As we commemorate World Telecommunications and Information Society Day this year, with its theme of gender equality in digital transformation, we focus on the transformative power of technology in the lives of women across Egypt. Central to this progress in Egypt is the Qodwa-Tech initiative, launched by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Since its inception in 2019, Qodwa-Tech has been empowering women across all governorates, training over 32,000 women so far. Its core mission is to bridge the gender digital divide by equipping women with essential digital skills—from social media marketing and e-commerce to advanced areas like artificial intelligence—and fostering leadership capabilities.

Today, we shine a spotlight on inspiring women beneficiaries of the Qodwa-Tech initiative—women whose lives are being transformed by the power of technology. Their stories exemplify resilience, innovation, and leadership—proof that digital inclusion is a vital tool for achieving gender equality and sustainable development.

Abeer's Journey: From Handmade Art to Digital Entrepreneur

My art is my voice. It’s a way to tell stories of my heritage, my culture, and my dreams." —Abeer Saad ElDin, Qodwa-Tech Beneficiary

Abeer Saad ElDin’s journey began with a simple passion for miniature models that depict life scenes from Egyptian and Arab heritage. Her handcrafted art was unique, yet she doubted whether she could turn her hobby into a sustainable business.

She faced internal barriers and external doubts, especially given her personal challenges. Abeer is a person with a disability and has a weakness in her auditory nerve, a condition with no available treatment or surgical intervention. She relies on a hearing aid to assist her hearing, but her ability to hear gradually diminishes with age. Despite this, her determination did not waver.

When the "Qodwa-Tech" initiative came into her life, everything changed.

"Qodwa-Tech supported me from the beginning — I was nervous and unsure. I thought my ideas were crazy," she recalls. "But each training session gave me more confidence. I learned digital marketing and how to promote my work, price it properly, and finally, how to use artificial intelligence tools to enhance my creations."

Today, Abeer's miniature art has gained recognition beyond Egypt’s borders. She’s not only selling her work internationally but also producing a book on her craft—thanks to skills acquired through the programme.

"Thanks to Qodwa-Tech, I found my voice, and I now teach others to appreciate and celebrate our culture," Abeer says proudly. She is a living testament to how access to digital skills and new technologies can empower women to become creative entrepreneurs and community leaders.

“My journey is proof that women can shape their destinies when given the right tools and support.”

Rabab's Revival: Overcoming Adversity Through Art and Technology

"When I fell ill and lost my ability to work normally, I thought I had lost everything. But I found a new purpose— and a new way to empower myself." —Rabab Ibrahim Yousry, QodwaTech Beneficiary

Rabab Ibrahim Yousry, a former engineer, faced a life-changing accident that impaired her hand. With determination, she turned her pain into creativity, channeling her energy into the art of decoupage on porcelain and wooden plates.

Her work, distinctive and personalized, began gaining recognition, but she knew she needed to evolve further. When she joined “Qodwa-Tech " programme, everything shifted.

"The artificial intelligence skills I learned transformed my approach. Now, I can craft designs faster, gather inspiration more efficiently, and connect with clients worldwide," she explains.

Her orders extended beyond Egypt—reaching Qatar and Jordan—marking significant milestones in her career.

"This initiative gave me a new outlook. For the first time, I feel organized, confident, and capable of leading my own creative business," Rabab shares.

“When women are supported with technology and knowledge, they become unstoppable—creating, leading, and inspiring.”

Both Abeer and Rabab's stories exemplify the profound impact of the "Qodwa-Tech" initiative—empowering women at every stage, from novice hobbyists to successful entrepreneurs. Their journeys highlight the importance of digital skills, leadership development, and access to innovative technologies in bridging the gender gap in the digital age.

As we celebrate their achievements, let us remember that digital transformation is not just about technology—it's about empowering people to lead change in their communities, their industries, and their lives.

Congratulations to all the inspiring beneficiaries of Qodwa-Tech. Your stories show what women can achieve when given equal opportunities in a digital world.