2026: Empower Girls returns for its 3rd year – register your company now!

Mark your calendars for Thursday 19th March 2026, Empower Girls is back! Returning to the iconic ICC Belfast for its 3rd and most powerful year yet – you don’t want to miss out.

Over 600 Year 8 girls (aged 11-12) from across Northern Ireland will dive into a full day of hands-on technology and cybersecurity experiences and your company can be part of it!

Delivered by CyberFirst in partnership with Aflac Northern Ireland, this high-energy, community-driven event brings together industry, academia, and government to build a stronger, more diverse tech future.

There’s no sponsorship required – just your team’s energy, creativity, and commitment to inspiring the next generation.

HERE’S HOW YOUR COMPANY CAN GET INVOLVED

There will be two Breakout Zones, you can take part in one or both.

Interactive Zone (expo)

Bring the fun to our exhibition with interactive experiences, where previously we have had gaming consoles, VR headsets, and Oculus. Set up pop-up stands with your marketing materials and merchandise or show off your company’s exciting career opportunities.

Demo Zone (activities)

Spark excitement in our students with your tech and cybersecurity expertise! Host hands on interactive workshops, demos, and activities for groups of 10-15 students at a time in fun 20-minute sessions. Bring your pop-up stands and merchandise.

You can bring your own tech equipment on the day or deliver it in advance. You can also rent AV equipment from the ICC. More details will follow after registration

WHY EMPOWER GIRLS?

Women hold just 23% of tech roles in Northern Ireland. Empower Girls exists to change that.

With your support, we can show these girls the exciting opportunities in our industry, spark their passion and help boost future female representation in tech.

WHY SHOULD YOUR COMPANY GET INVOLVED?

  • Give back to the local community
  • Be part of the CyberFirst community
  • Help secure NI’s future tech talent
  • Showcase your company’s innovation
  • Promote your brand, alongside NI’s leading tech and cybersecurity employers

WHAT TIME WOULD YOU BE REQUIRED TO ATTEND?

You can setup either the day before (18th March) or from 8:00am on the day. All stands and equipment must be in place by 9:45am. The event begins at 10:00am. You’re welcome to attend the opening presentation, though seating will be reserved for students.

You will be required to participate in the Breakout Zones from 10:20am – 2:00pm. Again, you are welcome to stay for the closing presentation at 2:00pm, although this is optional.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH LAST YEAR’S HIGHLIGHT REEL…

Ready to join? Act now to secure your place. Complete this form by 5:00pm on 30th January: https://forms.office.com/e/i8pGURxXJy

For additional information or if you have any questions, contact cyberfirst@belfastmet.ac.uk

With your support, we can make the 2026 event our most impactful yet and inspire even more girls. We look forward to having you onboard for Empower Girls 2026, let’s inspire the future together!

Thank you for submitting your application form, a member of the team will be in touch shortly with confirmation of your registration and an Invoice for payment.