A Small Team, Big Impact: Guidewire, Team4Tech, and Ek Tara Empower Girls in India

  • Mark Daniels

August 17, 2024

I have always been inspired by stories where the smallest of initiatives or actions can create the largest of outcomes!  I have a story I want to share of how Guidewire Software, a company known for its community focus, proves that a small team can achieve remarkable results. This story highlights a powerful partnership between Guidewire, Team4Tech, and Ek Tara, a school empowering girls in India.


Bridging the Digital Divide, One Project at a Time


Guidewire's "Guidewire Gives Back" program prioritizes two strategic focus areas of education for women and communities in crisis. Recognizing the need to bridge the digital equity gap, they partnered with Team4Tech, a non-profit that promotes educational inclusion in underserved communities. With a growing presence in India, Guidewire sought to create educational opportunities for girls, fostering their potential in technology and higher education.


Ek Tara: Empowering Girls to Break the Cycle of Poverty


Ek Tara, their chosen partner, is an inspiring school in Kolkata that began in 2011 with just 60 girls from underprivileged backgrounds. Today, they educate more than 1,000 girls, empowering them and their mothers to break the cycle of poverty.


The Magic of Collaboration: From Virtual Work to Onsite Impact


Team4Tech's Design Thinking model provided a framework for success. A dedicated team of ten Guidewire employees, representing four countries and four divisions, embarked on a two-pronged approach:


  • Virtual Collaboration (eight weeks): The team began laying the groundwork virtually, developing a comprehensive system for Ek Tara to track student performance, grades, and activities. This data-driven approach would empower better decision-making and attract ongoing donor support. Our second team was focused on creating a curriculum management system to support their teaching staff and students.


  • Onsite Transformation (two weeks): Working directly with Ek Tara and Team4Tech staff in Kolkata, the team implemented their solutions. They established a computer system for student data management and created a curriculum management system using Google Classroom to streamline resource sharing among teachers. Additionally, the team provided training on current topics such as artificial intelligence, further supporting Ek Tara's educational offerings.

 

13 persons on Guidewire team celebrating at the Ek Tara Community Center

Beyond Achievements: A Life-Changing Experience


This project transcended mere deliverables. It fostered a transformative experience for the Guidewire team. Working across divisions and geographies, they learned from each other, Team4Tech's expertise, and the dedicated Ek Tara staff. This collaborative effort not only benefited Ek Tara but also empowered Guidewire employees through global project participation.


Looking Ahead: Expanding the Impact


This partnership embodies Guidewire's commitment to employee development, combined with tangible social impact. The success inspires Guidewire to expand similar programs, potentially collaborating with their customers. A special call-out to our executive leaders for their support for this transformational program for Guidewire: Diego Devalle, Mohammed Anzy S, Michael Howe, Michael Mahoney, Winston King, Sinead Condon, and Helen Reid.


Ready to Learn More?


For further details, reach out to Guidewire at giveback@guidewire.com.


Learn more about our experience with this video.

 

Feel free to read the impact from our employees about their reflections on this journey:


Amit Singh - Guidewire India


Natalia Costa - Guidewire Spain


Harshith Balakrishna - Guidewire Ireland


Jayashree Srinivasan - Guidewire India


Deb Bose - Guidewire US


Kelly Clayton - Guidewire US


Harini Balachandar - Guidewire US