The Tech Girls Movement Foundation is very excited to introduce our Patron for 2021, Marie Johnson. Marie is a relentless advocate for women in STEM and a globally recognised tech entrepreneur who believes that innovation is sparked when we confront real challenges. 

Described as “crazy brave”, Marie has trailblazed solutions across sectors including revenue, business, health and human services, identity, immigration visa operations and disability services. Marie’s particular expertise is the human interface in complex servicing systems, and she is the co-creator of Nadia, the first AI digital human for service delivery. Nadia is an expression of Marie’s conviction that digital innovation through universal co-design amplifies all human potential, empowering and liberating the disadvantaged, disabled and chronically ill. Indicative of her range of skills and can-do approach, Marie was also influential in the Australian Financial Systems Inquiry, which recommended the need for a federated digital identity framework as a critical element for the future robustness of Australia’s financial systems. Marie’s innovations have been acknowledged internationally and include the: UN Award – egovernment for the Business Entry Point; 2006-2007, Innovative CIO of the Year – Australia; 2009, Prime Minister’s Award for the Basics Card; 2013, Australia’s 100 Women of Influence; and an O-1 Visa (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability) granted by the US Government to take up the role of Microsoft Worldwide Executive Director of Public Services and eGovernment.

These achievements exemplify Marie’s stated aim: to leave a technology and innovation design legacy so that the interaction between people and the systems of society is naturally empathetic, seamless and intuitive regardless of ability or language. Sharing a host of values and goals, the TGMF looks forward to a productive collaboration with Marie throughout the coming year.