Hi, I'm Noor, based in Baghdad. I hold a degree in English from the College of Education, and I currently work in sales. My background might not be in tech, but I've always believed in evolving and pushing myself forward — and that’s exactly what led me to pursue programming.

For me, coding offered something more than just a new skill — it opened up opportunities to learn, grow, and constantly challenge myself. That’s the kind of journey I wanted to be on.

At first, I thought programming was something distant and difficult — but that changed quickly. The She Codes Too programme made everything accessible. The way concepts were explained helped me realise that I actually could learn to code. I found myself wanting to dive deeper and learn more every day.

The programme blended two worlds I never expected to explore together: coding and business. I learnt how to build basic applications and manage a project from a business perspective. It opened my mind to new ideas — including building a real project of my own one day.

One of my favourite moments? Presenting my final project. That moment of standing in front of an audience, sharing something I created — it was unforgettable. It felt like success and joy all at once.

Since graduating, my outlook on my career has completely shifted. I’m still working in my current role, but I’ve started thinking more seriously about what’s next. I’m taking this time to upskill in both programming and business, laying the foundation for a real change in the near future.

The impact of this programme goes far beyond skills — it changed how I see myself. I’ve become more confident, more resilient, and better at facing challenges. I learnt how to organise my time, stay committed, and keep going even when things get tough.

This experience taught me that with enough effort and time, I can learn anything — and that’s an incredibly empowering realisation.

In Iraq, opportunities for women in tech are still limited — but programmes like She Codes Too are changing that. It’s not just about coding; it’s about creating a supportive environment that encourages women to believe in themselves and take up space in this field. I personally learnt things I never imagined I would, and I now walk forward with more confidence than ever.

Don’t wait to be “ready” — just start. Even a small step counts. You don’t need to know everything before you begin. Don’t fear failure. Programmes like She Codes Too exist to help you, and you deserve the chance to build the future you dream of.