Zwarte vrouwen voor Technologie (ZVVT) has emerged as a beacon of diversity and inclusion in the national landscape, breaking barriers in Amsterdam’s South-East district.
Recognising the lack of visible IT activities in the district, especially those targeting residents, ZVVT took a step in this direction in 2023 by independently organising two IT events.
This initiative, led by empowered women in IT, brought together experts from across the country to introduce the local community to the vast possibilities within the tech sector.
Engaged over 200 participants
ZVVT reports that the events successfully engaged over 200 participants, both local and beyond. Notably, 90 per cent of the attendees were women, showcasing a commitment to addressing gender disparities in the field.
These gatherings provided a platform for networking, inspiration, and information, fostering connections between participants and various organisations.
ZVVT claims that its efforts have not only catalysed cross pollination but have also elevated the image of Amsterdam South-East and the women driving change within the community.
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By bridging the gap and offering insights into the world of technology, ZVVT has improved the socio-economic positions of these women and their families.
ZVVT’s 2024 plan!
ZVVT’s nationwide IT career programme, designed to empower women seeking access to the tech sector, has seen a 50 per cent growth in participation by 2023.
The firm says, “We provide women with insight into what opportunities there are in ICT. Together with these women, we create suitable career opportunities through training and retraining. We do this through our ICT career programme.”
According to the organisation, its programme plays a pivotal role in (re)training, connecting untapped talents with companies, and uplifting the participants, contributing to their overall well-being.
Looking ahead to 2024, ZVVT is committed to sustaining and expanding its impact and is actively seeking partners to collaborate in its mission to foster diversity in the tech scene.
The organisation aims to continue reaching untapped talent, offering opportunities through the ZVVT IT career programme, and creating positive change within and beyond the boundaries of Amsterdam South-East.
ZVVT, currently bootstrapped, is looking for partners who can support them on their mission for more diversity in the tech scene. You can show your support by donating, sponsoring activities, or becoming a ZVVT Community member.
The leaders of ZVVT
Marianne Dorder-Servet: With a rich background in ICT and Information Management since 2005, Marianne Dorder-Servet is addressing the underrepresentation of black women in the growing ICT sector.
Recognising a shortage of IT professionals, especially among black women, she founded ZVVT. Dorder-Servet aims to amplify diverse voices within the IT field, emphasising the need for inclusivity to drive innovation and positive impact.
Kristle de Freitas Patricio: She is a Business Intelligence Analytics Consultant at Magna Versum and Treasurer at ZVVT. After years in Retail and office management, she made a leap into IT with the support of The Do Good Only Company.
As a Data Scientist turned consultant at Magna Versum, she specialises in BI, Data Warehousing, and Cloud solutions. With a background in law, cyber security, and ethical technology, she serves as a dedicated advocate for diversity in IT on the board of the ZVVT.
Kimberly Fuqua: She is the Managing Director of Customer Success at Microsoft, spearheading the marketing strategy for the ZVVT. With a 25-year career at Microsoft, Fuqua currently manages a team overseeing technical delivery and cloud support operations for global manufacturing and energy giants.
Having been the first person in the role of Senior Principal Customer Success Account Manager, Fuqua is contributing to strategic alliances between Microsoft and major players in the energy industry.
