Celebrating Young Innovators: Jamaican Girls Shine on International Girls in ICT Day
On Thursday, the vibrant atmosphere at Flow’s Kingston headquarters buzzed with excitement as 30 remarkable Jamaican girls and young women were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to technology. This recognition coincided with International Girls in ICT Day 2025, a global initiative aimed at encouraging girls to explore careers in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector, which remains predominantly male-dominated.
Among the honorees was Jada Wright, a 15-year-old prodigy who is already in her second year at the University of Technology, Jamaica. Jada’s journey is nothing short of inspiring; she embodies the spirit of innovation and determination that the event seeks to promote. Alongside her was 19-year-old Meron McPherson from Immaculate Conception High School, who has made waves with her AI-powered website designed to assist low-income families in finding affordable housing. Meron’s project highlights the potential of technology to address pressing social issues, showcasing how young minds can drive meaningful change.
The event also celebrated the Spike Prime Robotics team, comprised of sisters Pixie, Zora, and Eve Hall. Their teamwork and creativity in robotics earned them special recognition, proving that collaboration can lead to extraordinary outcomes. The Hall sisters exemplify the power of family support in nurturing talent and ambition.
Flow’s Vice-President and General Manager, Stephen Price, emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives like Girls in ICT Day. “Empowering girls and young women in ICT is not optional; it’s a necessity for a thriving and inclusive digital future,” he stated. His words resonated with the audience, highlighting the urgent need for skilled talent as Jamaica and the Caribbean embark on a digital transformation journey.
This year’s theme, “Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation,” was described by Price as a “timely call to action.” It underscores the importance of diverse voices in shaping the future of ICT infrastructure and policy. The event served as a reminder that the future of technology should reflect the diversity of its users.
Dr. Maria Myers-Hamilton, CEO of the Spectrum Management Authority, was the guest speaker for the day. Drawing from her own experiences, she encouraged the young women to pursue their passions relentlessly. “Your journey may not always be easy, but every step you take is a step towards a brighter future,” she shared, inspiring the audience to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
International Girls in ICT Day is backed by the International Telecommunication Union and is celebrated in over 150 countries. This global recognition highlights the collective effort to bridge the gender gap in technology and empower the next generation of female leaders.
As the event wrapped up, the energy in the room was palpable. Young girls left feeling inspired, armed with the knowledge that they, too, can make a difference in the tech world. With the support of organizations like Flow and the encouragement of role models like Dr. Myers-Hamilton, the future looks bright for young women in Jamaica’s ICT landscape.
What innovations will these young trailblazers bring to life next? The possibilities are endless, and the world is watching.