Women in Tech Sweden at Klara K Day 2024

On December 4th, Women in Tech Sweden had the honor of participating in Klara K Day 2024, an annual event dedicated to advancing gender equality and highlighting women’s leadership across various sectors. Organized by Klara K, this forum brings together thought leaders, changemakers, and advocates to discuss critical issues shaping a more equitable society.

Invited by Klara K founder Camilla Wagner, Åsa Johansen, Director of Women in Tech Sweden, shared insights into the organization’s mission and how it continues to drive change in Sweden’s tech landscape.

Bringing the Women in Tech Perspective to Klara K Day

Åsa’s talk focused on the critical need for greater gender diversity in the tech industry, a sector that shapes everything from artificial intelligence to the tools businesses rely on daily. She highlighted how Women in Tech Sweden has grown into a community of over 25,000 members, providing inspiration, networks, and role models to empower women and create a more inclusive tech industry.

Addressing the audience, Åsa emphasized:

“The tech industry must reflect the society it serves. By building diverse teams, we not only drive innovation but also create a more inclusive, sustainable, and competitive future for Sweden.”

Åsa’s message aligned seamlessly with Klara K Day’s overarching theme of challenging norms and amplifying women’s voices.

Looking Ahead

This year’s Klara K Day also shed light on a range of vital topics, including an eye-opening discussion about female ownership, spearheaded by Camilla Wagner. 

The data highlights a significant gender imbalance in leadership:

• 89% of market value is controlled by companies with men as CEOs and chairpersons.
• 5% of market value is in companies with a woman as CEO.
• 5.8% of market value is in companies with a woman as chairperson.
• 0.025% of market value is controlled by companies with women as both CEOs and chairpersons. 

However, gender-equal companies outperform their peers:

• 15% higher likelihood of outperforming competitors.
• 3.5% higher EBIT for every 10% increase in gender diversity.
• 1.5% higher annual returns.
  Source: McKinsey & Co and Morgan Stanley.

By joining forces with initiatives like Klara K, Women in Tech Sweden continues its mission to ensure women’s voices are heard—not just in tech but across all sectors shaping our future.