about us
our purpose
Mental illnesses and mental disorders are one of the leading causes of poor health across the world. According to the World Health Organization, “One in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. Around 450 million people currently suffer from such conditions….Treatments are available, but nearly two-thirds of people with a known mental disorder never seek help from a health professional.” Why? The mental illness stigma has led people to believe that people with mental illnesses are dangerous, crazy, or dumb. Stereotypes and prejudices have taught us to believe that people with mental illnesses do not fit into society, they are not normal and the illness is their fault. None of this is true. When people do not understand something they become afraid or wary of it. Our purpose is to break the stigmatization of mental illnesses, inform people of some of the most common mental illnesses, and how to help people who are mentally ill.
Nadia Anees is a rising senior at Fremont High School in Sunnyvale, CA.She wanted to attend Girls Who Code because of her interest in programming, design, and the environment of world-renowned companies such as Amazon. Girls Who Code provided her with many amazing opportunities to connect with skilled employees of top tech companies, who have solidified her decision to pursue a career in Computer Science and UI/UX Design. Throughout the program, she learned much more than just topics related to Computer Science- she learned that being a female is not a should not be treated as a barrier in the workplace, and that with enough hard work and dedication, anything is possible. In her free time, you can find Nadia in the gym or on the track, in any local coffee shop or in the kitchen making some extravagant sweet treat.
Mia Cruz is a rising junior at California High School in San Ramon, CA. She decided to join Girls Who Code because technology was something that always interested her. Although she had minimal experience in coding, she felt very passionate about it and instantly wanted to learn as much as she could. The summer immersion program taught her a lot about computer science, the importance of girls supporting girls, and that failure is necessary to succeed. In the future, she hopes to pursue a career in Computer Science and encourage more women and people of color to get involved in STEM. You can find Mia at a local boba place, watching Netflix, spending time with family and friends, or dancing in her room to one of her playlists.
Blain Engeda is a rising junior at Arroyo High School in San Lorenzo, CA. She joined Girls Who Code because she has always wanted to learn more about computer science and technology. She had previously only taken one coding class, and was interested in learning more about the world of technology and computer science. This summer program has taught her many coding languages such as Python, and also many valuable skills like how to support others and to never give up. She has also learned networking skills and potential career options. In the future she hopes to pursue a career in computer science or engineering, and to encourage other girls to take coding classes and programs such as GWC. You can find Blain spending time with her family and pets, reading a good book, or putting together a 3D puzzle.
Huda Memon is a rising junior at K-12 Online High School in San Mateo, CA. She joined Girls Who Code with no experience in Computer Science, but after completing the program she has learned Python, Arduino C, HTML, and CSS. She hopes to pursue a career in tech in a job where she can help the the less fortunate and increase the amount women and people of color in STEM. She will forever cherish the memories, friendships, and experiences Girls Who Code gave her. You can find her reading, playing video games, watching movies and T.V. shows, creating things, and spending time with family and friends.