Empowering Black Women in Tech: Crafting the Return To Tech Programme

The tech industry is an ever-evolving landscape, filled with opportunities but also unique challenges, especially for black women. Recognising this, Coding Black Females decided to create the #ReturnToTech programme, an empowering initiative designed to uplift, train and amplify black women in tech.

Today, we want to share the heart and soul of this initiative - why we created it, what we hoped to achieve, and how it's tailored to assist black women in navigating the tech industry. #ReturnToTech is not just a course, it's a stepping stone, a career catalyst, and a community.

Returning to Tech and Boosting Mid-Career Growth

Taking a career break can be a significant decision, and returning to work can be an even more daunting challenge. For Black women, this journey often carries additional hurdles due to systemic biases and lack of representation.

But it's not only those returning from a break who face obstacles. Black women who are mid-career and feeling stagnant or plateaued also confront unique challenges. Whether it's a lack of opportunities to advance, a feeling of isolation due to underrepresentation, or simply a need for a new spark of inspiration, it's a struggle that's all too common.

The tech industry, with its dynamism and growing demand for diverse talent, presents a unique opportunity to overcome these challenges. Here's why:

1. Evolving Industry: Tech is a rapidly evolving industry, teeming with opportunities to shape the future. Whether you're returning to the field or looking for a new direction in your career, tech allows you to be part of, and contribute to, these exciting developments.
2. Increasing Demand: Businesses across sectors are recognising the importance of diversity in tech and the value that Black women bring to the table. There is an increasing demand for tech professionals, making it an opportune time to return or switch to this field.
3. Career Growth: The tech industry offers a multitude of roles and specialisations, allowing for significant career growth and development. For Black women who may feel stagnant in their current roles, switching to tech or upgrading their tech skills can provide a much-needed career boost.
4. Competitive Salaries: Tech roles often come with competitive salaries, making it an attractive field to return to or advance within.
5. Remote and Flexible Working: The tech industry is more open to remote and flexible working arrangements than many other fields, offering a good work-life balance.

Our #ReturnToTech programme is designed to help Black women navigate these challenges, providing them with the skills, support, and resources they need to thrive.

Shaping Real-World, Project-Based Learning ??

We wanted to give participants a taste of real-world projects. Learning about Agile Development or React is one thing, but applying these concepts to actual projects brings the learning experience to life.

Encouraging Triple Certification ??

We incorporated MongoDB, AWS Cloud Practitioner, and AWS Solution Architect certifications into the programme. These are not just CV boosters; they are badges of honour in the tech world, showcasing the skill and dedication of the bearer.

Potential Job Offers ??

The promise of a job offer from one of our recruiting partners is a key part of our programme. It serves as an incentive and a testament to the participants' skills and dedication.

Providing Bursaries ??

We understand that finances can often be a barrier. That's why we offer bursaries. We want to say, "We believe in you, and we're here to support you."

Building a Community ??

The programme has also been about fostering a community. We wanted to create a network of supportive, inspiring individuals who could learn from and grow with each other.

Emphasising Mentorship ??

We've brought in industry professionals to mentor our participants. Their wisdom, experience, and support have been invaluable in the learning process.

Enabling Career Growth ??

The #ReturnToTech programme is designed to serve as a platform for career growth, especially for mid-career professionals looking to level up their skills.

Offering Flexible Learning Options ???

And finally, we've made sure to offer both part-time and full-time cohorts, so participants can fit learning into their life, not the other way around.

I invite you to share this journey with us. Let's connect, discuss, and together, shape the future of tech. Whether you're a participant, an alum, or just interested, join the conversation using the hashtag #ReturnToTech.

Apply to the Return to Tech Bootcamp