Welcome! I’m Sarah Lamb, the founder of Girl Geek Dinners, a global network dedicated to creating spaces where women in technology can connect, learn, and support one another. By day, I lead my own technology-focused marketing consultancy, bringing together my background in software engineering and a passion for strategic communication within the tech industry.
My Journey in Tech
I began my career as a software engineer at Cardinal Health, developing software for medical devices. This experience in the IT sector laid the foundation for my deep interest in technology and innovation. Over the years, I transitioned into marketing and consultancy, merging technical expertise with strategic insight to help tech companies tell their stories effectively.
The Origin of Girl Geek Dinners
Girl Geek Dinners was born in 2005 out of a desire to address the isolation and unique challenges that women in tech often face. Attending a Geek Dinner event in London, I quickly realized how few women were present and the social stereotypes that many of us encounter in professional spaces. Recognizing a need for change, I took action and proposed the idea of a “Geek Dinner for Girls” on my blog—aimed at creating an inclusive, welcoming space where women could feel comfortable and supported.
The first Girl Geek Dinner attracted enthusiastic interest, leading to the inclusive policy of one male attendee per female guest. This structure ensured that women wouldn’t be outnumbered while still welcoming men who support our mission. The event format resonated deeply, and what started as a single event soon grew into an international movement with chapters around the world.
My Approach and Vision
My background includes a Master’s of Enterprise in Computer Science, which instilled in me an entrepreneurial mindset and a commitment to “just get started.” This drive to create solutions has been a guiding force behind Girl Geek Dinners and my career. At university, I founded and led the swimming team at UMIST (now the University of Manchester), a role that helped shape my skills in organizing communities and fostering a collaborative spirit.
Girl Geek Dinners remains a voluntary endeavor, sustained by a community of passionate individuals and occasional donations. It’s a project close to my heart, fueled by the desire to support women in tech and to break down the outdated stereotypes that limit opportunity and innovation. Seeing Girl Geek Dinners become a worldwide network has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to see it continue inspiring and connecting women globally.
Connect with Me
If you’d like to learn more about my professional work or connect, feel free to visit my consultancy website or LinkedIn profile.