Ladies Learning Code

Photoshop Mentors – bringing Design to Ladies Learning Code

I am thrilled to introduce the Mentors for Ladies Learning Code’s very first design workshop Introduction to Photoshop / Illustrator and InDesign – happening this Saturday.

Our Lead Instructors:

Ayla Newhouse | @aisforayla

Ayla Newhouse is a designer and creative generalist. A graduate of the Communication Design Program at the Emily Carr Institute, and the Interdisciplinary Design Program at the Institute without Boundaries, Ayla has worked at Normative Design, Bruce Mau Design, and HoBO Magazine. Today, Ayla is a freelance designer and the co-founder of 1THINGapp.com, which helps people improve their lives through gratitude. She’s extra grateful to be involved with Ladies Learning Code because it’s a chance for her to share her passion for good design and meaningful technologies.

Ryan Bannon | @rdbannon

A perpetual student of the world and graduate of the Creative Advertising program at Seneca College. In September of 2009 Ryan helped co-found Playground Inc. a user-experience design agency in the heart of Toronto. Day to day he works with web startups to help align their user-experience with business goals. In his short career Ryan has been lead designer on many innovative projects. One such project, Toronto Standard, won the Canadian Online Publishing Award for design of the year and was shortlisted by .Net Magazine (@netmag) for site of the year.  His involvement with Ladies Learning Code comes from a passion for the magic of hands-on practical learning and the drive for Toronto to be one of the best places in the world to make the web. If you have any questions or just want to say hi, you can reach him at ryan[at]playgroundinc.com or @rdbannon on Twitter.

Charlotte Tang | @charlottejtang

Charlotte is Espresso Agency’s resident Interactive Designer virtuoso with skills spanning design, animation, and video. Her penchant for non-traditional media led her to a degree in New Media at the University of Toronto, where she obsessively examined the effects of social media and technology on everyday interactions. This, combined with her black belt in design, makes her an expert in all things interactive. Charlotte’s love for creating interactive experiences is evident in every aspect of her life. When she’s not coming up with inspired and intuitive designs, you’ll likely find her crafting the perfect personalized gift for someone—a giant Chicken McNugget pillow, for instance. In this Ladies Learning Code workshop, Charlotte is eager to pass on her knowledge of design and empower people to step out of their comfort zone to explore their creativity. Find Charlotte on Twitter @charlottejtang.

Angelica Ramos | @angelykke

Angelica is a graphic designer originally from Mexico City. In 2009, she came to Canada for a postgraduate degree program at the Institute without Boundaries at George Brown College. When she finished the program, she was hired by the Institute as a part-time designer and facilitator. Next, Angelica joined Hypenotic, a communication firm that serves values-driven clients and specializes in meaningful marketing, where she works as an Art Director. Angelica loves a challenge – last year, as a personal project, she decided to design an album cover for a new song every day for a hundred days. This year, her project involves creating a design each day in an attempt to graphically communicate (and hopefully understand) winter in Toronto.  Now, she is thrilled to accept a brand new challenge: being one of the designers leading the first Illustrator/Photoshop workshop for Ladies Learning Code. You can find her design series on her tumblr: http://angelykke.tumblr.com/, follow her on Twitter at @angelykke, or see her portfolio at www.angelica-ramos.com.

Our Mentors:

Ivonne Karamoy (@ivonnekn  | http://ivonnekaramoy.com)
Freelance Designer and Developer (art direction, graphic design, web/interactive/UI/UX design & development, illustration)

What are you passionate about?  “Great design in any shape or form, using technology and design to enrich a person’s experience, collaboration and learning in technology and creativity in all forms. I’m also passionate about travelling, good food, and my relationship with others, especially my family and friends.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I stumbled upon Ladies Learning Code and thought it was such a great idea, I bookmarked it. Shortly after I read some articles about the shortage of females in technology programs and positions and I thought that was unfortunate. I remember being one of a handful of women in my Computer Science program but I thought things had progressed since. That’s when I knew I had to get involved with LLC. I also like that at it’s core, it’s about people in the industry (male or female) helping women who are willing to learn and have a craving for it. I think it is a great initiative that enables more women to learn about technology in a safe, collaborative and non-intimidating way. At it’s core, it’s about people in the industry helping others who are willing to learn and have a craving for it. I enjoy helping others and I get to meet all sorts of amazing people along the way.”

Jenny Zhang (@phirephoenix | http://www.phirephoenix.com )
Auditor at Big Accounting Firm

What are you passionate about?  “Writing about everything and anything that interests me – this includes silly stories, attempts at novels, and most recently, lengthy blog posts about social issues and the role of technology in our lives.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I dabble in web development beceause I find coding and building a page from scratch to be really rewarding, and I’d like to help bring that experience to other women who may not have thought to get involved in something like this otherwise. Also, I would really like to meet other likeminded geeks who could help me along in my attempts to learn more code myself.”

Ameena Philips (@ameenaphilips | www.ameenaphilips.com)
Php Web Developer (html emails, landing pages, blogs) at WebCanada Inc.

What are you passionate about?  “Web development and yes, WordPress!”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Being the only female web developer at my company, I’m lonely and would love to see more women out there. Also, I’m very excited about helping someone else have fun with web development.”

Nadine Lessio (http://nadinelessio.com/)
Freelancer – Designing websites for mostly independent creatives

What are you passionate about? ”Cycling / Architecture / Travel”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I wanted to give something back and help people get started.”

Kristin Nicholson(@bandofgoldk | http://bogportfolio.com/)
Web Design/ Research Intern – Cartilage Inc.

What are you passionate about?  “Making things look good!”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I’ve been to a few sessions in the past and really enjoyed myself and learned a lot about coding. I feel confident with Illustrator and Photoshop and want to help others navigate their way through it.”

Melissa Bathory (@melissabathory | www.missbdesign.com/blog)
Graphic Designer at edCetra Training Inc.

What are you passionate about?  “Brand Identity & IU Design.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “LLC is awesome and I wanted to be a part of it and share my knowledge to help teach and inspire others.”

Marjorie Castro (@sweetlimeca |www.sweet-lime.ca)
Freelance Web Designer

What are you passionate about?  “I’m passionate about color, patterns, texture, space, shapes and typography, to create functional, beautiful online and mobile designs.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “The visions and goals of the group are ones I support and want to collaborate and pass on skills learned onto others.”

Erica Laycock (@ealaycock)

What are you passionate about?  “Being Creative! I love all that is art and design.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I love what Ladies Learning Code is doing, and I thought this was a great opportunity to share some of my knowledge with fellow ladies.”

Mark Staplehurst (@britburger | www.markstaplehurst.com)
developer/designer at ecentricarts

What are you passionate about?  “Language, design and the application of technology.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “To encourage those with an interest in learning more about the wonderful tools of a very satisfying and creative trade.”

Cassie McDaniel (@cassiemc | www.cassiemcdaniel.com)
I’m the lead designer with the Human Factors team at the Centre for Global eHelath Innovation. I design mobile health apps and medical device interfaces. I also write about design for publications like A List Apart, Smashing Magazine, Webdesigner Depot, Design Edge Canada, and others.

