Review of the Tecladies webinar: Three inspiring ways to shape the future

Swiss TecLadies Technology education 13:53

On Tuesday, 3 December, the first Tecladies webinar was a complete success! Although we were a small group of 13 participants, the quality of the dialogue and the wealth of contributions made a lasting impression. Here is an overview of the highlights and the valuable advice that our three inspiring mentors shared with us:

Translated with DeepL

Magaly Grimaître (Mathys) : From history to digitalisation, a path of opportunities

Magaly took us into her world, where every step in her life was an opportunity to seize new opportunities. After studying history and a short career as a high school teacher, she took an unexpected turn thanks to her involvement in a computer club in her spare time.

Her non-linear career path led her to combine her passion for mediation and her technical expertise by creating structures dedicated to digital inclusion(PowerHouse). Today, she acts as an "undercover activist" in areas such as cybersecurity to change mindsets from within.

She also emphasised that science and technical careers go far beyond purely technical skills: They require diverse talents to advance a research or run a business. No matter which path young girls choose, they will always have unique and valuable skills that they can bring to these structures.

Go to the people, ask questions!

Magaly Grimaître, Nodia

Gabriela Montorzi: Merging science and art to create a unique career

Gabriela is further proof that non-linear paths lead to exciting horizons. With extensive studies in biology and basic research, she has always harboured a passion for the visual arts. Eight years ago, a turning point in her life made her reflect on her deepest desires.

As a result, she created her profession: scientific infographic artist. This unique role allows her to combine her scientific logic with her creativity to make complex concepts accessible through meaningful visualisations. Gabriela emphasised the importance of following your passions and allowing life to open unexpected doors.

Explore the world of non-profit organisations to gain valuable experience and create opportunities.

Gabriela Montorzi, Scientific Infographics

Valerie Barbié : Bioinformatics, Between maths and biology

Valerie explained to us how she found her way in a field as technical as bioinformatics without having a degree in biology. She started with maths, a subject she enjoyed, and then switched to computer science before taking the opportunity to learn life sciences at a grassroots level, with the support of benevolent mentors.

valérie also highlighted the gender bias in her field, where men often occupy the roles of software development and women those of biology. Today, she is recognised in her field and emphasised that gender should never be a barrier to entering a technical profession.

Test as much as possible. If you don't like it, at least you've tried it. Test, test, test.

Valérie Barbié, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics

Tecladies: A network to open doors

The webinar was also an opportunity to remind everyone that Tecladies is much more than a mentoring programme. It is a network of over 500 women in Switzerland who are willing to accompany young girls in their professional exploration, be it for a taster day or an internship.

Thanks to Clotilde Aubertin Jordan

Clotilde, the mentor of the programme, enriched the exchange with her knowledgeable questions.