She Sharp, a nonprofit founded in 2014 by Dr. Mahsa McCauley, is on a mission to bridge the gender gap in STEM. With over 8,000 women supported, She Sharp connects them with role models, hosts workshops, and dispels industry misconceptions. The growing community of 1,500 members actively works to increase women's representation in STEM, where only 20% of roles typically belong to women. Beyond events, Mahsa's recognition as a Women Leading Tech Awards finalist highlights her commitment to mentorship and tech leadership. She Sharp's positive impact spans high schools, universities, and the tech industry.

Dr. Mahsa McCauley, a trailblazer in technology, was honored with the Unsung Hero award at the 2023 New Zealand Women in Security Awards. Beyond her role as a Senior Lecturer and Director of Women in Tech at AUT, she's a luminary in AI and Cyber Security. As the head of She Sharp, a charitable trust, she empowers women in technology through workshops and events, breaking barriers in the tech industry. Her commitment has earned her accolades, including the Emerging Leader category in the 2013 Women of Influence Awards. Balancing voluntary work, family, and promoting diversity, she exemplifies heroic efforts, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

In 2023, the Diversity Awards NZ™ revealed its finalists, acknowledging 33 entrants for their impactful contributions in advancing a culture of belonging within workplaces across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Mahsa McCauley, Director and Founder of She Sharp, emerged as a finalist in the prestigious Diversity Champion Award category. Her dedication and leadership in fostering diversity and inclusion within the workplace stood out among the impressive pool of candidates.

She Sharp is proud to announce that our Founder/Director Mahsa McCauley was named as a Finalist in the Women Leading Tech Awards in the Mentor category.

She attended the awards ceremony in Sydney last night representing She Sharp. We congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition. This prestigious award recognises women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in the technology sector, and who have mentored and inspired other women to pursue their career goals.

We also recognise and celebrate all the finalists and winners in the Women Leading Tech Awards. Thank you for your leadership and service advancing #womenintechnology!

Read our LinkedIn post here.

She Sharp won in the “Best Industry Initiative that Supports Diversity, Inclusion and Equality” at the NZ Women in Security Awards 2022.

Firstly, We at She Sharp were so grateful to be selected as a finalist among so many amazing initiatives, but to be awarded the winner of this category was a real honour.

A huge thank you to our sponsors, our supporters, community, and those who share belief in the goals we're reaching for. You are all a part of this and we are so grateful!

Read our LinkedIn post here and our Instagram post here.

She Sharp runs events, workshops, and networking opportunities responding to the enduring gender imbalance across STEM industries. Strong female role models from industry educate and empower the next generation of innovators and leaders.

In the seven years since its conception, She Sharp has reached an estimated 4000 people at the high school, university, and industry levels, securing over 1000 members. The organisation’s purpose aligns with companies’ diversity objectives, enabling them to readily secure sponsorship.

Just 3% of 15 year old girls attending New Zealand high schools consider technology a possible career option. And despite the fact the ICT sector is the third largest and fastest-growing sector in New Zealand, there’s a significant gender gap with women filling less than a quarter of these roles in the workplace (2017 survey).
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She Sharp is counteracting that by holding interactive events for secondary school girls, female tertiary students and industry professionals. Founder and director Mahsa Mohaghegh was inspired to close the gap after experiencing being part of the minority of women working in technology.

Read more about the award here.