Posted on August 25, 2020 at 1:18 PM by Denise Cartina
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When most parents would gift their kids a bike, a musical instrument or a pet, Sakina’s parents presented her with a computer at the age of 11. This started her on her journey to pursue a love for computers and technology. Sakina is a trailblazer and front runner on many different levels. She is the first girl in her family to go to college focusing her studies in the field of computer science. She worked at IBM in India and then moved to Milwaukee where she attained her Masters in Computer Science from the University of Wisconsin. Sakina could have gone on to pursue a lucrative career in the corporate world but instead decided to take a leap and become an entrepreneur to fill a need she recognized in the community. Sakina is the founder of Codinu in Naperville.
Codinu teaches young children from ages 7-17 years to code. Taught in a fun and collaborative environment, kids learn to become curious problem solvers and appreciate the back-end of how technology works.
Sakina feels understanding technology while enjoying the benefits of how technology helps us is both imperative and beneficial. The lack of resources available to young children is what propelled her to fill that niche. Also, having first-hand experience in studying and working in a male dominated field, she is motivated to do what she can to help bridge the gender gap and mentor young girls to pursue opportunities in STEM careers.
Sakina is paving the path for children to understand and appreciate the fascinating world of technology so they can better prepare for their future."
Nominated by Christella Ild