Honestly? I was a bit naïve when I applied for my Law with Criminology degree. I thought that I, an 18 year old from a small city in the West Midlands would get my degree and change the system, fix all the issues, solve all racial issues worldwide!!! and so on.
During those 3 years, my degree managed to both crush my spirit and empower me at the same time. I learnt a lot of hard truths. The system was rigged, the law was unfair and all pending reforms were just that…pending.
It was a hard 3 years but I made it to the other end with a 2:1 and a new interest in technology and coding.
One module taught me about the Digital Divide and another module called Law and Language, had a sub-topic about using code to make the law both more accessible and understandable to under-privileged and under-represented groups.
The logic of these two modules struck something in me, and I decided that I could still make the difference I dreamed of, just on a slightly different path. I decided I would get into coding and see if I could combine my two newfound loves for the greater good through accessible global tech and accessible frontend design as accessibility in tech is largely overlooked.
I looked into coding and quickly realised that as a black woman, I am JUST as underrepresented in the law sector as I would be in the coding sector, but guess what I’m doing right now?
That’s right. Coding.
I am fully enjoying the course which, is ran by black women, for black women with plenty of support! I really hit the jackpot with this one. My 3 years of law in a top 10 University was nothing but white males, both students and lecturers, where I never felt heard and my experiences often overlooked. This coding boot camp, called Black Codher gives me a sense of empowerment, new knowledge and an overwhelming sense of community. It is truly a safe haven for me to grow and learn as a Developer.
With everything I have learnt, and all the coding skills I am about to be equipped with, stay tuned to see how it plays out and follow me on this journey.
I have big hopes for myself.
