At Zoho Women in business summit, access to tech for economic empowerment leads discourse

To harness the full potential of women in business with adequate technological tools to improve productivity, Zoho, a multinational technology company has stressed on the need for more female-led businesses to thrive and align with 21-century work tools.

Hosting its inaugural Women in Business Summit recently in Lagos, the event created an environment for women to share their knowledge in various areas while equipping them with skills in the technology sector to grow their businesses.

Speaking at the event, head of marketing at Zoho, Vaishnavi Soundarrajan said women have to be empowered for economic growth as most resources invested in women, go back into the home. Hence, it’s a way of investing in the lives of children at the same time.

“Zoho is therefore, trying to push this motion by making technology accessible to women. There are a lot of opportunities for women to explore and they should put these into consideration, before deciding to quit.”

While giving insight into building resilience in women through technology, she noted that addressing challenges of juggling household responsibilities and work requires resilience.
“Resilience is very powerful, but empowerment amplifies its impact, hence the importance of technology in empowering women as it helps in exploring opportunities.”

Speaking in a panel session titled, empowering voices, inspiring change, founder of Dukka, Keturah Ovio, stressed the role technology plays in helping women have a platform to compete equally as platforms like Digital Marketing, E-commerce tools are good grounds for this. While founder, Herconomy, Ife Durosinmi Etti, shared how Zoho calendar and social media have helped her stay in track with appointments and connections.

For CEO, Market Knowledge and Insights, Adeyinka Aderoju, said that focus, passion and the need for support system is key to tackle gender stereotypes and other societal issues women face. “It is important that you have confidence in the support system that you have, such that you’re sure nothing happens to your child when you’re not around”.

While founder of Boubid Africa, Zumah Yahaya spoke on the need for inclusiveness and flexibility to help more women in business thrive in Nigeria. Co- founder Messenger Logistics, Amanda Etuk implored women to be confident and upfront in whatever business they are engaged in. She expressed her delight in the event as it helps in networking and beating down the issue of trust in Nigeria. She therefore disclosed her goal to push logistics to being the first contact for anyone who desires to start up a better life.