First ADGA Women in Tech Award presented to Algonquin College Student
Posted on Friday, December 6th, 2019
On December 6, 2019, Ndona Wansaula, a Computer System Technician student at Algonquin College, received the very first ADGA Women in Tech Award as part of the We Saved You A Seat program.
With similar goals to the College, ADGA, a leading national defence, security and IM/IT company, became a proud donor to the We Saved You a Seat program. This three-year pilot project at Algonquin College was created to deliver a diverse learning environment all while increasing the number of women in the technology industry.
The ADGA Women in Tech Award awards $5,000 over two semesters to up to two full-time female students enrolled in the Computer Systems Technician (Co-op) program in the School of Advanced Technology.
During the presentation, Françoise Gagnon, Chief Executive Officer of the ADGA Group, spoke of her experiences as one of only a few female executives within the Defence, Security and Enterprise Computing sector.
“The times are changing and this is your time,” said Françoise Gagnon. “You are that generation of women who will shatter the glass ceiling. There is a vast market out there looking for your skills, I am looking for your skills.”
Earlier this year, Françoise received an Honourary Degree from the College in recognition of her incredible commitment to the technology sector and community.
During this intimate event, students enrolled in STEM-focused programs had a chance to connect with leading women in technology and share their experiences in a collaborative and supportive environment.
“There is a need for a program like ‘We Saved You A Seat,’” said Laura Stanbra, Vice President, Student Services. “The industry is growing and diversifying, and we want to be part of training the next generation of skilled female workers in the technology sector.”
From a young age, award recipient Ndona found information technology so fascinating that she decided to pursue a career in the sector. In 2013, she graduated from the Kigali institute of Science and Technology (KIST) in Rwanda, and six years later, she enrolled in the Computer System Technician Program at Algonquin College.
“What drew me to the program is the balance of hands-on experience and theory,” said Ndona. “Because of this award, I am closer to reaching my goals.”
After graduation, Ndona aspires to return to Burundi or Rwanda to start her own company that would provide technical services to humanitarian organizations and educate youth with IT and programming.
In closing, Francoise offered this encouragement: “Welcome, we’ve been waiting for you.”
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