Black Girls Code remains committed to its mission to empower the next generation of tech leaders.
The nonprofit, currently led by Cristina Mancini, is launching its 2026 summer camp program to empower and provide opportunities for girls and women in game development and AI, according to a press release. These efforts are in partnership with Endless Access, a nonprofit game-making studio and learning hub that provides tools and mentorship to help young creators build their own video games, according to its website.
Participants in the camp will learn how art, sound, storytelling, and mechanics are used to create engaging player experiences. Students will then design their own game assets — including sound effects, narrative elements, skill trees, and gameplay loops — using industry tools, notes the press release. The program will integrate a leadership development curriculum in partnership with Lean In Girls.
In alignment with the camp’s theme “She Won’t Just Play the Game. She’ll Build It,” the camp will offer hands-on coding instruction from Black Girls Code-trained instructors as campers gear up to present a capstone project. The program will also offer industry speaker sessions where leaders will share their expertise in AI, coding, gaming, and other STEAM fields, notes the release.
“At Black Girls Code, we believe everyone has a role in shaping the future of technology,” said Black Girls Code CEO Mancini, in the press release. “Our camps go beyond coding — they spark creativity and joy, build confidence, and connect girls with a powerful community. Thanks to partners like Endless Access, we’re able to reach more girls with enhanced programs that allow learners not just to interact with real-world technology tools and products, but to build them themselves.”
The camp will launch in the following cities:
- Memphis | June 8-12, 2026
- San Juan, Puerto Rico | June 15-26, 2026
- Atlanta | June 22-26, 2026
- Oakland | June 22-26, 2026
- Detroit | July 6-10, 2026
- Raleigh-Durham | July 6-10, 2026
- Atlanta | July 13-17, 2026
- Chicago | July 13-17, 2026
- DC Metro | July 27-31, 2026
- Los Angeles | July 27-31, 2026
- New York | July 27-31, 2026
- New York | August 10-14, 2026
There will also be two virtual camps. The first will be held in August. 4-6, and the second from July 7-9. According to information shared with AFROTECH™, the camps will reach more than 600 youth ages 10-17 across the nation.
To join the summer camp, visit the program’s website.
