Mina Begum is a graduate from 23 code streets first ever web development foundation course. Graduating from University with a degree in Journalism, she traveled and worked in Amsterdam, before spending two years as an account manager at a corporate accelerator in London. She currently works as a start up scout for L Marks.

Q: Why did you join us at 23 Code Street?

A: Ever since I started working in tech, I’ve been super fascinated by how a product is built. I used to look over my colleague’s shoulder and see him typing letters, numbers, and using all these symbols in one line! I was taken aback- I didn’t have a clue what was going on. It’s definitely an interesting/complex world. I chose 23 Code Street for three reasons:

• They will teach a disadvantaged woman in India how to code and give her the necessary skills to get into employment. This reason, in particular, is close to my heart.
• It’s exclusively women and, on our cohort, taught by women- they want to encourage women to get into tech.
• It’s affordable!

Q: What do you love about coding and what do you hate!?

A: I love that it’s so challenging and you have to think really hard to fix a problem. However, when you see the end result, it is truly satisfying. And I can understand what techies are saying….a little bit!
I hate when I can’t figure out why my code isn’t working. If you don’t get the syntax right or forget to add a semi colon at the end, you’ll be trying for ages to figure out what happened. I struggle with JavaScript. It’s not very kind to me.

Q: What do you plan to do with your new found coding skills?

A: I plan to be competent at programming! I’m going to be very happy to say I have this skill and next time when I see someone coding away, I won’t be so overwhelmed by it.

Q: One random fact.

A: New Zealand will deny people residency visas if their BMI is too high.