Viewing Posts by Cecilia Boggi
Embracing Diversity in AI: A Global Journey Towards Equity
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Artificial Intelligence
Categories: woman, women leaders, women, Feminine Leadership, biases, gender diversity, Artificial Intelligence
| Authors: Mei Lin, USA- North America; Aneta Wereszczak, Poland - Europe; Yohara Salinas, Panama- Latin America; Vrushali Bhagwat, India - Asia; Alice Hellen Owora - Africa; Alejandra Nazar Kafaty (Mentor), Honduras- Latin America. Abstract Image generated by AI ( Gemini) This article explores diversity in Artificial Intelligence (AI) development, spanning continents and demographics. From gender empowerment initiatives to the inclusivity challenges faced by generations, differently-abled individuals worldwide, it underscores the need for comprehensive DE&I strategies. By advocating for gender equity, generational inclusivity, and accessibility enhancements, we can unlock AI's potential for positive societal change, fostering a future where everyone thrives. Introduction Imagine a world where machines not only think but also understand emotions, where computer programs not only solve problems but also empathize with people. Welcome to the cutting-edge of Artificial Intelligence (AI), where science fiction becomes reality, and big changes are on the horizon. In today's fast-changing tech world, AI is seen as a game-changer, ready to shake up industries, reshape societies, and change the way we live. But as we get excited about AI's potential, we can't ignore an important issue: making sure AI is fair and inclusive for everyone. As technology keeps moving forward, different parts of the world face their own unique challenges and chances to promote fairness and inclusion in AI. Our journey isn't just about tech skills; it's also about making sure everyone is treated fairly and has a voice. Come along as we explore the world of diversity in AI, looking at real-life examples from different continents. Together, we'll find a way to make sure AI isn't just smart but also fair, inclusive, and celebrates the rich diversity of our global family. AI and Gender Diversity In Africa, the gender gap in the AI workforce remains stark, with women significantly underrepresented in STEM fields and AI-related industries. Reports from Research ICT Africa (RIA) and the Centre for Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law (CIPIT) shed light on this disparity, urging for greater representation and research on how AI impacts women. Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, emphasizes the urgent need for more women in AI leadership roles to harness its potential for inclusive development. Across Asia and Europe, initiatives like AI4Women and the #SheHealth Initiative is empowering women to enter and thrive in the AI sector. However, challenges persist, including wage inequality and the lack of diversity among AI developers. European policies focus on promoting gender equality in STEM fields, while India's establishment of Centers of Excellence for AI aims to address gender disparities in critical application sectors. In North America, the underrepresentation of women in AI research and software development underscores the need for dynamic regulatory frameworks that prioritize diversity and inclusion. Ethical concerns surrounding bias mitigation and privacy protection are crucial for promoting gender-sensitive AI outcomes and fostering an inclusive AI ecosystem. AI and Generational Diversity The coexistence of digital natives and all generations poses both opportunities and challenges in AI adoption. Africa's young and growing population presents a unique opportunity for AI empowerment, yet challenges such as the digital divide between generations must be addressed to ensure equal access and participation in the digital economy. In Asia, the coexistence of digital natives and all generations highlights both opportunities and challenges in AI adoption. Initiatives aim to leverage diverse age groups' expertise and perspectives for inclusive AI initiatives and societal development. All continents recognize the importance of tailoring AI systems to be accessible and inclusive across all age groups, emphasizing the need to address the varying ways generational groups interact with and are impacted by AI. AI and Accessibility for Differently Abled Individuals Across continents, AI-based assistive technologies hold promise for enhancing accessibility and inclusion for differently-abled individuals. In Africa, AI-based assistive technologies hold promise for enhancing accessibility and inclusion for differently-abled individuals. However, challenges such as inadequate data, funding, and policy support hinder their development and adoption. Across Asia and Latin America, successful AI initiatives like Project Mudra and AI for Everyone are improving accessibility and empowerment for differently-abled individuals across various sectors. Democratizing access to AI is crucial for ensuring that these benefits reach all individuals, regardless of their abilities or geographic location. In North America, ethical considerations in AI development are paramount for promoting inclusivity and accessibility for differently-abled individuals. Ensuring that AI systems enhance human well-being and respect individual privacy and rights is essential for building a more inclusive AI ecosystem. Promoting Ethical Diversity from Latin America Latin America contributes to the AI discourse by emphasizing the importance of ethical diversity in AI development. Initiatives such as AI for Good Latin America focus on harnessing AI for social good, promoting diversity, and ensuring ethical AI practices. By incorporating diverse perspectives from Latin America, AI initiatives can address region-specific challenges and foster inclusivity on a global scale. As we navigate the complexities