Brianna's Fundraiser for Maven Youth

According to WomanTech, only  2-3% of the tech workforce identify as a part of the LGBTQ+ community. This minimal representation only leads to people identifying as LGBTQ+ not being represented in all items related to technology such as: websites, games, hardware, and more. Without representation, LGBTQ youth will face low self-esteem, uncertainty, and feelings of being unsafe regarding the tech field. This intimidation only drives to scare away many people of the LGBTQ community from being heard by various tech companies, leading to growing underrepresentation. I grew up as one of many children that spent their childhood with technology, yet confused at not seeing their own representation within the tech community. 

Maven Youth bridges this gap by building a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth to network with tech companies and learn the skills needed to develop their own project within a team. We build community and encourage growth amongst youth that are intimidated by such underrepresentation by nurturing their interests and revealing that working in the tech industry is absolutely an achievable goal. Our community is built across the nation, as Maven Youth hosts various summer camps in different states and virtually to ensure that knowledge and opportunities are available to all. Maven Youth ensures that all needs within the Maslow Triangle are met by ensuring all staff and youth are fed within workshops. We also absorb the costs of flying various staff members across the nation, transportation, and finding safe locations to reside within various states. 

Maven Youth seeks to raise $25,000 for our growing program to continue bringing voices and opportunities in the tech sector. Would you help me, a Maven Youth Leader, give back to the community that's supporting me and reach my goal of $1,000 to support Maven Youth's goal with your donation?

 Any sizable donation ($5, $15, $25...) and word of mouth is enthusiastically appreciated. Representation in media has a huge global reach, which results in millions of younger people pursuing their identity confidently and dreams of pursuing any career they are passionate about. With a brief yet meaningful 2 weeks, Maven Youth gives hundreds of youth a taste of this reality every summer. Let's collaborate and strengthen this welcoming and passionate community!