The InnovateHER Indaba, held at the Royal Swazi Convention Centre, has brought together women from various professional sectors to discuss emerging trends in technology and innovation. The event, anchored on five core principles - Inspire, Ignite, Innovate, Inclusive, and Impact - aims to encourage women to explore opportunities in business and the digital economy. The Inspire pillar seeks to share common struggles and turn them into strength, while transforming ambition into achievement.
The event features a range of sessions, including a 55-minute AI Sprint Workshop presented virtually by Andrea Prazakova, CEO and founder of Global Innovation & AI Specialists. Minister of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Savannah Maziya and Eswatini National Provident Fund Chief Executive Officer Futhi Tembe are also set to deliver keynote speeches. The programme will cover various topics, including women in finance, business, and wellness.
Cybersecurity is a key focus area at the indaba, with a virtual session on inspiration and cybersecurity presented by Ncebakazi Tyialisi, a junior cybersecurity specialist from Absa South Africa. Entrepreneurship and innovation will also be discussed, with Kimlynn Temple leading a session on the subject. The event aims to empower women with confidence by highlighting their vital role in Eswatini's business and cybersecurity ecosystem.
The indaba also features a business-focused session, which will be followed by an afternoon programme where technology will again feature prominently. Industry leaders will come together under the Men as Allies theme, with S'thofeni Ginindza, Managing Partner of the African Alliance Group, and Jerry Soko, MTN Eswatini Chief Executive Officer, taking part in discussions.
Women in business will also share their experiences and insights, with Doreen Tumureebire, Managing Director of Eswatini Beverages, and Sereia Masilela, Founder of LUNA Hair, set to give tips and discuss strengths and weaknesses in their respective spaces. The panel discussions will be moderated by Mbongeni Mbingo, Eswatini Observer acting Managing Director, and Phiwo Dhlamini.
The InnovateHER Indaba is the brainchild of entrepreneur, communications strategist, and wellness advocate Nadja Smoor, who has spent over two decades building businesses, championing women, and fostering innovation. The event provides a platform for women to become changemakers shaping economies, communities, and the next generation.
The event's Impact pillar aims to provide a platform for Emaswati to embrace the technology revolution and become changemakers. With a range of sessions and speakers, the InnovateHER Indaba is set to inspire and empower women in Eswatini to pursue careers in business and technology.
Key points
- The InnovateHER Indaba focuses on AI, entrepreneurship, and cybersecurity.
- Women in tech and business share experiences and insights.
- The event aims to empower women in Eswatini's business and cybersecurity ecosystem.
