By Barbara Giannini | Head of Channel Sales, Southern Europe of Palo Alto Networks
At a time of particular dynamism such as the one we are currently experiencing, when digital transformation continues to bring innovation and change, the creation of teams with diverse skills becomes critical to getting the most value from technology. Creating a more equitable and inclusive learning and research environment to ensure equal opportunities in the world of work is such a hot topic that it is now a priority for every institution and company in the world.
In the tech world, however, many prejudices and stereotypes remain to be overcome. While science and technology enthuse more and more girls, women who choose to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects continue to be a minority, with a disparity that seems glaring. For this to be minimized, and for everyone to have the opportunity to perform according to their real skills and abilities, regardless of gender, it will take time and commitment from everyone: women, men, organizations and institutions.
The reality is that in Italy the number of women studying these disciplines is limited by stereotypes and cultural reasons still very much present in basic schools. Work is underway to make gender equality and inclusion increasingly a reality, with the PNRR allocating funds of nearly 20 billion to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. The Plan has three axes that include social inclusion, which in turn has gender equality, youth protection and empowerment, and bridging territorial gaps as its main priorities.
That this cannot be a quick process is obvious, because our country, according to the "Gender Gap Report 2022" of the World Economic Forum, maintained 63rd place out of 146 states mapped, as it did last year, for the composite index in terms of economic and political participation, health and educational attainment. The gender gap reported in the report is still very significant, with women underrepresented, especially in the fields of engineering (6.6 percent women - 24.6 percent men) and ICT (1.7 percent women - 8.2 percent men).
For this context to change, it becomes a priority to build a corporate culture that promotes skills, backgrounds and experiences of every individual, regardless of gender. Everyone possesses great potential that can enrich an organization, elevating it at every level. It is necessary to change and define an approach that recognizes and values capabilities in a meritocratic manner, truly promoting talent to support the business.
The same should be done by educational institutions, supporting younger ones to follow their passion, encouraging them to pursue a preparatory course of study for technological roles, in a context where it still seems difficult, if not impossible. Educating not to recognize diversity from an intellectual standpoint, promoting a culture of awareness about the appeal and value of STEM disciplines for the country's growth and progress. Collaboration between universities, businesses and institutions remains essential and must be constant, up-to-date and always looking to the future to foster important changes take time.
The advice I would give to girls and women who intend to pursue a career in IT is to believe in themselves, be even more ambitious and gritty, and proceed without fear of facing any obstacles or rivalries they might encounter on their path, valuing their skills and talent.
Every woman, every person, can and should bring their gifts, skills and experience to the company to enrich the work team and create useful and fruitful sharing that aligns with the business culture and strategies.
For our part, as a company, we have always encouraged female entry, and in confirmation of our spirit aimed at gender equality and inclusion, Palo Alto Networks Italy has the highest rate of positions held by women in Southern Europe, and we are committed to growing this number steadily worldwide.
Better gender balance can also bring benefits at the corporate level, as more diverse organizations will continue to outperform more homogeneous ones, with greater benefits and positive impact. It is critical to create the right environment to enable all individuals, not just women, at every stage of their careers, to feel that they belong to the company in which they work, to be heard and appreciated for their qualities and contributions, without having to give up any aspect of their personality.
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