What are you passionate about?  “Great ideas, whatever the medium.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I’m always eager to help foster and support Toronto’s design community. I love to see people getting inspired and learning new things.”

Erin Morris (@erinmorris)
Visual Designer at FreshBooks

What are you passionate about?  “Art & design. Life should be simple, functional, and beautiful. Or at least full of chocolate.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Ladies Learning Code has created a fantastic community focused on continuous, and fun learning. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?”

Jennifer Braunton (@JennBraunton | www.orijendesign.com)
Freelance Graphic and Web Designer at Orijen Design

What are you passionate about?  “Art & design. Life should be simple, functional, and beautiful. Or at least full of chocolate.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Ladies Learning Code has created a fantastic community focused on continuous, and fun learning. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?”

Cristina Graci (@Cryssi996 | http://www.obsessivecompulsive.me)
Project Manager – Managing the production of websites and multimedia projects for Toyota Canada Inc. at TPM Communications

What are you passionate about?  “I am passionate about technology and figuring out how things work. I love learning new things and it amazes me that a simple google search can be the greatest teacher. Over the last year I’ve also mixed in crafts/fashion into my passion, and I’ve recently become a little obsessive over makeup and nail art!”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Ladies Learning Code has made it so easy, and comfortable for people to learn a new skill. I think it’s an amazing opportunity to be able to help out and teach people something they never thought they’d be able to understand without years of training!”

Winston Vitan Floro
Graphic Designer at Drake International

What are you passionate about?  “Communication Design.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Felt I can contribute and help people learn.”

Laura Burk (www.lauraburk.daportfolio.com )
I’m currently a Graphic Designer at Endloop, where I create branding, user interface design, and create assets for mobile applications at Endloop Mobile

What are you passionate about?  “I’m passionate about expression in all forms – graphic arts, music, or even carving little people out of soap. (Yes, I’ve done it – and don’t knock it, it makes your hands smell springtime fresh!)”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “As a former Media Arts educational assistant and founder of CSUSB’s Design Collective, I’ve always been enthusiastic about helping people garner the tools they need to unleash the ideas spinning in their minds. All that’s needed for digital creativity to flourish is a way to escape from brain to screen, and I love seeing people learn how to enslave Photoshop for themselves.”

Danielle O’Hanley (@dohanley | http://www.danielleohanley.com)
I’m a content editor at RedFlagDeals.com. My typical work day involves hunting for deals and sales that are relevant to Canadian shoppers, writing for our blog and helping manage our Facebook and Twitter communities. On top of that, I do some freelance graphic design and have recently worked on projects with the Ryerson Journalism and Law Research centres, as well as productions at the Ottawa Fringe Festival.

What are you passionate about?  “Learning (and helping others learn!). I’m a strong believer in continually trying to improve yourself and your skills. I’m also passionate about writing, swimming and delicious food.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “When you want to learn something new, especially when it comes to code and design, it can be difficult to figure out where to start. I took the Ruby and Mobile Development workshops and love the energy surrounding Ladies Learning Code. As soon as I saw an opportunity for me to help out and give something back, I went for it!”

Natalie De Filippis (@ExceptionalErr)
Web Application Developer/Applications specialist at Henry’s. I support all applications used by employees, and build ones to fill the gaps.

What are you passionate about?  “Java <333″

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I am the only girl on the dev team… Its a little ridiculous.”

Luuk van Baars (@LuukvanBaars| www.luukvanbaars.com)
Web Designer at cx interactive

What are you passionate about?  “Brand Identity & IU Design.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “LLC is awesome and I wanted to be a part of it and share my knowledge to help teach and inspire others.”

Hannah Hall (@doubleHdoubleH )
production work & graphic design at Rosetta

What are you passionate about?  “In terms of my field (graphic design) I am most passionate about print design, branding, symmetry/patterns, and black & white photography.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I have taken two workshops (Intro to WordPress & Basic CSS/HTML) and I absolutely loved them – so I figure I could lend a hand where I have knowledge to share.”

Julia Liu (https://juliadesignblog.wordpress.com/)
Business Anaylst at Ministry of the Attorney General

What are you passionate about?  “UI / Accessibility / Usability / Design Trends /… Travelling and learning about new people & places are great opportunities for me to pursue my passion for photography.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I’d like to share my expertise and knowledge.”

Kimberley Kirby (@thekirbside_k )
Student studying Digital Media Arts at Seneca College

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I took apart in an LLC workshop and I had a really positive experience which is why I wanted to be a mentor so I could be continue to be apart of LLC and hopefully be able to pass on a positive experience to others.”

Awesome, awesome, awesome group!

For more info about Ladies Learning Code, follow us on Twitter or check out our Facebook Page. If you’d like to join our email list, click here or to volunteer as a Mentor, join our developer email list

Interview with Dayna from GelaSkins (Our Photoshop Workshop Sponsor)

This is an interview with Dayna Winter, Communications Manager at GelaSkins. Read on to find out more about this cool Toronto-based company, and why they’ve decided to sponsor Ladies Learning Code!

Dayna, tell us a bit about yourself.

I joined the GelaSkins team last April and my ever-evolving communications role includes a little of everything, including media relations, product photography, and even a little new-artist recruitment. My really varied interests and work experience tend to make me look a little scattered on paper but GelaSkins recognized that I could bring a lot to a small team. The nature of the super-collaborative work environment means that we’re all dabbling in everything, so I really get to use my crazy mix of skills on a regular basis. I actually studied Illustration, too, and while I don’t really put my painting to good use, I love being in the company of great artists and my background definitely gives me an eye for scouting new art for the site.

We all know what GelaSkins are – but can you give us more of the story? For example, when was the company founded, and why?

The idea emerged in 2005 when the founders, Drew Downs and Jamie Pichora, were both frustrated by the lack of low-bulk and well-designed iPod protection on the market. They began investigating clear film options but then it really blossomed when they had the idea of incorporating art. It grew from something purely functional into a chance to collaborate with talented artists around the world. My favourite part of the story is that Jamie was in the process of applying to medical school when he and Drew started scheming! I’ve known these two for most of the life of the company and it’s been really cool to see it grow from two dudes in a living room to a staff of 30 in a great lofty space in the Junction. I’m obviously thrilled to be a real part of a company with such great momentum.

What do you love about working at GelaSkins?

I love that GelaSkins is a company that truly embraces collaboration. It sounds cliché, but it’s really not. It happens totally organically. The office space is open-concept, and while it’s professional, it’s also really casual and team-centric. There are a lot of great creative minds that collaborate every day to propel GelaSkins to great new things. I also love that I can really be myself and that my creative (and sometimes offbeat) input is valued. I was hired into a position that didn’t really have a job description. It still doesn’t, technically. I like that I’m steering it a little, and that I can worm my way into new, fun projects because I don’t have any defined boundaries.

