Keynote Remarks: You Cannot Be What You Cannot See

Dr. Tarika Barrett, CEO of Girls Who Code, is on a mission to close the gender gap in tech and change the perception of what a computer programmer looks like. Her first step on this ambitious mission is to empower young women — especially those from underrepresented backgrounds — to feel like they belong. In this talk, Dr. Barrett shines the light on the transformative power of learning spaces where women can collaborate to problem-solve, innovate, and envision themselves as leaders and, more importantly, equals in their fields. Speaking with a palpable passion, she inspires individuals to dream big and let go of their fears while emphasizing the importance of mentorship and outlining ways that organizations can advance their cultures to be more supportive of women, amplify their voices, and tear down systemic roadblocks that women so often encounter in the workplace.