In a moment of global recognition for women leading change in tech, Raghad Al‑Abboodi, founder and director of She Codes Too, has been awarded the Global Citizenship Award by the University of Bristol. The honour celebrates alumni making a transformative impact in their communities and beyond.

The award, part of the 2025 University of Bristol Alumni Awards, recognises Raghad’s outstanding contributions to empowering young women in Iraq through her leadership at She Codes Too. The programme bridges the gap between education and employment in tech by offering training, mentorship, and support.

The award was presented during a formal dinner ceremony at one the University of Bristol’s Halls. As part of the honour, a tree will be planted in Raghad’s name in the city of Bristol symbolising the growth and lasting impact of her work.

“From never having set foot on a plane, to dedicating my life to giving other women wings… my international journey into tech is an inspiring one,” Raghad shared, reflecting on her path from Bristol to launching She Codes Too .

University Vice‑Chancellor Professor Evelyn Welch commented on this year’s award recipients: “This year's Alumni Award winners are an incredible group of Bristol alumni who have made exceptional contributions to their fields. We are very proud to recognise their achievements”

Raghad’s recognition elevates the visibility of She Codes Too globally. Since founding the organisation, she has led multiple initiatives—covering front-end development, data analytics, and business mentorship—supported by international partners including Meta, Cisco, the UNDP, and Baghdad Business School.

This accolade not only honours Raghad’s personal achievements but also underscores She Codes Too’s mission: closing the gender gap in tech and empowering women across Iraq’s digital ecosystem.