National Ladies Learning Code Day
Canada
About
National Ladies Learning Code Day, observed on November 6, celebrates the value of helping women and girls build confidence and skills in coding and technology. The day highlights the importance of accessible learning opportunities that encourage curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, and participation in the digital world.
It’s an inviting occasion to explore coding through a workshop, online lesson, or hands-on project, whether you’re a complete beginner or already interested in technology. By supporting inclusive education and recognizing the achievements of women in tech, National Ladies Learning Code Day inspires more people to see themselves as creators, innovators, and leaders.
History
National Ladies Learning Code Day is observed annually on **November 6**. The observance recognizes the importance of helping women and girls develop coding, digital, and technology skills. Its name is connected to Ladies Learning Code, a Canadian initiative established in 2011 to make technology education more accessible through practical, beginner-friendly workshops.
The original Ladies Learning Code program grew from community-based events in which women could learn programming in a supportive environment, often with guidance from female instructors and mentors. These workshops responded to the underrepresentation of women in technology and to the perception that coding was limited to people with advanced technical backgrounds. By emphasizing collaboration and hands-on learning, the organization helped make computer education more approachable for newcomers.
Over time, the initiative expanded beyond its initial focus. In 2017, Ladies Learning Code became part of the broader **Canada Learning Code** identity, reflecting the organization’s growing reach and its commitment to teaching people of different ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. The original emphasis on women’s participation in technology remained an important part of its history, while the broader programming movement increasingly addressed digital literacy, computational thinking, and access to technology across Canada.
The cultural significance of National Ladies Learning Code Day lies in its emphasis on representation and opportunity. It highlights the value of women’s contributions to the technology sector and encourages schools, workplaces, community groups, and individuals to challenge stereotypes about who can become a programmer or technology professional. Observed on **November 6**, the day also serves as a reminder that inclusive education and mentorship can help widen participation in fields that have historically excluded or underrepresented women.