GelaSkins obviously values art and design. Why are these things so important?

We have a lot of competitors. The device case and skin options on the market are really vast – it’s overwhelming. But there aren’t many companies really focusing on real artists and great design. That’s what really sets us apart, I think. Our team is comprised of a lot of artists, designers and art lovers and we think it’s really important to support our own and to make great art accessible to the masses.

You have over 300,000 Fans on Facebook. What’s the secret?

We won’t lie – we definitely take advantage of Facebook ads. But much of our audience comes to us for our content. We like to think that we’ve found a pretty nice mix of product info, fun contests, and sharing great things we find on the internet. I also attribute our success in social media to our team of dedicated people who monitor it – half of our team has admin privileges, so we get a nice mix of content and perspective. We use it often as a customer service tool, and it helps us provide really efficient help to our community.

Why is GelaSkins supporting Ladies Learning Code’s first Intro to Photoshop, Illustrator and Design workshop?

It’s definitely a great fit for us to be involved with this particular workshop because of our commitment to supporting emerging artists. We are also looking forward to connecting with creative folks looking for easy and unique self-promotion tools. Our custom service allows anyone to create a unique skin or case with, say, their company logo, personal art or photography. And because we have no minimums, it’s really affordable. We’re really excited to be supporting such a cool Toronto-based not-for-profit!

–

Thanks again to GelaSkins for sponsoring our first-ever design-related workshop. Support from companies like GelaSkins makes it possible for Ladies Learning Code to continue to do what we love: creating learning experiences for people who want to learn computer programming and other technical skills in a social and collaborative way. Thanks to Dayna, GelaSkins, and our other amazing sponsors for their amazing support – we couldn’t do it without you.

A New Workshop Format (and MOAR WORDPRESS!)

Taking WordPress to the Next Level – Intro to Custom Post Types and Custom Fields with Wes Bos

A couple weeks ago, when we announced the launch of our job board, we hinted that we have another new initiative to roll out in February – and it’s time for us to share it! We’re happy to introduce a new workshop format – among other exciting things, this also means that WordPress is back, and so is all-star Ladies Learning Code Lead Instructor Wes Bos. Wes led our WordPress workshops in November and January, so we’re thrilled that he’s decided to join us again to help us launch this new format. We’re all pretty excited about it.

This is also going to be our first time offering a workshop topic that isn’t for total beginners – to register for this workshop, you must have a basic understanding of WordPress. For example, you need to have self-hosted website with WordPress (.org) already installed – either locally (WAMP or MAMP) or on a server. If you aren’t sure what that means, don’t worry! You’re the perfect candidate for one of our weekend WordPress workshops, which we’ll be offering again sometime in the next few months. Stay tuned!

Registration opens at 7 pm on Wednesday, February 22nd. You can register up to four tickets at a time for this event. Click here for the link to the registration page.

Why a new workshop format?

We’re excited to introduce a new workshop format, for three main reasons:

1) Workshops for non-beginners!

Until this point, all of our workshops have been geared toward people who are beginners – as we say on our event registration pages, “if you know absolutely nothing about coding or computer programming, you’ve come to the right place!” Now that we’re seven workshops in, there are a lot of people in the Ladies Learning Code community who are no longer absolute beginners. We’ve also been asked many times now to run workshops for people who are “just beyond beginners”, and WordPress has been in particularly high demand. The final reason we’re excited to introduce a workshop for non-beginners? We know we have a gap – people come to our weekend workshops and have a great time, and then many of them look to us to give them ideas for what to do next. Until now, we haven’t had a great answer, but we’ve known for months that we wanted to find a way to fill that gap. Our new format is the perfect starting point.

2) More WordPress!

We know our community wants more WordPress! Our last WordPress workshop (led by Wes in January) sold out almost instantly, and had a waitlist of over 100 people within a few hours.  Since then, we’ve received dozens of emails and tweets asking us to bring WordPress back as soon as possible. Knowing that WordPress is popular with our community, we’re excited to offer people who have a basic level of comfort with WordPress the chance to dive deeper, by learning all about custom post types and custom fields. This workshop is ideal for anyone who attended either of the Ladies Learning Code Intro to WordPress workshops, or anyone who is comfortable enough with WordPress to install a self-hosted WordPress site on their own server. WordPress seems like the perfect first topic for our new workshop format, and we couldn’t ask for a more knowledgeable and engaging developer than Wes Bos to lead us.

3) Instructors and mentors get paid – yay!

We know that our lead instructors and mentors have a great time volunteering at our workshops. After all, all of our lead instructors have agreed to lead more workshops, and many of our mentors come back to help every month (and we love them for that). But, sometimes, for the lead instructors and mentors who help us a lot, we want to offer them more than just undying appreciation. So, for this new format, we’ve baked it into the model: everyone who teaches gets paid for their time. When you buy a ticket for this new workshop format, you can feel good knowing that you’re contributing to making Ladies Learning Code a more sustainable organization, because we’re able to compensate the people who really make Ladies Learning Code magical. (Eventually, we hope that Ladies Learning Code can help to make the leap to being a freelance web developer, designer or entrepreneur less scary for people, by providing talented members of Toronto’s tech community the chance to make money by leading Ladies Learning Code workshops. It’s just something that feels right to us.)

How exactly will this new workshop format be different?

This workshop format is different in a few ways. First, capacity for this workshop format  is 30 people (that’s about 1/3 the number of people present at our weekend workshops). This will create a more intimate and an even more collaborative learning experience. Second, these workshops will take place during the week, from 6:15 – 9:30 pm. They’re just over three hours, so you don’t have to give up an entire day of your weekend (just in case that’s something that’s been holding you back). Finally, as you now know, you’ll be led by Wes Bos, and there will be two incredible mentors present to help you throughout the workshop – both of them will have helped with one or both of our previous WordPress workshops. So, not only are the people you’ll be learning from experienced WordPress developers, they’re also familiar with the “Ladies Learning Code Way” (if there is such a thing). We’re sure this is going to create an awesome learning experience for everyone involved.

What else is included? Pizza. And everyone who attends gets a free theme from Themify.me ($39 value).

The cost of this workshop? It’s $35. And we’ll be offering it four times: on March 8th, March 15th, March 22nd and March 29th. (In case it isn’t clear, it’s the same workshop repeated four times.) These workshops run from 6:15 pm to 9:30 pm and will be hosted by the new MaRS Commons (101 College Street). Thanks, MaRS!

What about the content?

This workshop is called “Taking WordPress to the Next Level: Intro to Custom Post Types & Custom Fields with Wes Bos”. Long, but catchy, right?

First, let’s finally get this part out of the way. To participate in this workshop, you must:
- be comfortable with WordPress and editing themes at a basic level
- have self-hosted site with WordPress (.org) already installed – local (WAMP or MAMP) or on a server
- have access to your FTP account and be familar with uploading files to FTP

(Aren’t sure if that’s you? You might be underestimating yourself. Please email us if you aren’t sure, and we’ll help you determine whether this workshop is for you or not!)

