Comments on: My first Toronto Girl Geek Dinner

By: Doreen

Doreen — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:33:01 +0000

Thanks so much, Melissa, for your comment. Just a slight clarification: the 40% I referred to the other evening was actually the % of local GTA businesses without computers, and thereby the opportunities/challenges faced by traditional and non-traditional publishers in realizing the increasingly popular “local local local” approach.

Having said that, yes, you’re probably right that it does bear some resemblance to the number of many girls and women in the community who don’t own a computer. I think you raise a very good question. I don’t speak on behalf of TGGD, but my own personal opinion is, why not both?

I may have knowledge and ideas that are unique to me that are useful to others; but, if I’ve come to learn anything, it’s that I’m still learning…and I’m ok with that. I also believe that the best mentoring programs are those that are based on experience, wherever that experience comes from. If anything, it’s an idea that seems to have sparked some positive reaction amongst the TGGD community.

By: Melissa

Melissa — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:30:40 +0000

Hi there,

Thank you for addressing this topic!

The idea of a mentorship program was brought up many times via Twitter. And while I think it’s a great idea, perhaps we should consider exactly who the mentees should be and who would benefit most? Would it be:

Members of the already savvy, educated, and -dare I say it- privileged members of TGGD?

The girls and women in our community who belong to the 40% of GTA residents who do not even own a computer to begin with, clearly disadvantaging them right off the bat.

By: Doreen

Doreen — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:04:27 +0000

Thanks for stopping by here, Leona, and for your comments. I think to keep the event and discussion fluid it did need to go where the passion was taking it; so, yes – the issues surrounding social media struck a chord and were very worthwhile.

I’m glad you made that point. I didn’t want to make it sound like TGGD was non-welcoming of different perspectives or voices, far from it. I think TGGD is a great opportunity for all Toronto women to connect, network, learn, share, and grow..and I believe by reaching out and putting together Monday night’s panel is demonstrative of your commitment to welcoming new voices. Exciting times.

By: Leona Hobbs

Leona Hobbs — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:54:44 +0000

Thank you so much for your participation in TGGD. I have never known our TGGD community to shy away from a debate. From reading the tweets and blog posts so far (unfortunately, I missed the event Monday for client obligations), it appears that the most passionate discussion wasn’t about the ongoing evolution of media, the changing notions of Community journalism, hyper-local, etc.

Obviously, the issues around working in and with social media, reputation management and the cultivation of personal brand, along with mentorship and inter-generational dialogue were the topics of the night with our participants. Never a dull moment.

I hear you about diversity. We have over 300 women in our group who come from many backgrounds. We welcome all new members. Our group is simply about making technology accessible for everyone, especially women. We welcome men at our events (as long as they the guest of a woman). And certainly hope we provide events that resonate with our members and add value to the discussion. New voices are always welcome, so I would encourage any of your readers to join us.