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Announcing recipients of the Kainos Ulster University Awards for Women in Computing
This initiative developed in partnership with leading digital technology company, Kainos, aims to encourage and support women to develop careers in computing and encourages greater diversity in the tech sector.
The Kainos Ulster University Awards for Women in Computing will provide not only financial support but also mentoring opportunities, networking events, and direct industry engagement. By equipping students with the skills, confidence and connections needed to succeed, the initiative aims to empower the next generation of women tech leaders in Northern Ireland and beyond.
Students receiving the awards will have the opportunity to gain first-hand insights into careers in tech, work alongside leading industry professionals, and contribute to shaping the future of the sector.
The award recipients are all first-year undergraduate students from computing disciplines:
- Kelly Dos Santos
- Katie Gamble
- Kinga Kusek
- Hannah McCrum
- Cathy Morgan
- Katie Thompson
Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan, Provost of Ulster University, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating:
Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan, Provost of Ulster University, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating,
"As a university, we have both a visionary role and a responsibility to create meaningful partnerships with industry that drive progress. Our collaboration with Kainos is a strategic investment in the future of the tech sector, as together, we are accelerating action towards a more inclusive and innovative industry."
Aislinn McBride, Services Chief Technology Officer at Kainos, explains why the company is keen to support the initiative:
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"As one of NI’s biggest technology employers, we believe that encouraging diversity in our sector is important. Through this partnership with Ulster University, we’re supporting women now to help create a more inclusive future for the industry and a more diverse talent pool for local technology companies."
Despite significant growth in Northern Ireland's tech industry, women remain underrepresented. In 2021-22, only 11% of female students enrolled in Narrow STEM subjects at UK Higher Education Institutions, compared to 37% of male students.
- Source: Equality Commission Northern Ireland, Measuring Equality in Education Report 2024.
Additionally, women account for just 27% of employees in Northern Ireland’s software industries, highlighting the ongoing gender imbalance.
- Source: Diverse Talent, Gender Diversity in Tech: An Urgent Call to Action in Northern Ireland.
Dr Shuai Zhang, Athena Swan Champion for the School of Computing, said:
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"Representation matters. These awards not only provide financial and professional support to women computing students but also signal to the next generation that they belong in the tech industry. At Ulster, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture where women in computing can thrive."
Dr. Priyanka Chaurasia, Athena Swan Champion for the School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems, added:
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"Initiatives like the Kainos Ulster University Awards for Women in Computing are vital in addressing the gender gap in STEM. By supporting women at the early stages of their careers, we are creating a stronger, more diverse tech sector that benefits everyone."
