Who is Fereshteh Forough?

Who is Fereshteh Forough?

Fereshteh Forough is a trailblazing figure in the world of technology, blockchain, and women’s empowerment. As the founder and CEO of Code to Inspire (CTI), she has dedicated her career to breaking barriers for women in tech, particularly in regions where opportunities are scarce. Her work has not only transformed lives but also positioned her as a global advocate for gender equality in the digital economy.

Early Life and Challenges

Born in Afghanistan, Forough faced significant obstacles as a woman pursuing education and a career in technology. Growing up in a society where women’s access to education and professional opportunities was often restricted, she defied norms to pursue her passion for coding and computer science. Her determination led her to become one of the few Afghan women to earn a degree in computer science, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.

Founding Code to Inspire (CTI)

In 2015, Forough established Code to Inspire, the first coding school for girls in Afghanistan. CTI provides free education in programming, blockchain, and other tech-related fields, empowering young women with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy. The organization’s mission goes beyond education—it aims to create economic independence for Afghan women by connecting them with remote job opportunities in the global tech industry.

Under Forough’s leadership, CTI has expanded its reach, offering online courses to women worldwide and partnering with tech companies to provide internships and employment opportunities. The school has graduated hundreds of students, many of whom have gone on to work as software developers, blockchain specialists, and entrepreneurs.

Advocacy and Global Influence

Forough’s impact extends far beyond Afghanistan. She is a sought-after speaker at international forums, including the World Economic Forum and Blockchain Week, where she highlights the importance of inclusivity in technology. Her advocacy focuses on bridging the gender gap in STEM fields and leveraging blockchain to promote financial inclusion for women in developing countries.

In 2023, Forbes recognized her contributions in a feature article, cementing her status as a leading voice in tech and social innovation. Her efforts have also earned her accolades such as the 2020 "Women in Blockchain" award and a spot on Cointelegraph’s list of "Top 100 Most Influential People in Blockchain" in 2023.

Blockchain and Financial Inclusion

Forough has been instrumental in promoting blockchain technology as a tool for social change. She has participated in initiatives aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs in developing nations, emphasizing how decentralized finance (DeFi) and digital literacy can unlock economic opportunities. Her work demonstrates how blockchain can empower marginalized communities by providing access to secure, transparent financial systems.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite her successes, Forough’s mission is not without challenges. The volatile political climate in Afghanistan poses ongoing risks to CTI’s operations. However, she remains steadfast in her commitment to continuing her work, adapting to circumstances by expanding online programs and global partnerships.

As the cryptocurrency and blockchain industries evolve, Forough’s initiatives are likely to face increased scrutiny, but her resilience and vision ensure that her impact will endure. She continues to inspire a new generation of women to pursue careers in tech, proving that education and innovation can overcome even the most daunting barriers.

Key Achievements

- Founded Code to Inspire (2015), the first coding school for Afghan women.
- Recognized by Forbes in 2023 for her contributions to tech and gender equality.
- Awarded "Women in Blockchain" in 2020.
- Named among Cointelegraph’s "Top 100 Most Influential People in Blockchain" in 2023.
- Global speaker advocating for women in STEM and blockchain technology.

Conclusion

Fereshteh Forough is more than a technologist—she is a visionary leader who has turned adversity into opportunity. Through Code to Inspire and her advocacy work, she has opened doors for countless women in tech, proving that innovation and inclusivity go hand in hand. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of education and technology in creating a more equitable world.

As she continues to break new ground, Forough’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to challenge stereotypes and harness the power of technology for social good.