Andressa Freires: An Inspiring Leader in Tech Commited to Diversity, Education, And Ethical Data Practices

Andressa Freires is a rising star in the field of data science. She holds a senior position at Nubank, a large financial company in Brazil. As one of the few black women in this role, Andressa is making significant strides. Beyond her work at Nubank, she is also a data science and programming teacher at multiple schools, including postgraduate programs.

Andressa is passionate about diversity and ethics, actively participating in initiatives to promote women within her company and serving on the AI ethics committee. She founded “diversiData,” a platform that offers free career mentorships and courses to help diverse groups enter data professions. Through her efforts, she has already helped more than 30 people find jobs in the field. Andressa’s mission is to inspire women who don’t see themselves in technology, leadership spaces, or high seniority levels, working towards a more equal world where everyone has a place.

The Journey

Andressa’s journey from a curious child in Taboão da Serra to a data science specialist, startup founder, and educator has been driven by a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of knowledge. Growing up in Taboão da Serra, a city on the outskirts of São Paulo, Brazil, Andressa was fortunate to be close to the tech world from an early age, thanks to her father, who was a programmer. Watching him work sparked her curiosity and inspired a dream within her to become a scientist. This passion for technology led her to start programming at the age of 14, and she hasn’t stopped since.

At 17, Andressa left home to pursue a degree in computational physics in the countryside. Her time in college was transformative; she worked as an assistant professor in physics laboratories and delved into research in computational neuroscience. This experience solidified her love for both teaching and scientific inquiry. However, life took a turn when her grandmother was diagnosed with cancer, prompting her to return to Taboão da Serra to be with her family.

Upon returning, Andressa sought opportunities to continue her professional growth and landed an internship in data science at Itaú Bank. This role began her formal journey into the tech industry, where she could blend her passion for science, technology, and data.

Sharing the Power of Knowledge

Throughout her career, Andressa has remained dedicated to sharing knowledge and helping her community. This commitment led her to found diversiData, a company where 80% of its audience is female. At diversiData, they have reached over 5000 people across Brazil through various initiatives, including courses, workshops, mentorships, and partnerships. Its efforts have been featured in major events such as TDC, AI 4 Good, and the UNESCO AI Conference, as well as at universities and GDG/WTM events.

In her work, Andressa leverages her extensive experience in AI/ML, Cloud, Python, and Google Analytics to educate and empower others. She is passionate about creating and participating in events, public speaking, and developing content that inspires and equips her students with the skills they need to succeed in tech.

diversiData acts as an empowering initiative that bridges the gap between data, diversity, and culture. It aims to:

Educate: Through its YouTube channel, diversiData offers free educational content, workshops, and podcasts. Topics include data analysis, career transitions, and workplace diversity.

Mentor: Andressa shares mentorship opportunities and accessible content on her Instagram and TikTok. She advocates for diversity in data careers.

Diversity Data Platform: The online platform, Diversidata, guides organizations in collecting and using diversity data effectively.

Donning Multiple Hats

Currently, Andressa is juggling three fulfilling roles, each aligned with her passion for data science and social impact. She is not only a data professional but also a mentor, speaker, and advocate for diversity.

She works as a Data Science Specialist for Meiuca, a System Design company dedicated to delivering innovative design solutions to the market. Her role involves leveraging advanced data science techniques to enhance our system designs and improve our offerings. Her vision for Meiuca is to position it at the forefront of the system design industry, ensuring it delivers brilliant, cutting-edge solutions that meet and exceed market expectations. “I plan to achieve this by continuously integrating the latest advancements in AI and data science into our processes and fostering a culture of innovation within our team,” says Andressa.

In addition to her role at Meiuca, Andressa is actively involved in shaping a startup called MotoCred. MotoCred aims to offer loans to finance motorcycles for people living on the outskirts of northeastern Brazil. This initiative is particularly close to her heart as it addresses a significant need in a region that is often underserved by traditional financial institutions. By providing these loans, they are helping individuals achieve their dreams and improve their livelihoods.

“My vision for MotoCred is to become a trusted financial partner for the people in these communities, making dreams attainable where big banks have often said no. We will achieve this by building strong, community-focused relationships and offering flexible, accessible financial solutions tailored to our clients’ unique needs,” shares Andressa.

Finally, she is the founder of diversiData, a social impact company dedicated to offering courses, mentorship, and career opportunities in the data technology market to people from minorities or minoritized majorities. Its goal is to break down barriers and provide free and affordable high-quality training to those who face daily obstacles to entering this market. In its first year, diversiData has already impacted nearly 5000 people, helping dozens find their way into the data job market. The biggest challenge they face is planning courses and mentoring for individuals from extremely diverse backgrounds, including teenagers, people over 50, and those in social vulnerability. Adaptability and the ability to tailor diversiData’s teaching to different learning scenarios are crucial.

“My vision for diversiData is to scale our impact, reaching more underrepresented individuals and transforming their lives through technology, just as mine was transformed. By continuously refining our programs and expanding our reach, I believe we can make a significant difference in the tech industry, fostering a more inclusive and diverse community,” says Andressa.

Additionally, she is also part of the MIT Solve community, which seeks innovative solutions for a sustainable and equitable future. Andressa’s commitment to promoting gender diversity in tech makes her a valuable nominee for the Women in Tech Network.

The Services

diversiData is an initiative that aims to demystify the world of data, diversity, and culture. It offers free educational content, workshops, and podcasts related to data careers and diversity.  It plays a crucial role in advancing girls’ education and gender equality through digital learning.

As the pandemic led to increased use of digital technologies in education, it also revealed staggering gender gaps in access to and use of digital technology worldwide. UNICEF estimates that 11.2 million girls and young women may drop out or lack access to school due to the pandemic. However, innovative solutions are now within reach, from high-tech to low-tech, enabling quality learning for girls. Additionally, historically marginalized groups, including women of color, face compounding challenges in STEM pathways. diversiData aims to address these disparities by providing data-driven support to students, ensuring their success both in the classroom and beyond.

Here’s what one can find on diversiData:

YouTube Channel: The diversiData YouTube channel features videos on topics like data analysis, career transitions, and workplace diversity. You’ll find content that’s 100% free and designed to help you learn more about these areas.

Instagram and TikTok: Andressa Freires shares mentorship opportunities, accessible content, and courses related to diversiData on her Instagram and TikTok.

Diversity Data Platform: Additionally, there’s an online diversity data platform called Diversidata that provides advice on gathering and using diversity data across different jurisdictions. It guides organizations through a series of questions to input their data collection requirements.

All in a Day’s Work

Andressa’s working style can be encapsulated in three core principles: simplicity, transparency, and impact. She believes that keeping things simple and clear is essential for effective problem-solving and communication. Transparency ensures that everyone is on the same page, fostering trust and collaboration. The impact is crucial because our work should make a meaningful difference.

Andressa thrives in team environments and loves collaborating with others. While her approach is straightforward, she finds that involving her team in discussions and deliveries significantly enhances the quality and meaningfulness of their work. This collaborative effort ensures that the final product is impactful for those who receive it. She also places a high value on the well-being of her coworkers, as she has experienced the challenges of mental health issues in the demanding AI market, particularly as a person who is a part of many diverse groups.

“My workplace is everywhere: it’s in my room where ideas take shape in solitude, in the favelas where potential waits to be unlocked, in conference rooms buzzing with collaborative energy, in classrooms where knowledge blooms, in WeWorks fostering innovation, and even within companies striving for progress. Wherever I find purpose, that’s where I belong,” shares Andressa.

When she encounters new challenges or unfamiliar tasks, Andressa approaches them logically, much like solving a puzzle. She breaks down each problem into manageable pieces and tackles them one by one. This methodical approach allows her to address each component effectively. She also believes in thorough documentation, ensuring that everyone involved understands the project’s status and direction. This practice not only promotes clarity but also aids in future reference and learning.

Communication is another crucial element of her work style. If Andressa encounters something she doesn’t know, she reaches out to someone who can teach her. Conversely, if she learns something new, she’s eager to share that knowledge with her team. “This exchange of information fosters a supportive and knowledgeable work environment. By continuously sharing discoveries and insights, we collectively ensure the success and health of any project we undertake,” believes Andressa.

Simplicity, transparency, and measurable impact are vital for businesses. Simplicity reduces complexity and enhances efficiency. Transparency builds trust and fosters a collaborative culture. Measuring impact ensures that our efforts are aligned with our goals and make a meaningful difference. These principles are not just theoretical but are integral to Andressa’s work ethic and practice, driving both personal and professional success.

Navigating Challenges

There have been many incredible projects that Andressa had the opportunity to participate in. One of the most challenging yet rewarding was leading a diversity initiative involving over 1,700 participants inside PicPay. This project involved organizing live podcast events for thousands of viewers engaging with everyone from operational staff to the board of directors, and even reporting directly to investors. “Creating a diversity project from scratch required a lot of growth, both personally and professionally, as I navigated complex dynamics and honed my ability to advocate for and implement impactful changes,” shares Andressa.

One of the projects that she will always keep in her heart is a project called DAT[A]FRO, which Andressa did when she was working at PicPay. This initiative was a training program in data analysis and artificial intelligence specifically for Black individuals across Brazil. Out of more than a thousand applicants, they selected 20 participants for an intensive course. Of those 20, nine were hired. Andressa followed the class from start to finish, from conducting interviews to providing mentorship and answering questions throughout the learning process. This project allowed her to build lasting relationships with many of her students, who even gifted her a special doll with their class name on it. This project is a source of immense pride for her because it genuinely transformed lives.

Another project that Andressa is incredibly proud of is diversiData, her social impact company. Over the past three years, they have managed to generate significant impact with very limited resources—no investments or monetary partnerships, just a lot of hard work and dedication. Seeing the lives they’ve changed, mentoring hundreds of people, and conducting workshops and courses for thousands in the tech field is an incomparable feeling. The project has been already awarded nationally and internationally, by MIT Sloan Review, Instituto Anga, and WomenTech Network.

From these projects, Andressa has learned several key lessons. The first, focused on diversity, taught her the importance of communication, defending, and selling a beneficial project that brings real social and financial impact. These projects helped her improve her communication skills across all levels of her company, which has been beneficial both in her entrepreneurial endeavors and in her professional life and helped her how to show diversity + impact in the best way possible.

Another crucial lesson she has learned is that if your project or product is not impacting lives, something is wrong. Since these significant projects, Andressa has strived to ensure that everything she does has a meaningful impact—just as her life was transformed through scholarships and community support. “Today, for my students and those who consume the products I offer, I aim to provide a complete, unique, and empathetic experience that demonstrates true social, economic, or life-changing impact,” she asserts.

“Valuing others and persevering through challenges are crucial. The process may be difficult, but it is incredibly rewarding to open windows of opportunity for more people like you. These experiences have taught me that no matter how tough the journey, the impact we can make on others’ lives is worth every effort. By not giving up, we create pathways for more people to succeed and thrive, just as we have. This process of evolving and inspiring others, despite the difficulties, is what keeps me motivated and driven,” feels Andressa.

Staying in Tune with Trends

In the next five years, Andressa sees several emerging trends that will significantly shape the fields of AI, AI ethics, and education. One of the most transformative trends in AI is the advancement of generative models and their applications across various sectors. These models are becoming increasingly sophisticated, enabling more nuanced and human-like interactions and opening up new possibilities for automation and creativity.

AI ethics is another crucial area that will gain even more importance. As AI systems become more integrated into our daily lives, ensuring they are developed and used responsibly will be paramount. This includes addressing issues such as bias, transparency, and accountability to ensure that AI benefits all segments of society fairly and equitably.

In education, Andressa believes that the use of AI to personalize learning experiences will continue to grow. AI can help tailor educational content to individual learning styles and paces, making education more accessible and effective for diverse populations. This trend will be especially impactful in creating more inclusive learning environments and bridging educational gaps.

To prepare her organization, diversiData, for these emerging trends, Andressa focuses on continuous learning and proactive engagement with the latest developments in these fields. She invests a significant amount of time in studying and staying updated on new advancements in AI and AI ethics. Attending national and international conferences and industry events is a key part of her strategy. These platforms provide invaluable opportunities to learn about cutting-edge research, network with other professionals, and share the participants’ experiences and insights.

Additionally, Andressa believes in the power of sharing knowledge. She regularly disseminates what she learns through courses, workshops, and mentorship programs. “By educating our audience and those who consume AI products, we can foster a more informed and responsible use of AI technologies. This approach not only helps in preparing our organization for future trends but also contributes to the broader goal of creating a more ethical and inclusive tech landscape,” she shares.

“Understanding and anticipating these trends is essential for driving innovation and maintaining our relevance in the rapidly evolving tech world. By staying informed, actively participating in the dialogue around these issues, and prioritizing education and ethical considerations, I ensure that diversiData is well-equipped to navigate and contribute to the future of AI and education,” says Andressa.

Initiatives for Equality

As a successful woman in leadership, Andressa is deeply passionate about initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion both within her organization and the tech industry at large. The importance of diversity in the workplace cannot be overstated. Research consistently shows that diverse teams drive better business outcomes.

“According to a study by McKinsey, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams were 21% more likely to outperform on profitability and 27% more likely to have superior value creation. Yet, despite these clear benefits, the tech industry still struggles with diversity. Women, particularly women of color, remain significantly underrepresented. For example, a report by the National Center for Women & Information Technology found that women held only 26% of professional computing jobs in 2019, with even lower representation at the leadership level,” quotes Andressa.

At diversiData, promoting diversity and inclusion is at the heart of Andressa’s mission. One initiative she is particularly proud of is the special mentorship program, which pairs experienced professionals with individuals from underrepresented groups to provide guidance, support, and career development. This program has already impacted hundreds of lives, helping mentees navigate the tech industry and advance their careers.

“Creating a diverse environment where everyone feels free to be themselves is crucial for both personal well-being and professional success. When people can bring their authentic selves to work, they are more engaged, motivated, and productive. This sense of belonging fosters innovation and creativity, as diverse perspectives lead to more robust problem-solving and decision-making processes,” insists Andressa.

In a plural environment, the products and services we create are better aligned with the needs of a diverse customer base. When a team reflects the diversity of its customers, it can anticipate and address a broader range of needs and preferences, leading to higher customer satisfaction. This is particularly important in the tech industry, where user experience can make or break a product.

To promote these values, Andressa actively participates in and organizes events that highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion. By speaking at conferences, hosting workshops, and collaborating with other organizations, she aims to raise awareness and drive change across the industry. Additionally, she ensures that diversiData’s hiring practices prioritize diversity, seeking to build teams that are as varied and dynamic as the communities they serve.

“Ultimately, promoting diversity and inclusion is not just about meeting quotas or checking boxes. It’s about creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and where diverse voices can drive innovation and excellence. This commitment to diversity and inclusion is essential for building a more equitable and successful tech industry,” emphasizes Andressa.

Future Commitments

In the next few years, Andressa and her team are committed to driving significant growth and impact through their small yet ambitious edtech company. Currently, they are in the process of securing investors to expand their offerings, which include increasing the number of courses, providing free materials such as computers and books, and offering mentorship programs for its students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. diversiData’s ultimate aim is to scale its operations to positively impact thousands of lives through technology.

“Effective planning is paramount to achieving our goals. We understand the importance of learning from the experiences of others who have successfully navigated similar paths. Seeking guidance from experienced mentors and industry experts will help us refine our strategies, make informed decisions, and ensure sustainable growth,” shares Andressa.

The edtech sector is poised for substantial growth in the coming years. According to research by HolonIQ, global edtech investments reached $16.1 billion in 2020, highlighting a growing trend towards digital transformation in education. This growth presents a significant opportunity for innovative companies like ours to make a meaningful impact (source: HolonIQ EdTech Global Funding Report).

What sets Andressa’s edtech company apart is its steadfast commitment to placing people and purpose at the forefront. Unlike many in the industry who solely focus on profitability, diversiData prioritizes creating inclusive educational experiences that foster personal and professional growth. Studies have shown that personalized and inclusive learning environments lead to better student outcomes and societal benefits.

“By focusing on building a strong community and prioritizing the happiness and success of our students, we aim to create a lasting impact. Our approach not only aligns with current educational trends but also contributes to the broader movement towards equitable access to quality education,” says Andressa.

In conclusion, with meticulous planning, leveraging industry insights, and remaining steadfast in their commitment to their values, Andressa, and the team are confident that their company will expand its influence and make a meaningful difference in the education sector.

Drawing Inspiration to Rise and Grow

Continuing to grow and develop professionally is a core commitment for Andressa, driven by a multifaceted approach to learning and self-improvement. Mentorship plays a pivotal role in her journey; receiving feedback from those she works with helps her refine her skills and perspectives. Additionally, Andressa places a strong emphasis on continuous learning through extensive coursework and voracious reading across a wide range of subjects. This constant pursuit of knowledge not only keeps her informed but also enhances her ability to innovate and adapt in a rapidly changing world.

Attending national and international conferences is another integral part of Andressa’s professional growth strategy. These events provide invaluable opportunities to update her knowledge, connect with industry peers, and share insights gained from her day-to-day experiences. It’s through these interactions that she stays abreast of emerging trends and best practices, ensuring that her contributions remain relevant and impactful.

As she prepares herself to lead and make a meaningful impact through her work, Andressa recognizes the importance of grounding decisions in data-driven insights. The research underscores the significance of leadership development in driving organizational success and employee engagement. Studies by Harvard Business Review emphasize the critical role of continuous learning and leadership preparation in shaping effective leaders who can navigate complexities and inspire teams.

Among the many leaders and thinkers who inspire Andressa, two stand out as key references in her field of expertise: Joy Buolawimni and Nina da Hora. She has had the privilege of meeting both individuals and even sharing a stage with Nina. Joy Buolawimni is renowned for her groundbreaking work in educational equity and technology integration, while Nina da Hora has made significant strides in community-driven innovation and entrepreneurship. Their dedication to advancing meaningful change through technology and education serves as a constant source of inspiration for Andressa.

Joy Buolawimni’s advocacy for inclusive education and digital empowerment resonates deeply with her own values, while Nina da Hora’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to social impact motivate her to push boundaries in her own endeavors. Learning from their experiences and insights continues to shape Andressa’s professional journey, reinforcing her resolve to lead with purpose and make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Message for the Young Guns

To aspiring entrepreneurs, Andressa says that she knows the road is not easy. But here are some key pieces of advice that she has found invaluable in her own journey:

  • Courage: Embrace courage as your companion. Starting a business requires taking risks and stepping outside your comfort zone. Believe in your vision and be willing to push through uncertainty and challenges.
  • Information: Knowledge is power. Invest time in thoroughly researching your market, understanding industry trends, and learning from the successes and failures of others. Informed decisions are the foundation of a sustainable business.
  • Endurance: Entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. Be prepared for setbacks and disappointments. Develop resilience to bounce back stronger and keep moving forward despite obstacles.
  • Focus: Stay laser-focused on your core objectives and avoid getting distracted by shiny new opportunities. Define clear goals and prioritize tasks that align with your long-term vision.
  • Seek the right people: Surround yourself with mentors, advisors, and team members who complement your strengths and share your passion. Collaborate with people who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table.
  • Impact people: Ultimately, the success of your venture hinges on the positive impact it has on others. Whether it’s solving a problem, improving lives, or creating meaningful opportunities, keep the human element at the forefront of everything you do.

