Digital technology is transforming how we live, connect, and innovate. Yet, as we look towards tomorrow, it’s vital that the voices, talents, and perspectives of women are not just included, but celebrated and championed. At Digital Futures, we believe a digitally enabled world is only as strong as the diversity of the people building it. Today, and every day, we highlight the achievements, leadership, and aspirations of women in the digital community, inspiring real change for a fairer and more innovative future.
The voices featured on this page come from leading academics and advocates at The University of Manchester, each sharing their unique perspective on what it means to foster inclusivity and opportunity for women in digital fields. These quotes highlight wisdom, encouragement, and real-world insight from distinguished figures such as Professor Sophia Ananiadou, a pioneer in computer science and text mining; Professor Caroline Jay, renowned for her work in human-centred design; Dr Anita Greenhill, senior lecturer at AMBS and Professor Julia Handl, an expert in decision sciences. Their messages, gathered for International Women's Day, offer practical advice, spotlight persistent challenges, and inspire collective action toward a fairer, more innovative digital future.
Addressing Barriers and Unlocking Opportunities in STEM for Women
Not many women are in STEM because of the gender bias and lack of incentive working in male-dominated environments. There are big gaps in skills and talent acquisition is difficult. Flexible working is not encouraged and women at an early stage of their career are discriminated because they also have to start a family. Flexibility in working patterns, more women in key positions (role models), transparency in progression.
- Professor Sophia Ananiadou, Director of The National Centre for Text Mining
From an individual point of view, technical professions offer attractive careers from a range of perspectives (e.g. in terms of pay, opportunities for career progression, flexible / remote working), but I don't think enough is done in the UK to emphasize them as plausible career routes to girls / young women. Certain Asian countries are much more successful than the UK in getting women interested in this sector, so it is clearly an area where change is possible but will require some serious conversations about stereotypes, exacerbated by social media in particular, that risk preventing progress.
- Julia Handl, Professor in Decision Sciences
Celebrating Women’s Networks: Digital Her & Women@Manchester
Digital Her
Manchester Digital initiative Digital Her was established to inspire and empower girls and women to pursue careers in technology and to support their professional growth throughout their journey. Its mission is to actively address and reduce gender inequality within the tech sector, both now and in the future. By leveraging the expertise of industry mentors and authentic role models, Digital Her offers essential support, opportunities, and guidance to empower the next generation of women in tech. Additionally, it aims to equip key influencers such as teachers, career advisors, and parents with the knowledge they need to help young women make informed choices about their digital careers
Women @ Machester
The Women@Manchester network is a vibrant community that brings together women from across all parts of the University, creating a supportive and inclusive space to connect, learn, and advance gender equity. It offers opportunities for collaboration, career development, and collective action to foster success and equality within the University community.