Empowering Girls and Women through JavaScript

Hello, Amazing Girls and Women!

I'm Tia Simmons, and I'm here to share my journey into the world of coding and web development, particularly with JavaScript. Just like many of you, I began my coding adventure at a young age. My story revolves around resilience, adaptation, and a determination to thrive in the digital world.

What to Expect

As you embark on your journey with JavaScript, you're entering a dynamic realm of web development. JavaScript is a versatile and essential programming language for building interactive and engaging websites. Here's what you can expect:

1. Interactivity: JavaScript enables you to make your websites come alive. You can create interactive forms, dynamic content, and respond to user actions, making your projects engaging and user-friendly.

2. Versatility: Whether you're interested in front-end development, back-end development, or even mobile app development, JavaScript has a place. It's the language of the web and opens doors to various career paths.

3. Abundant Resources: JavaScript boasts a vast and active community. Countless tutorials, libraries, and frameworks are available to help you along the way. You'll find plenty of support as you learn.

Challenges in Learning JavaScript

I understand that learning to code can be intimidating, and JavaScript is no exception. Here are some common challenges you might face:

1. Complexity: JavaScript, like any programming language, can seem complex at first. The concepts, syntax, and structure may be overwhelming. But remember, it's normal to feel this way initially.

2. Debugging: You'll spend time debugging your code, which means finding and fixing errors. Don't be discouraged when things don't work as expected; debugging is a valuable skill.

3. Imposter Syndrome: This is a common challenge, especially for women. You might doubt your abilities or feel like you don't belong. Remember that you're here to learn and grow.

4. Information Overload: With so many resources available, you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information. It's essential to focus on your learning path and not try to master everything at once.

Navigating the Challenges

Here are some strategies to navigate these challenges:

1. Start Small: Begin with simple JavaScript projects. As you complete them, you'll build confidence and gradually tackle more complex tasks.

2. Seek Guidance: Don't hesitate to ask for help or guidance when you're stuck. Join coding communities, forums, or online platforms where you can connect with others learning JavaScript.

3. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Each line of code you write and every bug you fix is a step forward in your learning journey.

4. Consistent Practice: Coding is a skill that improves with practice. Dedicate regular time to coding, work on personal projects, and keep the momentum going.

5. Immerse Yourself: Immerse yourself in the world of web development. Explore websites, try to replicate features you like, and learn by doing.

JavaScript is a language of empowerment. It empowers you to bring your creative ideas to life on the web and shape the digital landscape. With determination, practice, and a supportive community, you can overcome challenges and excel in the world of coding.

Remember, we women often aim for perfection, which can sometimes hold us back. Don't let analysis paralysis stop you. Embrace the journey, keep learning, and don't be afraid to make mistakes; they're opportunities to grow. Just like me, you can adapt, overcome challenges, and thrive in the digital world.

Let's embark on this JavaScript adventure together! Whether you're a girl, a woman, or anyone passionate about coding, JavaScript welcomes you. The world of web development is waiting for your unique contributions. Get started, and together, we'll create amazing things.

​Wishing you coding success!

​Empowering Girls and Women through Python Coding

Hello, Amazing Girls and Women!
 
In today's fast-paced, tech-driven world, coding is an invaluable skill that opens doors to countless opportunities. Learning to code is not just about using software but also understanding how to build it, and Python is an excellent language to start with. Python is versatile, beginner-friendly, and widely used in various industries, making it an ideal choice for those looking to embark on their coding journey. I'm Njoki Kimani, and I'm here to share my passion for technology and self-taught techie journey, and to let you know that you, yes, you can explore the vast world of coding.
 
The Beauty of Python
 
Python is often referred to as a "high-level" programming language because of its readability and simplicity. It's like speaking a language that a computer can understand. Python's syntax is clear and concise, making it accessible even to those with no prior coding experience. For girls and women looking to break into the world of tech, Python is an excellent choice to start with.
 
What to Expect
 
When you begin your journey into Python coding, you can expect to explore a whole new world of problem-solving, creativity, and innovation. You'll be introduced to concepts like variables, data types, and control structures. These are the building blocks of coding, and Python is an excellent teacher. You'll learn how to write programs, create algorithms, and build your own software. The possibilities are endless.
 
