Girls Who Code is a not-for-profit organization that seeks to close the gender gap and empower women in tech environments. The existence of such a collective is crucial in assuring equality in the field as studies find that "82 per cent of Canadians picture a man when they imagine a computer scientist," as well as that "one in two Canadians cannot name a single woman scientist or engineer."
The initative to inspire and empower women in tech is expanding to Canada where 50% of the workforce is female but less than 25% are in STEM jobs. Girls Who Code makes free programming courses available. The not-for-profit launched in November of 2018, while it has been operating in the United States for quite some time and has reached over 90,000 girls in the country.
Equality-Pushing Tech-Friendly Initiatives
Girls Who Code Seeks to Inspire & Empower Women in Tech
Trend Themes
-
Women in Tech Empowerment — Initiatives like Girls Who Code aim to inspire and empower women in the tech industry, helping to close the gender gap and bring a more diverse perspective to the field.
-
Increasing Diversity in STEM Fields — Efforts to promote equality and diversity in STEM jobs, including free programming courses for girls, can help address the underrepresentation of women and minorities in these fields.
-
Changing Perceptions of Computer Science — By challenging the stereotype of a computer scientist as a man, initiatives like Girls Who Code are changing perceptions of the tech industry and paving the way for a more inclusive future.
Industry Implications
-
Tech Education — With a focus on providing free programming courses to girls and promoting diversity in STEM fields, tech education providers have an opportunity to help close the gender gap in the industry.
-
Non-profit — Non-profit organizations like Girls Who Code can leverage technology and partnerships to address societal and gender-based issues, driving social change and promoting equal opportunities.
-
STEM Industries — STEM industries, including tech and engineering, can benefit from increased diversity and gender equality, introducing new perspectives and driving innovation in these fields.