Meet Pearl W. (she/her), a New Face of Tech winner who is studying computer science at Philander Smith University.

What is your dream?

My dream is to build technology that opens doors the way education opened doors for me. As a first-generation international student in computer science, I’ve experienced how powerful access to opportunity can be. I want to create platforms that make mentorship and career navigation more organized, transparent, and accessible for students from underrepresented backgrounds..

Please share how you feel about the win and what impact it will have on your career.

Winning this scholarship reminds me that dreams backed by discipline are powerful! It strengthens my commitment to build opportunities not just for myself, but for others coming after me.

What advice do you have for other women reaching for their dreams?

Don’t wait for permission! Take up space in rooms you weren’t originally invited into! Ask questions! Seek mentors! Apply for opportunities even if you meet only part of the criteria! The difference between those who make it and those who don’t is usually courage, not talent.