Building from within: when networks create real change

Why this matters – beyond one organisation

Arbetsförmedlingen plays a unique role in society.

Few organisations sit as close to the future of the labour market – shaping how people find jobs, reskill, and navigate working life.

And just like in any tech-driven organisation, one question becomes critical:

Who gets to build the systems that shape our society?

Because without diverse perspectives in development, we risk building bias into the very structures meant to support people.

The power of internal networks

The session brought together women from across the organisation – taking part in a conversation on Women in Tech, combined with insights and experiences shared by Swedbank.

And that’s exactly where real change starts. Not only in strategies and leadership – but in communities.

Internal networks create:

• support and belonging
• visibility and role models
• and the confidence to grow, lead, and take space

Åsa also shared the journey of Women in Tech Sweden – from its founding in 2014 by the private sector, to today’s community of more than 32,000 members.

A reminder that change doesn’t start with perfection. It starts with people coming together.

What happens when you scale it

Also joining the session was Swedbank, sharing their journey of building an internal Women in Tech network over time.

Today, their network has grown to more than 1,500 members across multiple countries.

But what stood out wasn’t just the size – it was the structure and ambition behind it.

Their focus for 2026 includes:

• increasing visibility and external collaboration
• building practical AI skills and confidence
• strengthening internal career growth and mobility

With clear OKRs and an annual activity plan – from mentorship programs and hackathons to cross-functional sessions and storytelling initiatives – the network has become a strategic part of how they build both culture and competence.

A powerful example of what can happen when internal engagement is treated as a long-term investment – not a side initiative.

From network to movement

To everyone who is part of the network at Arbetsförmedlingen – or within any of our partner organisations:

You are not “just” part of an internal initiative.
You are part of shaping the future of how Sweden works.

“Internal networks like this are incredibly powerful. They create space, visibility and momentum – and they remind us that none of us are doing this alone,” says Åsa.

Keep sharing. Keep supporting each other. And don’t forget the power of +1.

Because real change doesn’t happen alone. It happens together.