Following the devastating earthquakes in Turkey on February 6, the Binance Women in Technology Academy, in partnership with the Women in Technology Association (Wtech), has redirected its focus towards the southern province of Hatay. Specifically, the Academy organized a two-day program on March 26-27 in Hatay’s Antakya district with the goal of empowering young female university students who were significantly affected by the disaster. The program aimed to provide these women with crucial skills and knowledge to navigate the Web3 world, covering topics such as financial literacy, blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, NFTs, and cybersecurity.
The broader mission of the Academy is to enhance the representation of women in the crypto, blockchain, and Web3 industries. By doing so, the initiative not only contributes to Turkey’s technological and economic advancement but also addresses the gender disparity prevalent in the tech sector. The program was launched in early 2024 and recently celebrated the graduation of its first cohort, highlighting the commitment to introducing young women to the tech field and empowering them to take on leadership roles both professionally and within their communities.
Zehra Öney, the Founding Chair of the Women in Technology Association, expressed the association’s objectives and the impact of their post-earthquake efforts. She emphasized the importance of training skilled individuals in the technology field and increasing the participation of women in various aspects of the industry, including the workplace, production processes, and entrepreneurship. By welcoming 80 female university students from Hatay, the program showcases a dedication to not only responding to immediate disasters but also providing long-term educational empowerment to women in the region.
Harika Eldoğan, Binance’s Marketing Director for Turkey, shared the Academy’s aspirations during the recent graduation ceremony. She highlighted the goal of educating 5,000 women over the next five years, emphasizing the importance of expanding the technological ecosystem in Turkey. Eldoğan underscored the significance of including young people and women in this ecosystem, enabling them to explore new opportunities for financial independence and overall development. Furthermore, she emphasized the community-building aspect of the program, where women from different backgrounds can connect, share knowledge, and support each other.
Mücahit Dönmez, General Manager of Binance Turkey, reflected on the immediate actions taken after the earthquake and emphasized the region’s significance to Binance. The shift in focus to empower women in technology post-earthquake underscores a long-term commitment to educational empowerment and diversity within the tech industry. By equipping women with essential skills and knowledge, the Academy paves the way for a more inclusive and innovative future in Turkey’s technological landscape.