We were lucky to catch up with Deja Craft recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Deja , thanks for joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
The mission behind my business and brand is to inspire, encourage and to support individuals from underrepresented communities on their journeys into the tech space. I know how hard and intimidating the industry can be, especially for women and people of color. My mission is to encourage and support those who dream of being in the tech space but do not have the resources or knowledge to do so. At one point I told myself I wasn’t good enough, that people with a background like mine couldn’t be successful in this field. I also struggle with adhd and I want anyone who may be facing similar challenges to know that you can accomplish anything, no matter what obstacles come your way. My mission is to diversify the industry and influence any and everyone to follow their dreams.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is De’ja Craft and I am a software engineer, I am originally from New Orleans but my family and I uprooted to Georgia after losing everything in Hurricane Katrina. I eventually made my way into the healthcare industry as an emt but I always had this burning desire to learn to code, I just didn’t believe I could. Eventually I enrolled in a software engineering program and finished with one of the highest grades in the cohort. From there I took on my first software development internship at a fintech company and am now a full time engineer. Had I let my self doubt get the best of me I wouldn’t be where I am today. I realized how many other individuals there are struggling to break into the field or doubting themselves and too afraid to take the leap. I started Deja’s Coding Corners to help guide and assist anyone embarking on their journey into the tech space. I just released my first Ebook (Tech Trailblazers) on Amazon as a comprehensive guide to entering the tech space. I’m so proud of my journey, even the not so pretty parts because I can now help more than just myself and I am blessed to be able to do so.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
I’d have to say losing everything from my home to my clothes at just 8 years old because of hurricane Katrina. I didn’t realize it at the time, but that became the catalyst for who and what I am today. I realized that if I could handle that at such a young age, then I was equipped with enough tenacity and strength to take on software development. I now face the things that scare me and accept challenges because I know I’m strong enough to handle them.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to unlearn the “you can do it on your own” mentality. I had to realize and accept that it’s okay to ask for help. I want to believe I can do it all, but the truth is … I absolutely can not!! I had/have a strong support system who’s always eager to help, not everyone has that so I had to learn to cherish and utilize it while I can. I hate to admit it, but I’m stubborn, I didnt want to ask anyone for help. But, I quickly realized how blessed I was to have help available, because without the support system I have, I truly would not be where I am today, in my career , business or personal life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beacons.ai/dejac?fbclid=PAAabEHiKpMcFiBN47C8uW0CZ_yMvdcMRR6RPX286_OvkoBU64S_kCjLyRP-0_aem_AZf3gHuqn0t6q4FIzXv6UWDFHYafZ6xoEsIDNhuRGKdiL1Nt0VkAfnWhiIEZ7B-vRaU
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/dejafacee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deja-craft