Weaving a More Inclusive Future in AI
The name "Woven" reflects both connection and history. Some of the earliest algorithms were inspired by looms, like the Jacquard loom, which used punch cards to create intricate patterns—a foundation for modern computing. Weaving is also deeply connected to women, whose craftsmanship shaped cultures and drove technological progress.
Today, Woven honours this legacy by ensuring underrepresented groups come together in shaping the future of technology. We're creating programming that celebrates inclusivity in data, builds connection, supports data literacy, and encourages experimentation.
Together, we're weaving a future where AI reflects the richness and diversity of the world it serves.
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THE CHALLENGE
As of 2024, only 22% of AI and data science professionals globally were women, and representation at the intersections is even lower.
OUR STORY
The name "Woven" reflects both connection and history. Some of the earliest algorithms were inspired by looms, like the Jacquard loom, which used punch cards to create intricate patterns—a foundation for modern computing. Weaving is also deeply connected to women, whose craftsmanship shaped cultures and drove technological progress.
OUR RESPONSE
At Woven, we want to counteract the negative impacts of AI by embedding minoritized people in the fabric of AI by fostering inclusivity, promoting data literacy, and creating opportunities for all. Woven honours this legacy by ensuring underrepresented groups come together in shaping the future of technology.
OUR MISSION
Together we’re shaping a future where AI reflects the richness and diversity of the world it serves.
OUR VISION
At Woven, we:
✓Create programming that celebrates inclusivity in data, builds connection, supports data literacy, and encourages experimentation
✓ Partner with organizations to foster inclusive cultures
✓ Influence inclusive innovation in AI
WHY WE EXIST
AI and data science hold incredible potential, but too many people are left out.
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Real Change Through Community
Since launching Woven, we've built a vibrant community driving change in AI and data science.
A growing network of 6000+ spanning data scientists, ML engineers, software developers, and AI specialists.
Balanced audience with 0-15 years of experience bringing diverse perspectives.
Industry leaders from product management to technical direction.
Hosted 30+ events since inception.
OUR REACH
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Active members across multiple industries
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Strong media presence and engaged audience
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Regular appearances in national media
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Global community with regional events
KEY PROGRAMS
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Annual conference with technical, business, and executive streams
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Pitch competitions connecting AI ventures with industry leaders
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Awards program celebrating technical excellence
Why Woven Events Are Different
At Woven, we believe in building confidence through action and community.
YOUR EXPERIENCE IS CENTERED
Every event is designed for women in data and AI. You're never the only woman in the room - the room is built for you. Your questions matter. Your challenges are understood.
INTERACTIVE, NOT PASSIVE
Discussion zones, not just stages. You're part of the conversation, not just watching it. At Dayta Dahta Nights and our annual conference, you engage directly with speakers and peers.
INCLUSIVE INNOVATION
By bringing together diverse perspectives, we're ensuring AI development serves everyone. Our community shapes how AI is built, implemented, and used.
GENUINE CONNECTION
Meet women at your level solving similar problems. Reciprocal relationships where everyone brings something to the table.
Build your network with people who get what you're navigating.
Meet the Founder
KISHAWNA PECK
Owner and Founder of Woven
In 2018, while searching for a women-focused data conference in Canada, Kishawna Peck had a simple thought: "Maybe I can do it." What started as an idea for a small gathering in a library quickly transformed into a sold-out event of over 100 attendees.
But that first conference revealed something crucial. Looking around the room, Kishawna saw that both the stage and the audience weren't as diverse as they could be. That observation changed everything about how we approach our work of helping more women become AI-confident.
As she was building this community, Kishawna was navigating her own challenges in tech. Being the first data hire in companies meant being in rooms she wasn't expected to be in - experiencing everything from stolen ideas and exclusion to direct discrimination. Despite building successful data teams and strategies, she faced the same barriers she was working to dismantle for others.
"I was praised for being calm and collected when humiliated in front of peers. It wasn't until I realized I was operating in the structure of white supremacy that I was able to separate the people from the actions that were causing me harm."
Against her accountant's advice, Kishawna left her corporate role in 2021 due to discrimination - even while she had grown her community to over 1000 members and was speaking on DEI panels. "The PTSD I have makes me not feel safe enough to return to corporate spaces. I share these details because if you or someone you know has even the slightest feeling that something similar might be happening, you need to recognize what it looks like."
Today, Woven exists because we understand that every technical and design decision in AI has people behind it - people who bring their perspectives, experiences, and blind spots to the table.
When we talk about AI development, we're not just talking about code - we're talking about how human decisions get amplified at an unprecedented scale.
"This is why our work is so critical. The question isn't whether you're contributing to the future of AI - it's whether you're contributing to an inclusive one."
Add Your Thread to Tomorrow
Whether you're building skills, driving change, or supporting inclusion in AI - your perspective matters.
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED: