In 2015, WAKE’s first ever Tech2Empower program was hosted in Kyiv, Ukraine. When Russia invaded the country in early 2022, we therefore felt a very strong call to action as an organization. In the face of the challenges that have followed, including but not limited to the refugee crisis, WAKE brought a practical and impactful initiative to the table with its Tech2Empower for Ukraine program. Held in October 2023 in Vilnius, Lithuania, the program brought together technology experts and Lithuanian social enterprises with a shared goal: to empower Ukrainian women refugees through creating sustainable support structures and fostering community resilience. This endeavor not only showcased the power of collaboration across borders but also illuminated the path for future humanitarian efforts in technology and social justice
Tech2Empower for Ukraine brought together volunteer Advisors from top companies to engage with Lithuanian social enterprises dedicated to aiding Ukrainian women refugees. Social enterprises and nonprofit organizations are well-positioned to drive positive change with their on-the-ground perspectives and deep connections within the communities they serve. Through Tech2Empower for Ukraine, WAKE created a resource bridge between volunteers with desires to use their professional skills for social change and social entrepreneurs seeking consultation and training to amplify and scale their vital social justice work. This collaboration was not just about providing technical assistance; it was a journey of creating long-lasting support frameworks and fostering resilient communities in the face of adversity.
The Tech2Empower Impact Challenge was a cornerstone of this initiative. Held at the European Institute for Gender Equality, it was an intensive, solution-driven series of workshop days. Advisors collaborated with social enterprises on projects designed to enhance operational efficiency and amplify impact. Each team, buoyed by the Advisors' technical expertise, developed strategies for communication, digital outreach, operational frameworks, and more.
The results speak for themselves. All participating teams praised the alignment of Advisor skills with their needs, reporting newfound skills crucial for their organization's growth. The Impact Challenge effectively addressed each organization's unique requirements, fostering a sense of accomplishment and pride among all involved.
The range of projects undertaken during the Tech2Empower Impact Challenge was diverse. Here’s a quick snapshot of each team’s project focus:
Acknowledging the disrupted lives of Ukrainian women entrepreneurs, WAKE, in collaboration with Ukreate Hub, organized Tech2Empower’s Day for Ukrainian Women Entrepreneurs. This event, held at Tech Zity, offered workshops and networking sessions on varied topics like AI, UX, and business planning. The Tech2Empower Advisors led these workshops with the goal of equipping the entrepreneurs with the skills needed to relaunch their businesses and rebuild their livelihoods in Lithuania. This portion of the program underscored the importance of not only providing immediate relief but also enabling long-term economic independence, skill-building, and professional development. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants rating the program highly for its informative and beneficial content.
The Tech2Empower Advisor community is comprised of professionals from diverse backgrounds who consistently showcase their commitment to learning and co-creating solutions. Through the program, Advisors gained new insights into women's leadership in the context of Ukrainian refugees and developed significant cross-cultural competencies that extend far beyond the time confines of their volunteer commitment. Our Advisors devote their expertise, time, and resources to advance social justice, women’s and girls’ rights, and women’s economic empowerment, and we are consistently impressed by their contributions.
Tech2Empower's approach to international work always includes a strong commitment to cultural learning opportunities and engagement. Tech2Empower for Ukraine incorporated this focus on cultural competency and learning through excursions such as a feminist walking tour in Vilnius, and visits to historical sites like the Museum of Occupation and Freedom Fights. This holistic approach and commitment to deep learning not only strengthens program outcomes but also ensures engagement as international partners and advocates is conducted with mutual respect and responsibility.
The success of the program in Lithuania was largely due to the partnerships with local organizations like the Center for Equality Advancement (CEA) and Ukreate Hub. These collaborations provided invaluable local context and connections, ensuring that the initiatives were well-aligned with the needs of the community.
In summary, Tech2Empower for Ukraine is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing some of today's most pressing challenges. It highlights the potential of volunteerism and technology in creating sustainable change and empowering communities.
