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DigitalNewsTechnology
[ June 25, 2024 by AFROWOMENInDigital 0 Comments ]

Sécurité Numérique au Congo : Protégez-vous Contre les Cybercriminels

Le monde numérique offre d’innombrables opportunités pour l’apprentissage, la communication et le développement personnel. Cependant, il présente également des risques significatifs, en particulier pour les jeunes femmes et filles qui peuvent être vulnérables aux cybercriminels. Au Congo, de nombreux cas ont émergé où des jeunes femmes, croyant à l’amour en ligne, ont envoyé des photos et vidéos intimes à des pirates ou à des personnes se faisant passer pour des prétendants amoureux. Ce phénomène est de plus en plus fréquent et inquiétant.

La Situation au Congo

Le Congo, comme de nombreux autres pays africains, connaît une croissance rapide de l’utilisation d’Internet. Cependant, cette augmentation de l’accès au numérique n’est pas accompagnée d’une éducation adéquate sur les dangers potentiels en ligne. En conséquence, de nombreuses jeunes femmes tombent victimes de cybercriminels qui exploitent leur naïveté et leur confiance.

Selon un rapport de l’International Telecommunication Union (ITU), plus de 40% des utilisateurs d’Internet en Afrique ont été victimes de cybercriminalité à un moment donné. Au Congo, les chiffres sont alarmants. Des études locales montrent que les jeunes femmes, en particulier, sont ciblées par des arnaqueurs en ligne qui utilisent des tactiques de manipulation émotionnelle pour obtenir des contenus sensibles qu’ils utilisent ensuite pour l’extorsion ou la honte publique.

Cas Fréquents

L’un des cas les plus courants implique des cybercriminels se faisant passer pour des prétendants amoureux. Ces criminels établissent une relation de confiance avec leurs victimes, souvent via les réseaux sociaux, et les persuadent d’envoyer des photos ou des vidéos intimes. Une fois ces contenus obtenus, les cybercriminels menacent de les publier en ligne si leurs demandes (souvent financières) ne sont pas satisfaites.

Un autre cas fréquent est celui des escroqueries par e-mail où les victimes reçoivent des messages prétendant venir de sources fiables (comme des banques ou des amis) demandant des informations personnelles ou des paiements. Ces escroqueries peuvent entraîner des pertes financières significatives et une violation de la vie privée.

Comment DigitRise Africa Intervient

Chez DigitRise Africa, nous reconnaissons l’urgence de ce problème et nous sommes engagés à le combattre par l’éducation et la sensibilisation. Nos initiatives, telles qu’AFROWOMEN™ In Digital et Africa Women Digital Week, visent à éduquer et autonomiser les femmes et les jeunes filles pour qu’elles puissent naviguer en toute sécurité sur le web. Voici comment nous procédons :

  1. Formation en Cybersécurité : Nous offrons des cours détaillés sur les meilleures pratiques en matière de sécurité en ligne, y compris comment reconnaître et éviter les arnaques, protéger ses informations personnelles et utiliser des outils de sécurité tels que l’authentification à deux facteurs.
  2. Ateliers et Séminaires : Organisés régulièrement, nos ateliers couvrent des sujets tels que la sécurité des réseaux sociaux, la protection contre les logiciels malveillants et les mesures à prendre en cas de cyberattaque.
  3. Support et Conseils : Nous fournissons un support continu et des conseils personnalisés à ceux qui ont été victimes de cybercriminalité, les aidant à comprendre leurs droits et les étapes à suivre pour se protéger.
  4. Campagnes de Sensibilisation : Par le biais de campagnes sur les réseaux sociaux et d’événements communautaires, nous sensibilisons le public aux dangers du cyberespace et aux mesures préventives.

Conseils pour se Protéger Contre les Cybercriminels

1. Ne Partagez Jamais de Contenus Intimes en Ligne : Peu importe à quel point vous faites confiance à quelqu’un, évitez de partager des photos ou des vidéos sensibles en ligne. Une fois partagés, ils échappent à votre contrôle.