“Remember, entrepreneurship is a journey of continuous learning and growth. Stay adaptable, stay hungry for knowledge, and never lose sight of the profound impact you have the potential to make in the world. With courage, knowledge, endurance, focus, the right team, and a commitment to impact, you can turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality,” says Andressa.

Goals in Sight

The next big goals for Andressa and her company are deeply rooted in expanding their impact on underrepresented groups through education and technology. Over the past three years, diversiData has reached over thousands of individuals, but they are determined to scale their efforts even further. Their aim is to generate more opportunities and profoundly transform lives, leveraging the transformative power of education and technology.

The importance of this endeavor is underscored by the rapid growth and potential of the edtech sector. Globally, the edtech market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.1%, reaching approximately $404 billion by 2025 (source: Research and Markets). This growth not only highlights the increasing demand for innovative educational solutions but also underscores the significant impact technology can have on expanding access to quality education.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a key focus area for diversiData as it holds immense potential to personalize learning experiences, improve educational outcomes, and bridge gaps in access. AI in education is expected to grow significantly, with the AI in Education market forecasted to reach $10.84 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 36.1% (source: Meticulous Research). By harnessing AI, the company can tailor educational content to individual needs, enhance teaching methods, and provide personalized support to learners, thereby maximizing its impact.

To tackle the challenges ahead and achieve their ambitious goals, team diversiData is actively seeking support from investors, companies, and communities through strategic partnerships. These collaborations are crucial not only for financial backing but also for accessing expertise, resources, and networks that can accelerate its growth and amplify its impact.

Furthermore, inspiring other communities and individuals to embrace education and technology is integral to diversiData’s mission. By showcasing its successes, sharing best practices, and nurturing a culture of innovation and inclusivity, it aims to spark inspiration and drive positive change beyond its immediate reach.

“In conclusion, our path forward involves scaling our efforts through strategic partnerships, leveraging AI to enhance educational outcomes, and continuing to prioritize underrepresented communities. With steadfast determination and the support of our stakeholders, I am confident that we will realize our vision of creating a more equitable and empowered future through education and technology,” concludes Andressa.

A Quote to Live By:

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman was an extraordinary woman who exemplified courage, resilience, and determination in the face of immense adversity. Born into slavery in the early 19th century, she not only escaped to freedom herself but also risked her life numerous times to lead others to liberty through the Underground Railroad. She was a fearless abolitionist, humanitarian, and suffragist who dedicated her life to fighting for justice and equality.

For Andressa, Harriet Tubman’s words resonate deeply because they encapsulate the essence of hope and empowerment. She believed in the power of dreams and the ability of individuals to make a profound impact on the world, no matter their circumstances. Her unwavering commitment to helping others, particularly those suffering from oppression and injustice, is incredibly inspiring.

When Andressa reflects on her legacy, she is moved by Harriet’s empathy and compassion. She saw those who suffered as if they were her own family, and that compassion drove her to take action and effect real change. It’s a reminder to Andressa that our dreams and ambitions should not only benefit ourselves but also uplift and empower those around us.

“Harriet Tubman’s life story teaches us that with strength, patience, and passion, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our aspirations. She embodies the power of resilience and the belief that each of us has the potential to make a difference. Her legacy continues to inspire me to dream big, work tirelessly, and strive to create a better world for all,” feels Andressa.

Quote: “By sharing what I know and supporting others, I aim to create a more equitable and innovative tech landscape, empowering future generations to achieve their dreams.”

Quote: “Ensuring a healthy work environment is paramount to me.”

Quote: “Whether through weekly events, mentoring sessions, or collaborative partnerships, I strive to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.”

Quote: “Our journey is driven by data-driven decision-making and a genuine belief in the transformative power of education and technology.”

Quote: “By staying informed, adaptive, and inspired, I strive to not only advance my career but also contribute meaningfully to the broader goals of education, technology, and social impact.”

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