25 facts about Reshma Saujani that will inspire every future female leader

Reshma Saujani is a name synonymous with courage, innovation, and empowerment. As the founder of Girls Who Code, she has revolutionized the way young women engage with technology, breaking down barriers in the male-dominated STEM world. Her story is not just one of personal success but also of relentless advocacy for gender equality and social justice. From her roots as an Indian-American immigrant to becoming a prominent political figure and bestselling author, Reshma’s journey inspires millions to be brave, fearless, and unapologetically ambitious.

Born to immigrant parents, Reshma’s life was shaped by the values of hard work, education, and service. She challenged traditional expectations early on, carving a path that blended law, politics, and activism with a passion for closing the gender gap in technology. Her groundbreaking nonprofit, Girls Who Code, launched in 2012, has empowered thousands of girls nationwide by providing free coding education, mentorship, and a supportive community to ignite their potential.

Saujani’s influence extends beyond coding. She is a celebrated public speaker, author of the bestselling book Brave Not Perfect, and a former congressional candidate. Her advocacy reaches into issues like maternal support with initiatives like the Marshall Plan for Moms, pushing societal change that uplifts women on multiple fronts. Through her TED Talks and media appearances, Reshma has become a powerful voice encouraging women to embrace imperfection, take risks, and lead boldly.

 Early Life and Education: The Foundation of a Changemaker

1. Born in Illinois to Indian Immigrant Parents: Reshma Saujani was born in 1975 in Illinois. Her parents immigrated from India, instilling strong cultural values emphasizing education and service.

2. Raised in a Family Focused on Education: Growing up, her parents stressed the importance of academic achievement, which laid the groundwork for her later success.

3. Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Illinois: She earned her undergraduate degree, where she was involved in student government, showcasing early leadership skills.

4. Juris Doctor from Yale Law School: Reshma’s legal education at Yale exposed her to issues of justice and equality, sharpening her commitment to advocacy.

5. Master’s Degree from Harvard Kennedy School: Her advanced studies in public policy gave her the tools to effect systemic change in government and society.

6. Inspired by Her Mother’s Story: Reshma has often credited her mother’s immigrant journey as a key motivator behind her drive to empower marginalized groups.

7. Early Career in Law and Public Service: Before founding Girls Who Code, Reshma worked as a corporate lawyer and later as Deputy Public Advocate in New York City.

8. Ran for Congress in 2010: Her political aspirations culminated in a congressional run, where she became the first South Asian woman to run for U.S. Congress in New York.

9. Faced Gender Bias in Politics: The challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated political field inspired her to advocate for fearless leadership among women.

10. Founding Girls Who Code in 2012: Recognizing the lack of female representation in tech, Reshma founded Girls Who Code to close the gender gap and encourage girls to pursue computer science.

The Girls Who Code Movement: Empowering the Next Generation

1. Started as a Summer Program: Girls Who Code began as a single summer camp in New York City with just 20 girls.

2. Has Reached Over 500,000 Girls: Today, the organization has taught coding skills to half a million girls across all 50 states in the U.S.

3. Focus on Closing the Gender Gap in Tech: The program directly addresses the underrepresentation of women in STEM careers.

4. Partnerships with Tech Giants: Girls Who Code collaborates with companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon to provide resources and mentorship.

5. Curriculum Includes Web Development, Robotics, and AI: The organization offers a comprehensive curriculum preparing girls for future tech jobs.

6. Free Access to All Participants: Reshma ensured that the program remains free to remove financial barriers for young women.

7. Emphasis on Building Confidence, Not Just Skills: The program teaches girls to be brave and take risks, going beyond coding.

8. Annual ‘Girls Who Code Day’: This event celebrates the achievements of girls in tech and encourages more participation.

9. Alumnae Network Provides Lifelong Support: Graduates join a nationwide community offering career advice and networking.

10. Influences Policy and Public Perception: Reshma uses her platform to influence policies that support women in STEM fields.

Beyond Coding: Advocacy, Politics, and Global Recognition

1. Author of Brave Not Perfect: Reshma’s book encourages women to embrace imperfection and take bold action.

2. Delivered a Viral TED Talk: Her TED Talk titled “Teach girls bravery, not perfection” has millions of views worldwide.

3. Launched the Marshall Plan for Moms: An initiative aimed at addressing the needs of working mothers during and after the pandemic.

4. Featured in Forbes’ 40 Under 40: Recognized as one of the top young leaders transforming business and society.

5. Named in TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People: Acknowledged for her impact on gender equality and tech education.

Reshma Saujani’s life and work embody the spirit of courage and innovation needed to create lasting change. Through Girls Who Code, she has opened doors for hundreds of thousands of girls to step confidently into technology and leadership roles traditionally closed off to them. Her story teaches us that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it.

By sharing her personal journey, including the challenges of navigating law, politics, and entrepreneurship, Reshma reminds us that imperfection is a strength, not a weakness. Her advocacy for women — whether through education, political empowerment, or social reform — is a powerful call to action for a more inclusive and equitable future.

For anyone inspired to make a difference, Reshma’s approach offers a blueprint: lead with empathy, challenge norms, and never shy away from bold ideas. As the world rapidly evolves with technology and social change, leaders like Reshma Saujani prove that fearless, compassionate leadership is the key to progress.

Her work is not just about teaching girls to code; it’s about transforming the culture that shapes what is possible for women everywhere. Every fact about her life reflects a commitment to lifting others and reshaping the future with courage and vision. Embrace her example, and let your own journey be marked by bold steps toward a brighter tomorrow.