Gender balance in the workplace significantly enhances business outcomes and problem-solving capabilities, as noted by a recent International Labor Organization study. However, the tech industry is still on its way to achieve this balance, particularly in Ukraine. Serhiy Tokarev, an IT entrepreneur and co-founder of Roosh, offers insights into how the sector can make strides toward gender equity in his op-ed for Forbes.
The Ukrainian IT community platform DOU reports a steady rise in the number of women in tech over recent years. Women’s representation in the tech workforce grew from 20 percent four years ago to 24 percent in 2023. Female tech specialists specifically accounted for 19 percent of the workforce in 2023. Serhiy Tokarev highlights Roosh’s progress, where the proportion of female managers increased from 20 percent in 2020 to 38 percent in 2023, demonstrating a positive shift within the industry.
Despite these achievements, Tokarev warns that the current progress is fragile and insufficient to ensure long-term gender balance in tech, especially given Ukraine’s current challenges. The ongoing war with Russia forces many women to leave the country, disrupting their careers. Serhiy Tokarev points out that many of these women may eventually secure employment abroad. Additionally, the demands on women serving in the Ukrainian military or managing their households alone further complicate their participation in the tech sector.
Another significant obstacle is the saturated job market with limited opportunities. DOU data reveals that a new front-end developer had 49 job offers in 2022, and just 12 by 2024. These issues are exacerbated by deep-seated societal biases that discourage women from pursuing tech careers from an early age. Gender stereotypes often begin in childhood, where girls might be steered away from technical toys and subjects, and teachers may unconsciously favor boys in math and science.
Serhiy Tokarev stresses the importance of diversity and collaboration for achieving success in tech. Roosh evaluates the team compositions of potential investments, understanding that diverse experiences and perspectives drive innovation. To foster a more inclusive tech environment, Tokarev suggests focusing on four key areas.
First, tech companies should invest in nurturing future talent. Engaging in the education of potential tech professionals can bridge the gender gap. Tokarev advocates for businesses to establish internship programs that offer practical experience to both students and professionals, and equips them with essential skills and insights.
Second, incorporating soft skills into the curriculum is crucial. The tech industry requires more than technical expertise. Effective communication, organizational skills, critical thinking, and teamwork are vital in the modern workplace. Emphasizing these competencies in education can better prepare women for success in tech roles.
Third, mentoring and role models play a significant role in women’s success in tech. Access to mentors and role models can provide valuable guidance and inspiration. Initiatives like Ukraine’s STEM is FEM project connect girls with mentors who offer professional advice and motivation, helping them navigate their careers in tech.
Last, it is essential to support youth from an early age. Introducing young people to the tech industry through educational activities and programs can spark interest and demonstrate the sector’s potential. Early exposure to tech can inspire future generations of female tech professionals and help dismantle existing stereotypes.
