</#DigitalRoleModels – Showcasing the trailblazers in the digital sector>
With 41% of young people we surveyed asking for more diverse role models in tech, and 78% of female students unable to name a famous woman working in the sector, the Institute of Coding (IoC) understands that lack of representation can be a barrier to joining the digital sector. In this blog, we’re highlighting some of the inspiring role models we’ve worked with across our boards, partners and CTRL Your Future campaign, to help you see yourself in tech.
In higher education
If you’re thinking about studying a digital subject at university, current students like Harriet Davey are a great example of the many creative directions you can take with digital. Trained in 3D, CGI and graphic design, Harriet studies at the University of the Arts London and has an eye for fantastical visual creations. Watch her interview below from our IoC x DIGI-GXL event last November.
Graduates forging ahead
After completing higher education, starting out in your career can be a daunting prospect if you don’t see yourself represented in the digital sector. Jazmin Morris, creative technologist and digital mentor at our Sisterhood virtual create-a-thon in May, said that she learned the mantra, “if you can’t see it, you can’t be it,” from her work with the Stemettes. Watch Jazmin explain the importance of diversity and role models.
Carving their own paths
Some of the role models we’ve worked with have made it their mission to throw open the doors and get more people from their communities into digital. Jay Ann Lopez, founder of the Black Girl Gamers, created the group in 2015 as a safe space for Black women to enjoy and discuss gaming with their peers. Since then, Black Girl Gamers has grown to over 6,000 members. Watch Jay Ann talk about her journey into digital at our 2020 conference.
Experts in their field
As part of our mission to encourage a wider and more diverse group of people into digital education and careers, we work with many tech industry employers who give us guidance on the skills learners need in today’s workplace. At our 2020 conference, we heard from experts like Jacqueline de Rojas, President of techUK and co-Chair of the IoC, and many other fantastic representatives from tech, on addressing this digital skills gap. Watch Jacqueline’s panel to find out how you can be part of a more inclusive digital sector.
If you’re interested in seeing more of the senior-level role models that the IoC works with from our boards and partners, check out our conference wrap up video.
If you’ve been inspired by these role models to start or continue your digital skills journey, check out our course catalogue for short courses, degrees and events. If you’d like to see more of the fantastic role models we’ve worked with, please visit our YouTube channel.