of AI development and deployment, it's imperative to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion at every stage. By harnessing the full spectrum of talent, perspectives, and experiences, we can unlock the true potential of AI to drive positive social change and create a more equitable and inclusive future for all. Case studies and examples from diverse continents provide invaluable resources for understanding and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the creation and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI Watch: European Landscape on the Use of AI by the Public Sector The European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) has conducted a study on the use of AI in public services, providing an overview of the status of AI implementation in Europe. The findings highlight that the use of AI by public administrations is growing, and the diffusion of AI remains unequal. The report suggests that policymakers should consider ensuring the right balance between public and private sector expertise and capacity, enhancing data governance, and risk mitigation to advance. Regulating AI in Europe: Four Problems and Four Solutions This paper, published by the Adalovelace Institute, critiques the European Union's AI Act and suggests solutions to its flaws. The paper highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to risk assessment, considering impacts on groups and society as a whole, and not just risks to individuals and their rights. Conducting a DEI Assessment in Asia Pacific Zuellig Pharma is a healthcare solutions company covering 16 markets across Asia, with the mission of making healthcare more accessible to the communities it serves. The successful conclusion of the DEI assessment highlighted that Zuellig Pharma had a strong foundation for further developing its DEI program, and it helped the company understand the gaps and challenges. Through the DEI assessment, offices across 13 geographies were able to identify contextually and culturally specific priorities, and the internal regional assessment allowed teams from different countries to engage on similar goals related to DEI. The DE&I Landscape In India Inc: Bridging The Gap Between Rhetoric And Reality The report comprises details on how DE&I practices are maturing from nice-to-have social initiatives to strategic business imperatives that need to be embedded in the organizational culture & values and become an integral part of the day-to-day functioning of businesses. Shaping the Future: Indigenous Voices Reshaping Artificial Intelligence in Latin America | LinkedIn This article is based on the study “Inteligencia artificial centrada en los pueblos indígenas: perspectivas desde América Latina y el Caribe” - available in Spanish at the UNESCO digital library. This study addresses the potential of indigenous identities, the importance of bias and knowledge invalidation, and strategies to execute inclusive projects. What should we do to promote DE&I? As project manager leaders in the global community, navigating the AI era with a commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DE&IBA) needs proactive and strategic actions. To foster an environment where future generations can thrive and ensure that the AI landscape is equitable and inclusive, the following call to action is proposed: 1. Addressing Gender Bias in AI and Tech Fields: ● Advocate for gender diversity in AI and tech fields through educational initiatives and equitable hiring practices. ● Implement transparent salary policies and leadership programs targeted at women in tech to address wage gaps and career advancement barriers. ● Encourage the creation of AI development teams with diverse members to mitigate AI bias and promote gender equity in AI design. ● Leverage AI tools to analyze and rectify disparities within organizations, collaborating to develop comprehensive AI ethics guidelines that prioritize gender equity. 2. Ensuring Generational Inclusivity in AI Design: ● Involve all generations in the testing phase of AI products to ensure their needs are met and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all age groups. ● Advocate for the inclusion of all age groups in AI development teams to bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the design process. ● Design AI-driven applications and services that cater to the usability preferences and requirements of all users, fostering a multigenerational tech community. ● Encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration between different generations to advance inclusive AI solutions that address the needs of all individuals. 3. Enhancing Accessibility for Differently Abled Individuals: ● Invest in the development of AI tools and accessible solutions for persons with disabilities, bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusivity. ● Volunteer to equip all generations with digital literacy skills and ensure technology is accessible to all, promoting ethical diversity and inclusion in AI development. Conclusion By taking proactive steps to address gender, generational, and accessibility challenges in AI, we can pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future. It's up to leaders, innovators, and advocates across industries and borders to champion these changes, ensuring that the AI era is marked by progress that benefits everyone, irrespective of gender, age, or ability. Together, let's harness the power of diversity in AI to drive positive social change and create a better world for all. Be Bold in embracing AI, not as a distant marvel but as a canvas for innovation within your grasp. This journey has shown us that the realm of AI is not reserved for the tech elite but is an open field where every curious mind can sow seeds of change. Whether you're a project manager, an educator, or a creative soul, the time is ripe to stake your claim in the AI