2. Utilisez des Mots de Passe Forts : Créez des mots de passe complexes et uniques pour chacun de vos comptes. Utilisez des combinaisons de lettres majuscules et minuscules, de chiffres et de symboles.

3. Activez l’Authentification à Deux Facteurs : Cette couche supplémentaire de sécurité peut empêcher les pirates d’accéder à vos comptes même s’ils obtiennent votre mot de passe.

4. Méfiez-vous des Inconnus : Ne partagez jamais d’informations personnelles avec des personnes que vous ne connaissez que virtuellement. Les cybercriminels utilisent souvent des fausses identités pour gagner votre confiance.

5. Éduquez-vous et Éduquez les Autres : Participez à des formations en cybersécurité et partagez vos connaissances avec votre entourage. La sensibilisation est la première ligne de défense contre la cybercriminalité.

6. Signalez les Activités Suspectes : Si vous recevez des messages suspects ou si vous êtes victime de cybercriminalité, signalez-le immédiatement aux autorités compétentes et aux plateformes concernées.

Conclusion

La cybersécurité est une priorité absolue dans notre société de plus en plus numérique. En éduquant et en sensibilisant les jeunes femmes et filles au Congo, nous pouvons réduire considérablement le nombre de victimes de cybercriminalité. Chez DigitRise Africa, nous sommes déterminés à créer un environnement numérique plus sûr pour tous. Joignez-vous à nous lors de l’Africa Women Digital Week et engageons-nous ensemble à protéger notre communauté contre les cybercriminels. Ensemble, nous pouvons faire une différence.

ADIA
DigitalEducationNews
[ June 21, 2024 by AFROWOMENInDigital 0 Comments ]

Empowering African Women and Young Girls through Digital Transformation and Technological Advancement: A Personal Journey

In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where digital access remains a significant challenge, one young individual, Abel Ngengele, is on a mission to make a difference in the lives of women and girls. As a young Congolese entrepreneur and the founder of AFROWOMEN™ In Digital and Africa Women Digital Week, Abel’s passion for bridging the gender gap in technology and empowering women and girls across the continent is evident.

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The Catalyst: A Mother’s Struggle

Abel’s inspiration stemmed from a deeply personal experience. His diligent mother faced recurring difficulties submitting her work reports. Despite having a smartphone, she struggled with basic computer tasks and frequently sought assistance from Abel’s father. Her request for help was refused one day, leading to a three-day argument between his parents. Witnessing this struggle, Abel felt compelled to act. At 14, he embarked on a mission to empower his mother and countless other women facing similar challenges.

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The Journey Begins: Learning Digital Skills

Determined and curious, Abel enrolled in computer training to acquire the necessary skills to assist his mother. Over four months, he immersed himself in learning the basics of computers, digital tools, and technology. Abel’s dedication paid off, and soon, he could confidently handle tasks that had previously stumped his mother.

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Photo Credit: Abel’s learning journey.

Empowering Others: Africa Women Digital Week

Abel’s passion for digital empowerment extended beyond his family. He recognised the essential role of empowering women and girls for societal progress and founded Africa Women Digital Week. This initiative promotes digital literacy and fosters a supportive environment for women in the tech industry. The event’s first edition will be held in November 2024 in Kinshasa, bringing together women from diverse backgrounds. Workshops, training sessions, and networking opportunities will empower participants with practical skills. Abel’s vision is clear: to create a space where women can thrive, learn, and contribute to the digital ecosystem. The goal is to expand the event to other cities in the DRC and across Africa.

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AFROWOMEN™ In Digital: A Man’s Vision for Women’s Empowerment

In a world where gender equality remains an ongoing struggle, Abel Ngengele stands out as a trailblazer. As the founder of AFROWOMEN™ In Digital, he has dedicated himself to empowering African women through technology and digital literacy. But why did a man take on this mission, and what drives his unwavering commitment?

