For the tenth commemoration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate Betty Mwende—a trailblazer reshaping Kenya’s tech landscape and inspiring a generation of young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

From a young age, Betty, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar and a third-year student in the BSc. Applied Computer Technology program at USIU-Africa, had an insatiable curiosity and a passion for problem-solving that set her apart. Recounting her educational journey, Betty shares that at one point, she thought her education had come to an end.

“When I was ten, I had a physical disability that affected my entire nervous system, making it impossible for me to walk or move, forcing me to drop out of school. I was in intensive care for three months, and the recovery journey was intense, having to work through physiotherapy, where I eventually regained my ability to walk,” she says.

After this experience, Betty went back to school, determined to excel in her studies, despite the socioeconomic barriers she faced. It was this determination that eventually led her to becoming a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at USIU-Africa. Her choice to join the BSc. Applied Computer Technology program was inspired by her passion for computers.

"Growing up, I used to watch my male cousins play video games, always dreaming of my own chance. I never lost hope, and my life changed when I applied for and won a Google scholarship. That scholarship opportunity opened my mind and solidified my belief that I had what it took to study computer science," she says.

"When I joined campus, I was not as confident as I am right now because as a person with a disability, I doubted whether that was really my thing and wondered how people would perceive me. I had so many doubts but the inclusive atmosphere at USIU-Africa allayed the fears I had,” she adds.

Her choice to follow her passion in computers is paying off. Last December, she joined the African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) through UN Women, and went through a two-week bootcamp. She was introduced to web development, cybersecurity, robotics, programming, data analysis, and machine learning that offered her a different exposure outside her regular classes.

“Being part of the African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) was a transformative experience for me. The program not only enhanced my technical skills in coding, robotics, and cybersecurity, but also strengthened my leadership abilities and advocacy for women in tech. I have had opportunities to share my story with the media houses and inspire other girls who would like to join stem related courses, “she notes.

Growing up in a community where access to computers was rare, Betty Mwende knew firsthand the challenges of navigating the digital world with limited exposure. Determined to change this reality for the next generation, she dedicates her school holidays to teaching young learners at her local primary school essential computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and web development.

“In my community, access to computers is unheard of. Most of us interact with them only when we join a good high school, university, or college. The training I provide ensures that students develop technical know-how and confidence in using digital tools from an early age,” she explains.

As part of her commitment to digital literacy, Betty implemented a Scholar Day of Service Project aimed at bridging the digital divide in rural primary schools. With support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at USIU-Africa, she provided three laptops, a printer, and a router to facilitate training. She conducted a three-day digital literacy workshop, covering fundamental skills such as basic computer literacy, internet safety, and an introduction to coding.

Building on this momentum, Betty expanded the initiative with additional support from UN Women and the ARTS Foundation. In August 2024, she led a 10-day bootcamp at Gicici Primary School, followed by another in December, where she invited alumni of the African Girls Can Code Initiative to volunteer as trainers.

Her efforts have had a tangible impact, equipping over 100 students with fundamental digital skills and boosting their confidence in using technology, especially among those with little to no prior exposure. Through her efforts to increase digital literacy, she has also inspired young learners, particularly girls, to explore STEM fields, empowering them to see a future in technology and innovation.

Despite navigating a traditionally male-dominated field, Betty’s resilience has propelled her forward, helping her overcome numerous obstacles along the way. Committed to expanding her expertise in IT and networking, she actively seeks opportunities to collaborate with like-minded professionals. Betty firmly believes that innovation flourishes in inclusive environments where every voice is heard.

"I want every girl to know that her ideas have the power to change the world," she asserts.

To strengthen her skills, Betty has pursued multiple certifications, including the Siemens EmpowerHER Program in cybersecurity and UNITAR’s Developing Essential Skills for Women and Youth in Africa training. She is currently enrolled in the Cisco Cyber Security Support Technician certification, funded by Sight Savers, further cementing her dedication to advancing in the tech industry.