In a world where technology is evolving rapidly and digital skills are becoming essential in every field, Code Girls has proven that young women passionate about IT can make a difference. This educational program was organized by the IT Girls Thecon initiative group, funded through the Galați Half Marathon, a program of the Galați Community Foundation, and supported by OpenHub, Thecon, Code School Clubs Galați, and ReLife.
A Program Designed for the Future of Girls in IT
Starting with a rigorous selection process, Code Girls brought together 31 girls from diverse backgrounds, all with the same goal: to learn to code and prepare for a career in technology. Over four intensive weeks, participants were divided into two groups:
1. Mobile App Development – Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-12)
In this program, girls aged 8 to 12 took their first steps into mobile development, learning how to create an app from scratch. Through a hands-on and interactive approach, participants discovered how apps work, the essential elements of intuitive design, and how they could turn their ideas into functional digital products.
Using beginner-friendly tools like MIT App Inventor or Thunkable, the girls learned to create user-friendly interfaces, add buttons, images, and animations, and implement basic functionalities. The learning process was built around games, personalized projects, and collaboration, allowing each participant to leave her unique mark on the app she developed.
A key moment in the program was the final presentation, where each girl showcased her app to her peers and mentors. This program not only provided valuable technical knowledge but also boosted confidence, showing participants that they can be creators of technology, not just users.
2. My First Blog – Grades 6-11 (Ages 13-18)
In this program, girls aged 13 to 18 were introduced to the art of digital storytelling, learning how to create and manage their own personal blog. From choosing the right platform (WordPress, Blogger, Wix) to design elements and content optimization for online visibility, each step was designed to help them express their ideas and passions professionally.
Participants explored key blogging concepts such as:
✔ Choosing a theme – identifying a niche and developing a content strategy.
✔ Attractive design – customizing their blog with themes, colors, and images.
✔ Engaging writing techniques – structuring articles to be interesting, well-organized, and easy to read.
✔ SEO and promotion – optimizing posts for search engines and promoting their blog on social media.
The program culminated in the launch of their own blog, with each participant publishing articles on topics they are passionate about—technology, lifestyle, education, gaming, travel, or any other area of interest. By the end of the course, each young woman left with a functional blog, writing skills, digital marketing knowledge, and personal branding expertise, ready to make her voice heard online.
The Program’s Impact on the Community
The results speak for themselves: over 80% of participants expressed a desire to continue their IT studies. Code Girls provided not just technical knowledge, but also the confidence these young women needed to pursue their dreams in a constantly evolving field.
Silvia, the project manager, stated:
“It’s incredible to see how, after every session, Code Girls helps these young women discover their potential. We want to expand this program and give even more girls the opportunity to enter the world of technology.”
What’s Next?
The success of Code Girls motivates us to go even further! OpenHub supports initiatives like this and is committed to continuing the program, bringing even more resources and opportunities for young women eager to learn programming in the future.