Celebrating Kimberly Bryant: Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
As we continue our Black History Month spotlight, we honor Kimberly Bryant, a visionary leader who empowers young women of color to pursue technology careers. Through her groundbreaking organizations, Black Girls CODE and Black Innovation Lab, Bryant has reshaped the narrative around diversity in STEM and inspired a new generation of innovators. Born in 1967 and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Bryant discovered her passion for science and engineering early. She earned a degree in electrical engineering from Vanderbilt University, where she specialized in biotechnology and manufacturing.
After building a successful career in the tech industry and working for companies like Genentech, Novartis, and Merck, Bryant became acutely aware of the lack of representation in STEM fields. She noticed that not only were women underrepresented, but women of color were often absent. This realization sparked a mission that would change lives.
The Birth of Black Girls CODE
In 2011, Bryant founded Black Girls CODE with a bold mission: to provide young girls from underrepresented communities with the skills and confidence to thrive in technology careers. Black Girls CODE offers workshops, hackathons, and coding programs that expose girls to computer science, programming, and entrepreneurship.
Since its founding, the organization has introduced tens of thousands of girls to coding, inspiring them to envision themselves as future tech leaders. Bryant’s work has created a movement, proving that diversity in STEM is possible and essential for innovation.
A Legacy of Empowerment
Under Bryant’s leadership, Black Girls CODE has expanded internationally, fostering community and empowerment among participants. She has been named in Forbes’ list of “Most Powerful Women Changing the World,” received the Jefferson Award for Public Service, and was recognized in 2013 as a White House Champion of Change for Tech Inclusion.
But her impact goes beyond numbers, as she has given countless young women the tools and belief to succeed in a field where they have historically been marginalized.
I’m one of those women. As a young woman growing up in the tech world, I remember looking around my coding classes and feeling a deep sense of disappointment once I realized I was the only girl in the room. It often felt like no one was on my side, and there were moments when I considered giving up on my dream. But organizations like Black Girls CODE ensure that no girl will ever feel that way again. Through their work, young girls are empowered to know they belong — and that no one can tell them otherwise.
Bryant’s work to foster belonging and confidence in girls pursuing technology careers has been an inspiration to so many, including myself. She not only defied the odds to carve her own path but also paved the way for countless others to follow. Her work is shaping a thriving, diverse generation of innovators who will transform the tech world with their passion, inclusivity, and groundbreaking ideas.
Honoring Kimberly Bryant Today
Bryant’s dedication to empowering young women of color has transformed lives and reshaped the tech industry. As we celebrate her achievements, we also commit to fostering inclusion and supporting initiatives that create opportunities for underrepresented communities.
A few years ago, Bryant was replaced as CEO by Cristina Jones, marking a new chapter in the Black Girls CODE. Still, Bryant remains steadfast in her commitment to advocating for diversity in STEM and embarks on a transformative journey with the Black Innovation Lab, providing young girls from underrepresented communities with the confidence and skills to thrive in technology careers. Bryant’s influence endures, serving as a foundation for future generations of innovators.
At AvePoint, we are also working to address gender inequities in the tech industry through our Women in Tech (WIT) ERG. Our WIT ERG is dedicated to attracting, advancing, and celebrating women, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to grow personally and professionally.
Her work powerfully reminds us that diversity isn’t just about representation — it’s about unlocking potential and creating space for innovation to thrive. Bryant’s legacy will inspire future generations to code, make, and lead confidently.
Izzy Wood is a Marketing Coordinator at AvePoint, leveraging her expertise in event planning, logistics, and digital content creation to drive impactful campaigns. With a background in operations and a passion for technology, she excels at executing seamless marketing initiatives that enhance brand visibility and engagement.