About Custom Post Types & Custom Fields:

Custom post types come in many different forms – which is the best part about them! They are used to create Portfolios, Albums, Library, Staff Directories, Online Stores and add endless flexibility so that you can use WordPress as a powerful CMS, and less like a traditional blog.

Custom fields let us break away from the (sometimes boring) Title and Content inputs, and allows a fully customized, user-friendly backend for your website.

Description:

In this workshop, we will be creating a recipe page that allows you to add custom fields such as cooking time, ingredients, steps, photo and comments. Don’t worry, we don’t expect you to all be chefs! You will quickly see how this example can be applied to the many different ways you use WordPress.

Custom Post Type = Recipe
Custom Fields = Name, Description, cooking time, ingredients, steps, photo and user comments.

What’s included with this workshop?
• A theme from Themify.me ($39 value)
• A 10:1 participant-to-instructor ratio (with a maximum of 30 participants)
• A fun and inclusive learning envionment
• A great venue (MaRS Commons) with stable wifi
• A pizza party!

You can register up to four tickets at a time for this event. Registration opens at 7 pm on Wednesday, February 22nd – that’s today! Click here for the link to the registration page. Hope you’ll join us for some more advanced WordPress fun!

It’s back. Intro to HTML/CSS. Meet Your Mentors Here.

By popular request, we are excited to bring back our Introduction to HTML/CSS workshop this Sunday. I am excited to announce our dedicated Mentors, led by the smart and cool Mark Reale.

Mark will be joined by some fabulous people. A big thanks to them all.

Lead Instructor: Mark Reale(@markreale | http://markreale.net)
Chief Culture Officer at BNOTIONS / Founder of Yorkville Media Centre / Professor at Seneca College

What are you passionate about?  “My passion for communication and story-telling are what led me to the tech industry. Technology is providing new ways to communicate, and it is a blast to have an opportunity to be on the front-lines as things get pushed forward. Equally, I have a passion for helping people empower themselves through making learning resources as open and available as possible. The Internet is making information easier to find than ever, but it still helps to build a community and resources where people can learn to navigate through all of this information.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Everything about Ladies Learning Code resonates with the goals of all our Yorkville Media Centre initiatives. Introduce ambitious, curious people to new technologies, and help equip them with tools to build and explore. I love the presence of Ladies Learning Code in the city, and we are more than happy to do whatever we can to help the group flourish.”

Co-Lead Instructor: Aaron Ritchie (@vsmantise )
Senior Developer at BNOTIONS / Instructor at Yorkville Media Centre / President of Harth Records

What are you passionate about?  “My passions are fourfold. #1: I have a passion for building cool things, be it a website, application API, or even an interface. Though my role at BNOTIONS is as a back-end programmer, I do consider myself a front-end programmer as well. I love working with CSS and making things look pretty. #2: I have a passion for music. I love playing, composing, and producing a wide range of styles. #3: I have a passion for languages. I’m not talking about PHP, Objective-C, etc., but rather international languages. I have been studying Japanese for the past eleven years, and I have recently begun studying Korean. #4: I have a passion for working with others who share my passions.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I’ve been an instructor at the Yorkville Media Centre since it’s inception several years ago. I felt that bringing what I have to offer at the YMC to a new environment such as Ladies Learning Code will give me the opportunity to work and share knowledge with new people that I would not have had the chance to otherwise.”

Co-Lead Instructor: Jonathan Levstein (@jlevstein)
Front End Web Developer at BNOTIONS / “I get to play around with HTML, CSS and a bit of javascript. On a typical project I am the one who lays out the HTML architecture and the CSS layout”

What are you passionate about?  “Life | I’m always down to learn something new. Currently, I am also passionate about teaching Naginata at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Center.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I decided to become involved with LLC because I wanted to show that anyone can learn HTML and CSS; regardless of gender. More developers means that the web will grow faster and into a better experience for everyone.”

Richard Gould (@u2622)
Keyboard-wielding code-monkey at GaggleUp

What are you passionate about?  “Writing clean, terse code, hunting down the toughest bugs, and developing awesome things. Also: noisy electronic music, cycling, and languages.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Why not? Previously I’ve found myself being mentored by others. Now is my chance to return the favour.”

Yang Yu (@Mryangyu)
Product development, business development at wishhaha inc.

What are you passionate about?  “I’m passionate about creating value in society through innovative and user friendly social technologies.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Women are really great coders and most just dont realize it to be part of this movement and add value back to the community is an opportunity I can’t miss. Plus sharing what I have learned through my journey in this space to better others is just an awesome thing.”

Al Davis (www.wpteach.com)
TELUS, George Brown College, Freelance

What are you passionate about?  “In no particular order: The Web, WordPress and Teaching. Combining the three of them has allowed me to realize many goals personally. Being able to share those things with others is very fulfilling for me.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I first heard about the group through one of my co-organizers of WordCamp Toronto. I do some sponsoring of a similar group in Montreal (Montreal Girl Geeks) through my day job and wanted to do something more hands on where I live!”

Greg Sullivan (http://toronto.justshows.com/)
Principal at Swivel Base

What are you passionate about?  “Web design and development, one-page recipes and productivity books I don’t have time to read.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Women are underrepresented in the development community, and events like these help to demystify a field that should be accessible to everyone.”

Carissa Rousseau (@Carissarousseau | http://carissarousseau.com)
Student at Humber College for Multimedia Design and Production Technician | Intern with shoplocket doing front end work such as customizing blog theme.

What are you passionate about?  “Front-End Web development.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I love what Ladies Learning Code is trying to do and I want to support them any way I can!”

Gavin Lobo (http://www.rabidgeek.net)
University of Ontario Institute of Technology, grad student, research assistant, tutorial instructor

What are you passionate about?  “Teaching, Science, Mathematics and Programming”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Coding is so much fun! More women should get involved!”

Gavin Smith (@gavinsmith | http://gavinsmith.me )
Front End Developer, responsable for bringing interactions into the picture during and after the design process at Jet Cooper

What are you passionate about?  “Building interfaces and functional user experiences. Nothing like bringing a project/product from sketches to something users can experience.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “LLC is a fantastic opportunity to ‘give back’ while having a great time.”

Sylvia Prowse (@ProwseSM | PeopleWiseWebSolutions.com )
At People Wise Web Solutions I design and develop websites for small business that are searchable, usable and accessible. That helps businesses to be found more easily on the web, when their future clients are searching for someone to help them. A website is your best business card – unless your website is hard to use.

What are you passionate about?  “I’m passionate about creating Web sites that meet or exceed International Web Standards, which allow all people, regardless of capabilities or limitations, can access the web, and helping business owners get their message online effectively. I’m also passionate about learning, travelling and nature. ”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I love learning and I enjoy sharing my knowledge and helping others learn too. As well, it’s a great opportunity to give back to the community.”

Brendan Seabrook
Web Developer for TorStar Digital (Toronto Star / Rogers)

What are you passionate about?  “Teaching!”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I have female friends who want to start programming, but lack a proper support network. I also enjoy teaching.”