revolution, to shape it with the contours of your vision and values. Be Respectful of the diversity that surrounds us, recognizing that the true strength of AI lies in its ability to mirror the rich tapestry of human experience. As we navigate the complex waters of DE&I biases, let us steer our AI endeavors with a compass calibrated to equity and inclusion. By infusing AI with a deep respect for all voices and perspectives, we transform it from mere technology into a beacon of progress that honors our collective humanity. Be Agile in your AI learning journey, embodying the spirit of exploration that has guided adventurers and innovators through the ages. In a landscape that evolves with the speed of thought, agility is your most trusted ally. Embrace the cycle of learning, experimenting, and sharing, for in the realm of AI, every mistake is a stepping stone and every achievement a beacon for others. Finally, embrace community connections to shape a more equitable AI future. Our values, "We PowerUP," "Being good enough is amazing," and "Together we rise," underscore the strength of unity, the celebration of diversity, and the power of collaboration. Together, we can drive meaningful change in the AI landscape, ensuring opportunities for all, regardless of gender, generation, abilities or background. Let's embody these values as we promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, propelling us towards a future where everyone thrives. About the Authors: ( L- R) Mei Lin, USA- North America Aneta Wereszczak, Poland - Europe Yohara Salinas, Panama- Latin America Vrushali Bhagwat, India - Asia Alice Hellen Owora - Africa Alejandra Nazar Kafaty ( Mentor) , Honduras- Latin America Reference ● Addressing Gender Bias to Achieve Ethical AI | IPI Global Observatory (theglobalobservatory.org) ● 4 Ways to Address Gender Bias in AI (hbr.org) ● Artificial Intelligence Has a Racial and Gender Bias Problem | TIME ● Why we must act now to close the digital gender gap in AI | World Economic Forum (weforum.org) ● The three challenges of AI regulation | Brookings ● The state of AI in 2023: Generative AI’s breakout year | McKinsey ● Challenges to U.S. National Security and Competitiveness Posed by AI | RAND ● 2021-10-04 US China AI Competition Factors.pdf (af.edu) ● Researchers Identify 6 Challenges Humans Face with Artificial Intelligence | University of Central Florida News (ucf.edu) ● The AI Generation Gap: Millennials Embrace AI, Boomers Are Skeptical | PCMag ● Gender biases in AI and emerging technologies | UNESCO ● There’s More to AI Bias Than Biased Data, NIST Report Highlights | NIST ● Research shows AI is often biased. Here's how to make algorithms work for all of us | World Economic Forum (weforum.org) ● Bias Mitigation in Generative AI - Analytics Vidhya ● Addressing Gender Bias to Achieve Ethical AI | IPI Global Observatory (theglobalobservatory.org) ● Influence 100 Insights 2023, AI, Future Challenges, Diversity & ESG (provokemedia.com) ● Researching Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Field of AI - Partnership on AI ● How to Achieve Better DE&I in Staffing Using AI | The Staffing Stream ● 8 DEI Challenges Leaders Face (and How to Solve Them) | Quantive ● How HR Can Harness AI to Advance DE&I - Hunt Scanlon Media ● Human cognitive biases present in Artificial Intelligence | Riev, International Journal on Basque Studies (eusko-ikaskuntza.eus) ● (1) DE&I and Generative AI Bias | LinkedIn ● responsible-ai-idc.pdf (awsstatic.com) ● Empowering responsible AI practices | Microsoft AI ● Google AI Principles – Google AI ● Mckinsey Podcast on achieving gender parity in Asia ● Paper on semi-systematic literature review of the guidelines regarding DEI in AI ● IndiaAI 2023: Expert Group Report – First Edition ● AI Implications for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) - Article by Rohini Anand PhD Strategic DEI Advisor ● how AI is already transforming DEI - BY AMIRA BARGER ● Article on AI Brings Opportunities And Risks To Workplace DEI Efforts by Rebekah Bastian ● UNESCO: How generative AI is reshaping education in Asia-Pacific ● 5 ways Asia-Pacific economies can operationalize AI to unlock economic opportunity ● Racing toward the future: artificial intelligence in Southeast Asia ● Artificial intelligence and gender equality: key findings of UNESCO's Global Dialogue ● Governing AI in Africa: Policy frameworks for a new frontier - Microsoft On the Issues ● https://cipit.strathmore.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Artificial-Intelligence-Labour-Gender-Gap -copy-1-1.pdf |
Why Me? Impostor Syndrome (English and Spanish)
| Why me? – The Impostor Syndrome Last week, my friend, Engineer Iris Gastañaga received a phone call announcing that she had been selected to receive an award for her outstanding participation in the information technology industry. The first thing that came to her mind was: "Why me?" Iris is an Information Systems Engineer and studied for a master's degree in the same area, in addition, she has several other important credentials, such as PMP-Project Management Professional. She is a full professor of the Master's Degree in Information Systems at the Universidad Tecnológica Nacional (UTN), Córdoba Regional Faculty, with a seniority of almost 30 years and prepared with a master's degree in university teaching. In the professional field, Iris Gastañaga also has a 30-year career in the Software industry, and since 2008 she is Partner, Director and President of the company Kinetic Delivering Value, an organization dedicated to consulting and training professionals and companies on topics related to Quality and Processes, Project Management and Software Engineering, assisting important local and regional clients, leading a structure of more than 160 people. Iris Gastañaga represents a role model for entrepreneurship and project management, founder and first President of the