Shadeira Nesmith is helping youth break into STEAM fields.
The software development instructor and Caldwell University graduate has taught since 2018 at institutions such as the Library Science Center, Black Girls Code, and Coding Black Females. Nesmith shared with AFROTECH™ that her foray as a Black woman in tech was molded by opportunities and challenges.
“I’ve often been one of the few people who look like me in certain spaces, which has pushed me to not only grow but also to lead with purpose. Being a tech educator has shown me how eager people are to learn from me and how excited they are to see what’s possible for themselves. This has changed how I lead and create,” Nesmith said.
Stacked Up Academy
In 2021, she established Stacked Up Academy, which, as its website mentions, energizes K-12 interest in computer science, graphic design, and financial literacy through custom curricula, workshops, and educational products. The organization aims to increase participation among underserved communities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) fields, and hopes that early exposure will promote success in higher learning and career growth.
StackCon
On Aug. 8-9, the Stacked Up Academy hosted StackCon, a two-day conference in Jersey City, NJ, for youth ages 8 through 15. More than 10 workshops and seven instructors were available, offering exposure to tech and coding, graphic design, financial literacy, music and AI, cyber safety, gaming, LEGO engineering, and more, according to information shared on Instagram.
“I see myself as someone who makes space, especially for young people, to step into tech with confidence. I want my students, no matter their age, to know that learning is not only accessible but also enjoyable,” Nesmith told AFROTECH™.
“My approach to teaching is rooted in keeping an open mind, encouraging curiosity and helping learners find ways to connect knowledge to their own lives. What has shaped my path most is the belief that education is not just about building skills but also about expanding what people believe is possible, by showing kids that they can bring their ideas to life whether that be through coding, design, or entrepreneurship. I lead in a way that’s grounded in empowerment and impact,” she continued.
You can hear more from Nesmith at this year’s AFROTECH™ Conference, which returns to Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center from Oct. 27-31. The event will be filled with leaders in innovation, such as Nesmith.
“For me, AFROTECH™ is all about growth and impact. I consider myself a lifelong student, so I’m always eager to learn and share knowledge…That transformation where learning something and using it to create real change is what makes AFROTECH™ so good, and why I’m honored to be part of it,” Nesmith said.
To learn more about attending the AFROTECH™ Conference, visit our website.
