Shadeira Nesmith Established An Academy To Increase Representation And Empower The Youth In Coding, Design, And Financial Literacy
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.
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.
