Tech4Elles: Connecting Young Women with Tech Mentors
In France, a stark gender gap persists within the technology and engineering sectors.
With only 25% of engineers identifying as women and a mere 37% of high school girls expressing interest in pursuing computer or tech-related studies, compared to 66% of boys, the need to inspire and support young women entering these fields has never been more critical. Addressing this challenge head-on, WHAT06 (Women Hackers Action Tank), a collective of approximately twenty female volunteers, launched Tech4Elles, a revolutionary mentoring program designed to bridge the gap and empower the next generation of female tech leaders.
Cultivating Confidence, Igniting Passions
Since 2016, WHAT06 has dedicated itself to making women in digital and tech more visible and encouraging young girls to explore these exciting career paths. “It’s important to make women in tech visible and show young girls that these are exciting and attainable professions,” explain Carole Malbrancq and Valérie Guillon, respectively president and vice-president of the association.
Tech4Elles, their flagship initiative, connects first- and twelfth-grade students with experienced role models in the tech industry. Throughout a school year, these mentors guide their mentees, sharing insights about their careers, opening doors to their professional networks, and offering invaluable support with tasks like building résumés and cover letters.
“It’s a bit like the Tinder of godmothers and goddaughters,” laughs Valérie Guillon.
The registration process is simple and quick, requiring just a few minutes for high school girls to answer questions about their interests, aspirations, and future goals.
Matching Mentors and Mentees
Utilizing a user-friendly matching system analogous to a dating app, Tech4Elles pairs young women with mentors whose backgrounds and experiences align with their individual interests. This personalized approach ensures that each mentee connects with a role model who resonates with their unique challenges and ambitions.
The program emphasizes the importance of building meaningful relationships that extend beyond the traditional mentor-mentee dynamic. Through regular conversations, networking opportunities, and shadowing experiences, Tech4Elles fosters a supportive community where young women feel empowered to pursue their tech dreams with confidence.
Expanding Horizons, Empowering the Future
Tech4Elles has already made a significant impact, connecting over 309 young women with mentors. However, WHAT06 recognizes the need to expand its reach, both inside and outside the education system.
Carole Malbrancq emphasizes the opportunities for growth, stating, “Don’t hesitate to talk about it to those around you,” encouraging individuals to spread the word about this valuable resource.
WHAT06 is actively seeking partnerships to further develop the Tech4Elles platform and broaden its accessibility. As Carole explains, the goal is not only to improve the platform but also “to extend Tech4Elles to students and young women in retraining,” offering ongoing support and guidance throughout their educational and professional journeys.
Through innovative initiatives like Tech4 Elles, WHAT06 is making strides towards creating a more equitable and inclusive tech landscape, nurturing the talents of young women and shaping the future of the industry, one mentor-mentee connection at a time.
>What is the primary goal of the Tech4Elles mentoring programme?
## Inspiring the Next Generation: A Conversation with Tech4Elles
Today, we’re speaking with Valérie Guillon, vice-president of WHAT06, the organization behind the inspiring Tech4Elles mentoring programme. Welcome, Valérie.
**Thank you for having me!**
Valérie, France is facing a significant gender gap in tech. Can you tell us more about the motivation behind Tech4Elles?
**Absolutely. The tech industry in France is missing out on a wealth of talent because young women aren’t being encouraged to pursue these careers. Only 37% of high school girls are interested in tech compared to 66% of boys. That’s a huge disparity! S**
**What does Tech4Elles aim to achieve?
The goal is simple: connect young women with experienced female mentors in the tech industry. Our mentors provide guidance, share their experiences, and help these young women build the confidence and connections they need to succeed.
**How does the programme work?
We match first and twelfth-grade students with mentors based on their interests. Throughout the school year, they meet regularly, discuss career paths, build professional skills like résumé writing, and network within the tech community.
That sounds incredibly valuable. What has been the impact of Tech4Elles?
We’ve seen firsthand how this programme empowers young women. They gain valuable insights, develop essential skills, and build their confidence to pursue their dreams in tech. What we often hear is that they feel seen and supported, which is crucial in an industry that historically hasn’t been welcoming to women.
**Is there anything our listeners can do to support Tech4Elles?
We always welcome enthusiastic mentors! If you’re a woman in tech who is passionate about inspiring the next generation, we encourage you to learn more about becoming a mentor. And of course, spreading the word about Tech4Elles is always helpful. [[1](https://www.forbes.com/sites/rebeccazucker/2024/07/08/types-of-mentors-and-ideal-mentoring-relationships/)].
**Thank you so much, Valérie, for sharing your insights and the incredible work you’re doing with Tech4Elles. Your efforts are making a real difference in advocating for more diversity and inclusion in tech. **
