In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, innovation knows no bounds. Yet, for too long, the contributions of African American software engineers have been overlooked and underrepresented.
From founding groundbreaking startups to pioneering advancements in artificial intelligence, these trailblazers have shattered stereotypes and paved the way for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
In this post, we shine a spotlight on 12 remarkable African American software engineers whose work has not only transformed the tech world but also inspired generations to come. Join us as we celebrate their achievements and recognize the impact they've made on shaping the future of technology.
Kimberly Bryant: Kimberly Bryant is the founder of Black Girls Code, a nonprofit organization that aims to introduce girls of color to computer programming and technology. Bryant founded Black Girls Code in 2011 to address the lack of diversity in the tech industry and to provide opportunities for underrepresented minorities in STEM fields.
Tristan Walker: Tristan Walker is the founder and CEO of Walker & Company Brands, a health and beauty company that creates products for people of color. Before founding Walker & Company, Walker held various roles at tech companies like Foursquare and Twitter. He is known for his entrepreneurial ventures and his efforts to increase diversity in the tech industry.
Marlon Nichols: Marlon Nichols is the co-founder and Managing General Partner at MaC Venture Capital, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups. Nichols has extensive experience in the tech industry and has worked as an entrepreneur, investor, and advisor to numerous startups.
Arlan Hamilton: Arlan Hamilton is the founder and Managing Partner of Backstage Capital, a venture capital firm that invests in underrepresented founders. Hamilton founded Backstage Capital in 2015 with the goal of supporting entrepreneurs who are women, people of color, and LGBTQ+. She is known for her efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Wayne Sutton: Wayne Sutton is the co-founder and CTO of Change Catalyst, a company that empowers diverse, inclusive, and sustainable tech innovation. Sutton is also a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and advisor to startups. He is known for his work in promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Morgan DeBaun: Morgan DeBaun is the co-founder and CEO of Blavity, a media company that focuses on black millennials. DeBaun founded Blavity in 2014 to provide a platform for black voices and perspectives. Under her leadership, Blavity has grown into a successful media company with a strong community following.
Jewel Burks Solomon: Jewel Burks Solomon is the co-founder of Partpic, a visual recognition technology company that was acquired by Amazon in 2016. Solomon founded Partpic in 2013 to help users identify and find replacement parts using photos. She is known for her entrepreneurial success and her efforts to promote diversity in the tech industry.