Reshma Saujani

Field: 

Education and Advocacy.

Nationality: 

American.

Biography:

Reshma Saujani is an American lawyer, politician, and activist who has become a leading voice in advocating for the inclusion of women and girls in technology. She is best known as the founder of Girls Who Code, a nonprofit organization established in 2012 to combat the gender gap in computer science classrooms. Saujani’s experience running for Congress in 2010 led her to realize the urgent need for greater representation of women in STEM, particularly in the field of computer science. This inspired her to create Girls Who Code, which has since impacted thousands of young women, equipping them with coding skills and providing them with a supportive network to thrive in the tech world.

Saujani’s advocacy extends beyond the classroom. She has become a leading voice in promoting the importance of risk-taking and resilience in women’s professional development. Through her book "Brave, Not Perfect" and TED Talk, she encourages women to embrace imperfection and challenge societal expectations of perfection that often hold them back from pursuing their ambitions in technology and leadership.

In addition to her work with Girls Who Code, Saujani has become a vocal advocate for gender equality in education and technology. Her work continues to inspire the next generation of female engineers, programmers, and innovators.

Major Contributions & Achievements:

• Girls Who Code: Founded the organization to provide girls with opportunities to learn coding, develop tech skills, and enter careers in computer science, aiming to close the gender gap in tech.

• Advocacy for Women in Tech: Works to increase women’s representation in technology fields, encouraging young women to pursue STEM education and careers.

• Author: Authored "Brave, Not Perfect", a book about overcoming the pressure to be perfect and embracing imperfection to achieve personal and professional growth.

• TED Talk: Delivered a TED Talk where she discusses the importance of teaching girls bravery over perfection and the impact of empowering young women to become leaders in technology.

Awards & Recognition:

• Founder of Girls Who Code: Recognized for her work empowering young women in technology and advocating for gender equality in the tech industry.

• Public Speaking: Saujani’s TED Talk and public appearances have inspired audiences globally, especially young women interested in STEM.

• Brave, Not Perfect: Her book has been recognized as an influential guide to reshaping how women approach success and professional challenges.