Think of anything you’ve ever done on a computer. Whether it be sending an email, surfing the internet, watching a movie on Netflix. Maybe even attending school.
Now, imagine being able to learn a universal language that enables you to create these resources/services on your own?
Coding is the language of problem-solving. In today’s fast-paced and highly digitalised world, coding is no less of a superpower. And the best part is, learning how to code was one of the most interesting and fun experiences I have ever had.
I recently attended a coding camp called Kode With Klossy which, for those who don’t know, is an initiative by Karlie Kloss. Karlie is a supermodel who, after realizing the power and impact of coding, made it her mission to ensure that young girls all over the world have the same experience she did.
This was a huge opportunity, because Kode With Klossy being based in the US, was hosting its first ever virtual community camp, which meant it was open to international scholars as well.
The two weeks of camp were extremely hectic. Staying up till 2 (sometimes 4) in the morning and getting up at 8 for school wasn’t easy, but it was definitely worth it.
I had chosen Web Development, which meant I was learning three languages: HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
The progress we made during camp, from learning how to change the font colour and adding <header> tags, to creating a website of our own, was so uplifting and ignited an interest in me for web development.
One of the things I really loved about camp were the Culture of Tech discussions we had. We talked about the lack of diversity & the gender gap in the tech industry and STEM-related fields. What I realized from those insightful conversations was how important it is for everyone to have access to coding and for girls to be encouraged to take up STEAM opportunities (which is exactly what Kode With Klossy is doing, icon).
We also had inspiring speakers like Sydney Hamilton – Structural Design Engineer at The Boeing Company, Dr. Monica Rho – Head Physician for the US Women’s National Soccer Team, Reese Witherspoon, Ashton Kutcher, a panel of amazing Estée Lauder women in technology and so many more honourable people. The Speaker Series was the most motivating part of camp and it gave me a certain confidence about myself, where I am right now, and where I’m headed in life.
The best part of camp, hands-down, was the connections we made. The Kode With Klossy community was so positive, supportive, and encouraging. Even though we had virtual constraints, we were able to form a bond that we will always take with us.
Coding opens the doors to opportunities and bringing about a change in this world. It gives you the ability to build anything you could possibly imagine, and that is extremely empowering.
Coding is the language of the future; the only way forward. I’m so glad I could be a part of the KWK Community, because it made me believe that one day, I, too, could create something that brings happiness to people’s lives.
And maybeeeee, a few years down the line, you’ll see this website all renovated, and coded by ME!