Girls Who Code

June 1st, 2024 Midjourney and Adobe Photoshop Augusta Ada King, Countess of Lovelace , also known as Ada Lovelace, was an emblem of intellectual prowess and visionary thinking. Born in 1815, Lovelace's prodigious talent was evident from a young age, nurtured by a rigorous education in mathematics and science. Her most significant contribution came through her collaboration with Charles Babbage on the Analytical Engine , an early mechanical general-purpose computer. In the last one of her notes, Lovelace described an algorithm specifically designed for the engine, marking her as the world's first computer programmer. Through the development of this algorithm she suggested the idea that the power of computing extended beyond numerical calculations, envisioning a future where machines could manipulate symbols in ways that could transform society. She was the first to foresee the machine's potential to create music and art , a concept far ahead of her time. Her work laid the foundational ideas for modern computing to inspire future generations of scientists and mathematicians. “Supposing, for instance, that the fundamental relations of pitched sounds in the science of harmony and of musical composition were susceptible of such expression and adaptations, the engine might compose elaborate and scientific pieces of music of any degree of complexity or extent.” Ada Lovelace (1843), via the University of Oxford Blog Despite facing societal challenges due to her gender , Lovelace’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and her ability to think beyond contemporary limitations made her a true pioneer. Her legacy is a testament to the power of imagination and intellect, continuing to inspire and empower women in STEM fields. Lovelace remains a symbol of what can be achieved with vision, perseverance, and a passion for discovery. Fifty percent of the proceeds from minting of this NFT will go to Women in Technology , an organization focused on empowering women and girls in STEAM fields via a community based approach. The other fifty percent will go towards funding girls and nonbinary persons in STEM through Girls Who Code . Every subsequent sale will be split 50-50 between the seller and the nonprofits. You must be 18 years or older (or whichever is the legal age in your area) and possess a valid credit card tied to your name, or if purchasing with crypto you automatically attest that you are of legal majority age within your jurisdiction to be making such a transaction.

I am requesting donations to Girls Who Code for my birthday this year. I selected Girls Who Code because the organization and its mission mean a lot to me. I took a leap of faith and reached out to Tarika Barrett after she was named CEO, and the rest is history. Not only did Tarika respond, she graciously became my mentor. She has supported me professionally and personally. Her leadership is a beacon for me. The work of Girls Who Code to uplift and empower girls who look like me is why they deserve support. Please join me in donating to Girls Who Code to celebrate and honor my birthday this year.