Challenges in Learning Python
 
Learning any new skill, especially coding, comes with its share of challenges. I understand the hurdles that you may face, and I encourage perseverance. Here are some common challenges you might encounter:
 
Imposter Syndrome: Feeling like you don't belong or that you're not good enough is a common challenge. Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and with practice, you'll improve.
 
Complex Concepts: Coding can be intimidating at first, with unfamiliar terms and concepts. Take it one step at a time, and don't be afraid to ask for help or seek resources online.
 
Debugging: Finding and fixing errors in your code is a fundamental skill. Expect to spend time debugging, but each fix is a learning opportunity.
 
Frustration: You might encounter frustrating moments when your code doesn't work as expected. Stay patient, as these are opportunities to learn and grow.
 
Navigating the Challenges
 
To overcome these challenges, consider these strategies:
 
Seek a Supportive Community: Join coding communities or forums where you can connect with others learning Python. Sharing experiences and getting help from peers can be incredibly motivating.
 
Online Resources: The internet is a vast treasure trove of Python tutorials, courses, and documentation. Take advantage of online resources to supplement your learning.
 
Practice Regularly: Coding is a skill that improves with practice. Set aside dedicated time for coding, work on small projects, and gradually tackle more complex challenges.
 
Celebrate Small Wins: Don't underestimate the value of small victories. Each time you solve a problem or successfully create a program, celebrate your achievement.
 
Mentorship: Consider finding a mentor, like me, who can provide guidance and support on your coding journey. Mentors can offer valuable insights and help you stay motivated.
 
Python coding is not just about using software; it's about learning how to build it. The opportunities for empowerment are endless, and you have the chance to explore this dynamic field. Python is your gateway to a world of innovation, creativity, and problem-solving. Learning to code in Python is not just about joining a growing community of programmers but also about building the future of technology.
 
So, whether you're a girl, a woman, or anyone with a passion for coding, Python is ready to welcome you. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your achievements, and remember that the world of coding is a world of endless possibilities. Start your Python coding journey today and join the ranks of empowered individuals who are shaping the digital landscape. My story and dedication serve as an inspiration, reminding you that the tech world is open to all, regardless of gender or background.
 
Let's embark on this coding adventure together!

​-Njoki

​Noel: Hey, everyone, I was thinking about something related to our online experiences, and I wanted to hear your thoughts. You know, I recently noticed that some of my friends and even acquaintances on social media are not following me back. It's like we're friends in real life, but not a follower online. Have any of you experienced this?
 
Njoki: (Nods) Oh, I can relate to that, Noel. It's something that I've encountered as well. But you know, there's another aspect to it that I've personally grappled with. I've had to strike a balance between being friends with someone in real life and choosing whether to follow them online, especially when I see friends posting videos of violent acts and deaths of Black people. It's not just a matter of not wanting to see some content; it's about protecting my mental and emotional well-being.
 
Serita: That's a tough situation, Njoki. I've seen some of those posts too, and they can be really distressing. I completely understand why you might want to set those boundaries online.
 
America: Yeah, it can be a bit tricky. I have some friends who post content that I really don't want to see repeatedly on my timeline. It's not that I don't like them as friends, but I want my online space to be more positive and uplifting.
 
Gloria: I get that, America. It's essential to curate your online experience to match your interests and mental well-being. But it can be a delicate balance, especially with people you care about in real life.
 
Denitra: Absolutely, Gloria. I think it's crucial to remember that online and offline relationships can coexist separately. You can still be great friends with someone in person without being followers online. It's about setting boundaries that work for you.
 
Njoki: That's a great point, Denitra. We all have different preferences when it comes to our online presence. It's essential to prioritize our mental health and the content we consume.
 
Noel: Thanks for sharing your perspectives, everyone. It's reassuring to know that I'm not the only one navigating this balance between being friends but not necessarily a follower online.
 
Njoki: You're welcome, Noel. Remember, it's your online space, and you have the right to make it a positive and comfortable environment for yourself.

Nicole: Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for joining us today for this important discussion about the negative aspects of social media use. We have a fantastic group here of some bright young girls and their mothers. Let's begin by acknowledging that social media can be a wonderful tool for connecting, learning, and sharing, but it also comes with some risks that we need to be aware of.

Noel: Nicole, can you tell us a bit about your own experiences with the internet and the challenges you've faced?

Nicole: Of course. When I was your age, my parents didn't know much about computers, so I had to learn about the internet on my own. I quickly realized that not everything online is safe. I heard stories from friends about catfishing and even encountering people with bad intentions, like weird pedophiles. Catfishing is when someone pretends to be someone they're not to deceive others online. Pedophilia refers to adults with inappropriate interests in children, and it's a grave concern. It can be really scary because these actions can harm you emotionally and even physically.

Serita: That sounds scary. How did you learn to protect yourself online?

Nicole: Well, I became very cautious. I started by not sharing personal information online, like my full name, address, or phone number. And I never agreed to meet anyone I only knew from the internet in person. It's essential to be skeptical and ask questions if something doesn't seem right.
 
Serita: Can you tell us signs of catfishing and how to recognize them?
 
Nicole: Absolutely, Serita. Signs of catfishing can include someone refusing to share photos, having very few friends or followers, being extremely vague about their personal life, or being overly eager to meet in person. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and talk to a trusted adult about it.


America: And what about pedophiles or online predators? How can we spot them?
 
Nicole: Great question, America. Online predators can use fake profiles and try to gain your trust by pretending to be someone your age. They may ask personal questions or try to pressure you into sharing inappropriate pictures, such as nudes or images where you're in compromising positions that you would not want to be public. They might even ask you inappropriate questions...questions that might make you feel uncomfortable, squeamish, gross or even dirty. Be wary of anyone who is too interested in your personal life or asks for inappropriate content.

Gloria: That's great advice, Nicole. But how can we help our daughters stay safe online?

Nicole: That's an excellent question. It's crucial to have open and honest conversations with your daughters about their online activities. Encourage them to talk to you if they ever feel uncomfortable or encounter something that doesn't seem right. Also, set boundaries and rules about screen time and social media usage, and make sure you're familiar with the platforms they use.

Denitra: What about privacy?

Nicole: Privacy is a big concern in the digital age. We leave a digital footprint every time we use the internet. It's essential to teach your daughters about privacy settings on social media platforms and the importance of not sharing too much personal information. Encourage them to think before they post and consider how their online actions may affect their future.

Serita: Nicole, you mentioned your work before. How has your career influenced your views on this topic?

Nicole: My work as a User Experience (UX) researcher has given me insight into how technology and social media can impact people's lives. I've seen both the positive and negative effects. It's made me even more aware of the need to educate and empower young people to make responsible choices online. Technology can be a powerful tool for good, but it's essential to use it wisely.
 
Denitra: I'm a "to do list" kind of a person. Would you please give us like a checklist of actions we can take to protect ourselves online?
 
Nicole: Excellent question, Denitra. Here are some actions you can take to protect yourselves:
 

1. Privacy Settings: Learn how to adjust privacy settings on social media platforms to control who can see your information.
2. Don't Share Personal Info: Never share personal information like your full name, address, phone number, or school online.
3. Think Before You Post: Always think before you post anything online. Consider how it might affect your reputation or safety.
4. Trust Your Instincts: If something or someone online makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts and tell a trusted adult.
5. Open Communication: Keep open communication with your parents or guardians about your online activities. Don't be afraid to talk to them if you encounter something troubling.

 
Denitra: Got it! Thank you, Nicole. This information is really valuable. I'll definitely be more cautious online now.

Noel: Wow, thanks, Nicole. This has been really eye-opening. I'm going to be more careful online too.

Nicole: You're welcome! Remember, it's all about staying informed, being cautious, and having open conversations with your parents. If you ever have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you.

Njoki and Ebony talk about mental health issues.

Njoki: (Excitedly) Ebony, I've been reading some amazing blog posts on Therapy for Black Girls. They've been helping me navigate relationships and understand mental health better.

Ebony: (Curious) Really? I didn't know you were into that. I usually prefer to watch videos or do my own research.

Njoki: (Eager to share) Well, you know, reading about mental health helps me a lot in understanding myself and others. For example, I read this one titled "How Advocating for Yourself Affects Your Mental Health." It really shed light on how important it is to speak up and ask for what you need.

Ebony: (Listening intently) That sounds interesting. I'm not always good at asking for help, but I do my best to find solutions on my own. What else have you been reading?

Njoki: (Enthusiastic) Another one I found helpful was "Letting Go of 'Survival Mode.'" It made me realize that sometimes I push myself too hard, trying to be a perfectionist. It's essential to prioritize self-care.

Ebony: (Nods in agreement) I can relate to that. I often feel like I have to be a superwoman and do everything perfectly. It can be exhausting.

Njoki: (Empathetic) Exactly! But it's okay to say 'no' and take care of ourselves. Oh, and there's this podcast episode on Therapy for Black Girls about how "Black Girls React to The Little Mermaid." It's so interesting how they discuss representation in media.

Ebony: (Interested) I remember when Halle Bailey was cast as Ariel in the live-action version. That caused quite a buzz. I'll definitely check that out.

Njoki: (Continuing) And if you ever want to understand imposter syndrome and perfectionism better, there's a podcast episode about that too. It's called "The Truth About Imposter Syndrome & Perfectionism."

Ebony: (Appreciative) Thanks for sharing these resources, Njoki. I may not ask for help often, but I'm always willing to learn and improve myself. These seem like valuable insights.

Njoki: (Smiling) You're welcome, Ebony. We're all on a journey of self-discovery and growth, right?

Ebony: (Grateful) Absolutely, Njoki. Thanks for being a helpful friend and sharing these resources with me. I'll start exploring them soon.

Their conversation continued, with Njoki and Ebony discussing their different approaches to self-improvement and mental health. Ebony appreciated Njoki's willingness to share valuable insights from her readings and podcast recommendations.

​

In the bustling city of Hampton, Virginia, Ebony Peoples sat down with her close friend Maria and Maria's daughter, Mia. As the sun streamed through the window, Ebony's wise words about social media filled the room.
 
"Maria," Ebony began, "you know, it's crucial to be mindful of what you post on social media."
 
Maria nodded, intrigued by the topic. "Tell us more, Ebony," she encouraged.
 
Ebony leaned forward, sharing a 2018 BuzzFeed News article written by Rachael Krishna on the screen of her iPad. "Take Naomi, for instance. She was a brilliant young woman who had a NASA internship within her reach. However, she posted vulgar comments on Twitter that quickly caught the attention of her prospective employer. Unfortunately, that post cost her the internship opportunity."
 
Maria gasped in surprise, while Mia looked thoughtful. "Wow, that's incredible," Maria said, shaking her head.
 
Ebony continued, her voice filled with wisdom, "You see, what you post online can have real-life consequences. It's especially important if you ever decide to run for office or work in a political office, like a legislative research assistant. You must ensure people know that your views are your own, not those of your member of Congress. You wouldn't want to put out information that reflects poorly on them, especially if it doesn't align with their stance on certain issues."
 
Mia raised her hand to ask a question. "So, everything you do online can be used against you?"
 
Ebony nodded. "Exactly, Mia. Even posts from many years ago can resurface, so it's essential to be very careful with your content."
 
Maria chimed in, "And what about when you run for office, Ebony?"
 
Ebony smiled warmly. "When you run for office, every single thing you do online can be documented. Someone could dig up posts you made decades ago. Like, I can pull up screen shots of Naomi's posts today that got her fired, even though her original tweet was deleted a long time ago. So, you must always be cautious about what you post."
 
As their conversation continued, Maria and Mia absorbed Ebony's valuable advice about social media. Ebony's story about Naomi. served as a powerful reminder that the things shared online can have a lasting impact on one's life and future opportunities.

PII - Personal Identifiable Information
Here is a list of personal information that should not be shared online:

1. Home Address: You should never share your home address on the internet.
2. Phone Number: Avoid sharing your cell phone number online.
3. Email Address: Keep your email address private and don't share it openly.
4. Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing personal information like your date of birth, driver's license, who you live with or other details on social media.
5. License Plate Number: Avoid posting pictures that reveal your license plate number, as it can be used to identify you.
6. Family Pictures: Be careful about sharing family pictures that could reveal personal information or your location.
7. Details in the Background: Ensure that your background in photos or videos doesn't reveal sensitive information, like degrees or awards that may contain your name.
8. Information about Your Home: Avoid sharing details about your living space, especially if it can be used to identify your location.
9.  Webinar Attendees: When hosting online sessions, be mindful of what's visible in your background, especially if there are many attendees. Avoid sharing personal or sensitive information unintentionally. Also, make sure that your space is clean.
10. Personal Interactions: Be cautious when interacting with strangers online, and remember that not everyone may have good intentions. Don't reveal too much personal information, especially to people you don't know well.
11. Identity Protection: Keep in mind that oversharing personal information can make it easier for someone to steal your identity, potentially leading to issues like fraudulent job applications or credit card applications.
12. Stranger Danger: It's essential to remind yourself and others about basic online safety and the potential dangers of sharing too much information, especially for women and individuals who belong to minority groups may be targeted more frequently. Strangers, as well as some people you "think" you know, may put you in danger.

By avoiding the sharing of this sensitive information, you can help protect your privacy and reduce the risk of identity theft or other online threats.

​Jazmin, the MarTech Publicist, knew the importance of staying safe online. She shared her wisdom with her friend Maria, who was new to social media. "Maria," she said, "you should be careful about what you share on the internet. Don't give away too much information about yourself, like your home address. Some people might use it for bad things."
 
Maria nodded, realizing that being cautious was essential. Jazmin continued, "And always check your social media accounts regularly to make sure you're not sharing too much. Sometimes, even your license plate number in a picture can be a problem."
 
Maria thanked Jazmin for her advice and started being extra careful about what she shared online.

​As Jazmin worked on the Open Educational Resource (OER) project, she understood the importance of creating a safe online space. She thought about her own experiences and how she had to be extra cautious because she was a woman of unique heritage.
 
Jazmin decided to make the OER a place where Latinas, Afro-Latinas, Black girls, and women could learn and connect safely. She ensured that the content reflected their diverse experiences and that there were no personal details that could put them at risk.
 
Jazmin's dedication to safety and diversity made the OER a welcoming place for people from all backgrounds.

One day, Jazmin was reviewing content for the OER when she came across a section that perpetuated stereotypes about minority women. She couldn't believe it. She knew she had to do something about it.
 
Jazmin decided to rewrite that section, showcasing the strength and resilience of minority women instead of reinforcing harmful stereotypes. She wanted to challenge the status quo and make sure that the OER was a platform for diverse and empowering stories.
 
Her determination to amplify underrepresented voices shone through as she worked tirelessly to create content that celebrated the unique heritage and experiences of Latinas, Afro-Latinas, Black girls, and women.
 
In each of these mini-stories, Jazmin's commitment to staying safe online and promoting diversity and inclusivity in the digital world shines through. Her unique perspective and determination make her a powerful force for positive change in the OER project.

Banter: Fun Chats and Serious Talks
Banter is a word we use to describe conversations that can be both fun and friendly or more serious, depending on the context. It's like when you're talking to your friends or family members, and you're having a playful or light-hearted conversation. You might tease each other in a good-natured way, share jokes, or just chat about everyday stuff like movies, sports, or school.

Friendly Banter: Friendly banter is when you and your friends exchange jokes or playful remarks. It's all in good fun, and nobody's trying to hurt anyone's feelings. For example, if you and your friend play on opposing sports teams, you might tease each other about who's going to win the next game. It's a way of bonding and having a good time together.

Serious Talks: Banter can also be used for more serious conversations. Sometimes, people use banter to discuss important topics like politics, current events, or personal issues. In these cases, banter can mean having a thoughtful discussion. It's not about making jokes but rather sharing ideas, opinions, and even debating.

So, whether it's light-hearted and fun or deep and meaningful, banter is a way people communicate and connect with each other. It's like a flexible tool in our conversational toolbox that we can use for different situations, depending on what we want to achieve in our talks.

​Example: Sports & Politics Banter
Some people use Twitter to go back and forth about sports and politics. In the first 90 seconds of this video, Stephen Colbert talks to Jemele Hill about one of her Tweets that got the attention from a POTUS. Keep watching the video to learn how the two arenas of sports and politics intermingle and how, at times, sports are politicized when it shouldn't be the case.

Leave a comment: What do you go back and forth with others about on social media? What kinds of responses do you receive? What are some great examples of banter that you've come across online?