10 FAQs on Reshma Saujani – Founder of Girls Who Code

10 FAQs on Reshma Saujani

1. Who is Reshma Saujani?

Reshma Saujani is an American lawyer, politician, author, and activist best known for founding Girls Who Code, a nonprofit organization that aims to close the gender gap in technology by encouraging young girls to pursue careers in computer science.

2. What inspired Reshma Saujani to start Girls Who Code?

While running for Congress in 2010, Saujani visited schools and noticed the stark gender disparity in computer science classrooms. She saw boys dominating coding programs while girls were largely absent. This observation led her to create Girls Who Code in 2012 to provide young girls with the skills and confidence to enter the tech industry.

3. What is the mission of Girls Who Code?

The mission of Girls Who Code is to close the gender gap in tech by equipping girls with coding skills, fostering confidence, and creating pathways for them to pursue careers in STEM fields.

4. What impact has Girls Who Code made?

Since its founding, Girls Who Code has reached hundreds of thousands of young women across the U.S. and internationally through after-school programs, summer coding camps, and free online resources. The organization has played a key role in increasing female participation in computer science.

5. What books has Reshma Saujani written?

Reshma Saujani has authored several books, including:

Brave, Not Perfect (2019) – Encouraging women to embrace imperfection and take risks.
Girls Who Code: Learn to Code and Change the World (2017) – A beginner-friendly guide to coding for young girls.
Women Who Don’t Wait in Line (2013) – Advocating for female leadership and breaking traditional expectations.

6. What is Reshma Saujani’s philosophy on female empowerment?

She believes that societal expectations push women to be “perfect” rather than bold and risk-taking. Her philosophy, especially outlined in Brave, Not Perfect, encourages women to step out of their comfort zones, embrace failure, and take bold action in their careers and personal lives.

7. Has Reshma Saujani received any awards or recognition?

Yes! She has been recognized as a leading advocate for women in tech and education. She has received several accolades, including being named to Fortune’s 40 Under 40 and Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business.

8. What is Reshma Saujani doing now?

Apart from her continued work with Girls Who Code, she has launched the Marshall Plan for Moms, an initiative advocating for policies that support working mothers, including paid leave and affordable childcare. She also frequently speaks on issues related to gender equity, leadership, and education.