Anita Borg Quotes

Powerful Anita Borg for Daily Growth

About Anita Borg

Anita Borg (July 24, 1949 – April 6, 2003) was a groundbreaking computer scientist, technology pioneer, and a passionate advocate for the advancement of women in computing and technology. Born in San Francisco, California, she grew up with an early fascination for technology, which led her to study electrical engineering at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, where she earned her bachelor's degree. Her professional journey began at Xerox PARC (Palo Alto Research Center), a world-renowned center for technological innovation. There, she worked on the development of graphical user interfaces, contributing significantly to the evolution of personal computing as we know it today. Later, Borg joined IBM's T.J. Watson Research Center, where she played a crucial role in the development of interactive voice response systems, making technology more accessible for people with disabilities. In 1987, Borg co-founded Systers, an electronic mailing list for women in computing, providing a supportive online community that fostered connections among women technologists across the globe. In 1994, she established the Institute for Women and Technology (IWAT), later renamed the AnitaB.org, to address the underrepresentation of women in technology industries. One of her most renowned quotes, "You can't be what you can't see," encapsulates Borg's vision for creating a more inclusive tech industry. Her influence extended beyond technology as she championed diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across various sectors. Despite her untimely death in 2003, her legacy continues to inspire generations of women in tech and drive progress towards gender equality in the field.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"You can't be what you can't see."

This quote by Anita Borg emphasizes the importance of representation and visibility, particularly in underrepresented groups. It suggests that when individuals lack exposure to role models or examples who share similar characteristics (such as race, gender, or profession), they may struggle to envision themselves in those roles. Thus, increasing visibility can empower people to pursue their aspirations and break down barriers to success.


"The most important technology is not a computer chip, but you and me."

This quote emphasizes that while technological advancements are crucial, human beings themselves are the most significant form of technology. It suggests that the skills, knowledge, creativity, empathy, and collaborative spirit of individuals are the key drivers behind innovation and progress. In other words, the quote underscores the idea that people, not just machines or hardware, are the real engines of technological development.


"Together we can create a world where everyone who wants to learn, can learn; and where everyone who wants to contribute, can contribute."

This quote by Anita Borg envisions a global society where learning and contribution are accessible to all who desire it, irrespective of their circumstances or backgrounds. It underscores the power of collaboration in breaking down barriers, fostering equal opportunities for education, and promoting inclusive participation in society's advancement. By working together, we can build a world that embraces diversity and fosters collective progress, empowering each individual to fulfill their potential.


"The key to success in any field is to act fearlessly on the beliefs that matter most deeply to you."

This quote by Anita Borg emphasizes the importance of courage and conviction in achieving success. It suggests that one should courageously pursue their deeply-held values and beliefs, even when faced with fear or uncertainty. The message encourages individuals to take bold steps towards their goals, guided by personal principles rather than external pressures or fears, ultimately leading to success in any chosen field.


"Imagine a world with more women and girls participating fully in every aspect of life. Then make it happen."

This quote by Anita Borg envisions a world where gender equality is not just an ideal, but a lived reality. It highlights the importance of increasing the active participation of women and girls in all areas of life – be it education, career, politics, or societal roles. Such a world would be characterized by equal opportunities, diverse perspectives, and balanced representation, fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and progressive society overall. The quote is both aspirational and actionable, urging us to take concrete steps towards making this vision a reality.


Women are starting something like twice as many companies as men, but the money is primarily going to companies started by men.

- Anita Borg

Like, Going, Started, Women Are

We're at unique point in history where the things that we are building are going to significantly impact our social, political, economical, and personal lives.

- Anita Borg

Going, Social, Lives, Personal Lives

If we want technology to serve society rather than enslave it, we have to build systems accessible to all people - be they male or female, young, old, disabled, computer wizards or technophobes.

- Anita Borg

Young, Rather, Accessible, All People

There is still a perception that the way women are isn't necessarily what you need for the powerhouse start-ups.

- Anita Borg

Need, Way, Still, Women Are

The Internet enables us to share the ideas we have without having to create another hierarchy.

- Anita Borg

Hierarchy, Another, Having, Enables

If women want to ensure themselves a meaningful place in the future, they need to be among those determining how the technology will be used. They need to be among those deciding whether it will be the great leveler or simply serve to worsen social divisions.

- Anita Borg

Serve, Used, Divisions, Deciding

It doesn't help to just get women's opinions and then turn them over to an all-white-male engineering team.

- Anita Borg

Over, Them, Then, Engineering

Leaders of the future will have to be visionary and be able to bring people in - real communicators. These are things that women bring to leadership and executive positions, and it's going to be incredibly valuable and incredibly in demand.

- Anita Borg

Will, Bring, Going, Valuable

Until Systers came into existence, the notion of a global 'community of women in computer science' did not exist.

- Anita Borg

Community, Existence, Global, Computer Science

None of these devices address that women keep track of many people's lives, not just their own.

- Anita Borg

Address, Devices, Lives, Track

Women will change the corporation more than we expect.

- Anita Borg

Will, More, Expect, Corporation

The Internet does not have a reputation as being a particularly civilized place.

- Anita Borg

Particularly, Does, Civilized

The stereotypes really play into what kinds of companies women can get funded for.

- Anita Borg

Play, Get, Companies, Stereotypes

I believe women think differently.

- Anita Borg

Believe, Think, I Believe, Differently

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