PMI Córdoba, Argentina Chapter and parto of board of directors in a couple of professional organizations. She is an international speaker, author of numerous articles, and has received multiple awards and distinctions. And I could go on listing her important achievements, but I don't want to be tedious. However, with all the above, Iris wonders "Why me?" when they announce her award. And why not? Why do women not value our achievements? Why we feel as "imposters" when we are recognized? Known as "imposter syndrome" is a psychological phenomenon by which successful people, especially women, are unable to assimilate their achievements and tend to minimize or underestimate their success, probably due to perfectionism. The worst thing about this syndrome is that many women miss opportunities for development and professional growth because they don’t feel ready to the responsibility, capable, qualified, prepared. They feel like a fraud. They cannot recognize their achievements, even with great experience and preparation, they remain convinced that they are a fraud and that they do not deserve the success they achieved. The question we should ask ourselves is: What strategies can women develop to minimize the effects of this self-trap that limits them? Alejandra Marcote in her very interesting book called “How to transform the impostor syndrome into your ally” (Marcote, 2022) recommends some actions to put into practice to defeat the negative effects of this disorder:
Finally, last Monday September 26th, Iris Gastañaga received the recognition for her career in the software industry! PMI CEO & President, Mr. Sunil Prashara, send us recently an email mentioning the launch of Diversity and Inclusion steering committee and his concern about low female participation among PMI Board of Directors candidates. I appreciate and share his concern so, that I’ve been studying gender diversity in project management, both within the framework of my Doctoral Thesis, investigating Female Leadership in Project Management in Argentina, since 2016, and also from the PMI Buenos Aires Chapter’s Community of Interest in Female Leadership, of which I am founder and leader since 2018. At our Community of Interest, we carry out an investigation to find out the representation of women of the PMI Chapters of Latin America, regarding percentage of women among Chapter’s members, Chapter’s PMP® holders, Chapter’s Board of Directors members and Chapter’s President. This study showed that, in 2019, only 28% of Chapters members and 26% of the Chapters PMP® credential holders were women; 37% of the Chapters Board of Directors members were women but only 22% of the Chapters have Female President. In contrast to this very low representation, we are proud to say that the 100% of the 3 Region Mentors in Latin America are women! I had the opportunity to present this research at various congresses and conferences, including PMI North America LIM in Philadelphia, last October 2019. This year we are repeating the study to see the evolution of female participation. Additionally, this year we are also researching the percentage of women in leadership roles and, especially, as project managers, in organizations and state agencies as well as the diversity programs they are carrying out in Latin America. As soon as we have that information, we will share it with the community. On the other hand, investigating the history of the PMI, we can mention that: • Among its 5 founders, James Snyder, Eric Jenett, Gordon Davis, Ned Engman and Susan Gallagher, there was only one 1 woman. • Among the 51 Chairs of the PMI Board of Directors from 1969 to now, only 8 have been women. • All three PMI CEOs since 1996 are men. The good news is that the current BoD, even though it’s chaired by a male, is represented in a 50% by women. Perhaps, all the above data explains the reason to have only one female candidate for Board of Directors this year, and that’s why I appreciate so much Sunil's posting and concern. From the PMI Buenos Aires Chapter, we are conducting awareness, promotion and professional development sessions for women, as well as a mentoring program with the aim of reversing this unbalanced reality and achieving greater diversity, with the benefits it entails. The purpose of our community is to achieve a more diverse profession, with fewer biases, stereotypes and barriers, with more opportunities for women in project management. Thank you very much, Sunil, for opening this dialogue! #WomenLeaders #WomenInProjectManagement #FemaleLeadership #Leadership #Diversity #Inclusion ==== En Español El CEO y Presidente del PMI, Sr. Sunil Prashara, nos envió recientemente un correo electrónico mencionando el lanzamiento del comité de Diversity and Inclusion y su preocupación sobre la baja participación femenina entre los candidatos a Board of Directors del PMI. Aprecio y comparto esa preocupación, tanto que desde hace varios años estoy estudiando la diversidad de género en la Dirección de Proyectos, tanto en el marco de mi tesis doctoral, investigando el liderazgo femenino en dirección de proyectos en Argentina desde el año 2016, como también, desde la Comunidad de Interés de Liderazgo Femenino del PMI Capítulo Buenos Aires de la que soy fundadora y líder desde el 2018. En nuestra Comunidad de Interés de Liderazgo Femenino, llevamos adelante una investigación para conocer la representación de mujeres de los capítulos de PMI de Latinoamérica, los que nos informan el porcentaje de mujeres entre sus miembros, certificados PMP®, integrantes de la comisión directiva y presidente de la comisión directiva. Con este estudio hemos encontrado que, en el año 2019, sólo un 28% de los miembros y un 26% de los certificados PMP® eran mujeres; el 37% de los integrantes de las comisiones directivas eran mujeres pero sólo el 22% de los Presidentes. Como contraste a esta muy baja representación, tenemos que el 