A Global Stage for Change: Tara for Women at the Women in Tech Summit 2026
From April 28 to 30, Cape Town became the global stage for one of the most important conversations of our time: who gets to shape the future of technology—and under what conditions.
The Women in Tech® Global Summit 2026, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, brought together over 500 leaders, innovators, and changemakers from more than 60 countries. This fifth edition returned to the continent where humanity began, with a clear purpose: to drive inclusive innovation, elevate African-led solutions, and advance the goal of empowering 5 million women by 2030.
We are proud to share that Bill Saad, Founder & President of Tara for Women.
Was part of this global gathering, contributing to key conversations shaping the future of technology, leadership, and access.
A Global Dialogue on Access, Responsibility, and Impact
Throughout the summit, discussions went beyond theory and focused on execution. Topics ranged from artificial intelligence and the future of work to financial systems, digital inclusion, and governance.
At the core of every conversation was a shared concern: how to ensure that access to technology, capital, and opportunity becomes more equitable, and how to create long-term, meaningful impact.
Honest Conversations on Leadership
Bill Saad participated in the “Ask Me Anything: Uncensored” panel, representing both Tara for Women and Jota2 Group. In this space, speakers engaged in open and unfiltered dialogue around leadership, decision-making, and the realities of building in today’s complex environment.
There were no prepared answers only honest reflections on the challenges and responsibilities that come with leading in times of transformation.
One key message stood out:
The barriers women face are not only structural, but also cultural. They exist in how we lead, how we build trust, and how we create space for others to step forward.
Supporting Innovation as an Investor
Beyond the panel, Bill also contributed as an investor during the startup sessions, engaging directly with founders who are building solutions in high-impact and often challenging contexts.
These interactions highlighted the importance of not only supporting ideas, but also providing access to the resources and networks needed to scale them.
A Collective Effort for a More Inclusive Future
The summit was more than an event—it was a collective effort to realign access to technology, capital, and opportunity on a global scale.
We extend a special recognition to Ayumi Moore Aoki, Patricia Arboleda, and the entire Women in Tech® Global team for creating such a powerful platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action.
At Tara for Women, we strongly believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.
Being part of this global conversation reinforces our mission to continue empowering women entrepreneurs through access to funding, education, mentoring, and visibility.
Because shaping the future of technology must be a shared effort—one that includes diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences.