2024 is our year to DREAM BIG, and what better way to set off the year than with a double dose of inspiration? Our community in Johannesburg and Kigali set the stage for an inspiring start to 2024 with … goal-setting events.

Johannesburg Unleashes Creativity: “Year Planning and Vision Boards” Masterclass

In the bustling city of Johannesburg, ALX witnessed an electrifying kickoff for 2024 with the “Year Planning and Vision Boards” masterclass. Val Wigget, a member of the African Leadership Group and the Senior Director of Career Programs at ALA, led the charge, sharing invaluable insights and practical tools with a dynamic gathering of 60 in-person ALX learners and Fellows, alongside 40 virtual participants eager to carve their path to success.

The room pulsated with creative energy as each attendee meticulously crafted their vision boards, manifesting bold career aspirations and personal milestones. What set this event apart was the  diverse dreams and visions that came to life on those boards, bringing a unique energy to the event. To wrap up the day, a lively networking and games session was organised, featuring top-notch refreshments that left everyone buzzing with excitement.

Kigali Delves into Science-Based Goal Mastery with Samir Khan

Meanwhile, in the picturesque city of Kigali, Leadership Development Specialist Samir Khan offered ALX learners a profound session on “How to Set Goals You Will Stick To.” This science-based workshop equipped our learners with the latest research-backed methods to conquer personal and professional goals.

The event also featured a fascinating experiment, illustrating the power of focus. It was a subtle reminder that with targeted attention, we can achieve our goals by staying unwaveringly focused. Samir Khan’s wisdom blended seamlessly with the tranquil Kigali atmosphere, leaving attendees inspired and ready to conquer their ambitions.

Join the ALX Thrill – Your Journey Awaits!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of a community that’s all about growth and connection. Join ALX Africa today, where dreams take flight, and ambitions find their wings. Your journey to success begins here – because at ALX, we’re not just setting goals; we’re achieving them together!

Ready to embark on a transformative journey? Enrol in one of our 2024 programmes now!

Learn more

The post Setting the Tone for 2024: Goal-Setting Adventures in Johannesburg and Kigali first appeared on ALX Africa.

In the heart of Addis, our newsroom buzzes with the latest insights from the second instalment of our ዱካ (Duka) tech dialogue. Adam Abate, a beacon of entrepreneurial wisdom, shared profound thoughts that resonate with every aspiring innovator.

“The entrepreneurs I admire most,” Adam expressed during the dialogue, “are those who see the unseen, embrace ambiguity, and pursue their vision with clarity and adaptability.” His words echo the essence of entrepreneurial spirit – a journey marked by grit and the courage to try, even in the face of uncertainty. His message is clear: perfection is not the goal; progress is. In his story, he illuminates the path of entrepreneurial success, emphasising that it’s not about avoiding mistakes but about learning, evolving, and boldly stepping into the unknown.

The dialogue wasn’t just informative; it was downright inspiring. Adam’s journey embodies the belief that the pursuit of innovation goes beyond reaching a destination; it’s about the resilience and creativity harnessed along the way – a journey painted with the brushstrokes of progress and adaptability.

Kudos to Adam Abate, a truly humble entrepreneur whose insights continue to light the way for aspiring visionaries.

Stay tuned for more enriching dialogues brought to you by ዱካ (Duka), meaning footsteps, a monthly dialogue organised by the Addis Team in partnership with the Global Shapers community. The journey of learning and inspiration continues!

Ready to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey? Join the vibrant community at ALX and gain access to a world of possibilities through our entrepreneurship community, ALX Ventures. Connect with fellow innovators, participate in insightful dialogues, and let your journey of learning and inspiration unfold.

Become a part of ALX today!

Embark on a path of growth, innovation, and collaboration. Your transformative adventure begins here. Join us now!

Learn more

The post Embracing the Unknown with Entrepreneur Adam Abate first appeared on ALX Africa.

Addis buzzed with entrepreneurial energy as ten visionary startups competed in the ALX Mavericks Pitch Showdown, a culmination of creativity, innovation, and relentless dedication to shaping the future. Hosted by ALX Ventures, this showdown was a testament to the commitment to nurture entrepreneurship and support emerging African talent.

