Former professional Ivorian female soccer players often face significant challenges in transitioning to new careers after retiring from the sport.
To address this issue, NGO Servons C.I., in partnership with Cybastion, officially launched the Ateliers Élite au Féminin program (“Elite Women’s Workshop”) on March 11 at the Ivoire Trade Center in Abidjan. The initiative aims to provide cybersecurity and digital training, internships and employment opportunities to young women navigating career transitions.
Up to 200 former soccer players will enroll in the Intro à la Cybersécurité course, offered through the DigiEmpower digital workforce training program —a partnership between Cybastion, Cisco, and the Government of Côte d’Ivoire.
As African countries increasingly accelerate their digital transformation, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is growing rapidly. Training participants will earn an internationally-recognized Cisco certification from the course and access to job opportunities in the digital sector.
In partnership with organizations like Madiawa, an NGO founded by Lamizata Fofana, an Ivorian advocate for women’s participation in soccer in Côte d’Ivoire, participants will also receive career development support and mentorship in their career transition.
The launch event served as an inspiring platform where participants engaged with leaders in the technology industry and gained insights and motivation to participate in the country’s digital transformation.
Registration, which began on March 3, will remain open for six weeks to all women in Côte d’Ivoire.