Peter Iskandar (@bassingitup)
Agile Engineer, Mobile Application Development at Xtreme Labs Inc.

What are you passionate about?  “Music, Computers, Art”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I decided to get involved with Ladies Learning Code because I wanted to help people further their knowledge in computers/coding. I think it’s a great cause and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

Laurie MacDougall Sookraj (@lmds)
Senior Analyst @ University Health Network

This is Laurie’s second time instructing Ladies Learning Code!

What are you passionate about?  “Taking broken software and making it work, building stuff that’s useful to people and helps them to do their work more effectively. Also hammocks, cupcakes, and martinis.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Seemed like a good way to encourage people to get involved with technology, which can sometimes be intimidating, especially for women in a world where the gender imbalance in computer science often looks like 10 men to every 1 woman. It’s fun to see the satisfaction of making something work that you built yourself, and of learning something new, especially for people who have never done this sort of thing before!”

Peter Newhook (@p337er  | http://peternewhook.com)
Business Analyst at Cineplex Entertainment “I split my time between automating forms and workflows using SharePoint and designing reports and visualizations that provide new ways to look at numbers.”

What are you passionate about?  “Making enterprise software usable and enjoyable. When I’m not in front of a monitor, I’m finding a way to get on a bike.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Women are going to look at problems differently than men will, and come up with different solutions. As an industry we need more well trained women writing code.”

Avery Swartz (@AverySwartz | http://averyswartz.com/ )
Independent Web Designer and Front-End Developer

What are you passionate about?  “Professionally, I’m most passionate about helping my clients understand the web. And making kickass websites for them. Personally, I’m most passionate about my family (including my baby girl!) and travel.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I want to see more women in technology! I’m often lonely as the only girl in the room. I’ve also heard that the Ladies Learning Code events are lots of fun, so I want to join in and meet new people.”

Kandirra Wilson (@kandirra  | http://www.kandirra.com)
Program Coordinator: Web design, project coordination, communications, multi-media production in support of professional development programs at the Centre for the Support of Teaching, York University.

What are you passionate about?  “Creative means of communication. I’m an ideas person.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I decided to get involved because of my love for making connections, networking, and creating community support that facilitates learning and knowledge sharing; something we are most in need of in an industry where women are under-represented.”

Ivonne Karamoy (@ivonnekn  | http://ivonnekaramoy.com)
Freelance Designer and Developer (art direction, graphic design, web/interactive/UI/UX design & development, illustration)

What are you passionate about?  “Great design in any shape or form, using technology and design to enrich a person’s experience, collaboration and learning in technology and creativity in all forms. I’m also passionate about travelling, good food, and my relationship with others, especially my family and friends.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I stumbled upon Ladies Learning Code and thought it was such a great idea, I bookmarked it. Shortly after I read some articles about the shortage of females in technology programs and positions and I thought that was unfortunate. I remember being one of a handful of women in my Computer Science program but I thought things had progressed since. That’s when I knew I had to get involved with LLC. I also like that at it’s core, it’s about people in the industry (male or female) helping women who are willing to learn and have a craving for it. I think it is a great initiative that enables more women to learn about technology in a safe, collaborative and non-intimidating way. At it’s core, it’s about people in the industry helping others who are willing to learn and have a craving for it. I enjoy helping others and I get to meet all sorts of amazing people along the way.”

Linn Øyen Farley (@Linndelicate | http://drollic.net)
Freelance web designer – Building websites from scratch for a variety of fellow freelancers, small businesses and arts workers

What are you passionate about?  “Empowering website owners to get their hands dirty with their own sites (and I often use WordPress as a means to that end!). Coding by hand & technical theatre. Also, to-do lists.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “Learning about Ruby was a blast and mentoring at January’s WordPress workshop was even more fun. I was lucky enough to have a couple fantastic friends teach me HTML and CSS back in the day – I’m so grateful that LLC exists to give me a chance to pay it forward, once again.”

Conrad Muad (@radicalradical | http://www.radicalradical.com/)
Independent Contractor – Web Developer, front end and server side

What are you passionate about?  “Usability, user experience, ease of use.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “It is awesome ”

Jenny Zhang (@phirephoenix | http://www.phirephoenix.com )
Auditor at Big Accounting Firm

What are you passionate about?  “Writing about everything and anything that interests me – this includes silly stories, attempts at novels, and most recently, lengthy blog posts about social issues and the role of technology in our lives.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I dabble in web development beceause I find coding and building a page from scratch to be really rewarding, and I’d like to help bring that experience to other women who may not have thought to get involved in something like this otherwise. Also, I would really like to meet other likeminded geeks who could help me along in my attempts to learn more code myself.”

Emir Hasanbegovic (@PhiGammEmir | http://www.emirweb.com)
Agile Engineer at Xtreme Labs Inc.

What are you passionate about?  “I am all about developing core infrastructures that can be used as tools over and over again. Building stronger application cores allows for better end-user experience and development tools. I love to look at technology from the inside out.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I strongly believe in the power of learning. Learning is super, super fun and I want to help others have the same experience with learning technology as I have.”

Zakir Hemraj (@zakirh)
Senior Software Engineer at Achievers

What are you passionate about?  “Disruptive technologies and start-ups.”

Christina Almeida
Web Developer at Flight Centre Inc.

What are you passionate about?  “Reading, Watching great movies and coding ”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I thought this would be a great way to help movtivate and mentor woman so that there will be more of us in this industry.”

James Halpern
Agile Engineer at Xtreme Labs Inc.

What are you passionate about?  “Technology in general. Tech is cool.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “I have some free time, and so I figured I should spend it volunteering and trying to help out. Would be nice to have fun and help people learn code.”

Gerry Power (@gerrypower)
ZooTech Keeper for zoocasa.com and homerenovationguide.com at Rogers Ventures

What are you passionate about?  “Technology, continuous learning, motorcycles, sailing and passionate people.”

Why did you get involved with Ladies Learning Code?  “So happy to support people in our community that want to learn and experience technology!”

YAY! Sunday is almost here. I can’t wait! ~Fun~

For more info about Ladies Learning Code, follow us on Twitter or check out our Facebook Page. If you’d like to join our email list, click here or to volunteer as a Mentor, join our developer email list

Scaling an Organization like Ladies Learning Code

First, An Announcement: The Ladies Learning Code Job Board

Let me start by introducing a project the Ladies Learning Code team has been working on for a few weeks: the Ladies Learning Code job board! We told our community about it last week by email, and now we’re excited to share it with all of you. It’s a WordPress theme that we edited – thanks to Ladies Learning Code mentor Ivonne Karamoy for modifying the CSS, and to Anna Klibanov for creating the pretty header image. Most of the project was managed by Laura Plant – thank you, Laura!

Check out the job board here: http://jobs.ladieslearningcode.com. And check out the Ladies Learning Code Intern posting here!

