My Journey in Tech: From a Curious Kid to Code4Change Founder

My name is Tulika Punia, and I’m a rising junior (class of 2027) in Somerset, New Jersey. I’m the founder of Code4Change — an initiative (soon-to-be nonprofit) that provides free, accessible STEM education to K-12 students around the world. I’m excited to share my story in hopes of inspiring others, especially young women like myself, to pursue the fields they love.

From a young age, I’ve always been fascinated by computers as I watched my parents in their respective technology careers. I first explored coding through Code.org’s Minecraft activities in elementary school. As I grew, I enrolled in summer township programs and courses like BYJU's (formerly Whitehat Jr) web development to deepen my understanding and creative expression through code.

Fast forward to middle school, in 8th grade, I participated in the Girls Who Code Self-Paced Program, which completely changed my perspective on computer science. I realized it wasn’t just a single path—it was a field full of diverse opportunities. Through hands-on activities in cybersecurity and data science, I discovered my passion for data science. The following summer, I joined the Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program, where I collaborated with peers to build a unique project. That same summer, I also served as a club officer at my local library’s Girls Who Code chapter—my first experience teaching, which I found incredibly fulfilling.

That school year (2024-2025), I became a Code.org CS Ambassador, advocating for computer science opportunities for young women, and even started a data analytics internship at NSTEM, where I can use my skills in a real-world environment. These opportunities gave me real-world exposure and

fueled my desire to start something of my own.

I launched Code4Change with my younger brother to help students explore different areas of computer science—just as I had. We offer free programs in topics like Python, generative AI, and data analysis, making CS education accessible regardless of income, location, or school resources. Our first course, Python for Young Innovators, is currently underway, helping students build foundational skills.

My motivation comes from wanting others to have the same opportunities I once struggled to find. Code4Change is my way of leveling the playing field and encouraging students to discover their passion with confidence and support.

Founding this organization has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. As I continue to grow in data science and AI/ML, I hope to keep making an impact. To any young student reading this: if you see a gap, take the initiative to fill it—you never know who you might help.

Thanks for reading! Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn or email me at code4achange@gmail.com, with questions. And if you're curious, visit our website at www.Code4Change.co to start your coding journey.