Closing the gap: Vanesa on the future of women in Spain's tech scene
Spain's tech ecosystem keeps evolving, particularly in hubs like Barcelona and Madrid. Ensuring this growth is inclusive and benefits everyone is a key concern. In this interview, we speak with Vanesa Hernandez Perez, Communication & Events Manager at WOMEN IN TECH Spain (BCN Chapter), a pivotal organization working to close the gender gap throughout the world.
Vanesa offers a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing women in this dynamic environment—and the strategic actions needed to foster true equality.
Meet Vanesa, an all-time advocate for women
Vanesa: I'm a Communications, Marketing, and Content Strategist with a strong background in media and public affairs. I’ve worked as a strategist manager in TV, and institutional communications, and now lead communications and events for WOMEN IN TECH Spain—combining my passion for gender equality and innovation.
BRIDGE IN: If you were to choose the most important skill as Communication & Events Manager at WOMEN IN TECH Spain, what would that be?
Vanesa: I’d say strategic thinking—being able to align messaging, events, communications, and partnerships with long-term goals.
BRIDGE IN: I believe one of your missions is to keep closing the gender gap in the tech industry (particularly in Spain). What are the main differences you can point out since you joined? If you want, please elaborate on specific programs or initiatives.
Vanesa: We've seen more awareness and visibility, and a rise in female-led initiatives and partnerships. However, we need more women to enter and grow in tech.
What needs to change for women working in the tech industry
BRIDGE IN: From your perspective, what are some of the biggest challenges and opportunities you see for women pursuing careers in the tech sector in Spain right now?
Vanesa: One of the biggest opportunities is the growing demand for diverse talent, and support networks like ours are stronger than ever. Barcelona is consolidating itself as a capital for digital talent. The city stands out for its great talent pool, especially in tech—and it's a key reason why global companies keep landing here. The challenge now is making sure women are equally part of that growth.
BRIDGE IN: How do you see the Spanish tech panorama evolving, and what role do you believe organizations like Women in Tech will play in shaping that future?
Vanesa: Spain is becoming a digital hub, especially in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. WOMEN IN TECH will play a key role in making that growth inclusive. WOMEN IN TECH needs to become a real change-maker and a key voice with both governments and companies to help drive real change.
BRIDGE IN: What advice would you offer to young women in Spain considering a career in the tech industry?
Vanesa: The industry needs your voice and perspective. You need a future, and the future needs you.
BRIDGE IN: And what would you say to companies recruiting? What needs to change or improve?
Vanesa: Promoting female leadership in the tech sector is a strategic opportunity for economic growth. According to European Commission studies, increasing women’s participation in the digital economy could boost the EU’s GDP by up to €16 billion annually.
It’s especially important to support women’s digital entrepreneurship through initiatives that improve access to funding, specialized training, and mentoring. These actions would not only help close the gender gap but also unlock female talent as a key driver of economic and technological progress.
BRIDGE IN: Spain has developed a robust tech ecosystem; however, the English language remains a barrier for international companies. Given your experience, does this remain true? Or would you say only Spanish is needed to work at WOMEN IN TECH Spain?
Vanesa: At WOMEN IN TECH Spain, both are useful because Spanish connects locally, while English opens global doors. However, all the teams are bilingual and have an open and global mindset. Our mission is global, and we’re connected with chapters of WOMEN IN TECH worldwide.
Our action is local, but our mission is global.
