Delegations from across the globe gathered to reflect on achievements and take bold, tangible steps toward greater gender equality in the tech sector.
Signing the Osaka Protocol: A Global Commitment
A defining moment of the summit was the signing of the Osaka Protocol — a historic global commitment to accelerate gender equality in the digital era. Among the proud signatories was Uzbekistan, represented by Kamola Sobirova, President of the national delegation and a leading voice from the Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
The Osaka Protocol is more than a statement of intent; it is a call to action — a collective pledge to drive real change, foster opportunity, and ensure that women’s voices are heard and valued in shaping the future of technology.
Uzbekistan’s Story of Transformation
On the main stage, Kamola Sobirova shared Uzbekistan’s journey of innovation, transformation and determination to empower women in technology. She highlighted national initiatives, including the critical role of IT Park Uzbekistan, whose partnership helped turn these ambitions into reality and made the country’s participation at the summit possible.
“The energy, support, and solidarity we experienced reaffirmed a powerful truth: we are not alone. We are part of a global movement that transcends borders and cultures, bound by the belief that technology must be built by and for everyone,” Sobirova emphasised.
As Uzbekistan leaves Osaka, it does so with renewed determination and a clear message: the future of technology must be inclusive — and Uzbekistan is committed to making it so.
Celebrating Achievements: Awards for Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan
But what made this day truly unforgettable was a special moment for Uzbekistan delegation: Uzbekistan was honoured with the Women in Tech® Youth Engagement Award — a recognition of our growing impact and commitment to empowering young voices in tech.
The team proudly accepted this award filled with gratitude and pride:
“A heartfelt thank you to Ayumi Moore Aoki and her entire team for recognizing our efforts and for creating a summit that was deeply meaningful for everyone who participated. At the same time, we send our warmest congratulations to our sisters from Women in Tech® Kazakhstan, led by Assem Bolatzhan, who received the prestigious Chapter of the Year Award — honouring their extraordinary achievements and leadership.”
Kazakhstan’s Rise on the Global Stage
Kazakhstan made an impressive impact at the summit, being represented by the largest national delegation — 25 participants — led by Timur Turlov, CEO of Freedom Holding Corp. Freedom Holding became the first regional organization to join the Osaka Gender Protocol, demonstrating its strong commitment to empowering women in the digital economy.
Since its establishment in September 2024, Women in Tech Kazakhstan has organised over 15 major events, engaged more than 40,000 individuals, and built a thriving network of over 1,000 women in tech — led by the inspiring Assem Bolatzhan.
The team sends special thanks also to Bereke Bank, whose support enabled 25 young women to participate in this landmark international event.
A special bond with Uzbekistan
Beyond the awards and accolades, this summit also revealed something deeply touching:
The genuine interest and excitement from so many around the world to learn more about Uzbekistan, to visit the country and to experience its culture and people firsthand.
Building a Regional Movement
The success of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan at the summit highlights Central Asia’s growing leadership in the global movement for gender equality in technology.
Founded by Ayumi Moore Aoki in 2017, Women in Tech® Global now includes more than 300,000 volunteers worldwide, working in partnership with governments and businesses to empower women in areas like AI, science, fintech, venture capital and digital entrepreneurship.
All programs and resources, including the WIT Hub platform, are free and accessible to participants across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and beyond.
