This International Women’s Day, Kubrick join with Lloyds Banking Group and Mudano to inspire the next generation of female and non-binary technology experts.
BRISTOL – 4 March – Kubrick, alongside partners Lloyds Banking Group and Mudano, brought together more than 100 female and non-binary students for Young Data Minds – a full-day event designed to showcase the many pathways into careers in data and technology.
Held at Bristol’s We The Curious science centre and timed ahead of International Women’s Day (8 March), the event focused on breaking down barriers to entry in tech and inspiring greater diversity in the industry.
Students took part in interactive challenges, workshops, and Q&A sessions, working alongside professionals from all three organisations to explore real-world data problems. The program was built around three core themes: the past and future of women in technology, the power of tech to solve global challenges, and the wide range of career opportunities available in the sector.
Inspiring Voices from Across the Industry
The day opened with a keynote from Sophie Gray, Customer Success Director of Data and AI at Microsoft and Co-Chair of Microsoft’s Global LGBTQI+ Employees and Allies community. Sophie shared her personal journey in tech and spoke about the importance of authenticity and inclusion in the workplace.
“Students at Young Data Minds have an incredible opportunity to shape the future,” said Sophie. “I was proud to be part of an event that tackles the lack of diversity in tech at its root and shows young people how many different careers are possible in this space.”
She highlighted how technology underpins everyday life – from healthcare and entertainment to sports and smart homes – and encouraged students to see beyond traditional tech roles.
Later in the program, Ijaz Akram, Chief Technology & Platform Officer at Lloyds Banking Group, challenged students to think about the future of work, noting that many of tomorrow’s roles have yet to be created.
“We need a generation that understands there are no rigid boundaries between science, arts, languages and technology,” said Ijaz. “Diverse thinking is essential if we are going to solve the challenges facing society. I’ve seen first-hand how diversity strengthens teams – and how the absence of it holds them back.”
Building the Future, Together
Through hands-on learning, industry insight and inspiring role models, Young Data Minds gave students the confidence and knowledge to consider a future in data and technology. The event reflects Kubrick’s ongoing commitment to widening access, promoting inclusion, and helping build a more diverse and innovative tech sector.
