In a world increasingly shaped by technological innovation, Heels and Tech is at the forefront of bridging the gender divide in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Our flagship initiative, “Jasmine Discovers Tech,” aims to cultivate a passion for technology and future careers among girls aged 8–16 through immersive book reading sessions.

At Heels and Tech, we have always been committed to bridging the gender gap in the technology industry through initiatives like “Jasmine Discovers Tech.” This outreach aims to inspire and equip young girls across Africa with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the tech world. Our mission is deeply rooted in the belief that technology should be accessible to everyone, regardless of gender or background. We are thrilled to share the success of the Jasmine Discovers Tech initiative , which concluded on May 25th, 2025, and the lasting impact it has had on our communities.

We set out to spark curiosity and build confidence, and thanks to an amazing team, dedicated volunteers, supportive partners, and, most importantly, enthusiastic young minds, we achieved more than we ever dreamed possible. We reached 1418 girls across 8 cities, held 23 book reading sessions, and witnessed firsthand the power of combining literacy with the limitless potential of technology.

The Genesis of “Jasmine Discovers Tech”

“JasmineDiscovers Tech” began three years ago, with the launch of a captivating storybook chronicling a young girl’s journey into the world of technology. To date, over 10,000 copies have been distributed across 50 cities. This book is more than just a story; it’s a movement fueled by the desire to inspire young girls to explore the boundless possibilities within technology.

The storybook serves as a powerful tool for engaging young minds, introducing readers to coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The “Jasmine Discovers Tech” outreach transcends geographical boundaries, reaching girls in diverse communities and cultural contexts, from bustling urban centers to remote rural villages. 

First, we actively sought out media opportunities, we utilized social media to raise awareness about our initiative, attract new volunteers, and secure additional funding. The positive media attention helped us reach a wider audience and amplify our message about the importance of STEM education for girls.

We expanded our outreach significantly, reaching a staggering 1,418 girls this year. That’s more than double the 590 girls we engaged in 2023-2024! It’s heartwarming to see how our efforts are resonating and making a difference. Our network of engaged partners also grew from 15 to 20, reflecting the increasing support for our mission. We couldn’t have done this without the incredible volunteers who stepped up, increasing from 9 to 25. It’s amazing to see so many passionate individuals coming together to empower young girls.

We also expanded our reach to 8 regions (Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Ota, Calabar, Anambra, Ghana & Kaduna), up from 6, and held a whopping 23 reading sessions compared to 12 in the previous year. Talk about a growth spurt! The excitement in the air during these sessions was obvious, filled with curiosity and eagerness to learn.

These sessions sparked greater curiosity and enthusiasm for tech subjects among girls, with boys also showing strong interest. There were also Positive testimonials from teachers, parents, hosts, and volunteers praising the book’s relevance and impact. Several girls expressed interest in joining tech clubs and exploring future careers in tech. The real impact of Jasmine Discovers Tech goes far beyond the numbers. It’s about the spark we ignited in the hearts of these young girls, the confidence they gained, and the dreams they now dare to pursue. 

Taiwo, a bright young girl from Ibadan, Nigeria, dreams of building an app. “I want to help kids in my village learn for free,” she says, her eyes sparkling with ambition. But the path isn’t easy. Girls like Taiwo are half as likely to pursue tech careers, not because they lack the ability, but because they’re often told they shouldn’t. This is the reality that this initiative “Jasmine discovers tech” is determined to change. 

Key Benefits of “Jasmine Discovers Tech” Outreach :

• Daring to Dream: Empowers young girls to envision themselves as innovators and leaders in the tech world, fostering the ambition to pursue careers that were once considered out of reach.
• Igniting Curiosity and Expanding Knowledge: The book acts as a gateway, sparking curiosity about technology and STEM fields. By introducing fundamental concepts in an accessible and engaging way.
• Building Confidence and Breaking Stereotypes: By showcasing a relatable female character who excels in technology, the book challenges traditional gender roles and empowers girls to believe in their ability to succeed in STEM.
• Creating a Community and Fostering Mentorship: “Jasmine Discovers Tech” connects girls with mentors and peers who share their passion for technology, creating a supportive community that encourages learning, collaboration, and personal growth.

Partnerships and Support

Our success would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our strategic partners, and volunteers. In 2025, we engaged a program management consultant to scale the impact of Jasmine 3.0, resulting in 20 partnerships with organizations such as Oracle, Laterna, Dream Catchers, WIMBIZ, Wifi Combat, The Destiny Trust Foundation, and numerous NGOs and schools. These collaborations greatly enhanced our outreach and the effectiveness of our programs. Together, we’re creating a brighter future for young girls, and it’s truly inspiring to see so many people rallying behind this cause.

You know, one of the things I’m most proud of is how supportive, and adaptable our team was, especially the volunteers. We had to be. Things rarely go exactly as planned, especially when you’re working in multiple locations. Speaking of volunteers, I can’t say enough about these amazing individuals. We had 25 incredible volunteers dedicate their time and energy to making this program a success. They were the heart and soul of Jasmine Discovers Tech.

Heels and Tech is rewriting the narrative. One book reading, one inspired girl at a time. We provide a platform, a support system, and a vision of a future where girls are not just consumers of technology but creators. 

“Jasmine discovers tech” is more than just an outreach, it’s a movement. It’s about empowering girls to choose tech over doubt, to volunteer their time, to donate to the cause, and to spread the word. It’s about building a future where every girl, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to shape the world through technology. Taiwo’s story is just one example of the countless lives being transformed. Join Heels & Tech and be a part of building their future. This journey is far from over, we are just getting started.