5 Organizations Empowering People of Color in Tech
This week we celebrate Juneteenth by highlighting 5 organizations that are doing strong work in uplifting people of color in the world of tech.
1. Code2040
Founder: Laura Weidman Powers
Code2040’s mission is to activate, connect, and mobilize the largest racial equity community in tech to dismantle the structural barriers that prevent the full participation and leadership of Black and Latinx people in the innovation economy.
Since its founding, Code2040 has built one of the largest communities of Black and Latinx technologists, supporting hundreds of early-career professionals through programs like the Fellows Program and Early Career Accelerator Program.
Check out Code2040 IRL on July 22 at San Francisco, CA.
2. Techqueria
National Team: Joliz Cedeño Alexis De Jesus Valeria Otazu
Techqueria’s mission is to provide Latinx professionals in tech with the resources, community, and support needed to thrive in the tech industry.
Techqueria has built a robust network that offers professional development, networking events, and advocacy for Latinx individuals in tech, helping to increase their representation and influence in the industry.
Check out their recurring UX Cafecito virtual event!
3. The Hidden Genius Project:
Executive Team: Brandon Nicholson, Tariq Norris, Alicia Pinn, PHR, SHRM-CP, Sean Valentine, Mounir Tyler, LCSW, Hodari Toure’ PhD
The Hidden Genius Project’s mission is train and mentor Black male youth in technology creation, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills to transform their lives and communities.
98% of their alumni have graduated high school, and 85% have gone on to college or vocational training.
Check out their Summer Design Camp in July at Oakland and Richmond CA!
4. Blacks In Technology (BIT):
Founder: Greg Greenlee
Blacks In Technology aims to provide resources, guidance, networking, and opportunities for members to share their expertise and advance their careers.
They have over 20 chapters across the United States and in 6 countries, with over 10,000 members.
Check out BITCON 2024 — a tech conference aimed at uplifting people of African descent.
5. Black Tech Pipeline
Founder: Pariss Chandler
Black Tech Pipeline’s mission is to bring awareness to, increase and retain the number of Black technologists in the tech workforce; from the individual contributor level to leadership and beyond.
Since their launch in 2020, they’ve partnered with over 200 companies through our job board and recruitment services, and newsletter. We work as a resource for incoming and current Black technologists and professionals that are searching for new opportunities.
Check out their job board!
6. [Bonus] Black Girls Code
Founder: Cristina Jones
Black Girls Code aims to empower young girls of color to embrace the current tech marketplace as builders and creators by introducing them to skills in computer programming and technology.
Black Girls Code has reached thousands of girls through various educational programs, workshops, and events, encouraging them to pursue careers in technology.
Check out their Summer Bootcamp in Chicago and a host of other events!