100% de los 3 PMI Region Mentors de Latinoamérica, son mujeres! Tuve la oportunidad de presentar esta investigación en diversos congresos y conferencias, incluyendo el taller que realicé junto a Adriana Cibelli en la LIM de Filadelfia en Octubre de 2019 y este año la estamos repitiendo el estudio para ver la evolución de la participación femenina. Adicionalmente, este año estamos investigando también en organizaciones y organismos del estado la participación de mujeres en roles de liderazgo y especialmente de project managers y los programas de diversidad que están realizando las organizaciones en Latinoamérica. Aún no contamos con esa información para poder publicarla. Por otro lado, investigando la historia del PMI podemos mencionar que: La buena noticia es que el BoD actual, si bien está presidido por un varón, está representado en un 50% de mujeres. Tal vez todo lo anterior explique la razón por la que sólo tengamos una candidata mujer para en Board of Directors y es por esto que aprecio la publicación y preocupación de Sunil. Desde el PMI Capítulo Buenos Aires estamos realizando sesiones de concientización, promoción y desarrollo profesional de mujeres, así como un programa de mentoring con el objetivo de revertir esta realidad dispar y lograr una mayor diversidad, con los beneficios que esto conlleva. El propósito de nuestra comunidad es lograr una profesión más diversa, con menos sesgos, estereotipos y barreras, con más oportunidades para las mujeres en la dirección de proyectos. Muchas Gracias, Sunil, por abrir este diálogo! #MujeresLíderes #MujeresEnProjectManagement #LiderazgoFemenino #Liderazgo #Diversidad #Inclusión "Leadership has masculine traits" "Technology is not for women" "Entrepreneurs are men" Women still today continue dealing with prejudices, stereotypes and difficulties in our professional development. What has been metaphorically referred to as "Crystal Roof", "Crystal Labyrinth" or "Sticky Floor", is still valid in the XXI century. However, we could not complain if we compare it with what the courageous women who preceded us have had to fight to open a path for us and make great advances. One of these brave women is the talented Stephanie Shirley, who had to change her name to "Steve" to be received in the business world of the United Kingdom in the '60s. At that time, women couldn’t even drive a truck or open a bank account without their husband's permission. Imagine the difficulty to enter into the workforce. Those who achieved it have had to survive with the fear of sexual harassment on a regular basis. Stephanie Shirley, who born in Germany, terrified at the age of 5 years old, in 1939, arrived in England as a Jewish refugee, escaping the Holocaust with her 9-year-old sister Renata. Having escaped from Germany to Austria, his parents raised the two little sisters to the Kindertransport program, famous for having saved a large number of children from the terrible fate that would await them in the Europe of the Nazis. Stephanie and Renata were received by a kind couple who resided close to London. In her book "Let it Go," Shirley says that being a refugee and saving herself from the Holocaust marked her life in such a way that she decided to make sure that each day was worth living. According to her own words: "I was determined not to allow other people to define me, to open my way by myself, to build something new and not be discouraged by the conventions of the day." Being that she liked math very much and, at that time the most scientific topic being taught in schools for girls were biology, she decided to enroll in a boys' school, which was not easy for her was to start dressing as boy as a way to not to be noticed. When she finished her high school she started working, at the same time she began her evening studies to graduate with honors in her Mathematics Degree, 6 years later. In 1951, being only 18 years old, she was hired at the Research Station of the Post Office in Dollis Hill, at the northwest of London, the place where they had developed World War II decoding machines. She worked on transatlantic telephone cables and on the development of the first electronic telephone calls, among other projects. Although she liked his work a lot, she was frustrated to see that she never received a promotion, unlike her male colleagues, whom, with less merits and qualifications obtained the promotions. In those years Stephanie Shirley married Derek, another employee of the Post Office, making things even more difficult to her. One of them had to quit the job, and while they both had the same hierarchy at the organization, given Stephanie's frustration to see that she could not thrive in that place, she decided to try something different. Thus, in 1962, at the age of 29, she founded her company "Freelance Programmers", with the mission of giving jobs to women, avoiding misogyny in the workplace and providing them with fair compensation, without the wage gap by gender that at that time it was far worse than now. From the table in her dining room and with a minimal investment, Stephanie Shirley became a pioneering entrepreneur in the software development industry. Another novelty aspect of her enterprise was the flexibility of schedules and the possibility of working from their houses that had their programmers, allowing them to balance the work with their dedication to home and family. Dame Stephanie Shirley, in the '60s implemented the Home Office concept! All the technology available for remote work at that time was the ground telephone line, and that was the only requirement that she asked to women during the job interviews. It is difficult to imagine right now, at the communications revolution era, that those women wrote their programs with pencil and paper, they sent them by post mailing to the processing center, where they drilled the code on tapes or cards, to then process the first execution