Yes, women can do IT

A few months ago, I met for coffee with Anum Kamran and Balqees al Hassani, two of the women who help lead the Knowledge Oman and Tech Oman communities that I founded. I vividly remember that discussion because it took place on March 8, 2026, International Women's Day. Earlier that day, I had learned a statistic that genuinely surprised me: 91% of IT job seekers in Oman are women. It was an eye-opening moment. Knowing the incredible talent and potential of women in our technology sector, I couldn't help but ask myself: If so many women aspire to build careers in technology, why aren't we hearing more of their success stories?

That simple question sparked an idea to create an event dedicated to promoting, recognising, and celebrating women in technology under one clear message: "Yes, Women Can Do IT."

Initially, it was just an idea. We debated whether such an event was really necessary. After all, women already participate in conferences, panels, and industry events. But the more we discussed it, the clearer the answer became.

Across Oman, women are leading digital transformation in government, telecommunications, banking, education, startups, and technology companies. They manage projects, build innovative solutions, lead teams, and shape the country's digital future. Yet many of these achievements remain invisible to the wider community. Their stories deserve to be heard, and not only to celebrate their accomplishments but also to inspire others.

That conversation quickly evolved into action. We reached out to women leaders from across different sectors, and the response exceeded every expectation. Professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, academics, and innovators were eager to participate. Many shared their journeys, the challenges they had overcome, and the importance of encouraging the next generation of women to pursue careers in technology.

The vision also became much bigger than hosting another technology conference. We wanted to build a platform that celebrates achievement, encourages collaboration, creates new opportunities, and strengthens the technology ecosystem by making women's contributions more visible. Last week, that vision became reality.

The Women Leading Technology event brought together women from diverse industries to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and inspire others. It featured 12 accomplished panelists and moderators, engaging discussions, entertainment, AI-powered performances, awards recognising outstanding women in technology, and numerous networking opportunities. More importantly, the event received the support of over 12 organisations, all united behind one powerful message: Yes, Women Can Do IT.

Some people asked me, "Why focus specifically on women in technology?"

The answer is simple. Technology shapes almost every aspect of our lives — from healthcare and education to banking, communication, and government services. When women help design those solutions, society benefits from broader perspectives, different experiences, and more inclusive innovation.

Research consistently shows that diverse teams are more innovative and better equipped to solve complex challenges. Diversity is not simply about representation; it is about creating better outcomes by bringing different viewpoints together.

Women also become powerful role models. When young girls see women leading cybersecurity teams, developing artificial intelligence solutions, launching successful startups, or driving national digital initiatives, they begin to believe those careers are possible for them too. Visibility creates possibility.

Oman has already demonstrated its commitment to empowering women across many sectors. Technology presents another opportunity to build on that success by ensuring that talent, leadership, and innovation continue to flourish regardless of gender.

This event was never about creating division or suggesting that women need separate recognition because they are different. It was about creating visibility where it is needed, celebrating achievements that deserve recognition, and inspiring future generations to pursue careers in technology with confidence.

Looking back, it is remarkable how one conversation over coffee transformed into a national platform that brought together hundreds of talented professionals with a shared purpose. It reminded me that meaningful change often begins with a simple discussion, but it becomes reality when people choose to act.

If there is one lesson this journey has taught me, it is this: when we invest in talent, create opportunities, and give people the platform they deserve, everyone benefits. The future of technology in Oman will not be shaped by men or women alone — it will be shaped by all those willing to innovate, collaborate, and lead. And judging by what we witnessed at this event, that future is brighter than ever.