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Charity Kithaka
Software Engineer - Tech Community Builder -
Professional Background
Charity Kithaka is a dedicated and passionate Maths and Computer Science student currently attending Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. Her educational pursuits encompass a broad spectrum of skills in back-end development, software development, and community development. Known for her proactive approach to learning, Charity consistently seeks out new opportunities to expand her knowledge and enhance her capabilities in the field of technology.
In her descent into the tech world, Charity has embraced her role as a community leader by chairing AnitaB.org Nairobi, making history as the youngest community lead globally. Under her guidance, she has worked tirelessly to inspire others, empowering them to challenge themselves and pursue their aspirations in technology. This drive to uplift others is reflected in her mentoring work, where she has guided high school students in designing applications using Java. These applications are aimed at creating a healthier community and equipping young individuals with critical skill sets early in their careers.
Beyond mentorship, Charity has demonstrated her capability in building robust technology communities from the ground up. She has been contracted to establish three distinct technology communities, each designed with a unique technological perspective and operational framework to ensure their success in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Alongside these commitments, she utilizes her free time to teach programming, showcasing her dedication to fostering an encouraging learning environment.
Education and Achievements
Charity Kithaka's academic accomplishments are substantial. She is currently studying Maths and Computer Science at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, focusing on the foundations of programming and the application of mathematics in computing. Additionally, she has expanded her educational portfolio by studying the fundamentals of computer science at Princeton University, an institution renowned for technological excellence.
Furthering her understanding of software development, Charity attended programs at Google Africa Scholar, where she gained insights into the latest technologies and development practices. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her involvement in business education, having studied at Future Females Business School and participated in the Future Founders program at Y Combinator, a premier startup accelerator.
Moreover, her experience at Moringa School has equipped her with practical knowledge and skills, contributing to her strong foundation in the technology arena. This diverse educational background underscores Charity's commitment to continuous learning and her desire to remain at the forefront of the tech industry.
Notable Achievements
Charity’s accomplishments and contributions are noteworthy. As an influential member of the HopperX committee at AnitaB.org, she plays a significant role in advocating for women in tech and fostering a supportive environment for aspiring female technologists. Her previous experience as a co-founder at Pezetu highlights her entrepreneurial spirit; here, she was able to leverage her technical skills to build solutions that address community needs.
During her tenure as a Software Engineer Intern at Qhala, Charity honed her development skills through hands-on experience and collaboration with industry professionals. She also participated in Google EMEA's virtual series, where she contributed to discussions and learning sessions centered on tech innovation and professional growth. As a Professional Development Lead at DigitizeHer, she dedicated her time to promote digital literacy and empower individuals to flourish in a digital world.
Charity was also involved in the Gear Up program at Facebook and the Google Get Ahead EMEA 2020 initiative, both of which allowed her to collaborate with stakeholders and develop crucial skills necessary for succeeding in the modern tech landscape. Her internship experience at Safaricom Alpha as a Software Engineer and Back-end Developer reinforced her foundations in coding and software engineering, enabling her to contribute effectively to real-world tech projects.
Apart from professional engagements, her mentorship role at the Technovation Challenge is a testament to her commitment to inspiring the next generation of tech leaders. Overall, her work as Chapter Lead Nairobi and Chair at AnitaB.org is a significant achievement, focusing on advancing women in technology and creating opportunities for collaborative growth within the tech community.
Conclusion
With a well-rounded background in education, community leadership, and hands-on experience in various tech roles, Charity Kithaka has established herself as an exemplary figure in her field. Her dedication to learning, commitment to building technology communities, and passion for mentoring young talent exemplify her vision of a more inclusive tech landscape. As she continues her journey in Mathematics and Computer Science, Charity remains a beacon of inspiration for many aspiring technologists across the globe.
