Black Girls Code Founder Kimberly Bryant Announces Amicable Resolution With The Organization
Founder and former CEO of Black Girls Code (BGC) Kimberly Bryant has announced the amicable resolution of a legal dispute between herself and the board of BGC.
BGC is a nonprofit organization that focuses on engaging African American girls and other youth of color with computer programming education to nurture their careers in tech.
The organization, founded by Bryant in 2011, offers computer programming, coding, website robots, and mobile application building, with the goal of placing one million girls in tech by 2040.
Bryant’s History With BGC
Kimberly Bryant was removed from the non-profit Black Girls Code in December 2021 after the board said it investigated allegations of “workplace impropriety.”
Former employees and volunteers had accused Bryant of having an abusive leadership style rooted in fear.
The company then announced that they had removed Bryant from the organization.
A BGC spokesperson previously told POCIT, “The Board believes the decision to remove Ms. Bryant as CEO and board member is in the best interests of the organization, the girls it serves, its employees, and its donors.”
Among all of this, Bryant also filed a federal suit against BGC, alleging that she was wrongfully suspended and accused several board members of trying to use the nonprofit’s funds for personal gain.
In October 2023, BGC welcomed its new CEO, international storyteller Cristina Jones.
In a press release, they stated that Jones will ignite and expand BGC’s vision, broadening the curriculum and increasing the age limit to reflect a renewed emphasis on workforce development.
An Amicable Resolution
Bryant has now announced an amicable resolution between herself and BGC, stating that both parties have reached a confidential settlement, affirming no wrongdoing on Bryant’s part.
“My journey has been one of resilience and unwavering commitment to truth and justice,” said Bryant in a press release.
“As we pave a path toward inclusivity and innovation, I’m more determined than ever to empower underrepresented voices and foster change. Together, we’ll create a world where every entrepreneur, regardless of their background, can ascend to new heights.”
Bryant is working on her new ventures, including Ascend Ventures and the Black Innovation District in Memphis, TN. She has also unveiled The Black Girl Movement, a new initiative coming in 2024.
Black Girls Code has not released a statement yet regarding the resolution.
Feature Image Credit: San Francisco Chronicle
