Women in Business NI's female returners' programme, Press Refresh has aided 18 women returners in securing new jobs across Northern Ireland, with one participant, Indhu Vishnu Das, securing a role in tech and operations across Citi Group.
The 17-week programme was launched last year by Women in Business and Belfast Metropolitan College, and was funded by the Department for the Economy to equip 20 women returners with new skills necessary to build their careers within NI's expanding IT sector.
The programme received almost 300 applications and has already aided 18 of the 20 women in securing new roles.
A total of 2,195 digital tech firms are now in operation across NI, employing more than 20,000 people as of April 2021.
Indhu Vishnu Das gained her new role in Citi after upskilling in data analytics through Press Refresh.
Roseann Kelly, Chief Executive of Women in Business, said: “I am incredibly proud that Women in Business’ Press Refresh programme has assisted its first graduate into full time employment. Indhu can now build an exciting career within one of Northern Ireland’s fastest growing industries at Citi Group."
“The IT sector is largely male dominated, but with the support of the Economy Minister and by working closely with our friends at Belfast Metropolitan College, we are enabling women across Northern Ireland to find their place in the country’s booming tech industry," Roseann continued.
"This not only helps aspiring women reach their career goals but breaks down barriers to gender diversity in the workplace, creating more inclusive organisations.”
Graeme Wilkinson, Director of Skills in the Department for the Economy added: “There is a diverse range of opportunities within the IT sector in Northern Ireland, and this programme has shown how collaboration between the organisations involved in Press Refresh and employers has helped inspire and motivate women returners into a career they may previously not have considered.
"The success of this programme will, I am sure, highlight to other women that there are options to consider in upskilling or reskilling in IT when returning to the workplace."
About the author
Niamh is a Sync NI writer with a previous background of working in FinTech and financial crime. She has a special interest in sports and emerging technologies. To connect with Niamh, feel free to send her an email or connect on Twitter.
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