Out of a pool of 57 applicants, 36 entrepreneurs completed the intensive ALX Founders Academy program, honing their skills and refining their ideas. Their journey from submission – including pitch decks, videos, MVPs, and Lean Canvases – to selection was a testament to their unwavering determination and creative prowess.

Leveraging the power of social media, ALX Ventures engaged audiences and showcased 20 exceptional candidates, each brimming with potential. Following a meticulous interview process, the spotlight finally fell on ten final startups from diverse sectors, ranging from HealthTech to EdTech to AgriTech and Creative Industries.

The top 10 teams were then trained by seasoned Toastmasters coaches. They honed their pitching skills to ensure they were armed to deliver compelling presentations that captivated the audience and judges alike.

On 2 December, the top three contenders vied for the coveted grand prize of 100,000 Ethiopian Birr. Their presentations were more than just pitches; they were bold narratives weaving tales of innovation and ambition, leaving the judges facing an arduous decision.

And the winner is…

Curious Eyes, a trailblazing team revolutionising education through Augmented Reality, emerged victorious, claiming the grand prize. An esteemed judge, who is an accomplished entrepreneur, also promised Curious Eyes and the runners-up technical mentorship, business guidance, and exclusive one-on-one sessions.

The first-ever ALX Mavericks Pitch Competition concluded with resounding success, not just in the celebration of Curious Eyes’ triumph but also in the promise it held for all participants – a promise of nurturing innovation and empowering tomorrow’s trailblazers.

The post The ALX Mavericks Pitch Showdown first appeared on ALX Africa.

Tell us a bit about your background and early life. 

I was born into a modest, single-parent household, the third of three sisters and a brother. Originally from Thyolo in Malawi, we moved around a lot until we finally settled in Dedza. Despite financial hardships, I persevered through school, often juggling chores and long commutes, and learned the value of responsibility and hard work, from the tender age of six. 

My mother’s encouragement fueled my determination to excel academically, and it paid off. From primary to secondary school, I consistently ranked at the top of my class. Although the transition to university life proved challenging, I completed my Diploma in Journalism at the University of Malawi Polytechnic in 2014. Despite facing financial constraints and limited opportunities in the media industry, I never gave up.

In 2020, my dream of further education was reignited thanks to the sponsorship of a certain angel in the United Kingdom, Association Zikomo, and Kapadia Education. After graduating with a distinction in Journalism and Mass Communication, I participated in various online courses, including the prestigious ALX Virtual Assistant programme in 2022, becoming the very first graduate in my family.

This is my story, a testament to grit and unwavering resilience that has shaped my journey to success.

What do you do currently?

I’m the Programs Officer at Ladder to Learning, a grassroots organisation dedicated to enhancing the learning experience in public primary schools in Malawi. I initially joined as a Reading Coach and Programs Assistant at the organisation. Additionally, I serve as a mentor and Programs Assistant at It Takes a Village, a similar organisation focused on reimagining education in rural communities around the world. I’m also proud to be an ambassador of The ROOM Fellowship.

What does your role entail?

As the Programs Officer at Ladder to Learning, my role involves supervising programme implementation to achieve organisational milestones. I train and oversee volunteers, evaluate programmes, and organise Literacy Hub activities. I also regularly produce programme reports and budgets, set programme milestones, counsel students on educational matters, collaborate with schools, and organise community activities.

What does the phrase “I Found My Place” mean to you, and how did ALX and The ROOM Fellowship support you on this journey to finding your place?

It means finding an enabling environment to grow in my profession. ALX and The ROOM Fellowship were instrumental in helping me find my place, providing essential training opportunities and motivational talks from various speakers. These sessions supported my personal growth and instilled in me the drive to solve challenges in my community. Additionally, the Fellowship inspired me to take up relevant courses to enhance my professional development, making myself an asset and a worthwhile investment.

What transformation have you experienced in your personal and professional outlook on life now that you’ve found your place?

My outlook on life has changed significantly! I feel much richer in professional knowledge, since I’ve been given the opportunity to hone my skills. It’s also provided financial freedom, allowing me to pursue my entrepreneurial ambitions confidently. Overall, I am more self-assured, motivated, and optimistic about the future, knowing that I am on the right path to success.

How will this opportunity help you achieve your purpose in life and add value to the world?

