Our SheCanCODE cohort didn't just attend MWC25 Kigali from October 21-23, 2025; they truly immersed themselves in every aspect of the experience. For three impactful and inspiring days at the state-of-the-art Kigali Convention Centre, our dedicated team of SheCanCODE women had the unparalleled opportunity to witness the global tech ecosystem firsthand. From the moment they stepped through the doors, they were enveloped by the dynamic energy of rapid-fire conversations among industry leaders, ambitious product demonstrations showcasing groundbreaking innovations, extensive collaboration taking place across various sectors, and the overall powerful momentum driving the entire technology industry forward. This immersive experience allowed them to gain invaluable insights, forge new connections, and feel the pulse of the future of technology, all while representing the spirit and ambition of SheCanCODE and Igire Rwanda in general.

Exposure that teaches

MWC25 provided attendees with an unparalleled, deeply immersive experience, transcending the limitations of conventional classroom simulations. Instead, participants were thrust into the vibrant and fast-paced ecosystem where leading technology companies, innovative startups, eager investors, and top-tier talent converge. This direct and invaluable exposure was instrumental in several key ways

Firstly, it offered profound clarity regarding the myriad of career possibilities available within the ever-evolving tech landscape. Many participants gained a much clearer understanding of specific roles, emerging fields, and the diverse pathways to success, often discovering opportunities they hadn't previously considered.

Secondly, the event served as a powerful catalyst for reframing existing ideas and assumptions about the technology industry. Preconceived notions were challenged by real-world applications, groundbreaking innovations, and the sheer scale of global collaborations witnessed. This led to a more nuanced and sophisticated understanding of the industry's complexities and its immense potential.

Finally, MWC25 unequivocally showcased the contemporary standards and the elevated scale of discussions currently shaping the tech industry. From cutting-edge research and development to market-disrupting strategies and ethical considerations, participants observed firsthand the level of depth, insight, and strategic thinking required to operate at the forefront of technological advancement. The event underscored the critical importance of staying abreast of global trends, fostering collaboration, and continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Confidence in action

Throughout the event, a simple yet profoundly impactful phenomenon unfolded before our eyes. Our participants, a vibrant group of aspiring female coders, proudly donned their SheCanCODE shirts, transforming them from mere garments into badges of honor and shared purpose. With an undeniable sense of curiosity and a remarkable clarity of vision, they ventured forth, exploring every corner of the conference floor.

Their engagement was truly remarkable. They didn't just observe; they actively participated, posing insightful questions that demonstrated a deep understanding and a genuine thirst for knowledge. They eagerly assimilated emerging trends and groundbreaking innovations, seamlessly integrating new information into their existing frameworks. Crucially, as the days progressed, we witnessed a profound transformation. They returned from their explorations not just with new information but with a revitalized sense of confidence that radiated from within, and an expanded perspective on the myriad possibilities that lay before them in the tech world.

These three days were more than just a conference; they were a catalyst. They significantly accelerated our participants' professional development, providing an immersive and practical learning experience that no traditional lecture or classroom setting, however well-intentioned, could ever hope to replicate. The real-world exposure, the direct interaction with industry leaders, and the shared experience with peers created an unparalleled environment for growth, fostering both technical skills and the essential soft skills required for success.

Connections with potential

The MWC25 trip, while not primarily focused on direct project pitching, proved to be an exceptionally fruitful endeavor, yielding significant benefits through the establishment of numerous valuable contacts. These connections represent a diverse array of individuals and organizations within the global tech ecosystem, all of whom expressed genuine interest in supporting our mission through various avenues. Specifically, they offered mentorship opportunities, practical internships, and clear pathways into the highly competitive tech sector for our participants.

These newly forged connections provide incredibly fertile ground for future engagements. We anticipate a series of impactful mentorship conversations, offering our participants personalized guidance and insights from experienced professionals. Informational interviews will further allow them to explore different career trajectories and gain a deeper understanding of the industry's nuances. Most importantly, these connections hold the potential for truly transformative opportunities that could significantly impact the career trajectories of our participants, opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.

