Bukola Somide is a Nigerian woman who has invented “Somi,” the very first Computer Science Interactive Doll. The goal of this 14-inch doll is to not only be fun to play with but educational as well.
According to BlackNews.com, Somide created the STEM doll from the main character in her recently published children’s books, Somi, The Computer Scientist: Princess Can Code, which is an illustrated book about, Somi, “a curious, bright, humorous, and beautiful young girl who has a natural interest in learning Computer Programming concepts from her mom.”
Somide equipped the Somi doll with 12 voice-overs that help teach computer science concepts in a way children can understand as well as discourage cyberbullying. In addition, the doll’s curiosity in learning more helps her to connect “what she’s learning with real-life experiences,” according to BlackNews.com, making her relatable to children.
As Somide states, “My passion is to bring computer science awareness to underserved communities while deterring cyberbullying. I’m so excited for everyone to experience Somi, The Computer Science doll!” The Somi Computer Science Interactive Doll is made [for] people of all ages beginning from the age of three. Critics are already praising the doll as a “real educational, entertaining, and inspirational tool for young learners and keepsake to celebrate milestones for young adults” according to BlackNews.com.
Somide has always been involved in technology. Her book, Somi, The Computer Scientist: Princess Can Code, was first published by Innovant Technologies L.L.C. Not to mention, she also published a computer science activity book for children and recently created a coding workshop for children that will soon become an affordable online mini-workshop.
Somide’s future for the Somi doll is to write more additions to the Somi, The Computer Scientist series and publish more activity books to cover advanced concepts.