Game Jam event empowers young girls with coding skills

NEWS RELEASE
CODE NINJAS BARRIE
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In a groundbreaking collaboration, Code Ninjas, a premier global coding for kids’ franchise, Microsoft MakeCode, an innovative computing platform that makes programming accessible and fun, and Girls Who Code, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology, have joined forces.

This powerful partnership will culminate in a special “Female Game Changers” dedicated to celebrating the women who have impacted your life. Designed to teach girls coding through the creation of their own video games, using tools and platforms provided by Microsoft MakeCode to enhance the experience.

This unique Game Jam aims to inspire and educate girls by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and platform to embark on a journey in computer science.

By focusing on game development and leveraging Microsoft MakeCode’s intuitive, block-based and JavaScript coding environments, the event seeks to make learning to code an enjoyable and engaging experience, fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and a passion for technology.

“Through our partnership with Girls Who Code and the integration of Microsoft MakeCode, we aim to shatter stereotypes and inspire a new generation of female coders,” said Navin Gurnaney, CEO of Code Ninjas.

“The Game Jam event is a testament to our commitment to making coding accessible to all, particularly to empower girls during Women’s History Month.”

Dr. Tarika Barrett, CEO of Girls Who Code, added: “In order to close the gender gap in tech, we have to let young women know that computer science skills can be an outlet for creativity and fun, and a vehicle for them to pursue their passions. We’re excited to collaborate with Code Ninjas and Microsoft MakeCode for this Game Jam event, offering a safe space for our students to learn and get inspired by the possibilities of a tech career.”

“Game Jams are a great way to learn, express your creativity, connect, and collaborate with others. Microsoft MakeCode is thrilled to be partnering with Code Ninjas and Girls Who Code on a special ‘Female Game Changers” themed Game Jam this month. With still only 26 per cent female representation in the technology industry, games are a great way to engage young women and spark their interest in future careers in tech,” says Jacqueline Russell, product manager at Microsoft MakeCode.

The Game Jam event culminates on March 31, with activities designed to cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced coders.

Participants will have the opportunity to work in teams, learn from experienced mentors, and bring their creative ideas to life through code, utilizing Microsoft MakeCode’s versatile platform.

For more information about the “Female Game Changers” Game Jam event and how to participate, visit Game Jam Link and CodeNinjas.com.

Code Ninjas Barrie is hosting a free workshop to support the Game Jam on March 22 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. All kids (not only female) are invited to come to the centre to work on their projects. No coding experience is needed. The Code Senseis will be here to help the kids start the project or answer any questions. Sign up the free event here.

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