Above: The ITU’s logo for Girls in ICT 2020. International Girls in ICT Day is an initiative backed by ITU Member States.

Flow’s Country Manager, Kurleigh Prescod believes it is important to recognise the role women play in the ICT field, as he reflected on this year’s theme of International Girls in ICT Day – ‘Expand Horizon, Change Attitudes’.

Annually, on the fourth Thursday in April, the world celebrates International Girls in ICT Day, a day to mark the need to encourage more women in the male-dominated field.

With 80 per cent women in Flow’s work force Prescod noted, “I believe our teams at Flow and C&W Business have always considered how they can inspire the next generation of coders, technicians, engineers, marketers, human resource professionals, to name just a few.”

Arising from the effects of COVID-19, Prescod said he has seen the company focus on taking ICT to another level to keep Trinidad and Tobago connected. “While social distancing requires physical separation, there has been virtual bonding because of the technology that we provide. In a world full of unanswered questions, doubt and fear, ICT has provided possibilities for others, and us, to stay connected,” he added.

Post Covid-19, Flow looks forward to engaging others in the discourse of empowering more women and girls through technology.

Some of Flow’s women team leaders shared their experiences on how they are managing their teams in the current scenario:

• “We are a technology company and have embraced technology to allow our staff to work from home, while still being able to meet objectives and collaborate real time.” Elizabeth Ammon, Senior Director, C&W Business.

• “People are the heart of our business, and in times like these they require reassurance that their safety and that of their family is given priority. Our people have shown their resilience and innovation by challenging the status quo.” Reneasha Simmons, Manager, People Business Partner.

• “This time called for situational leadership with a flexible and adaptive approach. We showed social responsibility as a company to ensure customers and employees are safe.’ Avalon Hope, Manager, Dispatch.

• “By embracing and adapting to this unique challenge, we continue to make sure that our team is the number one priority.” Ellen Seed-Gray, Manager, Customer Loyalty.

Flow is  confident that by focusing on this generation of female students, they can be inspired to contribute to the ICT field.