Women Who Code Launches In Medellín, Colombia
Written by WWC HQ
The non-profit organization seizes opportunity in its first Colombian City
SAN FRANCISCO, June 3, 2015 — Women Who Code (WWCode), the leading professional community for women in technology, recently announced the launch of a new Network in Medellín, Colombia. The launch of WWCode in a new city expands the organization’s impact on a global level increasing its presence to 53 cities spanning 18 countries. The network held its inaugural event at the Fundación Marina Orth, an educational institute focused on technology, language, and leadership programs with around 20 women in attendance.
An electrical engineer who graduated as one of only 35 women in a class of 500, Isabel Yepes, the Director of WWCode Medellín who oversees the technical workshops and manages the non-profits’ interests locally, is a firm believer in providing gender-neutral educational opportunities. “Women Who Code is a safe environment for women willing to grow in technology,” Yepes said. “It’s a place where gender labels don’t exist, because we are all equal; a place where women who are willing to share their knowledge are available to serve as role models to others in their professional development.”
Yepes first contacted the organization about expanding to Colombia in November of 2014 when she was looking for a way to organize and network amongst other women with technology backgrounds. After the initial application process, Yepes went through a series of brand and leadership training exercises to begin preparing for the launch event of her Network, working closely with the team at the Headquarters in San Francisco, to ensure she was prepared for a successful first event.
After intense outreach efforts domestically, Medellín’s launch is an exciting effort to meet international demand for continued expansion. “It’s an exciting development, and another indication that there is worldwide demand for the support of women in technology,” said Alaina Percival, CEO of Women Who Code. “Women Who Code exists because of women out there like Isabel, who have the drive to succeed and in doing so, are willing to reach out to support and advocate for other women in the technology field.”
Women Who Code
Women Who Code is a non-profit dedicated to inspiring women to excel in technology careers. The organization provides an avenue into tech, empowers women with skills needed for professional advancement, and creates environments where networking and mentorship are valued. To date, WWCode has produced more than 1,200 free technical events around the world, garnered a membership exceeding 30,000, and has a presence in 18 countries.
Media Contact: press@womenwhocode.com