By Timothy,
Principal Research Scientist
Two minute read
In celebration of Black History Month, I wanted to bring light to Black Girls Code, an organization that builds pathways for young women of color to embrace the current tech marketplace as builders and creators by introducing them to skills in computer programming and technology. Black Girls Code (BGC) supports their creativity and boldness with skills, training and resources that launch their leadership.
AIS supports this non-profit through an annual donation and I encourage you to spend a few minutes to learn more about what they are about and how you may be able to support them, too, whether through volunteering or a donation.
I believe BGC aligns with all of AIS’s values. BGC is a wonderful cause to support in part because their workshops and after school programs are important ways to educate and strengthen underrepresented communities. I will address each AIS value in turn:
Do the Right Thing
BGC teaches computer programming to girls of color from underrepresented communities who do not have the requisite technological resources at home. Thus, they are helping to educate girls in need who will acquire the skills to be successful in life.
Be Transparent
BGC sheds light on the issue of the low percentage of women, particularly women of color, who have careers in STEM and STEM-related fields.
Live Boldly
By teaching girls programming and game design, BGC promotes creativity and innovation while fostering collaboration as the girls tackle challenging and rewarding projects.
Adapt and Overcome
BGC educates girls and women ages 7 to 25, enabling growth and teaching perseverance throughout critical years in their lives. Also, their curriculum has been expanded to address workforce development by including AI, leadership and mental health.
Make It Happen
BGC empowers progress with the goal of placing one million girls in tech by the year 2040. This would help improve diversity in STEM and STEM-related fields and promote the inclusion of more perspectives and ideas in our collective technological future.