I’m empowered to make a positive impact in the education sector, especially in the government primary schools. By implementing effective programmes and engaging with the community, I can contribute value and create meaningful change. This opportunity also sets me on the right path towards working with international organisations, which has always been a dream of mine.

You have your whole career ahead of you and are sure to experience more wins. Why do you think it is important to share your story now and celebrate your career milestones?

I want to be able to inspire others with my journey. Many people face challenges due to their backgrounds, but my story shows that dreams can come true. I hope to represent the underrepresented, and encourage girls and women not to give up. Despite facing obstacles, I returned to school and became the first graduate in my family. I want the world to know that trusting God, the process, and never giving up can lead to great achievements, and that they too can be the next big thing to happen in Africa and beyond.

What advice would you give to a Fellow trying to find their place?

I would say embrace your journey with determination and resilience. Draw strength from your background, no matter how challenging, and let it fuel your passion to make a difference. Pursue education and personal growth relentlessly, as it opens doors to new opportunities. Seek support from mentors, peers, and organisations like ALX and The ROOM Fellowship, as they can provide invaluable guidance. Stay focused on your goals, and never lose sight of your purpose. Remember that every obstacle can be a stepping stone to success. With hard work and perseverance, you can carve a path to greatness and inspire others along the way.

Enrol today in any of the ALX tech programmes to gain access to The ROOM Fellowship, and become part of this network of passionate individuals dedicated to helping you #FindYourPlace.

The post A Testament to Grit and Unwavering Resilience: Jacqueline Jijide’s Story first appeared on ALX Africa.

Tell us a bit about your background and early life.

I was born and raised in Machakos County, in a small town called Mitaboni, and later moved to the remote, yet serene town of Ivovoani. My childhood wasn’t very different from that of many children in my hometown; my family faced financial hardships, and we relied on the bare necessities to get by. I didn’t have the guidance or support system that many others had; my father struggled with alcoholism, which made things even more challenging. Nevertheless, we managed to navigate through life, and I’m immensely grateful for where I am today.

What do you do currently?

I’m a self employed virtual assistant (thanks to the ALX Virtual Assistant Training Programme!) providing individuals and organisations in Kenya and Singapore with operational and administrative support. I’m also a Community Ambassador for ALX and The ROOM Fellowship, where my role involves programme support, content creation, community engagement and much more.

What experiences led to your current position as a Virtual Assistant and Community Ambassador?

When I lost my previous job, I made the decision to take a 6-month mental health break from full-time employment. I’m not one who enjoys being idle, so in that time, I decided to search for any short training courses I could take remotely, while travelling. My search led me to the ALX Virtual Assistant programme, and it ticked all my boxes – online and self-paced, but with weekly deadlines and guidelines to keep me disciplined. I signed up, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. 

Once I completed the programme, I became an active member of the The ROOM Fellowship, and when the opportunity came to be one of the Fellows to test the ALX Foundations Pilot programme, I grabbed it with both hands. Being a part of ALX Foundations led to my current position as a Community Ambassador, and it’s only been up from there. 

What does the phrase “I Found My Place” mean to you?

Simply put, it means I am happy, mentally healthy, and at peace with my current role and career trajectory.

What did you do to set you on this transformative journey to finding your place?

I was really open to learning and trying new things, like the ALX Foundations Pilot programme. I could have easily turned down the opportunity when I received it via email, and asked, like some of my colleagues did, “Why should I help to build a programme for others?”, but I saw it as another learning opportunity, and I’m extremely glad that I did!

What transformation have you experienced in your personal and professional outlook on life now that you’ve found your place?

Being able to work remotely full-time has really given me a chance to pursue another passion of mine – travel. I have the flexibility to travel whenever I want, as long as I have my laptop with me. This experience has also helped me hone my skills in time management and schedule organisation, as having a full-time job while being a digital nomad requires effective planning. Although there are a few hiccups here and there, particularly power outages, I’ve been able to master this art of working remotely. No one ever notices that I’m working from the middle of nowhere, because I always get the job done. 

What excites you most about contributing to Africa’s emergence as a source of exceptional talent and a leading force in the global tech ecosystem? 

Everything! To be part of a team that is helping other African Youth find their Ikigai is quite liberating and exciting.

You have your whole career ahead of you and are sure to experience more wins. Why do you think it is important to share your story now and celebrate your career milestones?