and debugging after that. Stephanie tells in her book "Let it Go," that when her son was born, he sometimes cried while she was answering the phone and talking with clients. Trying they would not realize that she was working from home, Shirley put the recording of a typewriter in the background so that the noise covers the crying baby. Obviously, it was not easy to break through in a world dominated by men. When she sent cover letters, offering consulting and programming services to potential clients, she did not even receive an answer. She realized then that using her own name did not give her credibility and at the suggestion of her husband, she began to sign as "Steve", which gave her good results and they started receiving her at business meetings, generating great surprise when “Steve” introduced herself as a woman. "Freelance Programmers" started to take off, employing most women with only three men. One nice anecdote is that when in England in 1975 it was enacted the law of gender discrimination, Shirley had to hire more men. Her company grew up rapidly and, in the 1980s, her thousands of programmers, mostly women, wrote software for the best companies in the United Kingdom and developed projects, such as the programming of the flight recorder of the black box of the Concorde plane. In 1996, the company was listed on the London Stock Exchange and came to be valued at 3 billion dollars. Since Shirley had distributed more than 50% of her shares to her employees, at no cost to them, seventy women became millionaires at that time. Upon retiring, Stephanie Shirley began to dedicate herself to philanthropy through the Shirley Foundation, which is dedicated to the research and treatment of autistic children. Having had an autistic child herself, she supports the advancement of science about this disorder. Shirley was part of the founding members of the British Computer Society in 1957. She was appointed Officer of the Excellent Order of the British Empire and promoted to Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2000. She was also Ambassador of the United Kingdom for Philanthropy and has received other multiple recognitions. I think we have much to learn from the story of Dame Stephanie Shirley, who was not stopped by the "glass ceiling" or any other of the many difficulties that she had in her life, using all her means to enforce her work and the work of thousands of women who became part of her company. I propose you that, the next time you face a difficulty in your profession, remember Stephanie "Steve" Shirley! --- Versión en Español Título: “Mi nombre es Steve” “El liderazgo tiene rasgos masculinos” “La tecnología no es para mujeres” “Los emprendedores son hombres” Las mujeres en la actualidad seguimos viviendo con prejuicios, estereotipos y dificultades en nuestro desarrollo profesional. Lo que se ha denominado metafóricamente como “Techo de Cristal”, “Laberinto de Cristal” o “Piso Pegajoso”, aún sigue vigente en pleno siglo XXI. Sin embargo, no podríamos quejarnos si lo comparamos con lo que han tenido que luchar las mujeres valientes que nos precedieron, que nos abrieron el camino y lograron grandes avances. Una de estas mujeres valientes es la talentosa Stephanie Shirley, quién se tuvo que hacer llamar “Steve” para que la recibieran en el mundo de los negocios del Reino Unido de los anos ’60. Por aquella época, las mujeres no podían conducir un camión, ni siquiera podían abrir una cuenta bancaria sin el permiso de su marido, mucho menos insertarse en el mundo laboral. Aquellas que lo lograban debían convivir con el temor al acoso sexual de forma regular. Stephanie Shirley, nacida en Alemania, en 1939, a sus 5 años llegó aterrorizada a Inglaterra como refugiada judía, escapando del Holocausto junto a su hermana Renata de 9 años. Habiendo escapado de Alemania a Austria, sus padres subieron a las dos pequeñas hermanas al programa Kindertransport, famoso por haber salvado a un gran número de niños del terrible destino que les esperaría en la Europa de los Nazis. Stephanie y Renata fueron recibidas por un bondadoso matrimonio y residieron en las afueras de Londres. En su libro “Let it Go”, Shirley cuenta que haber sido refugiada y salvarse del Holocausto marcó su vida de tal forma que decidió que debía asegurarse de que cada día valiera la pena ser vivido. Según sus propias palabras: “Estaba decidida a no permitir que otras personas me definan, a abrirme paso, a construir algo nuevo y no dejarme desanimar por las convenciones del día". Como le gustaban mucho las matemáticas y en esa época las escuelas para niñas lo más científico que tenían era biología, decidió anotarse en una escuela de varones, lo que no fue para nada fácil para ella que empezó a vestirse lo más masculino que podía para no llamar la atención. Cuanto terminó su escuela secundaria comenzó a trabajar, a la vez que comenzó sus estudios nocturnos para graduarse con honores en su Licenciatura de Matemáticas, 6 años más tarde. En 1951, teniendo apenas 18 años empezó a trabajar en la Estación de Investigación de la Oficina de Correos de Dollis Hill, en el noroeste de Londres, donde se habían construido las máquinas de descifrado de la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Trabajó en cables telefónicos transatlánticos y en el desarrollo de las primeras llamadas telefónicas electrónicas, entre otros proyectos. Si bien le gustaba mucho su trabajo, se frustraba de ver que nunca le llegaba una promoción, al contrario que sus compañeros varones, que con menores méritos y calificaciones obtenían las promociones. En esos años contrajo matrimonio con Derek, otro empleado de la Oficina de Correos y eso dificultaba aún más las cosas. Uno de los dos debía dejar su trabajo, y, si bien los dos tenían la misma jerarquía, dada la frustración que tenía Stephanie de ver que en ese lugar no podía prosperar, decidió probar algo diferente. Fue así como