The 13th ACM Women in Computing Celebration (womENcourage 2026), organized by the European branch of the world's largest computing association ACM (ACM-W Europe), took place in Nice, France (Sophia Antipolis) from September 30 to October 2, 2026.
Hosted by Université Côte d'Azur, the event brought together hundreds of women computer engineers, AI researchers, and industry leaders from across Europe.
Unmute Yourself and Grow Stronger Together
This year's conference was held under the motto "Unmute Yourself, Grow Stronger Together." Strong messages were delivered about women carving their own paths in the computing world, digital well-being, and maintaining mental health in the tech industry.
Women's Equality in the Age of AI
The most talked-about session of the event was the "Equality and Representation for Women in the AI Bubble" panel. Topics discussed included the impact of AI technologies on women's rights, algorithmic biases, and how women can take a more active role in these processes.
Technologies of the Future Competed
As part of the Hackathon held on the first day, international student teams developing ethical solutions to global digital problems competed. Additionally, young researchers delivered more than 120 academic poster presentations shedding light on the future of computer science.
Preparations for 2027 and 2028 Have Begun
With the closing of the conference, eyes turned to the future. ACM-W Europe has begun evaluating host city applications for womENcourage 2027, and announced that official expressions of intent for womENcourage 2028 will be collected until November 5, 2026.