Digital Empowerment: Securing Innovation in Honor of Women’s Equality

I appreciate the profound power that digital innovation holds. Not only to transform industries but to amplify voices once marginalized or lost in the chorus.

This August, as we commemorate Women’s Equality Day and the landmark ratification of the 19th Amendment, it is fitting to consider how the digital world presents both extraordinary opportunity and new challenges for women everywhere.

The 19th Amendment secured women’s right to vote, an essential step toward inclusion and equity. Today, innovation and infrastructure (hallmarks of Sustainable Development Goal 9), enable our voices to rise globally

through digital platforms. However, with this reach comes the responsibility to safeguard our digital presence against ever evolving threats.

Digital security is foundational to building resilient industries and inclusive innovation ecosystems. Without it, our ability to connect, collaborate, and lead is at risk. Women entrepreneurs and professionals must champion strong cybersecurity practices – not only to protect their information (personal and professional) but to preserve the integrity of movements advancing gender equality and social progress.

Honoring the legacy of the 19th Amendment means embracing the digital age with vigilance and confidence. By securing our digital identities, we make our infrastructure(s) that support innovation and inclusion stronger.

What can you do?

- Implement strong passwords and multi-factor authentication to

protect key accounts

- Regularly update privacy settings and

perform security audits on digital tools and platforms.

- Promote awareness of cybersecurity’s role in fostering sustainable, innovative industries that empower women.

AUGUST CALL TO ACTION:

In tribute to Women’s Equality Day, commit this month to strengthening your digital security.

- Choose one critical account – email, business platform or cloud storage – and enhance its protections.

- Then share a message highlighting the vital role of innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9) in empowering women’s voices worldwide.

Together, we can safeguard the digital foundation of progress – ensuring that the legacy of women’s equality is carried forward into a future defined by innovation, security and inclusion.

Submitted by

Barbara Bozem

an President

NFBPWC 2024-2026