Fortude Ignite WomenTech Internship 2024: Empowering Future Tech Leaders

As the dust settles on the Fortude WomenTech Internship 2024, it’s time to reflect on the transformative journey that 15 aspiring women in technology embarked upon this past August. Designed with the future in mind, this two-week intensive program not only aimed to bridge the gender gap in Sri Lanka’s ICT sector but also to build a robust pipeline of future leaders who will shape the global tech landscape.

From Vision to Reality: A Program with Purpose

The Ignite Internship kicked off with a resounding response—over 1,400 applications from across Sri Lanka, underscoring the untapped potential among young women in tech. As part of Fortude’s strategic objective to achieve balanced gender representation by 2027, Ignite is more than just an internship; it’s a crucial step towards ensuring equal opportunities and fostering growth for all.

Throughout the program, interns were immersed in Fortude's core operational domains, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as Enterprise Resource Planning, Data and AI, Consulting, Automation, Managed Services, and Project Management. What made this experience unique was the direct involvement of Fortude employees as trainers and mentors.

Each intern was paired with a female leader from Fortude, providing personalized guidance not only during the internship but also beyond, as they step into the global tech sector. Keshalya Jayapalraj Anuki Gunathilake Shehanza Azmi Natalie Gnaniah Dishara Perera Harshini Samarasinha Natasha Dias Kaveesha Wijemanne Uwinee Perera MBA (PIM - USJ), BSc. (Curtin)

Additionally our internal Facilitators, who took up "Diverse Speakers" slots included, Amandra Bandara Anishka Ranabahu Anjalie Jasenthuliyana Cassandra Mascarenhas Bhagya Attanayake, BSc, MBA, ITIL? (F) Dishara Perera Dushmantha Dharmasiri Gaurika Wijeratne Harshana Kuruppu (He/Him) Hozni Feroz Jezla Mohamed Latiff (SHRM-CP) Manindra Dharmadasa Natalie Gnaniah Sasini Withana (PMP, SHRM-CP) Senali Pathirane Shiranthi Jayatilake Shehanza Azmi Shahnaaz Latiff

Leadership and Sustainability at the Core

A key highlight of the program was the leadership development session, Guiding Leadership & Outreach (GLO), conducted by Fortude’s internal trainers in collaboration with Global Learning Labs Global Learning Lab . This two-day initiative focused on fostering sustainable thinking and leadership skills among the interns. Through Sustainability Improvement Projects (SIP), the GLO session empowered interns to contribute to community well-being and youth development, reflecting Fortude’s commitment to responsible innovation. This training, deeply rooted in Fortude’s values, equipped the interns with the necessary skills and mindset to lead in the tech industry.

Beyond Technical Skills: Holistic Development

The Ignite program didn’t stop at technical training. Recognizing the importance of soft skills in today’s dynamic tech landscape, the internship included workshops on interview techniques, communication, emotional intelligence, and wellness. External facilitators, including Andrea Jayatilleka-PCC , Fahad Farook (Certified Coach) , Ranmali Wickramasinghe , Fazla Razak , and Eomal Munasinha , contributed their expertise across various topics, further enriching the interns' learning experience.

The ignitors also visited two Brandix Facilities to witness how Fortudites power Brandix Digital Operations. These sessions were conducted by Charitha Rajakaruna Udara Chinthaka K. Rasini Kavindya Biyanwila

Interns also had the opportunity to showcase their creativity through a TikTok competition, designed to encourage innovative thinking and collaboration. Daily reflections allowed participants to consolidate their learning and set personal goals, while the creation of individual vision boards helped them articulate their future aspirations. The program culminated in group presentations to the Fortude Board of Directors, where the interns shared their journey and the insights gained during the internship.

A Meaningful Conclusion

Following the presentations, the interns engaged in a panel discussion with Chairman Jeevan William, Board Member Lakmini Wijesundera, and Managing Director Arjuna Sirinanda. This discussion not only provided a platform for the interns to interact with top leadership but also offered valuable insights into the strategic direction of the company and the tech industry as a whole.

The internship concluded with a graduation ceremony, where each participant was awarded a certificate and a plant, symbolizing growth and the nurturing of their future with Fortude. This thoughtful gesture underscored Fortude’s commitment to supporting the ongoing development of these talented women.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining the Momentum

As we reflect on the successes of the Ignite WomenTech Internship 2024, it’s clear that this program has laid a strong foundation for the future. By integrating leadership training, technical skills, and holistic development, Fortude has created a blueprint for nurturing the next generation of women in tech. Our commitment doesn’t end here. Moving forward, we will continue to refine and expand the Ignite program, ensuring that it remains a vital part of our talent pipeline strategy.

This internship isn’t just about bridging a gap; it’s about building a future where diversity and innovation go hand in hand. The journey of these 15 women is just the beginning, and we at Fortude are excited to see where it leads.

"The seeds of empowerment we plant today will grow into the future leaders who will shape tomorrow's technology landscape."

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