If my win can motivate someone else to find their place, then that is one more win to celebrate. If I can encourage one more African youth with a background like mine to find their place, that is an even bigger win for me.

What advice would you give to a Fellow trying to find their place?

I’d like them to know that no matter where you come from, you have a place in the world. You just have to keep looking until you find it. I found mine, didn’t I? Keep #doinghardthings and things will get easier with each milestone.

____________________________________________________________________________________

ALX learners and graduates have access to professional development opportunities that accelerate their careers and transform their lives through The ROOM Fellowship. Enrol today in any of the ALX tech programmes to become part of this network of passionate individuals dedicated to helping you #FindYourPlace.

The post No Matter Where You Come From, You Have a Place in the World first appeared on ALX Africa.

100+ eager learners engaged in insightful discussions and posed pertinent questions on various aspects of data including data science, data analytics, and pursuing a career in this rapidly growing field. This comprehensive exploration of the topics helped equip learners with the knowledge required to make informed decisions about their future in the data science field.

Enrol today to become an ALX-certified Data Scientist or Data Analyst, for a career in some of the most in-demand roles in any industry.

The post Conversations in Cairo: All Things Data Science at ALX Maadi Tech Lab first appeared on ALX Africa.

The conversation explored the magic of the ALX hybrid learning model and provided the visiting team with insight into the impact of ALX’s programmes. Learners and fellows gained valuable lessons on growing as young professionals and making an impact in their community, regardless of their fields.

ALX provides world-class training to the next generation of technology professionals. Enrol today in any of our tech programmes and unlock endless opportunities.

The post Discovering ALX’s Impact: Special Guests Visit the Kigali Hub first appeared on ALX Africa.

In Ethiopia, coffee is more than a beverage. It’s a catalyst for a vibrant social event called “nu buna tetu”, which directly translates to “come and drink coffee”, but is simply an invitation to have a good time. The ceremony, performed to welcome visitors, involves three rounds of coffee: abol buna, tona buna, and baraka buna. Each round is brewed with gradually reduced strength, and is accompanied by a light snack, often popcorn.

To embrace this rich Ethiopian tradition, we organised our own Nu Buna Tetu gathering last month at the Addis Capstone Hub. In true Ethiopian fashion, all present at the hub honoured the invitation and participated in a fun getting-to-know-you event.

Amidst the aromatic allure of brewing coffee, we were aligned in our goal – to take this time to meaningfully connect with peers. The event offered us the opportunity to celebrate personal and ALX-related achievements within the community and engage in discussions about upcoming initiatives. We also discovered people’s pet-peeves and special skills. Some learners even found kindred spirits in other vegan environmentalists who share their commitment for reimagining the composition of cement.

As part of the ceremony, we engaged in profound discussions and strategised ways to uplift and enrich our communities. Through the exchange of experiences, we identified the changemakers among us – the talented individuals driving positive change within our respective communities. In that atmosphere of discussion, debates and disagreements were inevitable, but we embraced the opportunity for growth and unity. Recognising the value of diverse perspectives, we resolved to organise a structured debate one weekend, fostering an environment where differing viewpoints could be explored and celebrated.

Of course, we also indulged in moments of lightheartedness, with games and jokes intersecting most conversations. Victors were duly applauded and their achievements were rewarded in tickets to a concert to be held that very evening!

Truly, the essence of our gathering lay in the simplicity of the three rounds of coffee. Each cup represented a deepening bond among us, with the fading strength symbolising the growing connection among us.

In all, it was a wonderful time with peers and a testament to the power of tradition, community, and the simple pleasure of sharing a cup of coffee.

Enrol in any of our tech programmes at ALX to join a supportive network, unlock endless opportunities, and become part of a thriving community.

The post Coffee Talks: A Community Gathering Over Ethiopian Coffee first appeared on ALX Africa.

Welcome. Ẹ káàbọ̀. Marhaba. Sawubona. This is all we meant to express in our Karibu onboarding week at ALX.

From May 6th to May 13th, all over the continent – in our 8 core markets – over 30,000 learners from Casablanca to Johannesburg convened at the Karibu Opening Ceremony to officially begin their ALX tech journeys.

The immersive onboarding experience began with a blended session that connected all of our new learners to the story, mission and values of ALX and to one another, setting the foundation for their learning journey with us.

