Mind the Tech London 2022
“Having culturally diverse viewpoints isn’t a challenge, but an opportunity"
Most technologies are created with men’s viewpoint in mind, but women’s input is also necessary, says Shirona Partem of Kape Technologies on closing the gender gap in tech
“Having culturally diverse viewpoints isn’t a challenge, but an opportunity, much in the same way that gender diversity presents an opportunity,” said Jurga Zilinskiene, CEO and Founder Guildhawk, speaking at a roundtable discussion organized by the Israel Britain Chamber of Commerce along with London & Partners, the business agency for growth supported by the Mayor of London, Kape Technologies and leaders of the UK tech-community. The roundtable was held as part of the Mind the Tech London 2022 conference.
“The main problem is that technology today ‘learns’ from men’s viewpoints only,” she added. “We need women who will supply their input too, otherwise we’ll just end up right back in the homemaker position.”
“While the cultural gap is huge,” said Anita Leviant, President of the Israel Britain Chamber of Commerce who also hosted and moderated the roundtable "We must be aware of the differences in the language and to understatements, and make sure all parties to a meeting heard and agreed upon the same things. The business journey will be easier and more successful if we listen to the cultural hints."
“While there are huge cultural differences between Israel and Britain, it certainly presents an opportunity for business,” added Shirona Partem, VP of Corporate Development of Kape Technologies.
"The UK Market appreciate profitable companies, more than the US and although 50% of our customers are US based we have managed to grow successfully in the UK market."
“Cultural differences can take time to get used to,” said Neil Brigden, who serves as Director of Investments at London & Partners. “We found that a third of all Londoners are actually from areas outside London, and a third are international expats."
“The London hub is continuing to grow and accomplish great feats. Of course, there will be challenges, but we’ll bridge those gaps when we reach them,” said Dominic Hallas, Executive Director of the Coalition for a Digital Economy.
