The Give To Gain campaign inspires meaningful change for women in the tech industry
The International Women’s Day Give to Gain campaign theme sparks fresh conversations about how to achieve real change for women in the workplace through measurable action.
Leaders in technology and finance are calling for better accountability, mentoring, inclusive cultures, and clearer pathways to leadership as part of this push for progress.
CFOtech Australia explores how Give to Gain encourages positive change, and draws upon the thoughts from leaders across industry.
"Technology and finance leaders want International Women's Day 2026's theme, Give to Gain, to drive structural change at work, as organisations face renewed scrutiny over slow progress for women in senior roles.The theme has sharpened focus on how "giving" time, advocacy, sponsorship and access connect to measurable outcomes for women in technology and finance," said CFOtech Australia.
Building progress on shared investment
Virginia Galarón, Customer Advocate Director at web tracking and analytics company New Relic, discusses the impactful purpose of International Women's Day.
"International Women's Day is a strong reminder that progress is built on mutual support and shared investment in one another's success. When we invest in one another through time, mentorship, advocacy, education or simply visibility, we create more opportunity for everyone. When women thrive, industries grow stronger, innovation accelerates, and communities become more resilient...In technology, one of the most powerful ways we can give is through impact..." says Virginia. "IWD is ultimately an opportunity for us to recognise that advancement is collective. When we advocate and create space for others, we strengthen the entire ecosystem. When we choose to keep learning, have the confidence to speak up and take the time to build trust, we open doors not only for ourselves but for others as well."
Growing a meaningful career through giving
FPT Software Vice President & Head of Global Marketing & Customer Experience Aurora Nguyen Dan Phuong links Give to Gain to internal culture in fast-growing technology businesses.
"Today, building a meaningful career is no longer just about personal achievement, but also how women can give and support others. By helping others solve challenges, sharing knowledge, and contributing to teams and communities, women create impact that extends beyond their individual role. Women often bring a natural advantage in this approach, thinking holistically and connecting actions to outcomes. By asking not just how something is done, but why it matters and who it serves, women can drive more thoughtful, effective, and purpose-driven results while lifting others along the way," explains Aurora. "This International Women's Day, my wish is to see more women in the workforce consider giving, which can take many forms. Whether it's mentoring your peers, offering insights, volunteering time, or supporting colleagues in their development, women lead by example and allow others to step forward."
"By contributing their skills and knowledge, women not only make a tangible difference but also accelerate their own growth, expand their networks, and open doors to new opportunities. Giving to others allows women to multiply their personal impact and gain meaningful professional and personal growth. By sharing knowledge, guidance, and opportunities, we ensure that when women rise, everyone rises," adds Aurora.
Creating supportive access and sponsorship
The Give to Gain concept is relevant to the gap between strong entry-level representation and limited female presence at the top.
"Give to Gain should be more than just a theme. It's a wake-up call for finance leaders to create meaningful access and sponsorship that genuinely supports women's progression. Mentorship and visibility matter, but they need to be backed by structural change. That means going beyond platitudes to create transparent promotion pathways and equal opportunities for high-value assignments," says Rydoo Chief Financial Officer Aidana Zhakupbekova.
Read the full article by CFOtech Australia for International Women's Day.