The Man Behind the Movement

Abel Ngengele’s journey began with a personal revelation. Witnessing his mother’s frustration with basic computer tasks ignited a fire within him. He realised that women, especially in Africa, faced significant barriers when it came to technology. Abel’s empathy and determination led him to found AFROWOMEN™ In Digital, an organisation committed to bridging the gender gap.

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Photo Credit: Abel Ngengele in 2020 I Founder & CEO AFROWOMEN™ In Digital

Why a Man Founded AFROWOMEN™ In Digital?

Empathy Knows No Gender: Abel firmly believes that empathy transcends gender. While he acknowledges women’s unique challenges, he recognises that men can champion their cause. His commitment to women’s empowerment stems from a deep understanding of technology’s impact on their lives.

Abel’s upbringing instilled a sense of responsibility. He witnessed firsthand his mother’s struggles, which fueled his determination to make a difference. AFROWOMEN™ In Digital became his platform for action.

 

Breaking Stereotypes: By founding AFROWOMEN™ In Digital, Abel challenges stereotypes. He believes that dismantling gender norms requires active participation from everyone. Men, too, can be allies in the fight for equality.

"Empowering women and girls is not just about gender equality; it's about lifting entire communities. When women are empowered, they bring everyone around them up," says Abel.

ADIA: A Holistic Approach

Beyond AFROWOMEN™ In Digital, Abel’s impact extends to Africa Digital International Academy (ADIA) as its CEO. ADIA is pivotal in bridging the digital skills gap across the African continent.

ADIA: Bridging the Digital Divide

A Brief History of ADIA

Origins of ADIA: Established in 2020 by visionary leader Abel Ngengele, ADIA emerged as a response to the pressing need for digital education in Africa. Abel’s passion for technology and commitment to empowering the next generation fueled the academy’s inception.

Mission and Vision: ADIA‘s mission is clear—to equip African youth with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital era. Its vision extends beyond education; it aims to create a vibrant ecosystem where innovation, collaboration, and progress flourish.

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Key Pillars of ADIA

  • Comprehensive Digital Education: ADIA’s curriculum covers various digital skills, including coding, data analytics, cybersecurity, UX design, and more. Practical, hands-on learning ensures that students gain real-world expertise.
  • Innovative Learning Methods: Leveraging online platforms, ADIA democratises education. Learners from diverse backgrounds access high-quality content. Interactive modules, virtual labs, and industry case studies make learning engaging.
  • Expert-Led Programs: ADIA collaborates with industry experts, thought leaders, and practitioners. Guest lectures, workshops, and mentorship sessions enrich students’ understanding.
  • Personalised Mentorship: Beyond the classroom, ADIA provides one-on-one mentorship. Mentors guide students, nurture their talents, and help shape their career paths.
  • Career Placement Services: ADIA’s commitment extends beyond graduation. It focuses on employability. The impressive 90% placement rate in top tech companies and startups speaks to ADIA’s impact.

Impact & Traction: Transforming Lives

Over 400 students were trained across 10 African countries. Lives were transformed, futures were shaped, and barriers were broken. ADIA isn’t just about education; it’s about empowering the future workforce.

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In the heart of Africa, ADIA stands tall—a testament to the power of education, innovation, and determination. Together, we bridge the digital divide, one learner at a time.

Inaugural Edition: November 2024

In the vibrant city of Kinshasa, a groundbreaking event is on the horizon—the inaugural Africa Women Digital Week. This annual gathering will unite women under a common purpose: digital empowerment.

The Vision

Abel Ngengele, the visionary founder, envisions a space where women can thrive, learn, and contribute to the digital ecosystem. Workshops, training sessions, and networking opportunities will empower participants with practical skills. Whether beginners or seasoned professionals, attendees will find a supportive community eager to bridge the gender gap in technology.

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What to Expect

  • Workshops: Interactive sessions covering coding, data analytics, cybersecurity, and more.
  • Training Sessions: Practical insights from industry experts, equipping women with relevant skills.
  • Networking: Opportunities to connect with like-minded peers, mentors, and potential collaborators.

