The Inspiring Journey of Dame Stephanie Shirley

The Life of Dame Stephanie Shirley

Dame Stephanie ‘Steve’ Shirley, born Vera Stephanie Buchthal on September 16, 1933, in Dortmund, Germany, led an extraordinary life, overcoming significant adversity while challenging gender norms. As a pioneering entrepreneur, she established an all-female software company that implemented flexible work policies long before they became the norm.

An Early Start

After experiencing the trauma of her early childhood, which included fleeing Nazi Germany via the Kindertransport in 1939, Shirley was fostered in Sutton Coldfield, UK. Reflecting on her peaceful years in Oswestry, she remembered, “I had five wonderful years of peace.” Her interest in mathematics blossomed, leading her to attend evening classes at a boys’ grammar school, as her own school lacked adequate math instruction.

Breaking into Computing

At the age of 18, Shirley’s career started at the Post Office Research Station in Dollis Hill, where she excelled in computer construction and programming in machine language. There, she was involved in designing the electronic random number generator known as ERNIE, which later became famous for selecting Premium Bond numbers.

Founding Freelance Programmers

Despite her talents, Shirley encountered severe sexism within the tech industry, leading her to found her own company, Freelance Programmers, in 1962. With only £6 to her name, she established a firm aimed at providing opportunities for women in technology—a remarkable venture, especially as women were then unable to open bank accounts without male consent.

A Workplace Revolution

Shirley’s innovative business model focused on employing women with caregiving responsibilities. By placing ads in local libraries and GP clinics, she built an initially all-female workforce, with only three of the first 300 employees being male. The company achieved high-profile contracts, including work on the Concorde’s black box recorder and NATO software systems, eventually becoming a publicly traded entity. Many employees gained wealth, with around 70 becoming millionaires due to the company’s success.

Philanthropic Endeavors

Upon retiring in 1993 at the age of 60, Shirley’s commitment to social causes culminated in the establishment of The Shirley Foundation in 1996, which focused on autism and technology initiatives. Having faced similar challenges in raising her son, Giles, who had profound autism, Shirley dedicated millions to organizations supporting autistic individuals, providing essential services and advocating for policy changes.

Advocacy and Recognition

Throughout her life, Shirley championed various philanthropic causes, contributing over £67 million to autism-related projects like Autism at Kingwood and Autistica. In 2009-2010, she served as the UK’s first Ambassador for Philanthropy. Her influential work garnered her numerous accolades, including an OBE in 1980 and a title of Dame Commander in 2000.

Her Lasting Impact

In addition to her advocacy for autism, Shirley was a trailblazer in the computing sector, reshaping perceptions of women in technology. Her famous TED Talk in 2015, which received a standing ovation, has amassed over two million views, serving as inspiration for many. Shirley’s mantra, “A life worth saving,” reflects her lifelong dedication to making a difference.

Conclusion and Reflection

Dame Stephanie Shirley’s legacy is a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and advocacy. Her journey exemplifies how one person’s determination can reshape industries and foster change for future generations. Although this overview highlights her remarkable contributions, there is no substitute for firsthand experiences. On GetExperience.com, you can discover exceptional opportunities, including tours and cultural programs that bring you closer to inspiring figures like Shirley while ensuring a rich travel experience. Book now on GetExperience.com.