First group completes women’s tech programme
(CNS Local Life): The first 33 students to complete the Women Code Cayman introductory computer-programming course were celebrated at an event Wednesday, 12 June. The free 12-week-long programme, developed to help close the technology sector’s gender gap, offers women a supportive network and platform to learn how to code.
Founded and supported by Cartan Group, Cayman Enterprise City (CEC), the Ministry of Community Affairs and Walkers, the initiative has a formalised curriculum taught by industry professionals covering foundational skills required to build websites, software programmes, and digital applications.
“The class is truly welcoming for everyone, regardless of age or background,” said Veronica Arboleda, one of the recent graduates, in a press release. “The programme is an excellent opportunity for individuals who want to think outside of the box. It has challenged us to learn about, and question, recent innovations that are currently impacting our digital world.”
Brandon Caruana, managing member of Cartan Group, instructed the group in sessions held Wednesday evenings, at the CEC special economic zones’ main boardroom in Strathvale House. “The course really aimed to demystify programming. Several participants were intimidated at the beginning, so it was fantastic to see the group become more and more confident at the course went on,” he said. “Everyone knows how to send an email but not everyone knows how it all works. I’m excited to see where Code Cayman goes.”
The goals of the programme are to support women in technology, to empower women who code to pursue creative technology-driven careers, and to nurture support networks which will foster leadership and encourage professional growth in technology.
Karlene Bramwell, senior policy analyst in the Ministry of Community Affairs, congratulated the graduates. “The Gender Affairs Unit has been extremely delighted to play a role in this partnership and we hope to continue to support the growth and development of this initiative,” she said. “We applaud the entities and volunteer facilitators for their dedication and are very proud of the commitment and achievements of the participants.”
Programme sponsors from Cartan Group, Walkers, and CEC also applauded the graduates. “As a country we need to ensure that everyone receives the right support and encouragement to realise their hopes and dreams of becoming active contributors to our ever-evolving global digital economy,” said CEC CEO Charlie Krikconnell. We are proud to be a part of the Women Code Cayman initiative.”
For more information and to register for the next Women Code Cayman series this fall, email info@codecayman.com. Classes will take place Wednesdays from 7pm to 8:30pm at Strathvale House.
Category: Education, Information Technology, Local News, Technology
