RIM launches BlackBerry Women & Technology Awards

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Research in Motion (RIM) yesterday used a private showing of rock-star-turned-photographer

Bryan Adams' Modern Muses exhibition in London's Convent Garden to mark the launch of the BlackBerry Women and Technology Awards 2008.

Applications are now being accepted for the awards, which are designed to recognise and rewards the achievements women have made both working in IT and using it outside of the tech sector.

Despite women making up more than half of the UK's working population, they still represent a very small portion of the IT workforce, according to Charmaine Eggberry, RIM's vice president and managing director of Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

"Regardless of age, status or profession, inspirational role models are invaluable. The 'Modern Muses' exhibition celebrates the stature that has been achieved by women in a variety of disciplines and is a fitting way to launch the third BlackBerry Women & Technology Awards," she said.

"The aim of the BlackBerry Women & Technology Awards is to support and celebrate women who have demonstrated passion and dedication in their lives and work through the innovative use of technology. Past winners have been truly inspiring and I look forward to unveiling our 2008 winners in May next year."

The awards divided into seven categories: Best use of technology within the corporate sector; Best use of technology by small to medium business (<250); Best use of technology within the multi-media industry; Best use of technology by women under 30; Best mentor; Best company advancing women in technology and finally the BlackBerry outstanding woman in technology award, the winner of which will be selected from the other six categories.

Previous award winner Jackie Edwards, a lecturer at De Montfort University, attended the awards launch and exhibition - which showcases photographs of 'modern muses' such as Annie Lennox, Dame Judi Dench, Dame Vivienne Westwood and Erin O'Connor - to show her support to the cause of making technology more appealing to women.

"If UK Plc was a business this would be a travesty," she said in response to hearing figures detailing the small percentage of women involved in the industry. "We need to do things to encourage more women to come into technology and need to encourage more women to stay in technology. I think these awards are absolutely fantastic and long may they continue."

The closing date for entries is 7 March and winners will be announced on 6 May next year at a dinner ceremony at the Marriott Grosvenor Square.

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