Inspiring Stories of Early Coders: Why Learn to Code?

When you think of "programmers," "coders," and "developers," a list of illustrious names comes to mind. These individuals have made remarkable contributions to technology and computer science. Who are they, and how did they achieve such success in the tech world?

Before we delve into the stories of these tech giants, let's explore the common thread that ties them together: basic coding and programming skills.

What is Basic Coding, and How Does It Shape Young Minds?

Basic coding involves writing commands that a computer can understand and execute. The languages used for coding enable computers to perform specific tasks. More advanced processes in software development are known as computer programming, which involves creating detailed instructions for machines. Mastering basic coding is the first step toward becoming a proficient computer programmer.

Learning to code profoundly impacts young minds, offering mental development benefits and paving the way for lucrative careers. Here’s why coding is transformative for kids.

Success Stories of Early Coders

Bill Gates

Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and a renowned philanthropist, is a household name in the tech world. Few know that his journey began with a fascination with how computers work, leading him to learn coding at a young age. Gates even skipped classes to create his first program, a tic-tac-toe game. His early exposure to BASIC (Beginner’s All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code) laid the foundation for his future success in technology.

Mark Zuckerberg

Mark Zuckerberg, the co-creator of Facebook, was introduced to programming by his father. He started with the Altair BASIC programming language, which inspired him to develop computer games and a personal messaging system called ZuckNet. Zuckerberg’s early programming experiences fueled his passion, eventually leading to the creation of Facebook and his status as a respected web developer and internet entrepreneur.

Jack Dorsey

Jack Dorsey, CEO of Twitter, demonstrated his love for computing at a young age with his Macintosh computer. His interest in cities, trains, and maps led him to create maps using software programming. Dorsey’s early coding experiences in digital technology and dispatch routing in his teenage years set the stage for his university project, which evolved into Twitter.

Daphne Koller Daphne Koller, a professor of computer science at Stanford University, represents women in tech. She began coding at a young age, developing a deep interest in technology. Koller co-founded Coursera, an online network of courses, leveraging her advanced understanding of computer sciences to inspire others to learn coding.

Muhammad Hamza Shahzad Muhammad Hamza Shahzad is one of the youngest successful programmers, earning a Microsoft coding certificate at just nine years old. His early passion for coding and computer sciences propelled him to score impressively on the certification exam. Shahzad’s story exemplifies how early exposure to coding can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Why Learn to Code?

These success stories illustrate the transformative power of coding for kids. Bill Gates famously said, "Learning to write programs stretches your mind and helps you think better, creates a way of thinking about things that I think is helpful in all domains." Coding fosters mental development and essential life skills, preparing kids for remarkable futures.

How to Prepare Children for Programming Success

Tanmay Bakshi, a young software developer and IBM Watson developer, shared a crucial insight: "You have to be passionate about programming before you can program." Cultivating a genuine interest in programming is key.

Parents and teachers can encourage this interest by introducing coding books, online coding activities, and enrolling children in coding bootcamps. In Auckland, New Zealand, Skill Samurai offers coding and STEM education for kids aged 7 to 18. This after-school program covers basic coding, game development, 3D printing, robotics, and other fun computer science activities.

Get Started with Coding for Kids in Auckland

If you want your child to become a successful programmer, now is the time to start. Skill Samurai provides an excellent opportunity for kids to master coding and prepare for a bright future in technology. Enrol your child in our Maths Tuition Auckland and Coding for Kids in Auckland programs today.