Not only does diversity generate more revenue, women bring unique ideas to the table and having women as role models in this sector encourages more girls and young women to pursue careers in tech, thus increasing the hiring pool diversity.
About us
The AWiDH movement is a collaborative community platform of like-minded digital health advocates that is working to address the gender gap in digital health.
We collaborate on policy actions, and training and skills development initiatives to increase the representation and leadership of African women in digital health.
In line with the Africa CDC Digital Transformation Strategy, that outlines the importance of digital transformation as a tool for enhancing healthcare delivery and improving health outcomes globally, AWiDH is working to pioneer the adoption of digital healthcare technologies which are spearheaded by women.
Our mission
To improve the policy, capacity, and investment landscape so that African women can better participate and lead in the digital health sector.
Our vision
To increase the engagement, representation and leadership of African women in the digital health space by 2030.
Our mandate
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We support developing and implementing national policies, strategies and action plans on digital health through a gender lens.
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We promote and develop capacity-building programs for women in digital health, including partnerships and mentorships.
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We are building an online community to strengthen capacity and promote knowledge management and sharing to strengthen the voices of African women in digital health.
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We are directly investing in the success of African women in digital health by providing direct grants to help kickstart their businesses.
Community
We recognize the importance of women in tech and digital health.
The Mentorship Program
The need for increasingly rapid and context-specific responses to diseases in Africa is growing and digital health provides many of the solutions that are needed. Digital healthcare start-ups, many led by women, are emerging across the continent. We support these start-ups and advocate for women’s involvement in digital health policy.
However, women face challenges accessing finance, receiving less than 7% of venture capital. Many lack financial guarantees and are excluded from key networks and
associations.
Our mentorship program aims to address this by enhancing business skills and building a supportive community. It helps women grow their start-ups, expand networks, improve pitching, and develop leadership and communication skills, fostering their growth in the digital health space.
Our mentors have significant experience in investing, running or advising tech start-ups and African governments in this space. Mentors help our mentees to further their career and make informed business decisions.
Benefits of the program:
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Learning how to grow a startup from experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders
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Expanding professional network
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Developing pitching skills
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Building self-confidence
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Improving communication and leadership skills
Our mentors selected have significant experience in investing, running or advising tech start-ups and will contribute greatly to informing our mentees, helping them shape their career and business decisions and their professional lives.