacy efforts to influence regulations and promote inclusive tech policies that address systemic barriers and promote equitable access to technology.
• Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborate with other organizations, institutions, and industry leaders to drive collective action towards a more inclusive tech ecosystem, sharing resources, best practices, and knowledge to effect meaningful change.
• Be outspoken
• Clear vision