en 1962, a los 29 años, fundó su compañía “Freelance Programmers”, con la misión de dar trabajo a mujeres, evitar la misoginia en el lugar de trabajo y brindarles una retribución justa, sin la brecha de salarios por género que en aquel momento era muy superior a la actual. Desde la mesa de su comedor y con una inversión mínima, Stephanie Shirley se convirtió en una emprendedora pionera del desarrollo de software. Otro aspecto de avanzada de su emprendimiento era la flexibilidad de horarios y la posibilidad de trabajar desde sus casas que tenían sus programadoras, permitiéndoles balancear el trabajo con su dedicación al hogar y a la familia. Dame Stephanie Shirley, en los años ’60 implementó el Home Office! En aquella época, toda la tecnología disponible para el trabajo a distancia era el teléfono de línea, y ese era el único requisito que le pedía a las mujeres en las entrevistas de trabajo. Es difícil imaginar ahora, en la época de la revolución de las comunicaciones, que aquellas mujeres escribían sus programas con lápiz y papel, los enviaban por correo postal al centro de procesamiento, donde perforaban el código en cintas o tarjetas, para luego poder hacer la primera ejecución y luego la depuración. Cuenta Stephanie en su libro “Let it Go”, que cuando nació su hijo, en ocasiones lloraba mientras ella atendía el teléfono y hablaba con clientes. Para que estos no se dieran cuenta que estaba trabajando desde su casa, Shirley ponía de fondo la grabación de una persona tipeando en una máquina de escribir para que el ruido tapara el llanto del bebé. Obviamente que no fue fácil abrirse camino en un mundo dominado por los hombres. Cuando enviaba cartas de presentación, ofreciendo los servicios de consultoría y programación a los posibles clientes, ni siquiera recibía una respuesta. Se dio cuenta entonces que usar su propio nombre no le daba credibilidad y por sugerencia de su marido, comenzó a firmar como “Steve”, lo que le dio buen resultado y comenzaron a recibirla a reuniones de negocios, generando gran sorpresa cuando Steve se presentaba como una mujer. "Freelance Programmers" comenzó a despegar, empleando mayoría de mujeres con sólo tres hombres. Resulta simpático que cuando en Inglaterra se promulgó la ley de discriminación de género, en 1975, Shirley tuvo que salir a contratar más hombres. Su empresa creció rápidamente y, en la década de los ’80 sus miles de programadores, mayormente mujeres, escribían software para las mejores compañías del Reino Unido y desarrollaban proyectos, tales como el de la programación de la grabadora de vuelo de la caja negra del Concorde. En 1996, la empresa cotizó en la Bolsa de Londres y llegó a ser valorada en 3 mil millones de dólares. Dado que Shirley había distribuido más del 50% de sus acciones en sus empleadas, sin ningún costo para ellas, setenta mujeres se hicieron millonarias en ese momento. Al retirarse, Stephanie Shirley comenzó a dedicarse a la filantropía a través de la Fundación Shirley que se dedica a la investigación y al tratamiento de niños autistas. Habiendo tenido ella misma un hijo autista, brinda apoyo al avance de la ciencia sobre ese trastorno. Shirley fue parte de los miembros fundadores de la British Computer Society en 1957. Fue nombrada Oficial de la Excellent Order of the British Empire y ascendida a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire en el año 2000. También fue Embajadora del Reino Unido para la Filantropía y ha recibido otros múltiples reconocimientos. Creo que tenemos mucho que aprender de la historia de Dame Stephanie Shirley, a quien no la detuvo el “techo de cristal” ni ninguna de las dificultades de las muchas que se le presentaron en la vida, usando todos sus medios para hacer valer su trabajo y el trabajo de miles de mujeres que llegaron a formar parte de su empresa. Te propongo que la próxima vez que te enfrentes a una dificultad en tu profesión, recuerdes a Stephanie “Steve” Shirley. We have the pleasure of relaunching these blog that had been without movements since a while as this is a topic of great interest to our community of women leaders in project management. Precisely, in the PMI Buenos Aires, Argentina Chapter, we have recently formed a community of interest on this topic where a group of women and men are investigating and sharing experiences in this field. We started by trying to know the relative participation of women in the world of project management and we found ourselves with the first difficulty: PMI has no record of the number of women among their members or among certification holders. There is no record of the gender of members in PMI’s databases. Checking my profile in "My PMI", I could see that it does not appear anywhere if I am female or male. Additionally, when one of my students registered as a new member of PMI, I had the opportunity to review the data he entered and, again, I noticed that the gender is not included in the demographic data That is, we do not have the information about the percentage of women in project management. This caught our attention. As Peter Drucker said: "What is not measured, cannot be managed". How can we then work on women's leadership in project management when we do not have information about the actual proportion of women in the profession? How can we then work on any subject or field if we are not aware of what the current situation is? We could take, as a reference, the data of the recently published PMI salary survey Project Management Salary Survey 10th Edition, in which around 30% of respondents were women, so we might think that this is the female representation in project management. To complement this information, I’ve asked the Latin America PMI Chapters if they could send me the information of their affiliates and, compiling the data received from them, I found that in this region, between 20 and 30% out of the total chapter members are women. I'm extending