Abdulmalikkhon Kambarov

In the barren yet beautiful region of Navoi, Uzbekistan, Abdulmalikkhon Kambarov found himself drawn to computer science despite a lack of educational and career opportunities. He taught himself HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and C++ through school courses and YouTube videos. Concerned by the lack of representation of Central Asians in computer science and the absence of local role models, he dreamt of creating a future where every child could pursue their passion in STEM regardless of their background. 

His dedication led him to establish E&E, a nonprofit providing free digital education to low-income teenagers in Navoi. He developed the curriculum, organised classes, and created instructional videos, reaching over 500 students. Through E&E he promoted global cooperation, partnering with over 15 local and international organisations. To address gender disparities in STEM, he founded a local chapter of the Society of Women Coders (SOWCoders) in Navoi, promoting equal workspaces and inspiring over 30 girls to pursue computer science. 

His commitment extended to translating computer science materials into Uzbek, sparking enthusiasm in students like 11-year-old Jonibek, who now dreams of designing mobile games. Encouraged by his students' progress, he developed Yulent, an AI app for managing digital communications, which he entered into the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub program, which provided resources to further the project. 

His curiosity about mathematics flourished early in primary school and he excelled academically, representing his school in math competitions and teaching himself college-level mathematics. This passion for computer science grew alongside his mathematical pursuits, leading him to participate in coding competitions and programs, even winning the One Million Uzbek Coders Competition, earning recognition and a $1,500 prize. 

Interested in a broader impact, he conducted research on promoting STEM among Central Asian youth, earning awards at his school's Science and Technology Fair and sharing insights at international conferences, demonstrating a commitment to educational excellence and societal impact. 

Having discovered many girls in his school lacked awareness and confidence to pursue tech careers and inspired by the mission of SOWCoders, he founded SOWCoders Navoi, providing free coding classes and mentorship to girls. This resulted in a significant increase in female participation in his school's computer science club, achieving over 60% female representation. 

Despite significant obstacles, including a lack of resources and a language barrier, Kambarov's determination propelled him forward to learn English and access online programming resources and translated materials into Uzbek to support his community. He expanded his network and launched initiatives like the DCN Global Central Asia Hub to enhance digital literacy. His experiences at events like Wikimania 2023 in Singapore highlighted the power of collaboration and shared knowledge. 

His journey reflects a commitment to innovation, education, and global citizenship. By overcoming challenges and fostering cooperation, he strives to build a more inclusive and interconnected world, empowering others to pursue their dreams and contribute to societal progress.