Paulette Watson, honored with a Caribbean Global Award for tech innovation, celebrates Black women in STEM, writes Neandra Etienne.

Paulette Watson posing for picture — Photo: Paulette Watson MBE

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Paulette Watson, who was born and raised in Newham, received a Best in Technology and Innovation Caribbean Global Award for her pioneering work in the tech industry.

She was invited to be a judge for the next awards. She told Newham Voices: “Winning this award signifies the importance of representation and empowerment in technology and innovation, particularly for Black women.” She credits her early years in Newham as playing a significant role in shaping her passion for education and community empowerment. Her book, She Disrupts: A Black Woman’s Journey in STEM and AI Industries, records her experiences and advocates for greater representation and equity in technology.

In November Paulette will receive her MBE for contributions to education overseas, particularly because of her work with the #BeMedigitalinclusion initiative. She said: “It is a real honour to receive this award. I dedicate it to every young black woman and girl breaking barriers and working to democratise opportunities and create true parity in the tech world.”

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