Learning a new skill can change human lives for the better. We are publishing inspirational stories of women who advanced the career ladder with the help of technology and mentorship. In this series of interviews, you will hear about CodeGirls and how it changed the perception of technology for so many women in Pakistan.
These interviews shed light on the day-to-day issues of a woman who wants to get her foot in the door and start her career in technology. The CodeGirls platform empowered these women and gave them bigger goals to bet on!
Today, we are featuring Sana Abbas. Read on to know more about her learning at CodeGirls as well as her professional experience.
Tell us a little about yourself, your background, your education, and your work.
My name is Sana Fatima, mother of two and a housewife. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and have a computer science background. I never heard terms like HTML, CSS or Javascript and had no idea how a website is made. The terminologies like the front-end, back-end, databases made no sense to me before joining the CodeGirls program
Who have been your most potent influences in life?
I always aimed to accomplish something but didn’t know what it could be. As soon as I joined CodeGirls, Mam Shamim became my strongest influence, as well as a mentor. I always look up to her and she has always been a great counselor.
Why did you choose to learn to code?
As I mentioned earlier, I did not know code or languages; after joining CodeGirls, I knew there was no looking back. The unlimited opportunities and vast amount of career choices it gave, I knew I needed to make this my career.
What was your experience like with CodeGirlsKarachi?
One word: exceptional. I don’t have words to describe the gratitude I feel towards the team and mentors behind this program. For a person like me who had no CS background, in a mere period of 4 months, to be able to make a website from scratch is enough to dictate the incredible experience I have had with CodeGirls.
What are you most proud of accomplishing?
Since the journey of CodeGirls started, there have been several milestones that I have achieved that made me proud. From getting selected in Phase 1 for website showcasing, to being in the Top 5 in Phase 2 with PHP as the main course, and top of all, getting a remote job! I was working with a company in Zurich as soon as Phase 2 started, which is amazing for me. Alhamdulillah for all.
What goals have you set for yourself for the next three years?
In the next three years, I want to start something of my own. Be it a small startup, but I plan on being an entrepreneur and set up a small software company of my own. I am not sure how, but I hope to get there.
What would you do differently if you had a chance?
I don’t think I would change anything or do anything differently from what I am doing right now. But if I had a chance, I wish I had gotten into this field earlier and started my career as a developer from an early age. But, better late than sorry. I am content with what I have right now.
Did getting a job changed something for you within and outside the family?
Absolutely. You know, working from home is a bit tough. In my opinion, you have to manage and take time out for work, kids and house affairs. I have an amazingly supportive family who makes sure there is no disturbance in my work hours. Even people outside the family are encouraging.
With the growing technology and changing mindsets, people have started realizing that women are capable of doing more than just household and breeding. Women with successful careers are now thriving, which I believe is a very positive thing for a better society.
You can contact Sana Abbas using her email address below, and please do not hesitate in hiring her for your next project.
Email: sana.abbhaid@gmail.com
