Despite efforts to break down stereotypes about women in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), girls still rarely choose digital education or technical careers.

The primary goal of the Coding Girl (Girls Just Want to Have Fun Coding) project, co-funded by Erasmus+, is to encourage young girls to engage with programming and pursue careers in STEAM fields. The project combines innovative educational formats, including hackathons, interactive creative workshops specifically designed for girls, and activities aimed at expanding teachers' skills in digital storytelling.

Stories of successful female professionals allow for an emotional connection to the STEAM topic, which is often crucial for girls. Science is frequently presented as a set of facts and theories, which can be intimidating. However, stories can humanize science, introduce role models, and also arouse curiosity and passion. A key project output is the Women in Code web library, which not only features real stories of inspiring women from several European countries but also provides methodologies and lesson plans, including specific activities for teachers. These materials are designed to develop students' critical thinking, imagination, and creativity, while also supporting inclusive and gender-sensitive teaching practices in information technologies education.

Through qualitative and quantitative data collected from pilot schools and feedback from participants, we explore how exposure to identifiable role models and creative formats can positively influence girls' attitudes towards coding and their self-efficacy in STEAM.

Keywords: Gender equality, STEAM education, coding, inclusion, Erasmus+, living library, storytelling, role models, educational innovation.