Now, back to “Scaling an Organization like Ladies Learning Code”

When I tweeted back in June about how Toronto should have a group for women who want to learn to code, I obviously didn’t expect it to turn into the Ladies Learning Code we know today. I never would have predicted that the idea would be so popular, or that the group would receive such widespread support, both in Toronto and beyond. I am, of course, thrilled. Building Ladies Learning Code from just an idea to an incorporated not-for-profit organization that people really seem to appreciate has been the most challenging, fun and rewarding thing I’ve ever done. I know that Laura, Melissa and Breanna would say the same thing.

But we’re really only getting started. Our first-ever event, that brainstorming session, was less than seven and a half months ago. In that time, we’ve run six workshops (with two more planned in the next two weeks). We threw a pretty cool launch party. We now have over 1000 women (and men) signed up to our email list, and another 250 people have joined our ‘tech help’ email list, effectively saying that they’ll support Ladies Learning Code by volunteering at our workshops. We have really incredible, engaged and helpful communities on Twitter and Facebook. And even though we’re now doing two workshops a month, we’re still selling out. Really, really quickly.

So, What Next?

We want to continue what we’re doing, and we want to have even more impact. We want to be able to do more workshops, and other events, and we want to be able to pursue other interesting opportunities that will support our mission of inspiring and empowering more women and girls to become passionate builders – not just consumers – of the web and technology. We want Ladies Learning Code to be around in the long-run, for as long as people want it to be around, and creating a self-sustaining organization is really important to us. So, over the next few months, we’ll be rolling out a few exciting initiatives that we hope will help us get there. I’m letting you know now, because we’d really like your support.

Here’s where we’re at: for us to have more impact, we’re going to need more resources. And a small, dedicated, full-time team is one of the things we’re going to need – this year.

A Few New Initiatives from Ladies Learning Code

One of the first things we’re pursuing is the Ladies Learning Code job board, which is officially launching today. The inspiration for the project came from our community – a few months ago, we started receiving a lot of emails (several per day) from people who were hiring. They saw the Ladies Learning Code community as a great place to find the talent they need. I totally see their line of thinking. After all, our community is made up of over 1000 women (and men) who are mostly tech-savvy, university or college educated, and invested enough in their personal and professional development to see the value in getting up before 8 am on a Saturday to learn something about computer programming. That’s a really special group. And then, on the other hand, there’s our community of developers – special, in their own way, because they care enough about their industry to join our ‘tech help’ email list, effectively saying that they’d like to support Ladies Learning Code by volunteering their time to teach beginners at one of our workshops. If I had an open position to fill, whether I was looking for a Marketing Manager or an Agile Engineer, this is one group I’d definitely want to start with.

Five emails a day from people looking for talent is a quite a bit to deal with, though. Plus, we have no interest in being recruiters. But my team and I saw opportunity here: what if we gave people a way to find the talent they need (or the job they want), while supporting Ladies Learning Code? Plans for a job board started immediately.

You can post jobs for free until March 1st (click here to add yours). At that point, we’ll start charging for postings – and all proceeds will support our not-for-profit organization. We hope the job board will serve our community and that people will get a lot of value out of it. Because this job board, if successful, is going to make an enormous difference for Ladies Learning Code as an organization. Please feel free to spread the news to anyone you know who is hiring, and please consider the Ladies Learning Code job board when you’re deciding where to post a role you’re hiring for.

Two More Initiatives: New Workshop Formats

We have two more announcements coming in the next two weeks about other initiatives we’re rolling out in February and early March. Both of them are new workshop formats (by request), and both of them feature one really cool improvement: the developers leading or assisting with them all get paid. More details on one of the new formats coming tomorrow – stay tuned!

(In case you’re a developer or designer and we’ve caught your interest, join our ‘tech help’ email list here.

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Massive donations or sponsorship offers? Get in touch! You can email me any time at heather [at] ladieslearningcode [dot com].

As always, thank you for your support. Here’s to what’s already turning out to be an exciting 2012!

Heather
Ladies Learning Code Team

Introducing the Girls Learning Code Instructors!

I gotta say – we are just so excited about the team of passionate volunteer instructors that have jumped on board to help us make Girls Learning Code a reality this year. I love how diverse the group is, and I’m also thrilled by just how many people who have come forward to say that they’re willing to help out! It means we’re going to have a 3:1 or 4:1 ratio of campers-to-instructors for the entirety of the camp, which is going to help create a wonderful learning environment for the girls – it means there will always be someone available to help create, debug, or just brainstorm with! It really is the right ratio for teaching beginners, and it’s even more important when your audience is kids. I’m so glad we’ll be able to give our campers the attention they really deserve so that they can all have a fun and inspiring week.

Check out the list below to learn more about the Girls Learning Code March Break camp instructors. And to learn more about Girls Learning Code (and sign up a 11-14 year old in your life!), click here.

(I’m also re-introducing myself and Laura, Melissa and Breanna, for any of you who don’t know the team behind Ladies Learning Code & Girls Learning Code.)

Heather Payne (@heatherpayne | http://heatherpayne.ca)
Ladies Learning Code Team

A graduate of the Richard Ivey School of Business, Heather spent most of her first year post-graduation living in China and working towards a Masters in International Relations. That’s also where she first learned to build a self-hosted WordPress site (a blog about fitness, which she sold after a year). Upon her return to Toronto, she went corporate for a year before her desire to join a startup became too strong to ignore. In July 2011, Heather joined a Toronto-based, three-person tech startup building on the Facebook platform. Her experience there (in a non-technical role) made her even more determined to learn to program – so that she can contribute to building something of her own one day. In July 2011, Heather founded Ladies Learning Code, a not-for-profit startup (with a business model), and is also working on a project for the Mozilla Foundation, organizing youth-focused events and hack jams in Toronto. She also runs an after-school coding club for fifth and sixth graders. She is excited to meet the girls participating in Girls Learning Code this March Break – it’s going to be a fun week!

Laura Plant (@lauralynplant)
Ladies Learning Code Team

Laura grew up all over Southwestern Ontario, moving around her whole life. Always “the new girl” Laura began to understand, pretty early on, the importance of relationships and “staying connected”. With an educational and professional background in Human Resources, Laura made the shift to the world of consulting four years ago and has not looked back. The link between technology and human relationships fascinates her. This has ignited a personal passion for exploring and helping others to learn how to leverage and evolve the technology available to us in our world today and even tomorrow. In her spare time, Laura is exploring what technology has to offer and how it can help her do her job better, much like many of Ladies Learning Code’s beginner-level students. Laura is thrilled to have the opportunity to shape the way a group of 11-14 year olds view technology, and show them that it can be a creative medium for self-expression.

Melissa Crnic (@melissacrnic | http://melissacrnic.com)
Ladies Learning Code Team

Melissa was born and raised in London, Ontario. When her family purchased their first computer, she began spending her evenings and summers coding a Harry Potter fan site (by trial and error). She then entered high school, where computer science was not promoted or encouraged, and lost touch with coding. Melissa went on to graduate from the Richard Ivey School of Business and since being part of her first startup in university, she’s realized what an advantage a technical skill set would bring. Since then, she’s always dreamed of a group for women that makes coding and tech accessible to complete beginners. Melissa couldn’t be more excited to be part of Girls Learning Code this year.

