A School of Information Studies (iSchool) graduate who applies her iSchool background to help African women and girls empower themselves through technology is presenting on “Africa, Tech & Women – The New Faces of Development” at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Interactive Conference in Austin, TX, on Monday, March 12.
Elizabeth “Liz” Ngonzi (IST, B.S.,’92) described the panel as offering “a rare glimpse into the multitude of ways African women are applying technology to advance Africa’s development.” The presentation aims to dispel myths about African women as “needy,” and will illustrate how they are working to effect change through digital technology, social media, mobile advertising, and internet connectivity, she said. Panelists will discuss how increased access to information is altering the role of women in African society, will cite contributions of African women in the technology field, and will provide insights into how, using the latest technologies, a variety of advocates raise awareness about, mobilize campaigns against and address human rights violations.