In this episode, we sit down with Terysa Ridgeway. Terysa's goal is to inspire children to believe in themselves and their abilities, encouraging them to dream big and pursue their passions. She wants children to feel empowered, curious, and excited about learning after reading her book series.

Her STEM contributions and humanitarian efforts can be felt both locally and globally. She is the recipient of keys to several Louisiana cities, including Baton Rouge, Opelousas, and Sunset, where her hometown issued an official proclamation in her honor. Terysa was also appointed as one of the United States Goodwill Ambassadors by President Yahya Jammeh of The Gambia, highlighting her commitment to helping others in need.

She resides in Lafayette, Louisiana, with her husband of 16 years and their four children. Terysa's dedication to her work, her community, and her family exemplifies her passion for making a positive impact in the world.

Mel McGee is the Founder and CEO of We Can Code IT, a groundbreaking tech education company on a mission to create equity through technology. With a background as a software engineer, entrepreneur, and educator, Mel has spent her career breaking down barriers in the tech industry. She launched We Can Code IT to offer inclusive coding bootcamps and career development programs. Under her leadership, the company has helped several underrepresented individuals build successful careers in software development and beyond. Recognized as a thought leader and advocate for social impact through innovation, Mel brings passion, insight, and a visionary approach to building a more diverse and empowered tech workforce.

In this episode, we sit down with Priya Krishnan, a seasoned tech leader at Amazon, who’s paving the way for the next generation of coders. Priya shares her journey into the world of programming, offering invaluable insights and practical advice for young girls eager to break into tech. From overcoming challenges to embracing innovation, Priya’s story is an inspiring guide for anyone looking to make their mark in the digital world. Whether you’re just starting out or already on your tech journey, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you code the future.

Welcome to the first episode of the Python Pals podcast! Join Riya, founder of Python Pals, as we kick off our journey to inspire and educate young girls about the exciting world of coding and technology. Discover our mission, hear about upcoming interviews with tech professionals, and learn how you can be part of a community dedicated to closing the gender gap in computer science.