Breanna Hughes (@unbrelievable | http://unbrelievable.com)
Ladies Learning Code Team

Breanna was born and raised in a small village in British Columbia, and knew the big city of Toronto was calling her name when she started her own online business at the young age of 10. Breanna attended The University of Toronto, Computer Science and finished her degree in Information Technology Management at Ryerson University. In her spare time, you will almost always find Breanna “Googling” anything and everything – usually from her iPhone, reading the latest technology magazines and blogs, catching a concert, Facebooking, blogging and tweeting galore! As a woman that works in IT, she wants to help encourage other women to get involved and help make tech less intimidating and scary. Breanna is thrilled to be supporting Girls Learning Code.

Ivonne Karamoy (@invonnekn | http://ivonnekaramoy.com)
Freelance Developer & Web Designer

Ivonne Karamoy is a hybrid designer and developer with an interdisciplinary degree in Computer Science and Fine Arts from the University of Waterloo. After graduation she moved to New York City where she worked as a designer and developer for educational game/software company, Electric Funstuff. She went on to become Art Director overseeing and leading the design and development of educational games and projects with clients such as Scholastic and WNET. In 2010, she moved back to her hometown of Toronto where she became an independent designer and developer, providing a one-woman shop for web and interactive projects. Ivonne is thrilled to be working with Girls Learning Code to help cultivate creativity in design and technology among young girls.

Emma Nemtin (@em_nemtin | http://nemtin.tumblr.com)

Having grown up with a knack for new media and entertainment, Emma pursued studies in Professional Communications at Royal Roads University, while also undergoing a year in Sweden studying International Media and Communication Science. By accepting every opportunity she was presented, she has been able to take on such varied roles as: Logistics Assistant for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, Content Researcher for PTV Productions and Creative Director for freelance written and graphic design projects for non profit organizations.  She is currently working for Hubba and is thrilled to be teaming up with Girls Learning Code and empowering women to get involved in the tech realm. She also is known to be fond of jokes so if you know a good one, feel free to send it her way.

Ami Sangster
Grade 11 Student at Richview CI

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about many things including travelling, trying new things, and my education. When I’m travelling I enjoy the different cultures and exploring their past, and this usually brings me to trying new things. Most importantly I love computer programming because it allows me to design new programs and I think it’s fun!

Why did you get involved with Girls Learning Code?

I got involved with Girls Learning Code because the stereotype, of a very intelligent young man with glasses sitting at a computer typing, that is given to programming is very misleading and I want to help change that. A lot of my friends, who are girls, don’t realize that programming is not like a math or a science. Programming is something completely different, it allows you to play with your knowledge of problem solving and making a solution in your own way. If more girls could see that programming isn’t just random words and numbers, and that it’s actually really fun, then there would be more girls working with not only programming, but technology in general.

Xing Xu Jiang
Grade 11 Student at Richview CI

What are you passionate about?

“Music, sleeping and most of all computer science! Music is my passion during my spare time because I believe that music is the universal language in the world. Not only do i love music, but computer science is also on that list. Currently still in high school and I fell in love with programming. Programming is so much fun! But most importantly, for me it is a way that I can be creative and challenge myself.”

Why did you get involved with Girls Learning Code?

“When I first learned about Girls Learning Code, this program inspired me becuase this program made me truely believe that girls can make a difference in the world of technology. Ever since then I wanted to be a part of this program to inspire more young ladies to learn more about programming. I want more girls to believe that they can and will rule the world of technology.”

Cristina Graci (@Cryssi996 | http://obsessivecompulsive.me)

Cristina is a project manager by day, and a compulsive creator by night! Ever since she was a little girl she’s been in love with technology and web development. At age 12 she started creating her own websites and graphics to participate in online horse RPG’s (and yes, you can giggle a little at that!). As a kid, Cristina attended a “website making” camp, and as you can see it made a huge impact on her life. She is very excited to have the opportunity to provide that same level of inspiration to the young girls at the Girls Learning Code camp. Cristina has been working full time in the interactive industry for 5 years now, and still has just as much passion as the day she started. She is currently pursuing a degree in Business Technology Management while working as a full time Project Manager at TPM Communications. In what little spare time she has left, you can find her painting her nails, building a website, or working on a DIY project.

Faranak Ahmadi
Computer System Technology Student at Seneca College

Faranak is a student in the Computer System Technology program at Seneca College. She moved to Toronto from Iran almost two years ago. Faranak has bachelor’s degree in computer science from a university in Iran. In addition, she has 10 years of work experience in the hardware field. Faranak is excited about joining Girls Learning Code as an instructor, and can’t wait to create an inspiring week for the 40 girls who join in.

Ainsley Lawson
Intermediate/Senior Teacher Candidate at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education

Ainsley Lawson is an Intermediate/Senior Teacher Candidate studying at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.  After graduating from the University of Toronto in Computer Science and Psychology, she worked as an eLearning Instructional Designer at Ontario Power Generation for a year, before returning to school for her teaching degree.  Her future plans include pursuing graduate research in Psychology and Education.  Outside of her studies, Ainsley is the executive director of a community concert band, and plays clarinet in a number of ensembles.  She is excited to be involved in Girls Learning Code, and is looking forward to teaching in this new environment!  You can reach Ainsley at ainsley.lawson [at] utoronto.ca.

Leizl Co

Leizl is a programmer originally from Manila. In 2010, she came to Canada for a post graduate program at Seneca College. She loves helping people and finds it fulfilling. She was hired by the college as a part-time tutor for programming courses. She also volunteered in the college especially during orientation. She went to join Palomino System Inc, a software and web solution provider company, for her internship. Now, she is excited to lend a hand for the Girls Learning Code Camp.

Diane Fajardo
Computer Programming and Analysis Student at Seneca College

What are you passionate about?

“I like learning and understanding the full capabilities of new technologies being introduced. Seeing   something on screen that you spend so much time coding makes it worthwhile. Outside of school, my passion is dancing both ballroom and hip hop which I find quite beneficial especially in releasing stress.”

Why did you get involved in Girls Learning Code?

“I find that as semesters pass by, there are fewer and fewer women in my classes. I want to encourage more women to get more involved because I believe that women can provide a lot of benefit to the IT field – just as much as men can.”

Lisa Hayes
Senior Editor & Project Manager at CareerMash

Lisa manages digital content and social media at CareerMash, an organization that helps high school students discover exciting careers in technology that are changing our world in amazing  ways every day. Lisa jumped at the chance to volunteer at Girls Learning Code because she believes coding can be a fun, creative way for girls to develop a passion for working with technology. Lisa loves that coding is part of her job because she is constantly learning new ways to use it to jazz up the design of websites.

