Tech, Talks, and Girl Power: Inside Women Techmakers Barcelona
-Samar El Souki
Samar El Souki, Product Designer, and Gabriela Pineda, Product Owner, share their experiences and mission as part of Women Techmakers Barcelona – a community driven by Google’s global initiative to empower women in tech. With a focus on fostering inclusivity, innovation, and mentorship, they talk about the impact of their work, the ongoing challenges women face in the industry, and the upcoming big event which spotlights AI and aims to inspire the next wave of tech talent.
Thank you for being here with us! We are very happy to have the opportunity to speak with you and Gaby. I want to start talking about your role at Women Techmakers Barcelona, can you tell us a little bit about that?
“Of course, My name is Samar El Souki, and I’m a Product Designer. I joined the Women Techmakers Barcelona community a year ago, and since then, I’ve been actively contributing to our initiatives. As part of the team, I help organize events that empower women in tech, foster connections, and create spaces where we can learn, share and grow together.
Hello, My name is Gabriela Pineda, I’m a Product Owner with over 8 years of experience in the tech industry, wherer I have led the creation and evolution of innovative products. I joined WTM (Women Techmakers Barcelona) community 2 years ago where I start providing support on event planning, connecting with people and helping women in tech industry to improve their skills at work.”
Tell us how this community came together, and what was the vision behind its formation?
“This initiative was created by Google in 2013, to build a platform that connects women in the tech sector. Currently there are 2,674 ambassadors across 52 countries, and anually, this initiative promotes more than 1,264 events globally. The principal vision that we have is to create a strong community where women can connect, learn, and grow together through events, mentorship, and networking.
“Many women in our community have gained new opportunities, mentorship, and confidence through WTM”
How do you think women can benefit from being part of WTM?
“We believe that all women in our community have had the opportunitiy to meet and connect with amazing people. Some of them have become speakers, advanced their careers, or even launched their own projects. This platform provides them the visibility and support that can make a huge different.”
What are some of the most exciting projects or initiatives that Women Techmakers Barcelona has been involved in?
“One of our most exciting initiatives is organizing the International Women’s Day event, where we bring inspiring speakers each year. This event is a space for learning, empowerment, and connection, attracting a growing audience eager to support and uplift women in tech. This year, our event will take place on April 5th, under the theme ‘Redefine Possible’, with a focus on AI. We expect around 250 attendees to join us for inspiring talks and networking.”
-Gabriela Pineda
“What do you think are the challenges women in the tech sector still face, and how can we overcome them?
“Whether we want it or not, we still face bias, underrepresentation, and limited growth opportunities. What we aim to do through this platform and program to overcome these challenges is foster mentorships, promote inclusive hiring, educate companies, and, of course build supportive communities that empower us and amplify all women’s voices.”
What would you say are the most important skills for women to have in today’s tech world?
“The most important skills are adaptability, problem-solving, and continuous learning. Technical skills are key, but networking, leadership, and confidence also help us to thrive and lead in tech.”
How does your community foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all women in tech?
“Women Techmakers encourages women to connect and feel understood by others who may be in the same position. For us these spaces makes us feel empowered, heard, and most importantly, recognized by an industry that is still unequal and closed off.”
What do you hope to achieve with the event on April 5th, and how do you see it impacting the tech community in Barcelona and beyond?
“We hope to inspire and empower women in tech by creating a space where they can learn and connect. We are dedicating ourselves wholeheartedly to focusing this event on innovation and diversity, with the goal of making significant impact on the tech community in Barcelona and beyond.”
