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!

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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.

(Los Angeles, California – 16th May, 2023) Market intelligence platform and ALX Ventures participant Rwazi has been awarded the 2023 Innovator in Trade award from the Los Angeles Area Chamber and the World Trade Week Southern California Committee. 

The prestigious award recognises innovative products or services that increase international trade and global competitiveness. 

Rwazi’s platform offers multinational companies access to weekly or monthly analytics and insights on emerging-market consumer behavior, giving them a competitive edge in the global market. The recognition is a testament to Rwazi’s innovative approach to providing market intelligence and its ability to transform the global marketplace.

Established in 1926 by Stanley T. Olafson and the L.A. Area Chamber, World Trade Week is the largest convening of its kind, celebrating the importance and benefits of global trade to the local and national economy. The Chamber launches the start of a month-long celebration each year by bringing together business executives, leaders of trade organisations, and members of the diplomatic corps for the WTW Kickoff Conference. This event attracts nearly 900 participants globally and has become the leading celebration of global trade in the nation.

Rwazi’s recognition by the L.A. Area Chamber and the World Trade Week Southern California Committee provides the startup with an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of its mission and accomplishments, potentially leading to new partnerships and collaborations. Beyond the month-long celebration in May, the L.A. Area Chamber continues its efforts throughout the year to highlight how international trade contributes to a strong local and national economy through educational briefings and meetings with elected officials.

Launched in 2021, Rwazi is now scaling in emerging markets, backed by a $4 million seed funding round closed in March that was led by Bonfire Ventures and saw participation from Newfund, Alumni Ventures, and Techstars. 

The startup’s recognition as the 2023 Innovator in Trade cements Rwazi’s position as a leading market intelligence platform offering real-time data from emerging markets.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Caryn Thandi Petersen
cpetersen@theroom.com

ALX is proud to be creating the next generation of entrepreneurial digital leaders in Africa. Find out more about our cutting-edge tech training programmes at www.alxafrica.com.

The post Rwazi Awarded 2023 Innovator in Trade by L.A. Area Chamber and World Trade Week Southern California Committee first appeared on ALX Africa.

African tech leaders are blazing a pathway for future change-makers like you, as they take the Fourth Industrial Revolution by storm. From investment to financial services to agriculture, tech is transforming every aspect of the world as we know it, and Africa’s talent is leading the way. We honour 10 exceptional tech leaders who are continuously innovating and creating a monumental impact on the continent.

Naadiya Moosajee, Co-Founder and CEO at WomEng

“Engineers design our world and our society, and if we don’t have women at the design table, we exclude 50% of the population.”

Engineering powerhouse Naadiya Moosajee is on a mission to close the gender gap for women through her organisation, Women in Engineering (WomEng), which is devoted to investing in the future of girls and women in engineering and technology. Naadiya is also a Co-Founder of WomHub, alongside Hema Vallabh. In 2014, she was named one of the Top 20 Young Power Women in Africa by Forbes. The Government of China also awarded her a special honour at the BRICS Summit for her work in African girls’ STEM education. She is passionate about developing STEM and fostering growth, gender equality, leadership and prosperity in emerging economies, while mentoring the next generation of leaders and engineering better societies.

Charity Wanjiku, Co-Founder of Strauss Energy Ltd

“It’s important that girls are at the forefront of this digital age, because nobody will hire you if you do not have tech skills.”

The vibrant Co-Founder of Strauss Energy Ltd, Charity Wanjiku, is hailed by Forbes and the World Economic Forum as one of the top women in tech globally. Her company, a solar company dedicated to powering rural communities in Kenya through building green solutions, started producing patented solar tiles powering off-grid areas in rural Kenya way before Tesla took orders in the US and UK for its solar tiles in 2017. Their solar systems are unique because they have a special meter that can feed unused electricity back to the national grid, generating income for households. Charity also lends her expertise to the architecture, entrepreneurship and technology industries and is a vocal advocate for breaking STEM barriers for women and girls.

Maya Horgan Famodu, Founder of Ingressive Capital

“If you want to support women, put them in positions to do it themselves.”

Maya Horgan-Famodu is devoted to supporting exceptional talent in accessing the resources they need to build wildly scalable businesses. She is the founder of Ingressive Capital, a $10 million venture fund that supports early-stage African tech startups — earning her the status of being the youngest Black woman to launch a tech fund and the youngest person to launch a tech fund in Sub-Saharan Africa. She also founded Ingressive for Good, a nonprofit providing micro-scholarships, technical skills training and talent placement to African tech talents in need. In 2018, Maya’s remarkable accomplishments were recognised by Forbes when she was named to their “Under 30 Technology” list, as well as “10 Inspiring Women Ruling Nigeria’s Tech Ecosystem” in 2019.

Mary Mwangi, Founder and CEO of Data Integrated

“You can do it. There’ll be days when you’ll feel like you’ve hit rock bottom, but you have to get up. Know that every day there’ll be challenges and there’ll also be successes.”

A pioneer in the fintech logistics space on the continent, Mary Mwangi is the Founder and CEO of innovative ICT company Data Integrated. Based in Kenya, her company offers financial solutions to African SMEs and especially focuses on Kenya’s public transport system, where she is leveraging tech to solve the long-standing problems faced in the industry. Data Integrated offers several payment options, including the groundbreaking MobiTill Epesi Smart Public Transport app, which has changed how fleet managers operate their businesses. For its work, the company won the MEST Africa Challenge in 2018 and Africa.com’s Brilliant African Innovations Against COVID-19 contest in 2020.

Hema Vallabh, Co-Founder & CEO of WomHub

“We need to invest and provide the support that female founders need to grow. They in turn will help our struggling economies thrive.”

Hema is a trailblazer who has worn all sorts of hats — from engineer to entrepreneur to investor. She is the Co-Founder and CEO of WomHub, a boutique pan-African incubator and the continent’s first coworking space for female founders in STEM. The social enterprise tackles gender parity all along the engineering skills pipeline, with the vision to empower 1 million girls in STEM and develop women leaders and entrepreneurs in engineering. The African Union has recognised her enterprise as the top TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programme in Africa supporting women leaders across the continent. Hema is also a founding partner at Five35Ventures, a pan-African venture capital fund that invests in women tech entrepreneurs.

Sara Menker, Founder & CEO of Gro Intelligence

“In a world where you’re trying to make an ecosystem more efficient and more sustainable, more people need to have access to a certain level of information. And the only way you make that level of information available at a cheap enough cost is AI.”

Sara Menker grew up in Ethiopia in the ’80s in the cosmopolitan capital of Addis Ababa, which inspired her determined and innovative approach to life and problem solving. Today, she is the Founder & CEO of Gro Intelligence, a tech company that uses artificial intelligence to forecast agricultural trends — illuminating the interrelationships between our earth’s ecology and the human economy. Before founding Gro Intelligence, she was the Vice President of Morgan Stanley’s commodities group, having worked in commodities risk management and subsequently moved to trading during her time with the company. Sara has been named a Global Young Leader by the World Economic Forum, is a fellow of the Aspen Institute and a Trustee of the Mandela Institute For Development Studies (MINDS).

Sophia Alj, Co-Founder & COO of Chari

“I’ve always felt that whether you are a man or a woman, it doesn’t make any difference. Our brains work well for both of us. I am a hard worker, and I don’t think my being a woman will hinder my entrepreneurial journey. I think that all other women should think like this and act on this.”

Sophia Alj is a Moroccan entrepreneur and the co-founder and COO of Chari, a B2B e-commerce/fintech app that digitises the FMCG procurement process for traditional retail stores in Francophone Africa. The Y Combinator-backed firm has emerged as one of North Africa’s most promising startups, and is widely expected to become Morocco’s first unicorn. Before co-founding Chari with her husband in 2019, Sophia was a strategy consultant for McKinsey & Company for 4 years, serving a broad range of clients across Africa, including banks, industrial players and ministries. She has been named one of the “20 Women Behind Middle Eastern Tech Brands 2022” by Forbes as well as a RoW100 Global Tech Changemaker. 

Miishe Addy, Co-Founder and CEO of Jetstream Africa

“The key advice I would give to young women who are starting out, especially in technology entrepreneurship, is this notion of coming to solve problems that need you; coming when you’re called, not when you’re ready.”

Taking the male-dominated field of logistics by storm is Miishe Addy, the co-founder and CEO of Jetstream Africa – a tech-enabled cross-border logistics company with operations in Ghana, Nigeria and Egypt. As a personal belief, the American-born Ghanaian believes it is important to trust your intuition. That is why even after completing a philosophy degree at Havard and a JD at Stanford, she felt the need to do something more. Miishe’s move to Ghana in 2017 on a teaching fellowship revealed the supply chain opportunities in the region, so she launched Jetstream to take hold of them. She started her career as a top-ranked strategy analyst for Bain & Company in New York, and has worked with global development organisations including TechnoServe and Global Partnerships. Her work has been featured by CNN, The World Bank and TechCrunch, and she regularly uses her platform to empower girls and women to be game-changers in society through hard work, determination and self-belief.

Betelhem Dessie, Founder and CEO of iCog-Anyone Can Code

“Teaching young girls coding and seeing them become confident and inspired reminded me of how I felt when I started coding. As a young woman, coding made me feel independent and free, and that’s something I want to give other people.”

Born and raised in Harar, Ethiopia, Betelhem Dessie‘s interest in computers started from age 7. By 10, she was coding, and at 19, she was dubbed “the youngest pioneer in Ethiopia’s fast emerging tech scene” by CNN and BBC. By age 20, the young technologist had six software programs patented in her name, and was involved in the development of the world-famous Sophia the robot. Now at 24, Betelhem is on a mission to “democratise technology”. She is the founder and CEO of iCog-Anyone Can Code and runs the Solve IT programme, where she works with young innovators to solve community problems and develop local solutions. She travels across Ethiopia teaching students coding skills, leading innovation workshops, and sharing stages with industry leaders at summits and conferences like Women in Tech Stockholm, The Milken Institute Summit, MiT’s Solve and The Global Change Award.

Rapelang Rabana, Founder of Rekindle Learning

“I think we’re going to see a huge wave in the world where lots of young people are going to use that experiential wisdom that they see from being in the circumstance of a problem to come up with innovative solutions.”

Hailed as one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Africa’s Best Young Entrepreneurs and featured on the O Power List by The Oprah Magazine, Rapelang is making waves in the African tech industry. She is the Founder of Rekindle Learning, an award-winning learning & development company providing mobile and computer learning applications for students and adults of all ages. Rapelang first established her reputation as the Founder of the telecommunications firm, Yiego, an innovative software company that developed some of the world’s earliest mobile VoIP applications. She is a Global Shaper of the World Economic Forum, a firm believer in the power of education to create opportunities, and a role model to many who aspire to seize tech and education opportunities.

ALX is committed to increasing the representation of women in tech. Find out how we’re empowering the women leaders of tomorrow through our first-ever women-only Software Engineering cohort.

The post 10 African Women in Tech Transforming The Continent’s Digital Landscape first appeared on ALX Africa.

Tell us a bit about your journey, going back to the first job you ever had. How did it shape you, and what lessons did you learn from it? 

My first job was at Nordstrom. I actually faked my work permit because I was underage, but I really just had this desire to work from a young age. I’m the first of five kids, so I always had this sense of responsibility. My high school was just across the street from the mall so I would walk across the street every day to get to work. I worked at the coffee shop, and I really enjoyed learning about the different types of coffee and making cappuccinos. The tips were great too. 

While I worked there, I learned a lot from the people. There used to be a lot of business executives and wealthy people coming in and out of the store, and I would ask them questions and pick their brains. Another thing that stuck with me was how they treated their customers at Nordstrom. They were known for their excellent customer service, and I saw clearly how treating customers right was important for a business to be successful. It was a really interesting business lesson to learn at such a young age.

Since then, you have achieved incredible success as a healthtech entrepreneur. What’s the secret to your success? What would you say it takes to make it?

The size of the goal is part of what drives me. I’m not intimidated by huge problems; I’m actually really curious about big problems and I think that has helped me get to this point. 

I wouldn’t quite say I’ve made it yet. I have this vision of making the flow of medication safe and cost effective for everybody, which is a big goal, but the size of the goal is part of what drives me. I’m not intimidated by huge problems; I’m actually really curious about big problems and I think that has helped me get to this point. 

I think curiosity is an asset. It pushes me to ask questions, and to try to make sense of complicated, messy things. Having the humility to admit you don’t know it all, to ask questions, and to be willing to learn from anyone – no matter how big or small – is important. Being open minded and looking at problems and solutions, from many different angles, is also key.

What experience motivated you to establish Medsaf? What problem were you aiming to solve and what impact were you hoping to make?

Interestingly, I didn’t go to Nigeria to start an international drug company. It really wasn’t part of the plan. I had a friend – he was one of the first friends I made when I moved back to Nigeria – and he would always show me around and take me out. Unfortunately, he died from taking a fake malaria pill. It was quite devastating, and I remember feeling sad, and ashamed that he had to die over something so simple.

His death really got me thinking about his experience, but also generally about healthcare in Nigeria. I’ve had access to good healthcare and worked in our family’s healthcare business providing health support to the elderly, and I realised that I’d taken that for granted. So even though I had no experience in the pharmaceutical industry, I felt that there had to be a better way. No one was addressing the problem of fake medication from a business perspective. So, I just raised my hand and said, “let me”.

I’ve always seen technology as a great disruptor, and there are so many stories of the ways technology has changed lives. I felt that healthcare in Nigeria deserved that type of disruption and attention. And that’s how Medsaf came to be. At Medsaf, we believe that quality medication is a fundamental human right, and we are fighting to bridge that gap across Africa.

How important is it to cultivate well-being and a sense of balance as an entrepreneur, particularly as a woman founding your own healthtech venture?

I will tell you that I’ve definitely gotten caught up in the stereotypical entrepreneur lifestyle of working all day and not getting much rest, and it’s really unhealthy. Then COVID-19 happened, and I couldn’t travel as much, so it forced me to sit and reflect on how unbalanced my life had gotten. Honestly, seeing the negatives of not living a balanced life pushed me to be more intentional about trying to achieve balance. 

At the end of the day what I’m doing is important, but it’s not more important than my life. Or my family or my friends. It isn’t easy to create a balance, but it’s something you have to do.

The gender divide in the entrepreneurial landscape is vast. And this is even more apparent in Africa, where less than 1% of funding goes to women founders. What do you think it will take to level the playing field for female entrepreneurs?

It’s possible for women to successfully manage their families and businesses. It doesn’t have to be a choice. If this is established, then you’ll see more women become more and more successful.

I think that it just takes success. Personally, I want to have kids and start a family. And I know there are concerns about whether I’m able to successfully manage a family and Medsaf. But I want to show people that it’s possible to do both. I got married last year and we have great plans for our future. He’s a real partner, and I feel that once we start prioritising, it’s possible to have both. It doesn’t have to be a choice. If this is established, then you’ll see more women become more and more successful.

We need to do away with this persistent question about whether or not female entrepreneurs can succeed. The interesting thing is that in Africa, there are more female entrepreneurs. But they’re not getting access to funding. I’m inspired by so many women running their businesses successfully without funding. That should say something about their capacity. Women definitely deserve more funding opportunities.

What lessons have you learned as a woman in business to survive and thrive in such male-dominated fields?

To lean into my power. I use everything I have to my advantage. If someone wants to make a judgement about me based on the fact that I’m a woman, I have no control over that. But I’m still going to do what I want – and need to do – to be successful.

You are drawing on incredible innovations in tech with Medsaf. How important is it for young women in Africa to equip themselves with tech skills? Why do you believe this is important?

It’s important for young people to empower themselves with tech and digital skills as it plays a huge role in their success. We’re seeing entrepreneurs become more successful and engage internationally because of the growing demand for technology.

It’s the only way to go. I think that tech-enabled businesses are the future. Young women should be figuring out how their industries can potentially be disrupted by technological advancements. And the advancements are moving fast into things like alternate reality and the metaverse. Technology is an inevitable part of life now, and everyone – including women – needs to embrace it.

It’s particularly important for Africa because we have such a young continent; in the next 10 years we’re going to have the youngest and largest workforce in the world. It’s important for young people to empower themselves with tech and digital skills as it plays a huge role in their success. We’re seeing entrepreneurs become more successful and engage internationally because of the growing demand for technology.

What advice would you give to young women who are just starting out in their careers or are wanting to build their own tech-enabled ventures? What message do you have for them? 

I analysed successful male entrepreneurs, and the main difference between them and female entrepreneurs is simply their confidence. I’d like to encourage women to really think about that. The men aren’t more qualified or skilled, they’re just more confident. As women, we spend so much time analysing, and getting bogged down with the details. On the other hand, there’s a really confident guy who might have no idea what he’s doing, but is confident enough to sell it, and so he gets funding. I think women have to start to quiet their inner critic and just go for it, because that’s the only way to be successful and really get opportunities.

ALX develops well-rounded tech professionals who are equipped with both the technical proficiencies and soft skills that will enable them to thrive in the future of work. Passionate about supporting female tech entrepreneurs, find out more about how ALX is providing opportunities to women across Africa to launch impactful careers in tech.