Stephanie Bourque
Computer Programming & Analysis Student at Seneca College

A prospective open source video game programmer, Stephanie Bourque is currently studying Computer Programming and Analysis at Seneca College. Formerly graduating from Art Fundamentals and working as a web master since senior year of high school, she has studied fine art and many web based languages, giving her a unique viewpoint on both the design and technical aspects of the industry.

Stephanie volunteers time to be a SMILE mentor at school, and has done this for the past two semesters as well as spent much time out of school fixing computers for meals and providing free lessons for anyone who wants to learn a little more about computers. She believes that random acts of kindness have a snowballing effect that spreads endlessly and is extremely happy and excited to help out with Girls Learning Code!

Ceri Davies
Computer Programming & Analysis Student at Seneca College

Ceri spent her early childhood in South Wales before finally settling in the suburbs of Toronto, Ontario. She completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Ontario College of Art & Design in 2010, and often designed website layouts for fun in the meantime. She is currently a Computer Programming & Analysis student at Seneca College, hoping to specialize in either security or web development in her later semesters. Ceri writes novels under a pen name, draws frequently in her spare time, and is currently working on an online portfolio to practice what she’s learning. Web design has consistently remained an interest for her over the years, as it combines two of her passions – art and technology.

Kelly Lara
Freelance Graphic Designer and Computer Programming & Analysis  Student at Seneca College

Kelly is a freelance graphic designer with a passion for helping others. She has had the pleasure to work with The Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR) and continues to seek ways to become involved with her local communities. She is grateful to have combined her love of yoga and design by working as a marketing coordinator for an independent yoga studio last year and is excited to help reinvent the studio’s visual identity. She is currently in the Computer Programming and Analysis program at Seneca College with her sights set on immersing herself in the workforce on projects dealing with education, healthcare, and mobile technologies. Kelly is excited to be involved with Girls Learning Code — she wishes that there was a camp like this when she was younger!

Photos and bios for the following instructors coming soon:

James Eberhardt

Gunjan Rawat

Chris Brooks-Prenger

Barbara Tassa

Thanks again to all of the amazing women and men who have signed up to be instructors at Girls Learning Code.

March Break is just around the corner now – it’s going to be here before we know it! I can’t wait to spend the week with all of you and with the 40 campers who will be joining us. After reading about why some of the girls applying for scholarships say they want to attend Girls Learning Code, I can’t wait to see them in action, and I’m glad that they’re going to be so well-supported. Thanks again to all of you!

To learn more about Girls Learning Code, please visit http://girlslearningcode.com.

Warm-Your-Heart Tuesday: Why Girls Say They Want to Attend Girls Learning Code

We’re getting ready to send acceptances to the girls who will be receiving scholarships to attend our Girls Learning Code March Break camp. (We’re accepting them on a rolling basis, but the deadline isn’t until February 15th – so there’s still time to get an 11-14 year-old girl in your life involved!) The application forms are meant to mostly be filled out by the girls’ parents, but we did ask the girls to complete one question on their own: “What interests you most about Girls Learning Code?”

As I reviewed all the applications last night, the answers to this question really stood out. They were just so…honest. Reading them definitely made me feel like taking the initiative to organize this camp is one of the most worthwhile things I’ve ever done. I’m sure Laura, Breanna and Melissa feel the same way. Reading these comments also makes me extra thankful to Mozilla, teehan+lax, Hubba, FreshBooks, Nascent, Xtreme Labs, and bnotions for making these scholarships possible. Thank you, all of you.

Here are some of the answers the girls provided as to why Girls Learning Code interests them (we’re keeping them anonymous, of course):

“At first when my mom asked me if I wanted to take this class, I said I wasn’t interested because I don’t know a lot about computer stuff and I thought it would be boring. But then my mom showed me the timetable and it didn’t look boring, it looked cool and we talked about ideas for a website, and how I could use this experience. I would like to learn how to do more internet stuff, and I think this will help me at school too. And I used to think I wasn’t good at math, but with a new teacher this year, I finally understand things, so I think the camp could be like that, except with understanding the internet better.”

“I would like to learn how to make fun and interesting programs and apps that interest girls like me. I like that this program is just for girls.”

“I like the “about” section where it says we will “learn technology in a whole new light and as a medium for self expression”. My favourite thing to do is dance. It is the best way I feel to express myself and how I feel. I don’t want this to be the only way to express myself in the world. I love technology and I hope I can learn some new things that can help me to be more confident in the world.”

“I think what interests me about Girls Learning Code is that it’s just an amazing opportunity to learn more about what I use every single day. And this camp shows that girls can do something boys can do. Boys are always the ones who are assumed to be the good coders and gamers but there are such girls, like me and the other thousands or millions, who would want to learn all this stuff but we’re usually never given the chance to learn. So this camp is giving those girls a chance for us to shine in what we love best.”

“The Girls Learning Code interests me because I’m considering studying in the technological field. The Girls Learning Code sounds like it makes boring subjects more fun, interesting and interactive. It will give girls, like me, confidence to work in a field that is boy infested. One of the main points that interests me the most is that I will get to understand computers beyond just Facebook and Twitter. It would also be great to learn and meet others like me. And that is what interests me the most about the Girls Learning Code.”

“What interests me the most is that I can program cool computer games to learn more advanced hacking and to have a job to make helpful kid friendly programs and websites.”

“I would like to be part of the Girls Learning Code camp this year because I think it will help me discover how I can be creative with computers and technology. I enjoy learning about computers and ways you can use them, and have just started to learn about using the computer for artwork. I have been drawing and painting seriously since I was 4. My kindergarten teacher told me that I am destined to be an artist. Over the last few years I have won awards for my artwork from [award names removed]. I think I would benefit from the Girls Learning Code camp because I could learn to make my own beautiful websites and showcase my art work, and do the same for my friends. I would like to make a difference in my community. I feel like one way I can do that through my art is by helping people start conversations. People who share a moment to appreciate artwork start conversations that lead on to other, important things.”

Heart-warming, right?!

I had a few other thoughts as I was reading these responses over.

First, I thought, “Wow…kids these days are really mature.” Second, I was struck by how their answers all seemed to be sort of in sync, even though these girls have never met. And third, I was surpsied by how much the girls-only nature of the camp means to many of them – it certainly seems like, even at the age of 11 or 13, there is already a socially-accepted understanding of what is for girls, and what is for boys. Even though I’ve known for a long time that society, the media, peer groups, etc. affect girls and their decisions at a young age, I’ve never had it feel so real before. On the one hand, it’s upsetting. But on the other hand, it means there’s an opportunity for Girls Learning Code to make a difference. Oh, and I’m really excited that the idea of technology and the web being a medium for creative expression came through – a number of the girls commented on that – because that’s exactly what we were going for.

I hope you enjoyed this episode of Warm-Your-Heart Tuesday. And, by the way, there’s still time for you to get involved in the March Break camp – as a volunteer, a sponsor, or a camper. Feel free to get in touch with me at heather [at] ladieslearningcode.com for more information.