A two-day workshop titled “IT’s Her Future,” conducted by accounting firm KPMG Fiji, wrapped up in Suva. The event aimed to encourage gender diversity in technology and is part of KPMG’s successful Insights Program, which has been well-received in Melbourne and Sydney.
The main focus of the workshop was to inspire university women, particularly those not engaged in conventional STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) areas, to consider careers in technology. Interactive sessions covered themes such as Generative AI and complex problem-solving.
Participants had the opportunity to hear from notable women leaders from KPMG Fiji and Australia, while also developing practical skills through workshops on interview techniques and mock application processes. Lisa Apted, managing partner at KPMG Fiji, remarked on the program’s success, stating, “We have achieved our goal over the last couple of days. If you can see yourselves in those roles, you can be in those roles. This is really important for young women in Fiji and around the world.” She urged participants to not shy away from exploring new domains.
Student participant Jasmine Khan reflected on her experience, noting the program’s influence in challenging gender stereotypes in technology. “I think Fiji is finally challenging the idea that tech is a field only for men, and this generation of women is breaking those stereotypes,” she expressed.
Charlotte Dainton, host of the Insights Program, highlighted the significance of presenting diverse opportunities in tech, empowering women to envision themselves as future leaders in the industry. “Watching young women from both technical and traditionally non-technical fields come together to explore technology is exciting,” Ms. Dainton added.