Our new learners were treated to an intimate fireside chat with the CEO and Founder of ALX, Fred Swaniker, where they had the rare opportunity to ask him all their burning questions. The events featured captivating performances, engaging discussions, and impactful opportunities for learners to build relationships with one another and the ALX team.

Virtually everything was fresh this Karibu week, as we took the chance to showcase the opening of our new tech hubs in our 8 cities across the continent. The sparkling new hubs are designed to address the crucial need for high-speed internet and infrastructure, offering a vibrant co-working environment that fosters productivity and peer support.

The Karibu week oriented learners into the ALX community as they commence their training in one of our 4 newly launched tech programmes:Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, and Salesforce Administrator, along with our new blended learning Software Engineering programme.

In total, over 32,000 new learners have begun their exciting journey of Doing Hard Things with ALX. Scroll down to feast your eyes on the Karibu highlights from every city – and keep up with the activities at @alxafrica on all social media platforms.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter
• LinkedIn

Casablanca | Complex Med 5 Stadium

Cairo | Cairo International Stadium – Covered Halls Complex

Accra | Ohene-Konadu Auditorium, UPSA

Lagos | The Vantage Point Event Centre, Ikeja; Harbour Point, Victoria Island

Addis Ababa | Welosefer, Kana Warehouse

Nairobi | Bomas of Kenya

Kigali | KG 9 Ave. Deco Center, 3rd Floor

Johannesburg | Old Park Station

Find out more about how ALX is helping young Africans kickstart their careers in the most in-demand technical professions – and check out the stories from some of our talented young leaders.

The post Karibu, ALX 2023 Learners! first appeared on ALX Africa.

Two years ago, Faith Okoth made the bold decision to turn her love for solving problems into an exciting new career. She joined the ALX Software Engineering programme and hasn’t looked back since. After graduating, Faith was so motivated by her experience at ALX that she decided to join the team as a Technical Mentor, providing her with an opportunity to not only pass on the knowledge and skills that she gained during her training, but also to constantly learn new skills and grow in her career. In this feature interview, she shares what it’s like to be a Technical Mentor to over 9,000 Software Engineering learners at ALX.

Can you share a bit about your background and how it led you to your current position at ALX?

I made the decision to join the tech industry two years ago because I was eager to try something new. I got the opportunity to participate in the ALX Software Engineering programme, and that exposed me to the skills required and opportunities available in the tech space, ultimately leading me to my current position at ALX. My willingness to take on a new challenge has brought me to this point, and I’m excited to use my knowledge and expertise to help others succeed in their own learning journeys. 

What motivated you to enter the tech field and pursue a career in this space? 

My love for solving problems and the satisfaction I get from being able to build solutions. When I discovered tech, I realised that it offered me the perfect platform to exercise my problem-solving skills. With tech I can build something, track its progress, and iterate until I come up with a solution that works efficiently. This continuous process of problem-solving gives me a sense of fulfilment that is hard to come by in other fields. Additionally, the tech space is constantly evolving, and this provides me with something new to learn, keeping me motivated to keep going and growing in my career.

What are some of your key responsibilities at ALX?

I currently work as a Technical Mentor to over 9,000 learners in the Software Engineering programme. My key responsibilities include ensuring efficient programme delivery, providing technical support to the students and facilitating live coding sessions.

What do you love most about your work?

I really enjoy being able to engage with the ALX learners and continuously learn from them. It helps me gain new insights and perspectives that I might not have otherwise considered. My work doesn’t only benefit the learners; it has also greatly improved my tech knowledge and contributed to my professional development. I find that the collaborative learning approach helps me build strong relationships, and fosters a positive learning environment. I’m at the forefront of building a pipeline of Software Engineering talent on the continent and I love it!

Why do you believe it’s important for more women to pursue careers in the tech industry?

By nature, women tend to be excellent problem solvers and researchers, which makes them well-suited for the fast-paced and constantly evolving field of tech. 

ALX is proud to be offering one of the biggest Software Engineering programmes in the world, providing thousands of learners across Africa with an opportunity to develop the most in-demand skills that will enable them to thrive in their careers. Apply to the innovative ALX Software Engineering programme and join the new generation of tech problem solvers.

The post ALX Alumna Faith Okoth Is Mentoring the Next Generation of Problem Solvers first appeared on ALX Africa.