Girlz Nail IT - Microsoft Development Center Prague

Girlz Nail IT is a digital skills initiative developed by the Microsoft Development Center Pragueas a locally tailored continuation of the DigiGirlz program. It targets high-school girls and individuals who identify as female (aged 15–19), a critical stage when students begin making decisions about their future education and career paths.

The program offers a one-day immersive experience hosted at Microsoft, combining hands-on workshops, inspiring talks, and direct interaction with employees across a wide range of roles, including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data, and product management. Participants gain practical exposure to modern technologies such as AI, prompt engineering, Power Platform, and Copilot, while also experiencing a real-world tech workplace through guided tours and informal discussions.

Each edition brings together around 30–40 participants from different schools, many of whom are encountering these technologies for the first time outside the standard school curriculum. The program is delivered primarily by Microsoft employees acting as mentors and facilitators, ensuring strong alignment with real industry practice and providing authentic role models.

Why is it a good practice?

Girlz Nail IT is a strong example of an effective, industry-led initiative addressing gender disparities in ICT at a decisive moment in students’ educational journeys. By combining hands-on learning, role models, and workplace exposure, it challenges stereotypes and broadens understanding of the wide range of careers available in technology.

The program demonstrates clear and measurable impact. Participant feedback shows consistently high satisfaction (typically rated 8–10 out of 10), increased confidence in considering ICT study paths, and improved awareness of the diversity of digital careers. More than half of participants report discovering new areas within IT, while many go on to take concrete next steps such as enrolling in programming courses, pursuing certifications, or applying to advanced initiatives like the Student Trainee Center.

Its modular, one-day format makes it easily adaptable and scalable, as demonstrated by its successful implementation beyond the Czech Republic. Combined with strong organisational support and employee engagement, Girlz Nail IT represents a sustainable and replicable model for building a more inclusive and diverse digital talent pipeline.