WordPress powers 43% of all websites worldwide, a staggering statistic that underscores its role as the backbone of the digital ecosystem. But as the platform grows, so does the need for diverse voices to shape its future.
Diversity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a business imperative. When we embrace diverse leaders and creators in the WordPress space, we unlock innovation, encourage inclusivity, and ensure the platform reflects the global community it serves.
Diversity isn’t just about representation; it’s about building better solutions. By amplifying more voices, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for WordPress, one that drives business growth, fosters creativity, and reflects the needs of all users.
Black Women Making Waves in WordPress
The WordPress community thrives on collaboration, innovation, and diverse perspectives. Black women have played a pivotal role in shaping the platform into the powerhouse it is today, contributing to its technical evolution and its culture of inclusivity.
Here are two individuals whose work is making a lasting impact:
Nyasha Green
Web developer, Website Project Manager, and passionate advocate for diversity in tech. Through her work in tech education and consulting, Nyasha has empowered countless individuals and organizations, proving that representation is key to driving innovation.
With a background in software development and technical editorial direction, Nyasha brings a unique blend of technical expertise and creative storytelling to the digital world. As a LinkedIn Learning Instructor, she specializes in WordPress development, breaking down complex concepts into accessible, actionable knowledge for learners.
Her work has been recognized in Time Magazine for its creativity, further fueling her passion for pushing the boundaries of web development.
Ebonie Butler
Lead Software Engineer, content creator, and WordPress expert whose work highlights the importance of diversity in tech. Ebonie is a passionate advocate for Black women in the industry, and a standout contributor to the WordPress community.
Ebonie’s contributions to WordPress are vast and impactful. She served as the Core Tech Lead for WordPress 5.6, a major release in the platform’s history, and continues to contribute as a core developer, plugin creator, and Meta Team member. Beyond her technical expertise, she’s a WordCamp organizer and speaker, sharing her knowledge and inspiring others in the community. What truly sets Ebonie apart is her commitment to representation. She’s a vocal advocate for women and women of color in tech and gaming, working tirelessly to create more inclusive spaces in these industries.
These leaders exemplify the power of diverse voices in driving innovation and growth. Their contributions remind us that the future of WordPress depends on embracing the unique perspectives and talents of all its users.
Why Diversity Matters in WordPress
Embracing diversity in WordPress isn’t just about inclusion; it’s about building a stronger, more dynamic future for the platform.
Here’s why:
- Better Solutions for a Global Audience
With WordPress powering nearly half of all websites, it’s essential that the platform reflects the diversity of its users. Black leaders bring unique perspectives that help create more inclusive, user-friendly solutions. - Innovation Through Collaboration
Diverse teams are proven to be more innovative. By including Black voices in the WordPress ecosystem, we can drive creativity and problem-solving that benefits everyone. - Sustainable Growth
As the digital landscape evolves, organizations that prioritize diversity will be better positioned to adapt and thrive. Hiring diverse talent isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a strategic move that ensures long-term success.
How Organizations Can Seek Diverse Talent
Building a diverse team starts with intentional action. Here are a few ways organizations can connect with and support Black professionals in the WordPress space:
- Partner with Organizations Focused on Diversity
Collaborate with groups like Black Girls CODE, which empowers young Black girls to pursue careers in tech, or Code2040, which works to dismantle barriers for Black and Latinx professionals. These organizations are excellent resources for finding talented professionals and encouraging collaboration. - Engage with Inclusive Events
Attend conferences and meetups that prioritize diversity, such as Hue Tech Summit and AfroTech. These events provide opportunities to connect with Black professionals and learn from their experiences. - Amplify Black Voices
Share the work of Black creators and leaders in your network. By amplifying their voices, you can help create a more inclusive community and attract diverse talent. - Invest in Mentorship and Training
Support initiatives that provide mentorship and training for underrepresented groups in tech. Programs like Black Women Talk Tech and Black in Tech are great places to start.
The Future of WordPress Depends on Diversity
At XWP, we’re committed to driving business growth through custom platforms for enterprise publishers. But we also know that true innovation comes from embracing diverse perspectives. By supporting diverse leaders and creators in the WordPress space, we can build a more inclusive, sustainable future for the platform, and for the organizations that rely on it.
Call to Action
- For Organizations: Start by evaluating your hiring practices and seeking out diverse talent. Partner with organizations that support Black professionals in tech.
- For the Community: Amplify Black voices, especially women. Attend inclusive events, and advocate for diversity in your networks.
Together, we can create a WordPress ecosystem that’s as diverse and dynamic as the websites it powers.
