Women in Healthcare Analytics and Data Science (WiHADS)

Leading the Charge in Data Science and AI

1 October 2019

Skills

  • data science
  • events
  • healthcare
  • networking

Introduction: Empowering Women in Data Science and AI for Healthcare

In today’s rapidly evolving world, data science is driving innovation across industries, particularly in healthcare where AI and deep learning models are transforming patient outcomes. The Women in Healthcare Analytics and Data Science (WiHADS) initiative is leading the charge, empowering women in data science to spearhead crucial data science projects that are revolutionizing the healthcare sector.

The Beginnings of WiHADS: A Movement in Data Science and Healthcare

WiHADS began in 2017, spearheaded by Sameh Megrhi, with a vision to amplify the voices of women in data science and healthcare analytics.

The initiative was created to address the underrepresentation of women in fields like deep learning models, data science and engineering, and AI in healthcare. By highlighting the significant contributions of women, WiHADS aims to inspire more women to enter and thrive in these critical sectors.

Since its inception, WiHADS has brought together a healthcare data science community. The platform provides a space where women can share their experiences and insights, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation in data science and machine learning. These meetups are not just about discussions—they are about solving real-world challenges using deep learning algorithms and data science methodologies.

WiHADS Meetups: A Hub for Innovation in Data Science and Healthcare

WiHADS meetups have become a central platform for women in data science to exchange ideas, network, and discuss the latest trends in data science and machine learning. Since 2017, WiHADS has organized four major meetups in Paris, each focusing on the intersection of data science and healthcare. These events have garnered attention within the data science community and beyond, as they provide invaluable insights into how data science and deep learning AI are transforming the healthcare industry.

Join us at our meetup webpage

Key Components of WiHADS Meetups:

  • Speakers: The meetups feature accomplished women from top companies like IQvia, Doctolib, and Cardiologs, who share their expertise on data science projects, deep learning models, and their applications in healthcare. These sessions provide attendees with a deeper understanding of how data science is applied in real-world healthcare settings.
  • Opportunities: The events offer a unique chance for women in data science to connect, collaborate, and learn from each other. This networking is crucial for building a strong data science and engineering network that can support professional growth and innovation.
  • Roundtable Discussions: After the presentations, participants engage in roundtable discussions, where they explore the ethical implications of AI in healthcare, the challenges of implementing deep learning algorithms in medical practice, and the future of data science in healthcare.

WiHADS is committed to fostering a supportive environment where women in data science can thrive. The meetups are free to attend, thanks to the generous support of sponsors like Doctolib, IQvia, and Saegus, who believe in the importance of promoting diversity in data science and AI.

The Vision Behind WiHADS: Promoting Women in Data Science

The driving force behind WiHADS is the belief that women have a critical role to play in the future of data science and healthcare. With a background in systems biology and extensive experience in machine learning within academia and the pharmaceutical industry, I joined WiHADS in 2018 to promote the visibility of women in these fields. My goal was to build a platform where women could not only showcase their achievements in data science and AI in healthcare but also mentor and support one another. Working alongside Sameh Megrhi, Imen Helali and Avani Tanna, we crafted a unique meetup format that balances expert presentations with interactive, community-driven discussions. Our vision is to create a vibrant healthcare data science community where women can gain the skills and confidence needed to lead impactful data science projects.

The Impact of WiHADS on the Healthcare Data Science Community

WiHADS has had a profound impact on the healthcare data science community by providing a platform that not only highlights the achievements of women but also encourages ongoing education and professional development. The meetups have sparked important conversations about the future of data science in healthcare and the role of deep learning AI in improving patient care. Through WiHADS, we have seen an increase in the number of women pursuing careers in data science and machine learning, particularly in the healthcare sector. By offering opportunities for mentorship, networking, and skill development, WiHADS is helping to close the gender gap in data science and ensure that women are well-represented in the future of AI in healthcare.

Get Involved with WiHADS: Join the Movement in Data Science and Healthcare

Whether you are an experienced data scientist or just beginning your journey in data science and machine learning, WiHADS offers a welcoming community where you can grow, learn, and contribute. There are many ways to get involved with WiHADS and become part of this exciting movement.

Ways to Participate:

  • Attend a Meetup:Join us at our next event to connect with fellow professionals and learn about the latest developments in data science and deep learning models for healthcare. Stay updated on upcoming events by visiting our Meetup page.
  • Become a Speaker: Share your knowledge and experience in data science projects or deep learning algorithms by speaking at one of our meetups. We are always looking for new voices to contribute to our discussions on AI in healthcare.
  • Sponsor an Event: Help us continue to provide free, high-quality events by sponsoring a WiHADS meetup. Your support will enable us to reach more women in data science and expand our impact in the healthcare industry.

Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Data Science in Healthcare

As we look to the future, data science and AI will continue to shape healthcare, and WiHADS is committed to ensuring that women in tech are at the forefront of this transformation. By joining us, you’re becoming part of a powerful movement dedicated to advancing deep learning algorithms and data science in healthcare. Together, we can lead the way in pioneering solutions that enhance patient care and drive innovation

Contact Us: If you're interested in hosting a meetup or sponsoring an event, please reach out to us. We look forward to welcoming you to the WiHADS community.

Group of women leaders in healthcare analytics and data science at a WiHADS meetup, fostering innovation in data science, deep learning AI, and healthcare.

Senior Data Scientist / Deep Learning Engineer

PhD in Bio-Mathematics, Data Science & Machine Learning