Lina Qasem

28, from Melbourne, Vic – Awakening girls’ passion for STEM through coding and robotics.

Lina Qasem’s passion for coding and robotics has made her a rising star in the tech world, and it’s a passion she wants to share. Nothing makes Lina happier than seeing young girls come to life as they learn about science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Two years ago she launched Robofun, a coding academy for kids that uses children’s natural curiosity to teach them STEM. The academy is open to all young people, but focuses on girls to address gender imbalance in the industry. “My dream is to engage more girls in STEM to create a more diverse tech industry and achieve gender equality,” Lina says. Working with schools, libraries and parents, she provides children with a hands-on learning experience. “We hire qualified female instructors to provide role models to our students.” Lina holds free workshops in disadvantaged areas and offers instalment payment plans to ensure STEM learning is available to all. The Women of the Future bursary would allow her to purchase more equipment, expand her marketing efforts and invest in more training for her instructors.