In a remarkable display of solidarity and shared vision, a group of influential organizations and institutions has come together under the banner of Digital Innovation for Women Advancement (DIWA). Their collective mission: to drive progress in promoting gender equality and empowering women through the transformative power of digital innovation. With the aim of creating a more inclusive and empowering digital landscape for women nationwide, DIWA seeks to enhance opportunities, expand skills, and bridge the existing gender gap in digital technology.

The confluence took place during the Girls in ICT Philippines 2023 conference last June 6, 2023, at Chardonnay by Astoria, Pasig City organized by Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).

DIWA unites a diverse confluence of organizations, including industry leaders, non-profit entities, and esteemed academia, all bound by a common commitment to fostering an environment where women can truly thrive in the digital era. By joining forces, these organizations aspire to champion initiatives that empower women to embrace technology, bridge the digital divide, and unlock their boundless potential.

The organizations that have pledged their support by signing the DIWA Solidarity Agreement are dedicated to advancing the goals of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) under the Digital Innovation for Women Advancement (DIWA) initiative, in accordance with ITU Resolution 70. Their united effort is focused on promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women through information and communication technologies.

Together, these organizations strive to bring about systemic change by fostering an ecosystem that supports women in digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. DIWA serves as a powerful platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action, enabling its members to pool their expertise, resources, and influence for maximum impact.

The following organizations are the National Council of Women of the Philippines, ASEAN Confederation of Women’s Organisations (ACWO), Women in Blockchain Philippines, Packetworx, Inc., KALAHI-CIDSS, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Connected Women, Philippine Army, Women in Security Alliance Philippines (WISAP), DV-Tech Media Corp, Converge ICT Solutions, Inc., Impact Media Convergence Inc., Telework PH Outsourcing Solutions, Inc. (Bulacan), Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce Industry – Las Piñas, USAID Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON), Analytics Association of the Philippines, Developer’s Connect (DevCon) Philippines, Philippine Call Center Institute, EC Council ASEAN, Limitless Labs, ATT3ND, APNIC Foundation, For the Women Foundation, Far Eastern University, De La Salle University, and the University of the Philippines.

In the upcoming months, DIWA, the coalition for Digital Innovation for Women Advancement, is gearing up to launch a series of transformative programs and initiatives aimed at bridging the gender gap in digital technology. These initiatives have been carefully crafted to empower and uplift women in the digital era, ensuring that they have equal access to opportunities and resources in the tech industry.

One of the flagship programs set to roll out is the comprehensive Digital Skills Training. Recognizing the importance of equipping women with the necessary tools to succeed in a technology-driven world, DIWA’s training programs will cover a wide range of essential digital skills. From coding and data analytics to cybersecurity and digital marketing, these skill-building sessions will empower women to embrace technology confidently and make their mark in the digital landscape.

In addition to skill development, DIWA is placing a strong emphasis on mentorship and networking. The coalition believes that fostering meaningful connections between experienced professionals and aspiring women in the digital industry can be a catalyst for growth and success. Through mentorship programs, seasoned experts will guide and support young women, offering valuable insights and advice to help them navigate their professional journeys.

To create a dynamic and inclusive digital community, DIWA is also planning to host networking events and conferences. These gatherings will provide invaluable opportunities for women to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas with like-minded individuals and industry leaders. The power of networking cannot be underestimated, and DIWA aims to create spaces where women can forge meaningful partnerships and friendships that transcend geographical boundaries.

Moreover, DIWA recognizes the critical importance of policy advocacy in shaping a more inclusive digital landscape. With this in mind, the coalition plans to engage with policymakers and advocate for policies that promote gender equality and bridge the digital divide. Ensuring that women’s voices are represented in shaping the future of digital innovation is a core principle for DIWA.

DIWA extends an open invitation to like-minded organizations, companies, and individuals, welcoming them to join this transformative movement and contribute to the advancement of women in the digital space. Through the unification of efforts, DIWA aspires to create a more inclusive, equitable, and empowering digital landscape, where women can truly thrive and contribute to technological innovation and progress.

For further information about DIWA and how to get involved, please visit their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/diwadictph.