#ALXonIWD #BeBoldLeadTech

The post Don’t Be Afraid to Lean Into Your Power first appeared on ALX Africa.

This International Women’s Day 2024, join us as we celebrate the stories of resilience, determination, and empowerment of ALX women as they embark on their transformative tech journeys. From data analytics to cloud computing, these extraordinary women are not only honing their skills but also pioneering a more equitable tech landscape in Africa and beyond. They’re shattering stereotypes and demonstrating that with every line of code, every innovation, and every leadership role they undertake, the future is indeed inclusive.

Tihitna Sisay  – Full Stack Software Engineer, Perago Information Systems

“As a woman advancing in my tech career, I am excited to have access to a wide range of professional development opportunities and the chance to take on new challenges and responsibilities.”

Hailing from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Tihitna Sisay’s passion and interest in tech inspired her journey into the field. Now, as a Full Stack Developer at Perago Information Systems, she thrives on the constant evolution of the tech industry, embracing it as an opportunity for growth and advancement. Tihitna’s determination and expertise lead her to leverage technology for positive social impact. She aspires to develop innovative software solutions that improve people’s lives and address pressing societal challenges.

Desireé Makoti – Data Scientist

“To young women in Africa aspiring to pursue a career in tech: You belong in this dynamic field, and your unique perspective is an asset. Embrace your curiosity, be fearless in learning, and don’t be deterred by stereotypes.”

Fueled by a passion for innovation and a desire to bridge the gap between aviation and data science, Desireé Makoti, a 23-year-old aviation graduate from Johannesburg, is eager to explore new horizons. Through ALX’s Data Science programme, she’s infusing creativity into the world of code and algorithms, believing diversity is key to transforming the tech landscape.

Assia Jamal – Data Analyst

“It’s important to enhance the representation of women in the tech field to ensure diverse perspectives are incorporated into technological advancements.”

Casablanca-born Assia Jamal yearned for a career in tech. When she discovered ALX’s Data Analytics programme, the institution’s reputation for fostering tech talent drew her in, and she dove in confidently. To her surprise, her training journey led her not only to acquire technical prowess in data analysis tools but also set her on a path to personal growth, equipping her to tackle challenges and seize opportunities within the ever-evolving tech landscape. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Assia continues to hone both technical and soft skills, actively preparing to solve real-world problems.

Wendy-yam Osman – Agritech Founder and Data Analyst

“Younger women in tech inspire me because I represent their future potential, and I feel it’s my responsibility to set an example worth aspiring to.”

Wendy-yam Osman, originally from Tamale and now residing in Accra, Ghana, is on a mission to leverage her analytical skills to tackle pressing issues like environmental pollution and agricultural challenges. Her creative venture, AgrInnova, harnesses aquaponics technology to promote sustainable urban agriculture by cultivating both fish and vegetables in a single integrated system. Wendy-yam envisions a future where women play a leading role in agricultural innovation, reshaping global trade dynamics and combating food insecurity. As a budding Data Analytics learner at ALX, she is excited to discover her full potential and contribute unique perspectives to tech solutions.

Alice Mamsana – Software Engineer and Artificial Intelligence Enthusiast

“Diverse teams always win in developing wholesome solutions. Tech cuts across all industries, and more young women in this field means more inclusive projects for Africa’s future.”

STEM enthusiast, Alice Mamsana, is on an upward trajectory in her tech journey. While her sales job in Nairobi’s fintech industry is what initially sparked a curiosity in her to learn more about the tech products that power her sector, her Mathematics background must have helped equip her with the critical thinking and analytical skills needed to thrive in Software Engineering. Very quickly, Alice’s determination led her to the field of Artificial Intelligence, prompting her to teach herself to use GPT-3, Whisper, and DALL-E 2. In less than a month, her talents opened up opportunities for her at OpenAI and Nvidia events. Now, more than anything, Alice is committed to continuous growth and is passionate about developing and mentoring junior talent to realise their potential.

Elsa Teklu Desta – Software Engineer and AWS Solution Architect

“A diverse tech workforce is essential for driving innovation and creating a more inclusive work environment. With women comprising half of society, their participation in the fast-growing tech industry is crucial for Africa’s development.”

Elsa Teklu Desta is a tech enthusiast from Addis Ababa. With 5+ years of experience in Software Engineering in reputable organisations, including Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology and Commercial Bank, Elsa decided to enhance her skills with an AWS Cloud Computing Certification from ALX. Since graduating from ALX, she actively contributes to the cloud computing community, pursuing opportunities with international tech giants like Amazon. Her journey aims to prepare her for a rewarding career in technology, driven by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and practical experience.

Nompumelelo Namo – Salesforce professional, Team Lead at Core Group

“Women are doing amazing things in the tech field, serving as inspirational figures for young girls. Encouraging participation in traditionally male-dominated industries demonstrates that women can excel in any field they choose.”

A decade in South Africa’s telecom scene ignited Nompumelelo Namo’s passion for tech. Driven by a desire to challenge herself and make a positive impact, she is thriving in her role as Team Lead at Core Group, using her newfound Salesforce Administrator skills to optimise processes and boost team productivity. This passion for maximising potential extends beyond her current role, as Nompumelo draws inspiration from tech luminaries like celebrated cybersecurity leader Confidence Staveley to empower more women to pursue careers in tech through mentorship and knowledge sharing. 

Onome Angelle – Educator and Founder, Onome Child

“Women are nation-builders. Investing in their participation in tech unlocks a powerful cycle of inclusiveness and empowerment, enabling them to tackle community challenges, ultimately driving sustainable development.”

Education is not just a profession but a lifelong pursuit for Onome Angelle, a high school Chemistry teacher and the Founder of Onome Child, an education nonprofit in Ghana. Hailing from Nandom, and now based in Accra, she is charting a path of transformation through ALX’s AI Career Essentials programme. Driven by both her passion for education and a belief in technology’s power to uplift her community, Onome sees tech as a tool for inclusive growth and sustainable development, envisioning a future where women thrive in tech with exposure and resources.

Oluwatobiloba Mercy Akinwumi – AWS Cloud Practitioner and Tech Advocate

“The most frequent barrier I face is the initial perception from potential employers that I lack the technical skills for a job. I shatter these assumptions quickly by showcasing my value and competence, proving I’m the tech-savvy individual they need.”

Oluwatobiloba Mercy Akinwumi’s talents extend far beyond the ordinary. A photographer with a passion for Mathematics, she’s swiftly rising as an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner in Nigeria, driven by her commitment to leveraging technology for positive change. Her diverse interests and dedication have led her to ambassadorial roles with organisations like the WomenTech Network, Google’s Women Techmakers programme, Women in CyberSecurity, and the ALX Fellowship. With her unique blend of skills, she is poised to simplify IT infrastructure and inspire young African women to pursue careers in tech.

Mahlet Zeleke – Data Analyst and Head of Sales and Marketing, Koppa Smart Security Solutions

“Providing early exposure to young women about the available tech career paths equips them with the tools needed to thrive in the industry, rather than playing catch-up later on.”

Mahlet Zeleke’s discovery of ALX’s Data Analytics programme provided the perfect segue into the tech world, complementing her background in Marketing and Pharmacy. Now Head of Sales and Marketing at Koppa Smart Security Solutions in Ethiopia, she adeptly balances professional growth with her demanding role. Engaging in transformative programmes like the Global UGRAD Exchange and Aspire Leaders, Mahlet champions continuous learning and encourages young women to embrace technology for societal progress. She envisions a future where women lead the charge in technological innovation, shaping a more inclusive and equitable world.

Join us to #InspireInclusion this International Women’s Day! Explore the remarkable journeys of ALX’s inspiring women in tech and discover how you can be part of shaping an inclusive future through any of our tech programmes.

The post The Future is Inclusive: Showcasing ALX’s Most Inspiring Women in Tech first appeared on ALX Africa.

In honour of International Women’s Day 2023, we’re shining a spotlight on the amazing women of the ALX community – our learners, graduates, mentors, and the women working magic behind the scenes at ALX. While we continue to actively #EmbraceEquity, here’s a look at our top 20 Most Inspiring Women who are doing hard things and transforming the global tech landscape.

Our Rising Talent

Mayen Kalu – Researcher, Biochemist, Software Engineer

“Tech is not a male or female thing; it’s a human thing. As long as you’re smart and are willing to put in the work, the possibilities are endless.”

Mayen Kalu is a researcher from Nigeria, and one of the winners of the #ALXChallenge2022. Her winning image – “Mom Who Codes: The Untold Story” – depicted her inspiring experience as a wife, mother, university lecturer, and PhD candidate, going through the rigorous ALX Software Engineering programme. A biochemist by training, Mayen loves to explore the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and the human brain, and seeks opportunities to use technology to solve local and global problems.

Loise Okoro – Customer Support Specialist, Data Analyst

“Failure has taught me that not rising after falling is the primary failure. Now, giving up is not even an option, but rising and persisting until I win is always my goal.”

Loise Okoro is an agritech degree holder turned customer support specialist. Her career began in the nonprofit sector and grew to include roles in sales, tech assistance and customer support, both in her home country of Nigeria and abroad in the United States. She is currently taking ALX’s Data Analytics programme – her second ALX programme so far – and is a Fellow in The ROOM‘s talent community, working to pay it forward by creating her own platform to equip and empower other aspiring data-driven administrators.

Lucy Maina – Medical Student, Software Engineer

“It’s important to know that your gender should never hold you back from pursuing your dreams. With hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to your goals, you can overcome any obstacles and succeed as a software engineer.”

Lucy Njeri Maina is an ALX Software Engineering learner and undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelors’ degree in Medicine at the University of Nairobi. Her first five years in medical school exposed her to various problems in the healthcare sector and inspired her to look to technology to address them. Now Lucy’s mission is to improve the healthcare access and support of women in deprived neighbourhoods.

Nancy Annu – Procurement and Supply Chain Assistant, Software Engineer

“Remember why you started and keep that hope alive.”

Nancy Annu is a Procurement and Supply Chain Assistant from the Eastern region of Ghana. As a passionate and self-motivated young professional who believes in the persistent nature of women, she strives to be a source of inspiration and encouragement. She is a two-time ALX learner currently enrolled in ALX’s Software Engineering programme, and looks forward to the opportunities that a career in tech has in store for her. 

Rufaro Razuwika – PhD Student, Software Engineer

“Don’t let your gender define what you can do. There are unlimited opportunities, so if you can get one, just take it. Your gender is not going to count at the end of the day.”

ALX learners have different motivations for enrolling in our programmes. PhD student Rufaro Razuwika sought to learn Python so it could ease the data analysis process of her Bioinorganic Chemistry research. After joining the Software Engineering programme at ALX, she discovered other programming languages, increasing her interest in technology. As a philomath, Rufaro is excited to upgrade her STEM status with Software Engineering skills, and hopes to spread the joys of learning new things with others.

Phyllis Laryea – Operations Associate, Software Engineer

“Know what you want and go after it. No matter what, if you have it in the back of your mind that you will figure it out, you will break through all your challenges.”

Ghana-born Phyllis Laryea is an Executive Assistant and Operations Associate at D4 Consult and an ALX Software Engineering learner. Passionate about learning, Phyllis believes that empowering women who have interests in the tech space will contribute towards providing equal opportunities across other sectors. She aims to spread awareness and provide green solutions through software development.

