Code Like a Girl, TD&A partners with Meta

Code like a Girl and the Technology and Design Academy (TD&A) has partnered with Meta launching the Meta Immersive Learning Academy.

Through this partnership, Meta will provide free, guided training in augmented reality (AR) to a cohort of over 200 women and gender-diverse people so they have the confidence, tools and support they need to enter the world of immersive technologies and explore careers in AR and virtual reality (VR).

The Immersive Learning Academy is a global initiative to support the next generation of creators for the metaverse.

The Academy will help grow Australia’s creator ecosystem by providing upskilling, community-building, mentoring and monetisation opportunities.

The Meta Spark AR curriculum will equip women with skills to create and publish AR filters and experiences.

Ally Watson, CEO and founder of Code Like a Girl said, “Our digital and physical realities are inextricably linked, so addressing the gender imbalance within tech is paramount.

“We're delighted to bring this program and cutting-edge curriculum to the Code Like a Girl community where it will introduce a much-needed diverse range of creators into the Metaverse – leading us towards more equitable experiences for all genders.”

Raymond Leung, creative director at T&DA said, “We are excited to announce our partnership with Meta to create the Meta Spark Curriculum, an educational program designed to teach Australians how to effectively use Meta Spark to drive innovation and growth.”

Leung said as the demand for digital skills continues to rise, they believe it's essential to equip individuals and businesses with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in today's rapidly evolving landscape.

He said, “By leveraging our expertise in education and training and Meta's cutting-edge technology, we are confident that the Meta Spark Curriculum will provide valuable insights and practical applications for individuals at all levels.”

According to Meta, this course includes quick start, fundamentals and pro modules making it easy and free for anyone to be up-skilled on AR effects, most notably seen on Instagram as “facial filters''.

The Code Like a Girl and T&DA course will launch in May and includes free support for women in the Code Like A Girl community to upskill in AR by providing training and coaching over an eight-week period.

Participants who complete the course will be able to develop face filters, target tracker and world effects; information sessions and community building events for women to connect and build networks; and the opportunity to apply for formal Meta Spark certification upon completion of the course.