This Black History Month, we’re honoring the theme of The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity by highlighting virtual educational events, celebrating Black innovators, and curating resource lists for emerging Black tech professionals to find support and connections in the industry. Seeing oneself in the field and building community can be essential to one’s career success and mental health as a Black tech professional.
We’re sure you’ll find connection and encouragement in the #BlackinTech community at these organizations.
1. Blacks in Technology
Blacks in Technology is a global platform providing mentorship, community, and media to its members. With local chapters all over the world, it’s the largest media and community organization focused on all things #BlackinTech. Learn more about how you can join a local chapter here.
2. Black Girls Code
Looking to mentor the next generation of coders? Consider volunteering at Black Girls Code. The organization’s mission is to increase the number of women of color in the digital space. They mentor and teach girls ages 7-17 valuable STEM skills so they can launch successful careers in tech and computer science. You can volunteer to be an instructor or provide social media or IT support. Getting involved with an organization like this one will help you connect with others in the tech industry and will empower you to be a mentor. Learn more about opportunities near you here.
3. Black and Brown Founders
Black and Brown Founders was established in 2017 after Executive Director Aniyia Williams saw the disparities in venture funding for BIPOC founders. The organization is working to fill in the gaps by offering national events, a virtual training program, and a virtual conference for Black and Latinx entrepreneurs at the early stages of their business journeys. Learn more about how you can connect with Black and Brown Founders on their website.
4. Black Code Collective
Black Code Collective provides space for Black Software Developers to build community, grow their skills, and increase their knowledge of the craft. While the group is based in Arlington, Va., there are plenty of online events you can attend from anywhere. You can get to know others in the Black Code Collective by joining the group’s Slack channel or following them on X. Upcoming events include a talk on DevOps and a Black women in tech panel. Learn more about Black Code Collective on their website or view upcoming events on Meetup.
5. Black Women in UX
Black Women in UX is a Facebook group for Black women with careers in mobile and web design. The group was started by Lenora Porter in response to the lack of support groups, resources, and sounding boards for Black women in UX. Group members share job and internship opportunities, events, tips, uplifting news about Black women in design, and other resources. They’re also encouraged to show off their latest design work. Join the Black Women in UX group here.
6. Center for Black Innovation
The Center for Black Innovation is a think tank and organization dedicated to building Black innovation communities and providing equitable capital pathways. Currently, the organization offers a VC-in-residence program, Black Ecosystem Builders Fellowship, startup studio, and a Black Innovation Fund. Learn more about how you can leverage the resources at the Center for Black Innovation on their website.
7. Black in Robotics
Black in Robotics brings together Black professionals, students, and researchers in the robotics field as they find career and academic success. Members receive access to a Slack channel, email communications, and events. Among recent events was a robotics workshop for Black Women in Artificial Intelligence Week. Follow along with everything happening at Black in Robotics here.
8. blackcomputeHER
Looking for support and workforce development on your tech journey? BlackcomputeHER could provide what you’re seeking. This organization doubles as a think tank and its efforts contribute to a growing body of research on Black women in tech, particularly as it pertains to the intersectional experiences they have in computing. Additionally, they hold fellowship programs and events designed to mentor, build community, and provide guidance on goal setting and career development. Learn more about the upcoming blackcomputeHER virtual conference here.
If you’re #BlackinTech, which organizations help you build community and foster your growth?
