At Hippo, fostering an inclusive tech community isn’t just a focus for International Women’s Day (IWD). Through initiatives like our Lean In Circle, industry partnerships, and event sponsorships, we create spaces for women to connect, grow, and thrive in tech, focusing on providing ongoing support and taking consistent steps to create real change

Our initiatives to support women in tech

Over the years, we’ve taken proactive steps to foster professional growth and strengthen networks for women in tech.

  • Lean in circle: A peer-support initiative providing women and non-binary colleagues with a space to share experiences, build confidence, and gain career support.
  • Event sponsorship and collaboration: Supporting industry events that feature discussions on career transitions, teamwork, and research, helping to amplify diverse voices in tech, such as Ladies in UX – Manchester.
  • Industry Engagement: Contributing to conversations on UX trends, accessibility, trauma-informed research, and AI’s role in shaping user experiences, reinforcing our commitment to inclusive and ethical design.

International Women’s Day: How we’re marking the occasion

This year, we’re continuing our efforts with a series of events designed to spark conversation and action around gender inclusion and career growth in tech.

Internal events

  • Women supporting women in tech: Two online mini-workshops providing a space for women and non-binary colleagues to connect, share experiences, and explore ways to foster a more inclusive tech industry.
  • Networking and panel discussion with AireLogic: An evening event focused on pathways into tech, where colleagues from Hippo and AireLogic will share insights and experiences.
  • Design in a day with the women in data network:  A collaborative session using design thinking to tackle a real-world challenge, encouraging problem-solving through innovation.

Open invitation: Women in tech networking evening

We’re excited to host an open networking evening, bringing together women from across the Leeds tech community. Forming Connections, Creating Community: A Women in Tech Networking Evening will be a chance to engage in insightful conversations, share experiences, and collaborate with like-minded individuals passionate about building a more inclusive tech industry.

Our speakers include Sarah Tulip (WiLD Digital), Kayleigh Sugden (Hippo), Sarah Corbidge (Hippo), and Denise Dourado (Microsoft), who will offer valuable perspectives on navigating and thriving in tech. You can register for free on eventbrite.

Recognising leadership: Liz Whitefield’s impact

We’re proud to celebrate the achievements of our Co-Founder and Executive Director, Liz Whitefield, whose leadership and advocacy for inclusion continue to shape the industry.

  • Women in Digital Award Finalist: Liz has been recognised for her contributions to digital innovation and inclusion, highlighting her dedication to driving positive change.
  • Speaking Engagements: She will share insights on career growth, resilience, and gender in tech at an IWD virtual event, offering reflections on navigating challenges and creating a more inclusive future in tech.

 

At Hippo, our commitment to inclusion, leadership, and sustainability is a year-round priority. Through ongoing investment in community and industry engagement, we strive to create a more diverse and equitable tech sector every day.