Participant story: Fariba (she/her)

“I feel lucky to be surrounded by amazing individuals, coaches, and volunteers, and I am very eager to get rolling doing great things!”

1) Tell us a little about your life.
During the Iran and Iraq war, all the universities were shut down and I left Iran in hope of graduating with a professional degree. I practiced as a pharmacist for over 15 years, and then I started a small business — Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt. Once I was operating my businesses, it did not take long to appreciate how critical technology is to nearly every aspect of my personal and professional life. I have an amazing son and recently became a grandmother to two beautiful little girls.

2) What made you decide to apply for Techtonica?
I have been fascinated with computer science since I studied health sciences in college. Out of pure curiosity, I started self-learning about computer science and programming, and once I discovered JavaScript, I was hooked. As I was looking into coding programs, a career coach at NOVAworks recommended Techtonica and I liked the supportive culture.

3) What are you most excited to learn while at Techtonica?
I feel lucky to be surrounded by amazing individuals, coaches, and volunteers, and I am very eager to get rolling doing great things! I’d like to learn to be a natural at coding in React and Node.

4) What do you want to contribute to or change about the tech industry?
I would like to create a healthy space for code-lovers like myself and to help people let go of any anxiety, bias, or fears that could hold them back from pursuing their dreams.

5) What’s your dream project?
Something FUN and uplifting, a learning tool! Maybe a software that’s a teaching tool but also entertaining. It has to be fun and rewarding and positive.