the research to all regions, but it's really hard to get the data. The main difficulty for the chapters is that they must distinguish each of their members as being men or women, based on their first name. It’s not only a tedious job for large chapters but, in some cases, the given name can be valid for both women and men, and sometimes the gender of the name is totally unknown. Let's suppose from now on, that women have a representation of 30% of the total of project managers at the global level. If we take into account what was published by PMI in the Report “Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap Report”, the demand for project managers worldwide is not only very high, but it is also growing by more than 30%, adding, on average, 2.2 million positions per year. Adding to this that 83% of organizations have difficulties to get the talent they need to carry out their strategic objectives, according to the PMI white paper Building High-Performance Project Talent, we can see a great unsatisfied demand for project managers. Considering all the above, we can conclude that if we could attract more women to our profession, raising that low 30% of participation, we could cover a large part of that unmet demand. We should bear in mind that: Our goal of relaunching this Women in Project Management Leadership Blog is to share our findings and our uncertainties with the global project management community, in order to generate a space for dialogue and learning. We invite you to read and comment on our publications with your sincere points of view, as well as to propose topics that you would like us to post and discuss, so that, together, we can become aware of this great opportunity that we have ahead to develop our profession. --- Español Tenemos el gusto de relanzar este blogs que había quedado sin movimientos, siendo éste un tema de gran interés para nuestra comunidad de mujeres en liderazgo de dirección de proyectos. Justamente, en el Capítulo PMI Buenos Aires, Argentina, hemos formado una comunidad de interés sobre esta temática y un grupo de mujeres y hombres estamos investigando y compartiendo experiencias en este campo. Comenzamos por tratar de conocer cuál es la participación de las mujeres en el mundo de la dirección de proyectos y nos encontramos con la primera dificultad: PMI no tiene registro del sexo de los miembros ni de los certificados. Verifique mi perfil en “My PMI” y pude comprobar que en ningún lugar aparece si soy mujer o varón. Adicionalmente, cuando uno de mis alumnos se inscribió como nuevo miembro de PMI, aproveche para revisar los datos que ingresaba y nuevamente noté que no estaba el género en ningún lugar. Es decir que no tenemos la información acerca del porcentaje de mujeres en la dirección de proyectos. Esto nos llamó mucho la atención. Como decía Peter Drucker: “Lo que no se mide, no se puede gestionar”. ¿Cómo podemos entonces trabajar en el liderazgo femenino en dirección de proyectos si no tenemos información confiable de cuál es proporción actual de mujeres en la profesión? ¿Cómo podemos entonces trabajar en cualquier tema o campo si no tomamos consciencia de cuál es la situación actual? Podríamos tomar como referencia los datos de la última encuesta de salarios Project Management Salary Survey 10th Edition, publicada recientemente por PMI, en las cuales alrededor de 30% de las personas que responden, son mujeres, por lo cuál podríamos pensar que esta es la representación femenina en la dirección de proyectos. Para complementar esta información, solicite a los capítulos de Latinoamérica si me podían enviar la informacion de sus afiliados y con la respuesta que obtuve de algunos de ellos, encontré que en esta región, hay una participación de mujeres entre un 20 y un 30% del total de los miembros de capítulos. Estoy extendiendo la investigación a todas las regiones, pero es complicado conseguir los datos. La principal dificultad para para los capítulos es que deben distinguir entre hombres y mujeres a cada uno de sus miembros, a partir del nombre de pila. Además de ser un trabajo tedioso para los capítulos grandes, en algunos casos, el nombre de pila puede ser válido para ambos sexos, o también, a veces se desconoce cuál es el género del nombre. Ahora bien, de aquí en adelante, supongamos qué las mujeres tenemos una representación del 30% de los directores de proyectos a nivel global. Si tenemos en cuenta lo publicado por PMI en el Reporte “Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap Report”, la demanda de directores de proyectos a nivel mundial no solo ya es muy alta, sino que además está creciendo en más del 30%, agregándose, en promedio, 2,2 millones de posiciones por año. Agregando a esto que, según el white paper de PMI Building High-Performance Project Talent, el 83% de las organizaciones tienen dificultades para conseguir el talento que necesitan para llevar a cabo sus objetivos estratégicos, vemos que queda una gran demanda de directores de proyectos insatisfecha. Con todo lo anterior, llegamos a la conclusión que si pudiéramos atraer en mayor medida a las mujeres a nuestra profesión, elevando ese escaso 30% de participación, podríamos cubrir gran parte de esa demanda insatisfecha. Deberíamos tener en cuenta que: Nuestro objetivo de relanzamiento de este Blog de Mujeres en Liderazgo de Dirección de Proyectos es compartir con la comunidad de dirección de proyectos global nuestros hallazgos y nuestras incertidumbres, para así generar un ámbito de diálogo y aprendizaje. Los invitamos a leer y comentar nuestras publicaciones con sus sinceros puntos de vista, como también proponertos temas que les gustaría que abordáramos, sobre los cuales les gustaría debatir, para así, entre todos, tomar conciencia de esta gran oportunidad que tenemos frente a nosotros para desarrollar nuestra profesión. Egotism is the anesthetic that dulls the pain of stupidity. - Frank Leahy |



