ISSAI data scientist Aknur Karabay has been accepted into the TechWomen program, an experience-sharing and mentoring program for women in the STEM area. TechWomen is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The program aims to empower, connect, and support the next generation of women leaders in STEM by providing them with access and opportunities to advance their careers, pursue their dreams, and become role models for women and girls in their communities.

During the five-week program, participants engage in project-based mentorships at leading tech companies in the San Francisco and Silicon Valley area and attend workshops and networking events related to STEM. One of the most important components of the program is the collaborative project with the participants. The project must solve socio-economic problems in the community and can receive a grant to fund and implement it further.

To be accepted into the program, Aknur had to go through a multi-stage selection process that included essay writing and interviews with the organizers and alumni of the program. Within the framework of the program Aknur will have an internship at Intel Corp.

Out of more than 3000 applications, only 108 were selected to participate in the program this year. Aknur is one of the youngest participants in the program, as one of the main requirements for admission was three years of professional experience.