DEV Community: Kavisha Nethmini

Promoting Gender Equity and Inclusion in the Tech Industry and Beyond

Kavisha Nethmini — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 18:24:33 +0000

Advancing gender equality in the tech industry is crucial, not just for women, but for all individuals who identify as transgender, nonbinary, gender-nonconforming, and two-spirit. I believe that everyone should have equal access and opportunity to thrive in the tech industry regardless of gender. By promoting gender equity in tech for all individuals, we can create a more inclusive and diverse tech industry that empowers everyone to succeed and contribute to the development of innovative solutions.

Pledge to Promote Diversity and Inclusion in Tech for Gender Equity

I pledge to educate myself and actively support diversity, inclusion, and gender equity in tech. I will speak up against discrimination, and underrepresented mentor groups, and promote equal opportunities.

A validating experience I had

While attending a tech conference, I had the opportunity to attend a panel discussion led by women leaders in the industry. They shared their experiences and insights on how to overcome gender barriers and succeed in tech. Hearing their stories and perspectives was not only validating but also inspiring. It gave me hope that gender equity is possible in the tech industry and motivated me to continue working towards that goal.

The Importance of Diverse Gender Identities in Tech Leadership for Gender Equality

One of the biggest obstacles to gender equality in the tech industry is the lack of diversity at the leadership level, which affects not only women but also transgender, nonbinary, gender-nonconforming, and two-spirit individuals. All of these groups need representation in leadership positions to ensure that their voices are heard, and their perspectives are considered. Companies need to do more to create opportunities for individuals from diverse gender identities to advance to leadership positions and to create a culture of inclusivity that values diversity.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives in University Community

Diversity and inclusion initiatives have positively impacted my university by creating a more welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. For instance, the university has created a number of student groups and organizations that promote diversity and provide safe spaces for marginalized students to connect and support each other. Additionally, the university has implemented training programs for faculty and staff to help them better understand and address issues related to diversity and inclusion. These efforts have helped to create a more inclusive community that values and celebrates the diversity of its members.

Commitment to Advocating for Diversity and Inclusion in Tech

I will commit to educating myself about the challenges faced by marginalized groups in tech and seek diverse perspectives. I will support and mentor underrepresented groups and learn about gender equity issues like bias and harassment. I will strive to be an ally and advocate for equal opportunities and seek resources to be more effective.

In conclusion, promoting gender equity in the tech industry is crucial for creating an inclusive and diverse community that empowers everyone to succeed and contribute to innovative solutions. By pledging to promote diversity and inclusion in tech, sharing validating experiences, advocating for diverse gender identities in tech leadership, supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives in university communities, and committing to advocating for diversity and inclusion in tech, we can work towards a future where everyone has equal access and opportunity to thrive in the tech industry, regardless of gender or identity. Let us continue to strive towards a more equitable and inclusive future.

Nevertheless, Kavisha Continued Coding!

Kavisha Nethmini — Sun, 06 Mar 2022 20:10:44 +0000

            A very happy International Women's Day, 2022!

I’ve been a member of the DEV Community since 2020 and this is the second time, I've shared my story with SheCoded.

My biggest technical goal is…

to contribute more in open source and expand my knowledge and skills to understand programming memes 😉😂

My biggest technical achievements are…

Participating for Hacktoberfest 2021 and contribute in open source
Completing Pearson BTEC HND in Computing
Started doing TOP UP degree at London Met University

Advocating for myself looks like…

Setting healthy boundaries, making space for my feelings, asking for help when needed, developing self-love and self care routines, allowing myself to express emotions and start coding

I’m excited about…

future me

My advice for allies to support underrepresented folks who code is...

Create the space you want to be. Create the future you want to see and ensure that everyone gets their voice heard in a positive environment.

                          Happy Coding! 👩‍💻

My 2nd Hacktoberfest!

Kavisha Nethmini — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 23:50:21 +0000

Hello everyone! I'm Kavisha Subasinghe. I'm little bit new to here. This is my second time of participating Hacktoberfest.

This is my Hacktoberfest story very briefly 🤭😂

Contributions

During Hacktoberfest I often look for easy repos.

Reflections

Here are some of the stickers I received last year 😍

I'm so excited to participate this year. This year my goal is to keep contributing at least a little bit through the year after Hacktoberfest ends so I can improve my skills.

Happy Coding! 👩‍💻

Nevertheless, Kavisha's Coding Continues! 👩‍💻

Kavisha Nethmini — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 06:31:41 +0000

                  Happy International Women's Day!

How did this start?

Two years ago, I wanted to study graphic designing but my mother directed me to do software engineering while doing my A/Ls in the physical science stream. Yet my life has changed due to my parents' decision.

But now I have finally agreed with this decision because the best stream I like was information technology. I should very thankful for them. ❤

My first contribution to open source

However, I started studying basic software engineering but was unable to contribute to open source.

In 2019 I was able to learn about HacktoberFest. I tried to do it but was disappointed that I couldn't finish it successfully and decided to do it next year somehow.

I was also worried that I would not be able to do it in 2020 because the A / L was delayed. But I was able to finish it successfully somehow 🥳. I can't wait for my gift for my first HacktoberFest contribution. Hope it'll come soon.

Other Achievements

Participating Sri Lanka Robotic Challenging 2018 (SLRC 2018) which was organized by the Electronic Club of University of Moratuwa
Participating SLIIT ROBOFEST 2019, the Annual RObotic Compitition organized by the Faculty of Engineering of Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology

I continue to code because...

It has a blend of the multitude of things I like creative mind, basic reasoning, innovation, social cooperation, learning, and normal difficulties.

My advice for allies to support underrepresented folks who code is...

My message to you is to ensure that everybody gets their voice heard in positive conditions.