On April 24, 2025, young girls across Nigeria and East Africa participated in a landmark virtual event celebrating International Girls in ICT Day, hosted by information science researcher and nonprofit leader Joanna Adewunmi under the auspices of the GRC non-profit organisation. The event, held via Zoom at 4:00 p.m. WAT, convened students, educators, and technology professionals in a platform designed to inspire, educate, and foster meaningful connections for girls pursuing careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
The programme featured four distinguished speakers from Nigeria and Kenya, representing both the education and technology sectors. Through presentations and interactive dialogue, the speakers shared their professional journeys, addressing challenges, successes, and opportunities within ICT. Attendees were offered insight into diverse career pathways, mentorship possibilities, and avenues for cross-border collaboration, positioning the event as a vital conduit for professional exposure and empowerment.
The initiative reflects Adewunmi’s longstanding commitment to bridging research and practice. Her work in Information Science examines how access to information, digital participation, and identity intersect, particularly for Black women in STEM fields. By linking the experiences of African women with those of African-descended women globally, her scholarship highlights the structural and informational barriers that continue to shape participation in science and technology.
The Convener, Joanna Adewunmi
Through this event, Adewunmi translated theory into action, demonstrating that digital inclusion extends beyond access to devices and connectivity. It requires visible role models, structured mentorship, and supportive information ecosystems that enable girls to envision themselves as innovators and leaders in the digital economy.
The GRC organisation received commendation for its strategic, multidisciplinary approach, combining research, education, and social impact. Its ability to convene professionals, academics, and emerging talent underscores its commitment to ensuring that underrepresented communities are not excluded from Africa’s growing digital economy.
As digital innovation accelerates across the continent, the success of the International Girls in ICT Day event underscores the importance of intentional inclusion. Through her leadership and vision, Joanna Adewunmi, alongside GRC, has created a replicable model for empowering girls and young women, ensuring that they are not merely participants in the digital sphere, but shapers and architects of Africa’s technological future.