Africa Women Digital Week is not just an event; it’s a movement—a catalyst for change. Mark your calendars for November 2024 and join us in shaping a more inclusive digital future.

The Impact: Transforming Lives

Abel’s dedication has transformed his mother’s life and the lives of countless other women. Women who attend Africa Women’s Digital Week gain confidence, build networks, and explore career opportunities. Abel’s story serves as a beacon of hope—a reminder that individual actions can ripple through communities, transforming lives and shaping a brighter future.

 

Abel Ngengele’s journey exemplifies the power of determination and empathy. As we celebrate Africa Women Digital Week, let us recognise that each small step toward digital empowerment contributes to a more equitable world. Whether teaching a family member or organising an event, we all play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and shaping a more inclusive future.

Let’s follow Abel’s lead and empower women and girls, one keystroke at a time.

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ConferenceDigitalEducation
[ June 20, 2024 by AFROWOMENInDigital 0 Comments ]

Africa Women Digital Week: Empowering Women in Tech and Beyond

The Future of Tech in Africa

The highly anticipated Africa Women Digital Week is set to take place in Kinshasa, Congo. This premier event, organized by AFROWOMEN™ In Digital and the Africa Digital International Academy (ADIA), promises to be a transformative experience for women across the continent, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and empowerment in the digital and tech industries.

A Diverse Range of Industries Represented

Africa Women Digital Week brings together a diverse array of industries, showcasing the latest advancements and opportunities in technology, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and more. Attendees can expect to engage with leaders and innovators from:

  • Information Technology
  • Digital Marketing
  • Startups and Entrepreneurship
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • E-commerce and FinTech
  • Software Development
  • Creative Industries and Content Creation

Objectives of Africa Women Digital Week

  1. Empowerment Through Education: The event aims to equip women with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in the digital age. From coding workshops to digital marketing seminars, participants will gain hands-on experience and insights from industry experts.
  2. Networking Opportunities: Attendees will have the chance to connect with like-minded professionals, potential mentors, and business leaders. These connections are invaluable for career growth, collaboration, and building a supportive community of women in tech.
  3. Showcase Innovation: Africa Women Digital Week will highlight the innovative work being done by women across Africa. Through panels, presentations, and exhibitions, participants will learn about cutting-edge technologies and groundbreaking projects led by women.
  4. Promote Gender Equality: The event is dedicated to bridging the gender gap in the tech industry. By providing a platform for women to share their stories, successes, and challenges, Africa Women Digital Week aims to inspire and encourage more women to pursue careers in tech.
  5. Encourage Entrepreneurship: With a focus on startups and entrepreneurship, the event will provide aspiring female entrepreneurs with the tools and resources needed to launch and grow successful businesses. This includes access to funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and practical business advice.

Why Attend Africa Women Digital Week?

  • Expert Speakers and Panels: Learn from top industry professionals and thought leaders who will share their expertise and experiences.
  • Hands-On Workshops: Participate in interactive sessions that provide practical skills and knowledge.
  • Exhibition Hall: Explore the latest products, services, and innovations from leading companies and startups.
  • Networking Events: Engage with peers and build meaningful connections during networking breaks, lunches, and social events.
  • Career Development: Gain insights into career opportunities and advancements in the tech industry.

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Experience

Africa Women Digital Week is more than just an event; it is a movement towards a more inclusive and innovative tech industry. Whether you are a seasoned professional, a budding entrepreneur, or a student looking to make your mark, this event is an opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired.

Join Us in Kinshasa

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event. Mark your calendars and get ready to be part of Africa’s digital transformation. For more information and to register, visit AFROWOMEN™ In Digital or follow us on LinkedIn.

About AFROWOMEN™ In Digital

AFROWOMEN™ In Digital is dedicated to empowering African women in the tech industry through education, mentorship, and community support. We strive to bridge the gender gap and promote gender equality in digital spaces.

