WORLDWIDE – While many young women are interested in tech, the majority of Canadian professionals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are male. According to Statistics Canada, in 2016, women made up just 34% of STEM bachelor’s degree holders, while only 23% of science and technology professionals aged 25 to 64 are female. BWOSS Academy is working to bridge that gap by breaking down additional barriers facing many women of colour.
Established in 2020, BWOSS is a non-profit dedicated to empowering Black, Indigenous, and Women of Colour as the world continues to move online. Celebrating International Women’s Day, BWOSS has opened up applications for their academy program, which provides affordable access to a variety of professional development resources.
With members across Canada, the United States, Africa, and the United Kingdom, the organization runs career support programs at affordable rates, allowing racialized women to improve their skills without breaking the bank.
“At BWOSS, we believe that financial barriers should not hinder access to opportunities for personal and professional growth,” reads a statement to The Brandon Gonez Show.
The BWOSS Academy program includes skills training, mentorship, and networking events. Participants will also receive career development support and help with employment opportunities. BWOSS founders pride themselves on creating a supportive, safe & vibrant community for WOC in STEM.
“Through our supportive community and accessible resources, we strive to empower Black, Indigenous, and Women of Colour in the tech industry and create a more inclusive economy and industry.”
Partnering with companies like Palette Skills, Black Maple.io, and Grow with Google, programs offered by BWOSS include Google career certifications, career coaching, and tech sales training.
You can find out more about BWOSS and sign up for the BWOSS Academy on their website. Let us know in the comments, would you like to see more programs like this?
