FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hi, I'm Janiya Richardson from Tallahassee, Florida. My values are excellence, community, and equality. I'm skilled and certified in the fields of technology and engineering. My mission is to use my skills to help my community so that underprivileged and disadvantaged kids have more technical opportunities.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
As a black woman who is interested in STEM, it can be pretty isolating especially when only 3% of computer-related jobs are held by black women. However, when it gets too hard, I always look to women who have broken down doors for me, so that I can break down doors for the future generation. Among those trailblazers, Mrs. Dorothy Vaughan has stood out to me as an inspiration and role model.
FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?
Ten years from now, I hope to be running a tech startup that is in the process of becoming a tech enterprise with the brand name Computer Minds. Also in ten years, I hope to establish a nonprofit organization that encourages disadvantaged kids to get into technical fields.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- My dream vacation spot is Tokyo, Japan.
- My favorite TV show is Stranger Things.
- My favorite hobby is programming.