In a world increasingly shaped by technology, imagi stands at the forefront of transforming education to ensure that the digital and AI revolution is inclusive, equitable, and future-proof. Founded with the vision of creating an environment where every child, regardless of gender, race or socioeconomic background see themselves as creators and leaders in technology, imagi is rethinking how computer science is taught and experienced.
Addressing the Gender Gap in Technology
Despite the exponential growth of the tech industry, gender disparity remains a persistent challenge. Women are underrepresented across the field, with their participation in the global tech workforce declining over the last decade. This imbalance is not just a missed opportunity for women but a significant loss for innovation, diversity, and the future of technology.
The data tells a compelling story: interest in computer science is equal among boys and girls at age 12. Yet, by age 14, a significant gap emerges, with only 12% of girls expressing continued interest compared to nearly half of boys. These statistics highlight a critical window where intervention can make a lasting impact, and imagi has set out to bridge this gap.
A Creative and Scalable Solution
At imagi, coding is more than a technical skill—it’s a medium for self-expression, creativity, and connection. The company’s flagship products, the imagiCharm and imagi Edu, integrate coding with creativity in a way that resonates with young learners, particularly girls. Through its digital and physical solutions, imagi enables students to create personalized designs and animations while learning Python, a leading programming language.
The goal is not just to teach coding but to inspire confidence and curiosity. By framing technology as a tool for creativity and problem-solving, imagi makes computer science approachable and enjoyable for girls who might not otherwise see themselves in tech.
Building a Global Community
imagi’s impact extends beyond classrooms. The platform connects users through a global community, fostering collaboration and peer learning. This sense of belonging is critical in a field where representation has historically been lacking. As co-founder and CTO Beatrice Ionascu explains, “We want to show every student that technology is a place where they belong, where their ideas matter, and where they can shape the future.”
Milestones and Recognition
Since its inception, imagi has made significant strides in advancing its mission:
- Global Reach: imagi’s tools have empowered over 360,000 students worldwide to explore computer science in a meaningful and engaging way.
- Professional Development: As a testament to the high quality and rigor of its materials, imagi became an official Computer Science Teachers Association-accredited professional development provider, equipping educators with the confidence and tools to teach coding effectively.
- Support for Educators: imagi has demonstrated a thoughtful adoption of AI features to enhance teacher support, ensuring that even educators without prior coding experience can introduce computer science in their classrooms with ease.
- Recognition: In 2024, imagi was featured as Apple’s “App of the Day,” a milestone reflecting its innovative approach and growing impact.
A Mission for the Future
At its core, imagi is driven by a belief that digitalization should be an equalizer, not a divider. By starting early and nurturing interest and confidence in technology, the company aims to ensure that girls are not just participants but leaders in the digital age. As Dora Palfi, co-founder &CEO emphasizes, “To shape an equitable future, we must ensure diverse voices are involved in creating the technologies that define our lives.” With a mission to reimagine technology education and a vision for an inclusive, equitable future, imagi is paving the way for the next generation of thinkers, creators, and innovators.
