Meet the computer science role models of the future
“You can’t be what you can’t see.” Having relatable role models can be a game-changer for young minds navigating their next steps and longer-term aspirations. That’s why we’re spotlighting some of the top emerging role models in tech; industry innovators who are redefining the industry and championing future generations.
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE is a recognised and respected thought-leader and CEO of Stemettes, a social enterprise which inspires and support girls, young women and non-binary young people in STEM. She was voted the most influential woman in tech in the UK of 2020 by Computer Weekly and is featured among the top 50 women in tech, globally, by Forbes Magazine.
Imafidon was also the Arithmetician for 60 episodes on Channel 4’s Countdown and serves as the Chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University. Her first book “She’s in CTRL” was published in September 2022.
Kari Lawler
Kari started her career in tech at an early age, learning as much as she could about Artificial Intelligence (AI) by taking as many online courses as possible. This created many opportunities, including travel, where she taught and talked about AI and now, she shares her passion about computing over on YouTube!
As of 2024, she now has just over 70,000 subscribers. In her words, never stop learning as you don’t know where it will lead you!
Joshua Lowe
Joshua Lowe, a 20-year-old software engineer, has been passionate about technology from a young age. He began coding at the age of 8 after attending a local Raspberry Jam event, where he learned to program using Scratch and the Raspberry Pi. He was inspired in 2016 to create EduBlocks, a drag-and-drop coding platform designed to help young learners transition from block-based to text-based programming.
Today, EduBlocks is used by millions of students in hundreds of countries around the world. In 2023, EduBlocks was acquired by Anaconda, a US-based company specialising in Python, Data Science and AI, allowing Josh to dedicate himself to expanding its features and capabilities full-time.
The National Centre for Computing Education provides extensive support for those striving to enhance representation and inclusion in computing. From our I Belong programme to the Computing Ambassadors scheme, there are plenty of ways to strengthen your provision.