Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Technology

March 20, 2026

Colleagues from Allstate Northern Ireland recently volunteered at Empower Girls 2026, an inspiring industry event held at ICC Belfast that welcomed 700 Year 8 girls from 24 schools across Northern Ireland. The event aimed to introduce young people to the wide range of opportunities available in technology and cyber security, while building confidence and curiosity around STEM subjects.

Throughout the day, students took part in a series of interactive STEM activities designed to make complex concepts engaging and accessible. Hands-on experiences using LEGO kits, a Kudo Robot, and the ever-popular Cyber Sam "rickety wheel" encouraged problem-solving, collaboration and creative thinking. These activities helped demystify technology and showed how innovation and creativity go hand in hand.

Students also had the opportunity to hear directly from women working across the technology sector during a series of talks and panel discussions. Speakers shared insights into their educational journeys and career paths, highlighting how choices made at school can lead to exciting and rewarding careers in STEM. By sharing relatable experiences, the sessions helped students see themselves reflected in future technology roles.

Empower Girls 2026 played an important role in showcasing women as advocates and role models within the industry, reinforcing the message that careers in technology are open, achievable and impactful. The event provided a valuable opportunity to support future talent and inspire the next generation of women to explore careers in STEM.

Allstate Northern Ireland is proud to support initiatives like Empower Girls, which help build skills, confidence and ambition among young people while strengthening the future STEM talent pipeline.