Code Like a Girl is dedicated to giving girls the skills and confidence to flourish as women in the heavily male-dominated tech industry, whatever coding pathway they wish to pursue. We asked Code Like a Girl co-founder, Vanessa Doake, to share her story and thoughts.
Tell us a little about Code Like a Girl. What were your inspiration behind creating your startup?
Code Like a Girl is an organisation dedicated to providing girls with the tools, knowledge and support to enter and flourish in the world of coding. We do this primarily through our tech focussed events which we hold in Sydney and Melbourne (and soon Adelaide). Our workshops are for girls in grades 1-12, as well as adults who have an interest in coding. Most recently we launched a new service, ‘Working Space’, which connects our community to jobs with employers that are committed to equality in their workplace. We also have an apprenticeship commencing in January 2018 which provides another route for those interested in entering the tech industry.
Code Like a Girl was started to help eliminate the feelings of isolation which are not uncommon amongst women who work in male-dominated industries. We wanted to create a sisterhood where women working in technology could meet with others, have peer-support, and learn and grow together. We also wanted to create a welcoming and unintimidating space where girls and women could come to learn about technology, and to encourage more to enter the field
As two co-founders who are both women in tech, how have you dealt with the largely male-dominated industry?
Finding ways to connect with other women in tech has been key, and a large part of why Code Like a Girl was born. Having a place where you can find a supportive network, mentors, and be connected with experts in a variety of tech fields is very energising and can keep you motivated in an industry that can sometimes feel daunting.
What would be your advice for women who are looking to break into the tech industry?
Try and get experience in the field you’re interested in prior to taking the leap. Our apprenticeship can be a great way to do this, or coming along to a Code Like a Girl event to meet with a number of talented women in tech to hear about their career journeys and insights can be a great way to enter the industry.
Where do you see Code Like a Girl in a year?
2018 looks set to be an exciting year for Code Like a Girl. We’re launching our events into our third state, South Australia (joining VIC and NSW), and we are launching our apprenticeship program to assist our community with another route to enter the tech industry, and assist organisations with their recruitment efforts.
Thanks for sharing Vanessa, we are excited to see where the future takes Code Like a Girl!
To find out more about Code Like a Girl, their events and workshops, check out their:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/codelikeagirlau/?ref=br_rsTwitter: @codelikeagirlau
To hear more inspirational stories, make sure you grab your spot at StartCon 2017 now!