Contact Information: AFROWOMEN™ In Digital Email: info@africawdw.org Website: www.africawdw.org LinkedIn: AFROWOMEN In Digital


Press Contact: Maddy Grancia PR Manager Email: pr@africawdw.org Phone: +256 764 915 199

Join us in celebrating and advancing the role of women in technology at Africa Women Digital Week. See you in Kinshasa!

DigitalSTEMTechnology
[ June 20, 2024 by AFROWOMENInDigital 0 Comments ]

Why do women in tech feel more inclusion in the workplace?

Inclusion matters, and PwC’s research shows that compared to other industries, women in tech feel a greater sense of workplace inclusion. But there’s still a long way to go to reach gender equity.

When it comes to education and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), women remain in a minority – by a wide margin. Less than one-third of tech sector employees globally are women, a proportion that drops to just 22% for artificial intelligence (AI) workers. Equally worrying, women account for only 28% of engineering graduates. Why does this matter? For several reasons. Faster progress towards more equal representation in STEM fields is critical to women’s participation in shaping emerging technologies and their ever-expanding impact on the world. It’s also a vital factor in empowering women to access fast-growing and high-paying careers – an area where inequality is further compounded by the fact that as digital innovation continues to disrupt industries, women stand to suffer a greater impact from job losses.

Going forward, the gender imbalance within the tech workforce will also act as a constraint on innovation, growth and the wellbeing of humanity – all at a critical time for business, society and economies, when more tech workers are urgently needed. However, it’s not all doom and gloom. The good – and perhaps surprising – news from our #InclusionMatters research is that despite working in a male-dominated sector, women working in tech are the group of employees who feel the strongest impacts of workplace inclusion when compared with women across 25 other industries.

 

PwC’s Inclusion Matters research

What do the results tell us about women in tech?

 

To quantify this effect, we developed a Workplace Inclusion Indicator Index measuring the key inclusion dimensions of inclusive-decision making, belonging, and fairness at work. The results of this index revealed that women in tech have the highest inclusion score for men or women across all the industries assessed in our research. Tech is also one of only four industries for which women have slightly higher inclusion scores than men.

 

 

Our research shows the tech sector stands apart in other ways too. Compared to women respondents across all sectors, those working in tech are 18 percentage points more likely to ask for a promotion. Even more striking, women working in tech are one percentage point more likely to ask for a promotion compared to men in the sector – a finding that’s in stark contrast to a negative gap of nine percentage points between the average scores for women and men working in all sectors globally. Women in tech also have higher job satisfaction scores than men in their sector, at 66% compared with 63%.

Overall, as shown in the table below, women in tech score significantly higher on several key measures than the global cross-sector results for women. However, our findings are not entirely positive for tech employers: for example, women in tech are six percentage points more likely than the global average to say they plan to change employer in the next 12 months.

 

 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, these differences are also reflected in how women in tech view and plan their careers. Our #InclusionMatters research highlights that they are much more likely than women in other industries to be focused on building their own careers by way of actively seeking out opportunities to learn and develop new skills (65% compared to 57%), and to be requesting feedback to use in enhancing their own performance (62% compared to 52%).

 

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The next stepAmplifying the advantages for women

 

Certainly, attracting girls and women to pursue tech academic disciplines and work in the sector remains a major challenge for the technology industry. But taken together, PwC’s #InclusionMatters research combined with last year’s #EmpoweringWomen research findings do provide many encouraging insights that can be applied to help amplify the advantages for women of working in tech or digitally-focused roles. Put simply, our research suggests that women working in tech feel greater levels of inclusion and empowerment at work, a finding that bodes well both for the industry and women generally. Yet the fact remains that tech firms still need to do more to close the gender representation and equity gaps.

