How it all started

Last year a time like this I didn't know how to code. But through a video I watched of how amazing women became self-taught developers, I decided to look around and use resources I could find. To be honest, at first, I was going in blind because I didn't have anyone in the tech industry. But a YouTube recommendation from The come up about how to be a self-taught software engineer completely changed my view.
When I told my friends and family that I wanted to change careers to tech, I could see the doubt and resistance in their eyes. Going to campus is the conventional route. My path of being self-taught was crazy and an illusion to them. But I do understand them, they love the safer route but to me, going back to Uni wasn't doable financially. I started using free resources like FreeCodeCamp to get me started. At the same time, I joined Dev to get more insight and got inspired by Lydia Hallie and the ladybug 🐞 podcast team of engineers. They truly shed light 🔆 on how to get started in the industry and how to change careers. That's how it all started, yes from a YouTube recommendation. 😁

My most recent achievement was…

I was able to join a small start-up that's passionate about code and they have now become my inspiration in the industry.
I didn't expect to have a place there at first but they are so encouraging and help me along the way. As the only female web developer on the team, it made me want to work harder and bring more female engineers to the team.

My biggest goal is…

To inspire more youth around my community to join the tech industry. I believe anyone can do it, it's just a matter of finding someone who can guide along the way. Bringing more information on how to be a self-taught developer will change someone's life one day. Being part of that will be my greatest joy this year.

My advice for allies to support underrepresented folks who code is...

Always stand up for those who can't speak up for themselves. Be their voice and work together for a better environment that's positive and supports all.

In Conclusion

I didn't want the post to be lengthy but I hope someone will be inspired by it. I believe we all have a part to play in this life, you can be someone's inspiration or role model without you knowing it. Keep pushing and keep fighting for your dreams. All it takes is taking the first step and working hard for what you want.