From Fear to Fulfillment: Celebrating Three Years as CEO of Girls Who Code
As I reflect on my three-year anniversary as the CEO of Girls Who Code, I’m filled with a profound sense of gratitude and inspiration. It feels like just yesterday when Reshma Saujani entrusted me with this role, amidst the challenges of a global pandemic that shook the very foundations of our tech and education landscape. Yet, here we are, three years later, stronger and more resilient than ever.
One of the most remarkable aspects of my journey has been witnessing the unwavering bravery of our community. This past week, I met up with our Alumni Advisory Council, and I’m incredibly inspired by how they constantly push the envelope and are truly becoming the next generation of leaders and changemakers in tech. Despite the obstacles and uncertainties we face, our students, alumni, and supporters have continued to push boundaries and challenge the status quo regarding what an engineer looks like.
Over the past three years, Girls Who Code has been at the forefront of transforming STEM education, making it not only accessible but also engaging and fun. Our initiatives, such as #GirlJams, have empowered our students to explore the exciting world of AI through interactive platforms, laying the foundation for future innovation and creativity.
But our impact extends beyond the classroom. This year, I was honored to join Governor Hochul’s Emerging Technology Advisory Board, where we’re spearheading efforts to ensure that everyone has a seat at the table in AI. As this new technology becomes increasingly a large part of our lives, it’s vital that we create an equitable landscape in tech and ensure the workforce is able to thrive as new technologies emerge. By connecting with industry leaders, we’re paving the way forward for the future of tech, especially for our students and community.
Our efforts have garnered recognition on a national scale, from multiple visits to the White House to making Fast Company’s 2023 Brands That Matter and being named one of the 50 Best Nonprofits To Work For by The NonProfit Times for the third year in a row.
Girls Who Code truly made our mark in the tech and culture zeitgeist this year. I was pleased to be featured on Mission Unstoppable, a show that is hosted by Miranda Cosgrove that highlights leaders in STEM. Girls Who Code and our founder Reshma Saujani were also featured in an Apple Commercial alongside Issa Rae and songwriter PinkPatheress which was viewed by over 4.7 million people. We’ve had our work showcased in mainstream media outlets, reaching millions of people and amplifying our message of empowerment and equality.
Yet, perhaps the most rewarding aspect of my journey has been witnessing the growth and success of our programs. From our largest summer program to date, serving over 7,500 students, to the expansion of initiatives like our Leadership Academy and Mentoring Corps., we’re deepening our impact and creating pathways for future generations of women and nonbinary individuals in tech. We are giving our students the resources they need to thrive in tech and incorporating AI education into our curriculum. Recently, our students participated in our #AI4FinancialGood challenge where they explored how AI can be used to help users with financial literacy. We also expanded our College Loops program and I’m proud to say we have over 300 College Loops across the nation.
As I look ahead to the future, I’m filled with excitement and optimism for all that’s to come. I’m immensely proud of the dedicated team at Girls Who Code, whose passion and commitment continue to drive our mission forward. And most importantly, I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve our phenomenal students, whose potential knows no bounds.
Three years ago, I embarked on this journey with a sense of trepidation and uncertainty. Today, I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit renewed with purpose. Together, we’ve achieved so much, but our journey is far from over. With determination and resilience, I know that the best is yet to come. Here’s to the next chapter of empowering girls and nonbinary individuals to change of tech and AI, one line of code at a time.
Thank you for reading a letter from our CEO Dr. Tarika Barrett. Subscribe to our newsletter for more tech, culture, and #STEMspiration.
