Mary Adegbesan is the Founder and Executive Director of CTRL Code (ctrlcode.org), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to computer science education for underrepresented students worldwide. In her talk, she explores the growing disparities in technology education and the consequences of leaving entire communities behind in an increasingly digital world. She reflects on coding as more than just a technical skill, framing it as a tool for creativity, opportunity, and empowerment. Through personal stories and real-world examples, Mary highlights how access to technology education can transform lives and why it should be considered a right, not a privilege. She also shares the inspiration behind Coding Unplugged, a hands-on programming book she created to teach coding without internet access, and how meeting students where they are can help redefine what educational equity truly means. Through CTRL Code, Mary is working to ensure that every student, no matter their background, has the chance to learn, innovate, and shape the future. Mary Adegbesan is a dedicated advocate for equity in computer science education, committed to bridging the digital divide for under-served communities worldwide. Inspired by her passion for accessible STEM education, Mary founded CTRL Code, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers youth globally with the skills and confidence to thrive in a technology-driven world. Through CTRL Code, Mary has led numerous programming initiatives, offering hands-on workshops and digital resources that introduce youth to essential technological skills. In addition to her role as a programming instructor, Mary also self-published Coding Unplugged, an offline Python programming book designed to provide an accessible introduction to coding for youth without access to internet connectivity. Beyond her individual contributions, Mary's efforts have also extended to fostering impactful collaborations with organizations such as Google, Code.org, and global charities in regions including Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, etc., empowering students without access to comprehensive educational curricula to unlock new opportunities in technology and develop the confidence to pursue careers in STEM. Ultimately, Mary is driven by the belief that every child, regardless of their background, deserves the tools to unlock their boundless potential and envision brighter futures in STEM! This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx