Introduction

Hey there, lovely readers! 🌟

I'm thrilled to finally be putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard, should I say?) for my very first official blog post. Yeah, you caught me – there might have been a bit of procrastination involved, but hey, we're here now, right?

Let's dive right into the heart of the matter. Picture this: a journey filled with growth, empowerment, and a ton of community spirit. That's exactly what being a part of She Code Africa has been for me. From the year 2021, I've been lucky enough to wear a few hats – starting as a co-lead and eventually taking the helm as the Chapter Lead for our vibrant community.

As I sit back and think about the highs, lows, triumphs, and challenges, one thing becomes crystal clear, it's been one heck of an adventure! And I'm beyond excited to give you a sneak peek into this rollercoaster ride that's shaped who I am today. So, let's jump right into the magic that's unfolded since I became a part of this amazing journey. 🚀

Passing the Torch

My journey began as a co-lead alongside Ifenna Okoye, a passionate advocate for women in technology. Together, we forged connections, organized events, and fostered an environment where young women could thrive in the tech world. Eventually, the time came for Ifenna to pass the torch and embark on a new adventure by starting a new She Code Africa chapter, SCA Anambra. Her dedication and leadership set the stage for a seamless transition, and her energy continues to inspire us.

Empowering through Webinars and Bootcamps

One of the defining moments of our chapter's journey was hosting a series of impactful online webinars. These sessions brought together experts from various fields to share insights, discuss trends, and provide invaluable guidance. However, our proudest achievement has been the organization of a comprehensive 6-week BootCamp, offering tracks in frontend development, UI/UX design, and Python programming. Witnessing over 20 talented students graduate from our program was a true testament to their dedication and the power of our community.

Expanding Membership and Inspiring Success

As we poured our hearts into building a supportive and inclusive community, our efforts did not go unnoticed. Our membership grew by an impressive 30%, a clear indicator of the positive impact we were making. It was heartwarming to see more and more young women join us on this journey of empowerment and skill development. The successes of our members in various tech fields continue to inspire us, reinforcing the importance of our mission.

A Year of Achievement

The current year has been particularly eventful, with a series of successful events that have showcased the depth of talent within our chapter. STEM A Girl Extended was a resounding success, showcasing the diverse talents and aspirations of young women in STEM. The event highlighted the importance of breaking down gender barriers and encouraging girls to pursue their dreams fearlessly.

Looking Ahead

As we stand on the brink of new opportunities and challenges, we remain committed to our mission of empowering women in technology. Currently, we are excited to be organizing a non-technical BootCamp, focusing on critical skills such as content creation, technical writing, and social media management. This endeavor reflects our dedication to nurturing well-rounded professionals equipped with both technical and communication skills.

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

None of this would have been possible without the incredible support and dedication of my remarkable team members: Lilibel, Chioma, Awele, Sola, Precious, Treasure, Grace, Ebube, Lami, and MJ. Your unwavering commitment and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our achievements.

I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to She Code Africa and Ada Oyom for entrusting us with the opportunity to impact lives and create lasting change. Your vision and support have been instrumental in making our journey so meaningful.

Conclusion

My experience as a She Code Africa Asaba Chapter Lead has been a transformative journey, filled with moments of learning, inspiration, and empowerment. From hosting webinars and BootCamps to witnessing the growth of our membership and celebrating the successes of our members, each step has been a testament to the power of community and collaboration. As we continue to chart new territories and empower the next generation of women in technology, I am excited to see what the future holds for our chapter and the incredible women who are part of it. Together, we are breaking barriers, shattering stereotypes, and creating a brighter future for all.