If you’ve ever wondered what the younger generation thinks about the state of the digital sector, then you’re in for a treat. The Institute of Coding (IoC) recently conducted research to discover that Gen Z believes the digital industry doesn’t have the opportunities that they need. According to the IoC, these perceptions could be stopping the next generation from entering digital careers.
Around 70% of young people believe that the coding industry is run entirely by white, British people, while more than 56% of people want more diversity, and 41% state that female role models simply aren’t present enough.
The nationwide poll of 1,000 people between the ages of 16 and 18 shines a light on the state of the digital environment, and what it could mean for the next generation.
A Lack of Diversity in the Workplace
One of the biggest issues that Generation Z had with the current workplace was a lack of diversity. Around 83% said that they think the space is led almost entirely by men. What’s more, over 34% said there aren’t enough opportunities for women. One in ten respondents said that they’re actively discouraged from pursuing digital jobs and education because of the lack of diversity in the space.
Mark Zuckerberg, the head of Facebook, was revealed as one of the top tech icons for young people, followed by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, highlighting a pattern of white male mentors. The results of the study are crucial because they show that younger people are gradually turning away from digital fields because they feel that diversity isn’t being fully embraced.
Fortunately, the IoC is responding to the findings of the latest research with the CTRL your Future campaign. This effort aims to shift the dial on inclusion and diversity in the UK. As part of the campaign, the IoC will be championing a cross-section of diverse people in the space, to help younger people find their role models.
Transforming the Industry
According to the Co-Chair of the IoC, Jaqueline de Rojas, while some of these opinions highlight what people in the industry already feel and think, they’re still shocking. These are the perceptions of young people who have yet to step foot in the sector, and a reboot of the system begins with welcoming more diverse talent. The CTRL your Future campaign will help to launch a new era for the digital landscape.
To start with, CTRL your Future is partnering with DIGI-XL, an inclusive community supporting non-binary, trans, and female individuals looking to reshape the 3D fashion design world. Other partners going forward include London Gaymers and the STEMettes.
As the program continues, individuals can expect to see the arrival of short films, workshops, and conferencing experiences rolled out over the next few months, allowing Gen Z to see the rising impact of diversity in the industry.
