International Women’s Day!

There is a significant gender imbalance within the digital industry that has not really changed over recent years. Research shows that only 16% of women have had a career in technology suggested to them, meaning that there is a lack of female role models available.

Starts with you’s Digital Engagement Officer, Debbie, empowers people and creates positive change in our local community, breaking down barriers and using digital means as a force for good.

Since 2021, Debbie has been providing support and training to people who are new to using mobile phones, computers, and other digital devices, empowering people of all ages to use information technology. In the last three months alone, Debbie has engaged with approximately 100 Bolton residents teaching them to use digital devices in their daily lives.

We asked Debbie a few questions about her role and International Women’s Day 2023:

Q: What is it like to work in a women-led organisation?

“As cheesy as it sounds, as a woman it makes a massive difference to me. I have autonomy and flexibility within my work; I feel understood, and I have security. My job is to support and teach people; working at Starts with you also supports me and my family and celebrates the achievements of women”.

Q: How did you start your work in the digital world?

“It started with the Covid-19 lockdown and changing how I communicated with people. I developed an interest in showcasing the work to support the community through social media after completing a masterclass course and managing the services’ online platforms to communicate with people. It was then that I saw the Digital Engagement role and knew my 10 years of teaching experience would also be useful to help people”.

Q: What motivates you in your work?

“I get a lot of job satisfaction – knowing you’ve helped someone with what can appear to be the smallest things that can benefit to people’s lives so much, like using a mobile phone, sending an email or applying for a job online, it’s very rewarding work”.

Q: How do you manage your own wellbeing in such a demanding role?

“I have a good support network in the company; I can speak to any of my colleagues or my manager, she’s so supportive of everyone and we have great working relationships. My job also allows me flexibility to make time for ‘me’, it’s important to prioritise the workload, and to prioritise time for yourself, and the culture in Starts with you, encouraged at all levels, means I can do that”.

Q: What advice would you give to any women looking to start working in the digital technology industry?

“Be confident in your own skills! Look at networking, making positive relationships and researching companies for who is right for you – remember work life balance and always be willing to keep learning. You can do it!”

If you’d like any advice or would like to give the service a try, contact Debbie, Digital Engagement Officer at Starts with you on 07384 114180 or email: debbie.mercer@startswithyou.org.uk