TLA Black Women In Tech To Launch And Distribute Book On 51 Inspirational Women In Tech

The not-for-profit organization is raising funds to publish a book highlighting the achievements of 51 Black women in tech to give young people in schools access to role models from diverse communities.

Once the book, dubbed The voices in the shadow, is published, TLA Black Women in Tech aims to distribute 300 copies to schools in the UK and Ireland for free.

The mission has also been backed by the Digital and Culture Minister, Caroline Dinenage, who said it was important for children to know they can do anything in life.

There is already a lack of diversity in the UK’s tech sector. Research conducted by the BCS recently found that women account for 17% of IT specialists, and about 2% of IT specialists are from a Black, African, Caribbean, or Black British background.

But TLA’s founder, Flavilla Fongang, believes “without improving representation, the less fortunate are often the ones left with limited aspiration. So, I decided to create this book to revive hope.”

Ms. Fongang, a serial entrepreneur, added: “I grew up without seeing any aspirational black women despite my mother. Moving to London, I saw more successful black people than I ever saw in Paris. My ambition was elevated. We often only believe in what we see.

“The Voices In The Shadow illuminates the voices of under-represented talented black women, so we can impact the present and the next generations.”

More information on how you can help sponsor the book is here: