My journey with technology began while I was still at Hassan Joho Secondary School. In 2016, I had the privilege of participating in the Mombasa Girls in STEM project, an initiative by Pwani Teknowgalz. This experience sparked my passion for technology and inspired me to pursue it further after completing high school. I started with the basics, learning computer essentials, and gradually expanded my knowledge to website development and Python programming, thanks to the mentorship and support I received at Pwani Teknowgalz. These skills have been instrumental in shaping my career and pursuing my passion. In 2018, I was thrilled to contribute to my team at Pyscbeing, where we developed a mobile application focused on mental health. This project was a testament to how technology can make a significant impact on important issues like mental health.

Being part of the Pwani Teknowgalz community is an experience I would recommend to everyone, whether they're tech-savvy or not. I've learned to be more assertive in pursuing my goals and to be open to learning from others. This community empowers us and teaches us to support one another. I'm grateful for the mentors and friends I've met here who constantly inspire me to be and do better.The diverse skill set enabled me to secure a job as a web developer and social media manager, where I apply my knowledge to create impactful digital experiences. I'm grateful for the continuous support and opportunities provided by Pwani Teknowgalz which have allowed me to grow and make a difference in the tech community.

Through the CodeHack program, I have significantly enhanced my skills in web design and development, resulting in the creation of my personal portfolio and a mockup website for an NGO (`{`personal portfolio`}`(https://trizaomina.github.io/ The digital marketing training equipped me with skills in SEO, social media marketing, and graphic design. This training led to securing two clients—one with a signed contract for social media marketing and another for graphic design work.

I have also launched my own social media account, @minah_digitals, to offer these services, though it is still a work in progress. Additionally, the program helped me secure an internship with the Ajira Digital Program, where I am applying my skills in real-world settings remotely.

My experience with Pwani Teknowgalz has been transformative. Through their comprehensive programs, I have gained invaluable skills in web development, digital marketing, artificial intelligence, soft skills, and graphic design. These skills have not only broadened my technical expertise but also enhanced my ability to communicate and collaborate effectively. The supportive environment and mentorship provided by Pwani Teknowgalz have played a crucial role in my personal and professional growth. This diverse skill set enabled me to secure a job as a web developer and social media manager for sukoon designs where I apply my knowledge to create impactful digital experiences.

Being a writer and social media expert, I run my own blog at Shufaayakut.com. For a long time, I relied on my web developer friends to help me edit content and make changes to my website. However, they were often busy, which made it challenging for me to get the support I needed. When I developed an interest in learning how to design websites, I was thrilled to get an opportunity to learn website development for free with Pwani Teknowgalz. After completing the three-month training, I acquired the skills to redesign my own website and make changes easily. My classmate Sophia and I even redesigned the Swahilipot Hub website together. Now, I'm working as a freelance website developer, and I aim to use my skills to help artists create websites for their brands.

Through one of our Programs #StemCafe_KE in partnership with American Spaces, Mariam Zahur gained skills on data collection and visualization techniques using #odk and Ona data. With the skills gained, she managed to secure a job as a data entry supervisor with GDI (Global Development Incubator) in Mombasa, Mariam is looking forward to joini Pwani Teknowgalz website development classes this year as her dream is to become a professional website developer. She would like to use the website development skills to be able to economically empower herself and contribute to the digital economy.