In honour of South Africa's Women's Month in 1956, Google pays respect to the amazing bravery and persistence displayed by the marchers. Google's tribute celebrates women's enduring tenacity and their innovative contributions to several fields across Africa.
Nearly 20,000 women of various ethnic backgrounds gathered at Pretoria's Union Buildings on August 9, 1956, to voice their opposition to the rule forcing African women to carry passbooks. This was a crucial time. This well-known demonstration served as a turning point and gave rise to a spirit of resistance that extended across Africa.
As part of their commitment to highlighting women who are utilising technology to revolutionise a variety of industries, Google developed the #WomeninIT video series. In this series, six extraordinary women are highlighted:
- Balqis Chepkwony, transforming Kenya's logistics industry with Fleetsimplify.
- Colleen Flowers, fusing sustainability and gourmet tastes in South Africa with Colleen's Handmade Sauces.
- Evelyn Karimi, leading sustainable fashion with Wika Leathers in Kenya.
- Mobolaji Olamide Jaji, revolutionizing Nigeria's fashion sector with O’lam Creations while empowering women.
- Naledi Magowe, bridging the digital divide in Botswana through Brastorne Enterprises.
- Virginie Pouna Siewe, driving change in Cameroon's insurance industry with COVA Africa.
Google's commitment extends beyond simple happiness. The internet behemoth introduced earlier this year the Hustle Academy and the Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders in Africa, providing women-led SMEs with access to financiers, conferences, and training.
We draw inspiration from Malala Yousafzai's remarks, who remarked, "We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back," Dorothy Ooko, Head of Communications & Public Affairs, Google Africa, stressed during this Women's Month. The women who are highlighted in the #WomeninIT series embody this mindset since they push boundaries and challenge norms in their specialised industries.
The Women's March's ongoing influence and Google's celebration of Women's Month serve as a striking reminder of the persistence and innovation displayed by African women both then and now.
