Dear Gentle Readers,
This week, I attended a virtual lunch talk hosted by Prof. Dr. Karin Kreutzer of EBS University, where she shared powerful insights on what makes women's networks truly successful.
One statement stayed with me long after the session ended:
"Women's networks don't just exist — they require trust, shared goals, and structure."
It sounds simple, but it is a reminder that meaningful communities are not built by chance. They are intentionally nurtured, supported, and sustained.
Prof. Kreutzer also highlighted several reasons why women's networks remain essential today:
✨ Leadership opportunities for women rarely happen organically — structured support and sponsorship matter.
✨ Gender stereotypes continue to shape decisions and behaviours, often unconsciously and systematically.
✨ Women frequently undervalue their own expertise, experience, and market value within professional settings.
✨ Men's networks often appear more effortless because they are typically informal and have been built over generations.
As I listened, I found myself reflecting on conversations happening across many women's circles in Germany. While progress is being made, there is still significant work ahead. Yet I couldn't help but ask myself: Why are we still having these conversations? And perhaps more importantly, why do we continue doing this work with our BWIT DACH community.
Then I thought about a moment from my own journey...
For years, I attended networking events across Germany where I knew almost no one. Most of these gatherings were mixed-gender events, and women-focused professional networks were and still are relatively rare in the Rhein-Main region where I live.
Like many people stepping into unfamiliar professional spaces, I genuinely looked forward to meeting new people and building connections. Yet every event came with a familiar feeling of apprehension. Ironically, while I was often one of the few Black women in the room and therefore highly visible, I frequently felt invisible at the same time.
I would walk into these spaces and quietly ask myself, "What am I doing here? "
During networking breaks, I would gather my courage, approach another woman, introduce myself, and start a conversation. Most interactions were pleasant, but they rarely evolved into the kind of meaningful, lasting professional relationships I was searching for. I left many events feeling emotionally drained rather than energised. I guess many of you know this feeling..
Looking back, it is perhaps no surprise that during my first six years working in Germany, all of my mentors were men assigned to me in my workplace. I am incredibly grateful for their support and guidance, but I also longed for connections with women who could relate to some of the unique experiences, challenges, and aspirations I carried as a Black woman navigating the tech industry.
At the time, my confidence was far from where it is today. I often second-guessed myself, hesitated to speak up, and underestimated the value I could bring to a room.
That is why co-founding Black Women in Tech DACH has been such a transformative journey for me.
Through building this community, I have witnessed first-hand what happens when women find spaces where they can show up authentically, share their experiences openly, and support one another without judgment. I have seen careers flourish, friendships form, collaborations emerge, and confidence grow.
Most importantly, I have experienced that transformation myself.
The woman who once questioned whether she belonged in the room is now helping create rooms where others know they belong from the moment they walk in.
And that, to me, is the true power of community.
At Black Women in Tech DACH, we are committed to creating those connections across the DACH technology ecosystem. We are building a community where Black women in tech can find one another, exchange experiences, learn from each other, and develop meaningful professional relationships that last.
Whether online or in person, our goal is simple: create spaces where our community can thrive together.
If you are looking to connect with ambitious, talented, and inspiring women across the DACH tech ecosystem, we would love to welcome you.
Sign up to join our exclusive community:
https://blackwomenintech-dach.com/membership
Because when one woman succeeds, she creates possibilities for many others.
Date: 25th June 2026
Location: Virtual session/Linkendin Live
Speaker: Endah Bongo Awah
Topic: Exploring pathways into tech
For graduate students, young professionals, entering into tech or switching careers. If you need structured guidance, not just networking
Stay tuned for sign up details
Are you following us on our Linkedin, Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date.
The truth is that no community can thrive without the people who shape it. Every member brings unique experiences, challenges, and perspectives that help us grow stronger together.
So I'd love to hear from you:
✨ What has been your experience with professional networks?
✨ Have you found a community that helped you grow in your career?
✨ What types of events, discussions, or initiatives would you like to see from Black Women in Tech DACH?
Whether it's mentorship programmes, technical workshops, leadership conversations, social gatherings, or something completely different, your ideas matter. We are building this community together, and your feedback helps us create spaces that are truly valuable and impactful.
If this story resonates with you, or if you're looking for a community where you can connect, learn, and grow alongside other Black women in tech across the DACH region, we'd love to welcome you.
💡 Join our volunteer team - and help shape what comes next.
Together, we can create the networks we once wished we had.
With gratitude,
Chioma