 

It is also important to recognise that the gender representation gaps in STEM are not just a problem for the tech industry to solve. In today’s world, millions of young women are still excluded from the workforce because they don’t have the means to pursue the appropriate levels of education or the opportunities to develop adequate technical or digital skills. True, we are seeing progress in private, public, and civil society stakeholders working together to bridge the gender and digital divide, such as PwC’s strategic upskilling collaboration with UNICEF and GenU. But much more needs to be done to increase exposure and upskilling to the tech industry and the associated opportunities they provide for women. In summary, everyone has a role to play in the call for action on gender equity, including when it comes to women in tech.

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BusinessDigitalStartup
[ June 19, 2024 by AFROWOMENInDigital 0 Comments ]

Meet Abel Ngengele: Visionary CEO and Founder of AFROWOMEN™ In Digital

Abel Ngengele is a dynamic and visionary leader dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the digital age. As the CEO and Founder of AFROWOMEN™ In Digital, Abel is committed to bridging the gender gap in technology and empowering African women through digital transformation.

Early Life and Education

Abel’s journey began with a robust educational foundation. He holds a degree in Business Administration and Financial Management, a diploma in UI and UX Design, and certifications in Digital Marketing and Professional Photography. Recognizing the importance of strategic planning and management in achieving business goals, Abel further pursued a Master’s in Project Planning and Management.

Professional Journey

Throughout his career, Abel has demonstrated a keen ability to lead and innovate. Currently serving as the CEO and Founder of Africa Digital Umbrella (AfriDU), he spearheads initiatives that drive digital transformation across the continent. His leadership at AfriDU has been marked by significant advancements in digital marketing and brand management, particularly at the International University of East Africa (IUEA).

Before founding AfriDU, Abel was the Managing Director at KIVU SMILE, where he made substantial contributions to the company’s growth and market presence. His diverse skill set, encompassing business, design, and marketing, has allowed him to navigate various industries with ease and expertise.

AFROWOMEN™ In Digital

Abel’s passion for gender equality and digital innovation culminated in the creation of AFROWOMEN™ In Digital. This organization aims to empower women and girls across Africa by providing them with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive in the tech industry. Under Abel’s leadership, AFROWOMEN™ In Digital organizes the annual Africa Women Digital Week, a premier event that brings together thought leaders, innovators, and industry professionals to celebrate and promote women’s contributions to technology.

ADIA and Beyond

In addition to his work with AFROWOMEN™ In Digital, Abel is also the CEO and Founder of Africa Digital International Academy (ADIA). ADIA is a leading institution focused on delivering high-quality digital education and training programs across Africa. Through ADIA, Abel continues to shape the future of digital education, ensuring that African youth are well-equipped to compete in the global digital economy.

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Achievements and Vision

Abel’s achievements are a testament to his dedication and vision. His leadership in digital transformation and commitment to gender equality have positioned him as a thought leader in the industry. Abel’s goal is to empower 5 million women and girls by 2030, bridging the digital divide and fostering a more inclusive tech ecosystem.

Personal Drive and Commitment

Abel’s journey is fueled by his unwavering commitment to excellence and his belief in the power of innovation to drive change. He is always eager to connect with like-minded professionals who share his passion for entrepreneurship and digital transformation. Abel’s collaborative spirit and strategic mindset make him a valuable partner and mentor in any endeavor.

New Certifications and Current Pursuits

Abel has recently obtained new certifications: LinkedIn Marketing Solutions Professional and LinkedIn Marketing Strategy Certification from LinkedIn. He is currently pursuing his second MBA in International Marketing at IPAG Business School in Paris, France.

Connect with Abel Ngengele

Abel is always open to new opportunities for collaboration and growth. If you are interested in working with a dedicated and motivated business leader, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can achieve remarkable feats and create a meaningful impact in the business world.

Titles and Accomplishments

CEO & Founder | Thought Leader in Digital Transformation | Best Diplomat | Digital Marketing & Brand Management Expert | EdTech Entrepreneur

Abel Ngengele’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of vision, dedication, and innovation. Through his leadership at AFROWOMEN™ In Digital and beyond, he continues to shape the future of digital transformation in Africa, empowering women and driving progress in the tech industry.