Q&A: Ayaan Mohamed Ali, founder of Manchester-based tech company Digitech Oasis

With digital advancement and innovation shaping the world we live in, it’s more important than ever that the sector and its business boards strive for diversity to pave the way for an inclusive future.  Not only does representation set the foundations for inclusive innovation, but it's also proven to boost business performance. A report from McKinsey found that companies with female leadership teams outperformed less gender-diverse companies by an amazing 48%, yet according to TechUK, 77% of tech leaders are men. 

Earlier this year, we caught up with Ayaan Mohamed Ali, a female-led founder who is committed to diversifying the tech workforce. Her Manchester-based tech company Digitech Oasis made our inaugural Tech Climbers list in 2023, as a testament to the the business' trailblazing growth. 

With an aim to inspire the next generation of female leaders, we spoke to Ayaan about her decision to start a tech business and found out a few nuggets of wisdom that other female founders can take on board as they look to scale.

How is digitech oasis impacting the market? 

Digitech Oasis is revolutionising the AI and robotics space - we've made advanced technology more accessible to SMEs, saving them $28,000,000 in inefficiency costs and helping them make their 1st 7 figures. Our impact goes beyond technological innovation; we're driving positive change, championing diversity, and inspiring the next generation of tech leaders by being a majority women-led tech business. 

What inspired you to start a tech business?

I founded Digitech Oasis to challenge the gender gap in tech. Witnessing the underrepresentation of women in STEM, I aimed to create a workplace where talent knows no gender. Today, I'm proud to lead a team that is 80% women who are not just breaking glass ceilings but reshaping the narrative for women in the tech industry.

What continues to inspire and drive you forward each day?

The opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the industry by fostering diversity, and pushing the boundaries of innovation keeps me inspired. The challenges I face are opportunities to create positive change, and that propels me forward. It would also go without saying that my family's support fuels my drive.

What would you say to other women or the next generation looking to become a tech founder/leader?

I would say to the next generation of women in tech to remember that our journey shapes the path for countless others. Dream big, disrupt boldly, and let your brilliance illuminate the way. Your uniqueness is what will ignite the revolution.

Find out more about Digitech Oasis 

Digitech Oasis has set a new standard for robotic automation, helping businesses transform their operations with autonomous robotic solutions. Find out more about their vision, mission and solution by heading over to their website. 

Discover Greater Manchester's Tech Climbers List 

See all the businesses that made Greater Manchester's Tech Climbers list.