Anyika Michelle, a participant in the SheCanCODE program, powerfully articulated the profound impact of the MWC25 Kigali experience, stating, "Being at MWC25 rewired how I see tech careers. The event pushed me to think bigger. Just witnessing how much farther you can go with digital skills was beyond belief. I had a small dream to become just a software developer, but now I know that I can always dream bigger the sky is the limit." Her words encapsulate the transformative power of exposure to a global tech event, inspiring a shift from limited aspirations to boundless potential. The insights gained and the connections made at MWC25 have clearly redefined the horizons of what our participants believe they can achieve in the tech world.

Why this matters for SheCanCODE and Igire Rwanda

At the heart of our impactful program lies a deeply held belief: the potent combination of meaningful exposure and rigorous preparation is the most reliable generator of opportunity. We meticulously designed an initiative to empower deserving young women, equipping them not just to attend MWC25 Kigali but to truly thrive within that unparalleled environment.

Our comprehensive approach began with intensive soft-skills coaching, recognizing that technical prowess, while vital, must be complemented by the ability to communicate effectively, collaborate seamlessly, and present oneself with assurance. Participants honed their interpersonal skills, learned networking strategies, and developed the professional etiquette crucial for navigating high-stakes industry events.

Beyond theoretical instruction, we provided invaluable practical experience. This involved hands-on projects, simulations, and mentorship opportunities that mirrored the challenges and demands of the tech sector. This practical immersion ensured that when these women stepped into the halls of MWC25 Kigali, they were not merely observers but confident participants, ready to engage with the latest innovations and industry leaders.

Crucially, this entire journey unfolded within a supportive and nurturing learning environment. We fostered a sense of community, encouraging peer-to-peer learning and ensuring that every participant felt empowered to ask questions, take risks, and grow. This robust support system was instrumental in building their self-belief and resilience.

The transformative impact of their attendance at MWC25 Kigali was undeniable. These women were not just present; they were active, inquisitive, and inspiring representatives of emerging talent. Their successful engagement at such a prestigious global event served as a powerful testament to Igire Rwanda’s unwavering commitment to forging inclusive and tangible pathways into the tech industry. It vividly demonstrated that direct, hands-on industry exposure, when coupled with comprehensive preparation, is an incredibly potent catalyst. It empowers young talent not only with the critical knowledge and skills but also instills in them an invaluable sense of confidence, ignites their ambition, and charts a clear course for their future contributions to the technological landscape.

Next steps

Turning momentum into action, our immediate priorities are designed to capitalize on the energy and connections we've built, transforming them into tangible growth and impact.

Our key areas of focus include:

• Following up on beneficial contacts:We will meticulously explore and cultivate relationships with individuals and organizations identified as potential mentors, offering invaluable guidance and support for our participants. We will also actively seek out and secure internship opportunities, providing practical, hands-on experience that complements theoretical learning. Furthermore, we aim to forge meaningful collaboration opportunities with partners who share our vision, enabling us to amplify our reach and impact through joint initiatives and shared resources. This strategic outreach will be documented and tracked to ensure all promising avenues are thoroughly pursued.


• Sharing participant experiences:A significant portion of the training was dedicated to mastering clear and concise communication with emergency services. This included understanding what vital information to relay (e.g., location, nature of injury, number of casualties), how to remain calm under pressure, and the correct procedures for initiating an emergency call to ensure a rapid and appropriate response.


• Fundamental Wound Care and Bandaging Skills:To highlight the transformative journey of our participants and inspire others, we will proactively gather and curate their reflections, testimonials, and success stories. These narratives, combined with compelling behind-the-scenes photographs and videos, will be prominently featured on our official website. We will also strategically disseminate this content across our various social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X) using relevant hashtags and engaging captions to maximize visibility and audience engagement. This authentic sharing of experiences will not only celebrate individual achievements but also demonstrate the profound impact of our programs to a wider audience, fostering community and encouraging future participation.