During International Women’s Week, Bett hosted a Virtual Women in EdTech Mentoring Circle, bringing together voices from across the education technology community. Guided by mentors Ginny Bootman, Michaela Fearon, Caroline Keep and Hannah Oyewole, the sessions created a collaborative space where participants could share experiences, exchange advice and reflect on their journeys within the sector.

To respect the privacy of those involved, participants and their organisations have been anonymised. What emerged from the conversations, however, was a powerful snapshot of what it means to build a career, a company or a community as a woman working in EdTech today.

Finding confidence in technical spaces

Many of the discussions touched on the experience of working in environments where women are still underrepresented, particularly in technical conversations. Several participants spoke about moments where they felt the need to assert their expertise or translate their ideas into more technical language in order to be fully heard.

Rather than focusing solely on the challenge, the circles quickly moved to solutions. Participants shared practical advice about building confidence in these moments, from clearly owning their expertise to supporting one another in professional spaces. For many, the key takeaway was simple but powerful: women’s perspectives and technical insights are essential to the future of educational technology.

The mentors also emphasised the importance of visibility. When women speak up, share their work and take up space in these conversations, it helps create a pathway for others to follow.

Building momentum and opening doors

Another thread that ran through the conversations was the journey many women take when bringing ideas or innovations to life. Whether launching a product, developing a platform or leading a new initiative, participants reflected on how persistence, creativity and strong networks often play an important role in building momentum.

Many shared how they had grown their work through education partnerships, community networks and recognition programmes that helped amplify their impact. These experiences highlighted how collaboration across the sector can open doors and ensure new ideas reach the classrooms and learners who need them most.

For many, these journeys were not only about building successful solutions but also about demonstrating what is possible for other women entering the field.

Designing technology through diverse experiences

The conversations also highlighted how lived experience shapes the way women approach EdTech design and innovation. Several participants spoke about how their perspectives, including experiences with neurodiversity, cultural diversity and different learning environments, influenced the way they think about building technology.

There was strong agreement that the best educational tools are created when a wide range of voices contribute to their development. Designing with diverse learners in mind helps ensure that technology is accessible, relevant and effective for students with different needs, backgrounds and learning styles.

In this sense, increasing representation within the EdTech workforce is not just about fairness. It is about creating better products and better outcomes for educators and learners.

The role of mentorship and support networks

Perhaps the most energising part of the discussions centred on mentorship. Many participants reflected on the role that mentors, sponsors and supportive colleagues had played in helping them navigate challenges, build confidence and progress in their careers.

While peer support between women remains incredibly valuable, the circles also recognised the importance of allies across the sector who champion inclusive environments and recognise talent wherever it emerges. Building strong networks of support helps create spaces where new voices can flourish and ideas can grow.

A simple but powerful reflection emerged during the session: strong leadership often begins with asking who is not yet part of the conversation and how we can bring them in.

Curiosity, courage and the future of EdTech

As the conversation turned to the future of education technology, particularly in the context of rapidly evolving areas such as AI, participants agreed that curiosity and adaptability will be key qualities for the next generation.

Staying closely connected to the real experiences of educators and learners was seen as essential. By continuing to listen, experiment and collaborate, women across the sector are already helping to shape technologies that are both innovative and meaningful in the classroom.

The mentoring circles served as a reminder that progress in EdTech is driven not only by technological advancement, but also by community, shared learning and the courage to contribute new perspectives.

This session marked the first in a new series of virtual mentoring circles hosted by Bett, designed to bring members of the EdTech community together to share experiences and support one another’s growth. If you would be interested in becoming a mentor for a future session, we would love to hear from you.