07-10, 14:20–14:50 (US/Pacific), Room 317
Women remain critically underrepresented in data science and Python communities, comprising only 15–22% of professionals globally and less than 3% of contributors to Python open-source projects. This disparity not only limits diversity but also represents a missed opportunity for innovation and community growth. This talk explores actionable strategies to address these gaps, drawing from my leadership in Women in AI at IBM, TechWomen mentorship, and initiatives with NumFOCUS. Attendees will gain insights and practical steps to create inclusive environments, foster diverse collaboration, and ensure the scientific Python community thrives by unlocking its full potential.
Despite the immense success of the Python ecosystem, gender disparity remains a persistent challenge. Women make up just 15–22% of data science professionals globally (BCG, Deloitte) and an estimated 2–3% of contributors to Python GitHub projects. Addressing this gap is not only a moral imperative but a strategic one, as diversity drives innovation, collaboration, and growth. This talk will cover:
Understanding the Gap
Present key statistics on gender disparity in data science and Python communities.
Explore systemic barriers, including lack of mentorship and inaccessible community structures.
Practical Strategies for Inclusion
Share lessons from successful programs, including Women in AI at IBM, TechWomen mentorship, and PyData Global initiatives.
Provide actionable steps for creating inclusive spaces, such as targeted outreach, mentorship pipelines, and accessible events.
Case Studies and Measurable Impact
Highlight success stories from NumFOCUS and PyData Global, showcasing increased participation and leadership from underrepresented groups.
Roadmap for the SciPy Community
Equip attendees with a roadmap for fostering diversity in their own projects and communities, tailored specifically to scientific Python.
By addressing the “missing 78%,” the SciPy community has an opportunity to unlock new talent, spark innovation, and create a thriving, diverse ecosystem.
Noor Aftab is the Global Program Lead at Amazon Web Services (AWS), where she oversees the Strategic Customer Program for Amazon S3, managing some of the largest cloud, data, and analytics workloads globally. With a foundation as a data scientist and extensive experience in cloud technologies, Noor combines technical expertise with strategic leadership to help organizations optimize their data infrastructure and deploy AI-driven solutions at scale.
An advocate for diversity, innovation, and inclusivity in technology, Noor has spoken at 13 global locations, sharing her insights on AI adoption, advancing innovation, and creating equitable pathways for underrepresented groups in tech. Her talks highlight how data and AI can transform industries, empower communities, and foster inclusion across the tech ecosystem.
Noor is the founder of the International Women Economic Council (IWEC), a global platform empowering women through mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities. By connecting women with industry leaders and fostering career growth, IWEC is dedicated to breaking barriers and promoting gender equality in the workplace.
She actively contributes to the advancement of open science through her involvement with NumFOCUS, PyData, and community-driven initiatives, where she fosters collaboration, inclusivity, and accessibility in data science and AI. Noor also leads initiatives like the IEEE Hour of Power training program, equipping professionals with practical AI and data science skills.
Her contributions to business leadership and women’s empowerment have earned her numerous accolades, including the Australia Alumni Excellence Award and the Asia Pacific HRM Congress Award. Noor’s work has been featured in prominent media outlets such as the BBC, Martha Vineyard Times, and Hindustan Times, highlighting her global impact in advancing diversity and innovation in technology.
GitHub: aftabn81 | Website: www.nooraftab.com