In response to the earthquakes that struck Turkey on February 6, the Binance Women in Technology Academy, in collaboration with the Women in Technology Association (Wtech), has redirected its efforts to support the southern province of Hatay, which was significantly affected by the disaster. The Academy organized a two-day program on March 26-27 in Hatay’s Antakya district, with the goal of empowering young female university students in the earthquake zone. The program aimed to equip these women with essential skills and knowledge related to the Web3 world, including financial literacy, blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, NFTs, and cybersecurity.
The broader mission of the Binance Women in Technology Academy is to increase women’s representation in the fields of crypto, blockchain, and Web3. By doing so, the Academy not only aims to enhance Turkey’s technological and economic stature but also to combat gender inequality within the industry. Since its launch in 2024, the Academy has made significant strides in achieving its goals. In a recent graduation ceremony, the first cohort of students was celebrated, marking a milestone in the Academy’s journey towards empowering young women in technology.
Zehra Öney, the Founding Chair of the Women in Technology Association, expressed the association’s mission and the impact of their efforts following the earthquake. She highlighted the importance of training expert individuals in technology and increasing the number of women in various professional fields. By focusing on the earthquake zone and welcoming 80 female university students in Hatay, the Academy demonstrates its commitment to both immediate relief efforts and long-term educational empowerment.
Harika Eldoğan, Binance’s Marketing Director for Turkey, shared the Academy’s ambitious goal of educating 5,000 women over the next five years. She emphasized the importance of expanding the technological ecosystem in Turkey and including young people and women in this process. Eldoğan reiterated the Academy’s support for women in exploring new opportunities for financial freedom and personal development. Beyond education, she highlighted the community-building aspect of the program, where women from diverse fields can come together, connect, and share knowledge and experiences.
Mücahit Dönmez, General Manager of Binance Turkey, reflected on the organization’s immediate response after the earthquake, underscoring the region’s significance to Binance. The commitment to empowering women in technology not only benefits the individual participants but also contributes to the overall progress and development of Turkey’s technological landscape. By providing women with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital age, the Binance Women in Technology Academy is paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative future for all.