Sara Pinheiro, Regional Manager for Paygilant, a leading provider of fraud prevention solutions, has ignited a powerful call for greater female representation within Africa’s rapidly expanding technology ecosystem. Her impassioned plea came during a panel session at the International Women’s Day 2025 event hosted by African Women in Tech (AWIT) in Lagos.
Pinheiro’s address resonated deeply with attendees, emphasizing the critical role women play in driving innovation and sustainable growth within the African tech landscape. She highlighted the inherent limitations of a sector dominated by a single perspective, arguing that true technological advancement necessitates the inclusion of diverse voices and experiences.
“The African tech space is a powerhouse of potential, but it cannot reach its full capacity without the active participation of women, who bring unique insights, problem-solving skills, and perspectives that are essential for building a truly inclusive and innovative future,” Pinheiro stated.
Pinheiro’s company, Paygilant, specializes in frictionless fraud prevention, a sector heavily reliant on data analysis and technological sophistication. She argued that the efficacy of such systems is directly tied to the diversity of the data used to develop them.
“As we build the technological infrastructure that will shape Africa’s future, we must ensure that it reflects the diversity of our population. Excluding women from this process is not only unjust but also fundamentally undermines the potential for genuine innovation,” she emphasized.
The AWIT event provided a platform for women across the African tech spectrum to connect, share their experiences, and forge collaborative networks. Pinheiro’s message was met with enthusiastic support, with many attendees expressing a renewed sense of empowerment and determination.
“It was incredibly inspiring to hear Ms. Pinheiro’s message,” said one attendee, who articulated the challenges women face but also the immense potential they hold. “It’s time for us to claim our rightful place in this industry,” she said.
Pinheiro took to social media after the event to express her gratitude and reiterate her commitment to championing women in tech. “What an incredible day with AWIT! I’m so grateful for the opportunity to connect with such brilliant women and allies,” she wrote. “Let’s keep pushing boundaries and making things happen. This is just the beginning!”
The event has sparked a renewed dialogue about gender equality within the African tech sector, with many organizations and individuals pledging to take concrete steps to promote greater female inclusion. Pinheiro’s powerful advocacy marks a significant moment in the ongoing effort to build a more equitable and innovative tech landscape across the continent.