Lorena Mesa

Lorena Mesa is an accomplished professional with a diverse background in software engineering, data science, and community engagement, particularly in the Python programming community. As a co-founder and organizer for PyLadies Chicago since January 2015, Lorena works to empower women in the Python open-source ecosystem through mentorship and communal events. Experience includes serving as Programs Co-Chair for PyCon US in 2019 and 2020, a Data Engineer at GitHub, and leadership roles at the Python Software Foundation, including Director and Chair of the Board of Directors. Lorena has also held positions at Sprout Social and Girl Develop It, where teaching coding was a focus. Educational qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Studies from Northwestern University, a Master of Arts in Latin American and Latino Studies from the University of Illinois Chicago, and a certificate in Data Science from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies.