We offer scholarships for our coding bootcamps on a rolling basis in order to create new paths into tech for more students — particularly members of underrepresented populations in tech.
Below, we’re excited to introduce you to the latest recipients of both our We Stand Together Scholarship and Galvanize Scholarship.
Editor’s note: The bios below were provided by the awardees.
We Stand Together Scholarship
Our We Stand Together Scholarship is for those who identify as Black or African-American and who are interested in our Beginner Coding Bootcamp. To plan for a more equitable future in tech, we launched an Opportunity Fund back in 2020 to fund this scholarship. Today, we’re happy to announce our latest recipients.
Mahad Fahieh, Beginner Coding Bootcamp
Mahad was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and is a first-generation Ethiopian American. He attended the University of Colorado Boulder, where he studied Civil Engineering and was the first person in his family to graduate from college. After graduation, he was commissioned as an Officer in the United States Air Force, where he served as a space and intelligence operator. Upon serving, he returned to school where he earned an MBA and now works as an engineer for a government contracting firm developing the latest space systems for the military. He enjoys hiking, snowboarding, biking, and watching/playing several sports, along with spending time with family and friends. He is honored to have been selected for the We Stand Together Scholarship and is excited to begin his software development journey with Galvanize.
LaTorya Walker, Beginner Coding Bootcamp
LaTorya is a globetrotter, Veteran, and the founder of a student educational nonprofit, ICY Abroad. With a strong background in education as a math teacher and AmeriCorps member, she also possesses valuable experience in the tech field, particularly in recruiting and supporting engineering teams. Her passion for learning and growth led her to enroll in the Hack Reactor by Galvanize Beginner Coding Bootcamp, where she aims to acquire software engineering skills and successfully transition into a technical role. Having experienced the impact of recent tech layoffs, LaTorya felt compelled to step out of her comfort zone and take the first step toward becoming a software engineer. This opportunity will enable her to achieve personal and professional goals, setting a strong example for ICY students on the significance of perseverance in overcoming challenges and proving that success is possible against all odds. In her journey, LaTorya seeks to promote diversity in technology and inspire others to pursue their dreams, emphasizing the possibilities for growth and success, no matter the obstacles!
Galvanize Scholarship
Our Galvanize Scholarship is open to Individuals who identify as belonging to one or more groups that are historically underrepresented in the tech industry, including BIPOC (Black/indigenous/person of color), formerly incarcerated persons, those in the LGBTQIA+ community, persons with disabilities, persons over age 40, Veterans, and women. Meet the latest recipients.
Shiela Lee, Beginner Coding Bootcamp
Shiela Lee enjoys tinkering with technology. She taught herself how to build her own website and created web-based learning tools to help her elementary-aged students in the classroom. Motivated to enhance the breadth and depth of these resources for learners, she decided to pivot her career from teaching to software engineering. She graduated from Grinnell College with a Philosophy degree and later received a Fulbright Fellowship to teach English in Taiwan. She then received her Master’s degree from Teachers College, Columbia University, and taught in the New York City Department of Education system for eleven years. She looks forward to using her knowledge of the education system and classroom to foster continued learning for herself and others while innovating new technologies.
Kyle Smith, Beginner Coding Bootcamp
Kyle is beyond excited to become a software engineer. Coding has intrigued him for years and he is now ready to tackle learning the skills to become a software engineer. Along with coding, Kyle enjoys being active. Mountain biking and skateboarding are his sports of choice because he loves a challenge. Kyle is ready to grab a caffeinated beverage and get started!
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If you’re interested in learning how to participate in our Scholarship Advisory Council, please contact scholarships@galvanize.com for consideration. A team member will set up a brief Zoom call to discuss your interest, the application review process, and our expectations of council members. Firsthand familiarity with Galvanize programs is helpful, though not necessarily required. Current or prospective students of Galvanize programs are not considered to avoid conflicts of interest.
