Dame Stephanie Shirley, a pioneering computer scientist and autism campaigner, has died aged 91. Born Stefania Josephine Schrader, she fled Nazi Germany with her mother at the age of five and settled in the UK. This traumatic experience had a profound impact on her life, driving her to succeed and ensure that she would never be poor again.
Shirley went on to become a computer scientist and entrepreneur, founding her own software company, Freelance Programmers, in 1962. The company, which she ran from a small flat in London, became a huge success, and Shirley became one of the first female entrepreneurs in the UK.
In addition to her business success, Shirley was also a dedicated philanthropist and advocate for autism awareness. She was a vocal supporter of autism research and awareness, and was a long-time campaigner for the rights of people with autism. Her own son, Alexander, was diagnosed with autism, and she used her platform to raise awareness and support for the condition.
Shirley's legacy extends far beyond her business and philanthropic achievements. She was a true trailblazer, and her determination and perseverance in the face of adversity inspired countless people. Her advocacy for autism awareness has also had a lasting impact, helping to raise awareness and promote understanding of the condition.