ALX Alumni

Emma Dicks – Co-founder of CodeSpace Academy

“Coding is a new literacy and we’re helping teachers bring this into their classrooms. Young people will now learn to read, write, count and code!”

Emma Dicks is an ALX graduate and the co-founder of CodeSpace Academy, an educational institution that specialises in teaching coding & software development. CodeSpace has received global acclaim for its highly-effective initiatives that foster diversity in the tech world. Passionate about supporting young women in tech, Emma founded the non-profit Code for Cape Town in 2014, which teaches coding to high school girls.

Elizabeth Okullow – Founder of Aafri Fudi & Lafamia Greens

“First, identify what you can do with the talents and skills you have. Then leverage the resources that you have — be it social, human or financial capital — to initiate change. Lastly, choose to be bold, action-oriented and vision-focused. If you can follow these 3 principles, you will be unstoppable!”

As a trailblazing graduate of ALX, Elizabeth Okullow has committed her life to one mission: creating food sustainability in Africa. It may be a mammoth task, but this ambitious microbiologist and agritech entrepreneur has already founded two businesses – Lafamia Greens and Aafri Fudi utilising hydroponic technology to promote sustainable farming. At the age of 25, she’s just getting started.

Joy Otieno – Programme Specialist, Digital Activist

“Be confident in your abilities, and you will be shocked by the exceptional networks and opportunities that will chase after you.”

Joy Otieno is a Programme & Operations Specialist at ALX and The ROOM, and a graduate of ALX. The self-described digital activist and Afro-optimist is passionate about youth empowerment, as evidenced by her highly educational and uplifting social media activity. At work, she builds and engages our community of tech talent by designing transformative events and experiences that enrich their professional journeys.

Firdaus Salim – Technical Writer & Mentor, Software Engineer

“Women’s voices are worth sharing not only because we are underrepresented in the tech industry, but also because we are competent, intelligent, proactive individuals with merit-worthy ideas that can improve projects and processes.”

Celebrated for having the most inspiring conversation in 2021 with ALI Founder Fred Swaniker, ALX Software Engineering graduate, Firdaus Salim is a rising force to be reckoned with. Despite entering the world of tech with no prior experience, her tenacity and passion for learning have opened doors for a promising future. Now, as a blogger, Technical Writer and Technical Mentor with ALX’s Software Engineering team, she offers training and support to others on their own tech learning journeys. 

Kibirt Bayou – Software Engineer

“There is no better field to accommodate all the twists and turns of life as a woman than tech. All you really need is a laptop and internet connection. Our sharper intellect should be channelled optimally into a tech career.”

Kibirt Bayou is an ALX graduate from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia with an 8-year background in Civil Engineering. Her journey as the mother of an infant who made a daring career change into Software Engineering was acknowledged by Fred Swaniker as the definition of ‘doing hard things’. Kibirt works at iCog Labs – the first private AI and Robotics Research and Development Company in East Africa – and plans to pursue entrepreneurial projects in machine learning, artificial intelligence and mobile development in order to develop her country.

Millicent Aluoch – UI/UX Designer

“As young leaders, we all have ambitions and problems we would like to solve. Our role is to take that step towards realising our dreams. We have to take ownership of our present and future by changing the narrative through courage and resilience – not shying away from being an outlier, even if it means shifting the status quo.”

A young leader from Kenya, Millicent Aluoch is a passionate dreamer and an ambitious doer. Currently working at Proto Energy as a Management Trainee in the UI/UX department, she believes that young people have the power to make the world a better place – if they’re willing to step up to the challenge with integrity and tenacity. As a graduate of ALX, she credits the programme with unlocking her potential and shifting her mindset to seeing problems as opportunities.

ALX Ventures Techpreneurs

Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson – Founder & CEO of Healthtracka

“I want to say to every woman that you CAN. You CAN be a woman (with all the complexities that come with it) and be ambitious. You CAN get to the top of your career. You CAN do the seemingly hard things. You CAN build a global business. You CAN be a bold woman, unapologetically.”

Healthtech entrepreneur Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson is the founder and CEO of Healthracka – a startup that is decentralising access to medical diagnostics in Africa through at-home testing. Galvanised by the unfortunate loss of her father in 2019, Ife realised the need for accessible, proactive and preventative healthcare in Nigeria. The company has since participated in the Techstars Toronto accelerator program, raised $1.5 million in seed funding from a set of female-led investors, and grown in popularity across the continent.

Kidist Tesfaye – Founder & CEO of YeneHealth

“Fall in love with the problem you’re trying to solve. Entrepreneurs solve problems; we  are not in it just to sell something and make a profit. It’s about solving a problem, but also making sure it’s the right one.”

Kidist Tesfaye is the founder and CEO of YeneHealth, the first and leading femtech startup in Ethiopia unlocking the digital door for healthcare services for African women by leveraging AI and data analytics. YeneHealth was born out of the realisation that there is a large medically underserved female population in Ethiopia, with little to no knowledge on sexual reproductive health. Passionate about solving problems for people, Kidist employs her entrepreneurial mindset and 12 years of experience in the financial, education, business and healthcare sectors to lead her company to greater heights and provide this much needed service. 

Nadia Gamal El-Din – Founder & CEO of Rahet Bally

“Get outside of your comfort zone – that’s where the magic happens.”

Nadia Gamal El-Din is the founder and CEO of Rahet Bally – which translates to “peace of mind” in Arabic. Realising the need for a support system after having her son, Nadia formed Rahet Bally as an all-inclusive support system for mothers in Egypt, offering support through a wide range of online femtech services and on-ground facilities. Grown from a small community of mothers, doctors and experts to a 74-million audience of women, Rahet Bally is leading the femtech scene in the MENA region with a female-based team of over 200 women. 

The ALX Team

Natalija Puzanskaja – Senior Data Engineer

“I believe diversity is the foundation of better solutions.”

Not everyone can say they were “born” for the world of tech, but Natalija Puzanskaja can. She was born in Lithuania to two software engineers, and was inspired by them to choose a career path in tech. Professionally, Natalija is a statistician, but has a multi-disciplinary background in software development, database design and business analytics and over a decade of experience in the tech industry. She works as a Senior Data Engineer at ALX and The ROOM, and has been described as a “data whisperer” who approaches her work creatively to arrive at fresh, break-through solutions.

Lise Hagen – Founder & Director of Herding Cats Innovarium

“I feel that women need to reclaim their close connection to high technology, whether it is in hardware manufacturing or coding because technology is just a tool; it is how one uses the tool that makes one powerful.”

Lise Hagen is a PhD candidate, management research consultant and the Founder and  Director of Herding Cats Innovarium, a technology insight and innovation advisory firm in South Africa. She has over 20 years’ experience applying socio-political, economic, and ICT mega trend insights to business problems. As a project consultant at ALI, Lise applies her vast skill set to the Global Brand team for ALX, helping to unlock Africa’s remarkable tech talent.

Oyin Eva Johnson – Technology Lawyer

“Explore the full scope of tech. Don’t limit yourself to just one specific area, because it is broad. Think about where your own strengths are and play to those. Seek out guidance, mentors, and learn. When you’ve done all that, take responsibility for your life and never count yourself out. Go for it!”

Oyin Johnson, born in Lagos, Nigeria is a multi-talented human – poet, singer, actress, dancer – but first and foremost a technology lawyer. As part of the Legal, Compliance and Risk team at ALI, Oyin creates legal frameworks for ALX and The ROOM that allow the company to thrive, ensuring clients are protected and the company stays aligned with the law. She firmly believes in the potential of women and their right to be represented in the tech industry and for her, making an impact on the lives of African youth is what she loves most about her work. 

Jahira Martins – Director of Sales & Marketing Automation

“It’s a no-brainer that we need more women to get into tech and gain the skills. It’s a space that is going to continue to be at the forefront of some of the most life-changing innovations that we will see in the coming decades.”

Jahira Martins is the Director of Sales and Marketing Automation at ALX and The ROOM. She started her career in the United States helping technology companies prepare for and scale in public markets through sales and marketing automation – and hasn’t left since. Her passion for developing long-lasting solutions led her to gain over a decade’s experience in the field, working with reputable companies such as JPMorgan Chase & Co., MongoDB and Datadog. She is a big believer in the power of women, and feels that no matter the field a woman enters, it thrives exponentially.

Gladys Mbogo – MarTech Support Specialist

“As a woman in tech, it’s important to have confidence in your abilities and ideas. Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your thoughts and opinions, even if you’re the only woman in the room.”

Kenya-born Gladys Mbogo is a MarTech Support Specialist at ALX with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. Her foundations in Marketing, Customer Service and Fintech gave her the necessary skills and customer-centric mindset to work in marketing automation and technical support at ALX. To succeed in tech, Gladys believes that women should be untiring, confident and life-long learners. 

Faith Okoth – Software Engineer, Technical Mentor

“It’s important to have more women in tech because they bring valuable problem-solving skills and research abilities that can benefit the industry. By nature, women tend to be excellent problem solvers and researchers, which makes them well-suited for the fast-paced and constantly evolving tech field.”

Faith Okoth is a Technical Mentor to over 90,000 participants at ALX, ensuring efficient programme delivery, technical support and facilitation of live coding sessions. Over two years ago, Faith joined the tech space out of a passion for growth and solving problems. She began her journey as a software engineer in Kenya while leveraging the training opportunities available within ALX, including the Software Engineering programme. Not only has engaging with the learners solidified her foundational knowledge and widened her perspective, it has also presented an opportunity for personal and professional growth. 

At ALX, we believe in the vital importance of bridging the digital gender divide and increasing the representation of women in tech. Find out how we’re empowering the women leaders of tomorrow.

The post Be Bold. Lead Tech: The Most Inspiring Women of ALX first appeared on ALX Africa.

Women have been largely excluded from an industry that literally designs and supports the building of cities, countries and the virtual world. When women are excluded, we have a world that was not built for us…

We are in awe of your outstanding achievements as an engineer, entrepreneur and all-round powerhouse of a leader! What was the initial impetus for setting up WomEng and WomHub?

WomHub was founded as a vehicle for financial sustainability for WomEng — a non-profit organisation I started with my co-founder, Hema Vallabh, in 2006, to address the severe shortage of women in engineering by developing the next generation of female engineering leaders.

Seeing the ebb and flow in the non-profit space, we realised that if we wanted to build lasting opportunities for women and girls in STEM, we had to do so with a different business model in mind. That was the initial reason for establishing WomHub, but we also realised the difference in how the world looks at you — and how seriously you are taken — when you have a for-profit venture. Additionally, we had scale and building aspirations that we found needed a different business model.

You are passionate about developing STEM talent in girls. Why is this so critical right now, particularly on the African continent?

We have what can be called “wicked problems”: universal challenges that have plagued us for too long. We need smarter, more diverse engineers to tackle these problems, especially with local understanding. Women have been largely excluded from an industry that literally designs and supports the building of cities, countries and the virtual world. When women are excluded, we have a world that was not built for us, and we see gender bias persist in everything from infrastructure to virtual safety. The way we combat this is through bringing more women to the design table.

Can you share some of the highlights of your work with WomEng and WomHub? What impact are they creating in the engineering ecosystem?

We are building the entire women in STEM ecosystem, from attraction (how we get more girls excited about engineering) to ownership. Through WomEng, we currently work with thousands of girls and women in South Africa and Kenya, and with backing from UNESCO, we plan to take things to an even greater level — reaching 1 million girls with targeted WomEng programs by 2027.

With WomHub, I’m particularly excited about our work supporting female founders, especially given the lack of capital that goes into female-founded businesses as well as a general lack of support. At our incubators, we have seen founders raise over $5 million dollars post programme and hire more than 400 people. We are looking to scale these numbers dramatically, which is why we introduced a venture capital fund — Five35 Ventures — into our ecosystem support, led by my partner Hema Vallabh.

We are also seeing some of the women we invested in through our talent support programmes now becoming directors at global engineering companies. And we also have an incredible partnership supporting a company in Botswana around women’s talent development in diamond manufacturing. We are playing the long game to not just build but truly support the advancement of the ecosystem at every stage.

Have you seen a shift in the number of young women taking up careers in STEM since you were training as an engineer?

Most definitely there has been an increase, largely through our GirlEng programme, and the increase in role models and general awareness of engineering careers. Some engineering classes are up to 50% female, but we still see large drop-offs of young women and exclusion when they get into the industry, so we still have a long way to go.

The data is clear that betting on female founders pays off, yet we still only see 0.98% of VC funding going to all-female founded teams.

Given the odds stacked against women entrepreneurs, why did you feel it was important to establish a community for female founders?

The data shows that women hire more women, and female founders have a higher ROI. The data is clear that betting on female founders pays off, yet we still only see 0.98% of VC funding going to all female founded teams. We need to invest and provide the support that female founders need to grow. They in turn will help our struggling economies thrive.

Can you shed some light on some of the initiatives that WomHub drives, such as your Imagineering Hub and Accelerator programme?

We have built the first female founder innovation and co-working space in Africa, based in Johannesburg. The hope is to scale such spaces to provide opportunities for female founders to connect, cultivate relationships and convert them to revenue through access to market, finance and skills. We offer this through our accelerator programmes. We have a number of programmes running that support female founders in STEM businesses with various thematic focuses, from the circular economy to working with companies focused on economic growth.

There is rampant inequality in the African startup space, where over 90% of funding goes to men. What will it take to level the playing field?

99% of funding goes to men. Ultimately, we need more women investors for this to shift. This is why Hema, my business partner, is not just raising a $30 million VC fund, but also opening it up to women and lowering the entry dollars for women investor to become LPs into the fund through the 35er Club. We want to shift the dynamics of who is investing and where, and support women as investors and entrepreneurs. This changes the landscape, but we need incredible male champions to invest in these funds as well. They still hold the power and the ability to write large checks, and at this point we definitely need all the allies to rally behind a transformation agenda.

What have been some of the biggest obstacles you’ve faced as a female founder in STEM? How were you able to surmount these challenges?

When you look young and wear a hijab, you are constantly having to educate and explain the challenges that women face, and these are often dismissed with comments like “I don’t get the women thing” or “If women worked as hard as men they would also achieve”, which is just not true. Women are working 2–3 times harder, on top of all the other responsibilities they carry that have been deeply entrenched in our society by gender norms and stereotypes. It’s really hard to wake up every day and fight patriarchy, which is why I am so exhausted. I honestly want to see women make loads of money so we can all just invest in other women and shift the power dynamics in business as well as in our homes and families.

As someone who is dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders in Africa, what excites you about the opportunities that lie ahead for young women on the continent?

I think the barrier to doing incredible things has been lowered by technology, which has started to reduce inequality. Before, you needed an Ivy League education, where now you can learn cool things online from those institutions, tinker with technology and develop cool things, connect to others and have your voice heard, and that excites me for young women in STEM.

I’m blessed to have a network of incredible women entrepreneurs and team members who inspire me every day to get up and fight.

Who are some of the women that inspire you in your work?

I speak a lot about my co-founder and business partner, Hema Vallabh, who is just incredible and I consider myself lucky to work with her. I’m blessed to have a network of incredible women entrepreneurs and team members who inspire me every day to get up and fight.

At ALX, we know that our collective future depends on women across Africa not just having a seat at the table, but redesigning the table. Find out how we’re empowering the women leaders of tomorrow through our first-ever women-only Software Engineering cohort.

The post A World Built for Us: How Naadiya Moosajee is Revolutionising the Women in STEM Ecosystem first appeared on ALX Africa.

We had the honour of speaking to Charity at the 2022 Doha Forum, where she shared some of the hurdles and lessons from her remarkable journey in STEM and her passion for empowering girls and women in the industry, highlighting the critical importance of gaining tech knowledge and skills to survive and thrive in today’s digital age.

It’s not just about complaining and whining all the time; we need to teach society that women have got what it takes.

What challenges have you faced as a woman entrepreneur in the tech industry?

It is a very interesting journey when you are a woman. In the early days as a co-founder of Strauss Energy with my brother, it always seemed that having him in meetings would make things a little easier. As it were, showing up to meetings alone, it felt like my recipients would prefer to have him around. In those moments, I would state that I too can make informed decisions.

I have learned to live with behaviour like that. I’ve found that it’s not just about complaining and whining all the time; we need to teach society that women have got what it takes. We have the brains and we have the capacity. We can make the million-dollar decisions at the table and sign the papers, and they do not need to be cosigned by a man. And yes, we can make use of money as well; investments are safe with us. People don’t need to worry just because we’re women.

How have you been able to survive and thrive in these male-dominated spaces?

I always say that I am a work-in-progress, but I’m still a shining star. So every day, I choose to learn something. I listen to women who are entrepreneurs or in the STEM industry and I am able to relate to their experiences. Every day, we have to face some of these stereotypes and learn how to break them as well.

I love this year’s International Women’s Day theme — #BreakTheBias. There are biases and stereotypes all around us, and sometimes even we as women have biases against ourselves and we don’t realise it until somebody points it out.

As a woman entrepreneur in a patriarchal society, I carry myself with a gentle, but firm confidence.

I look at both internal and external factors that cause this. The external factors are those that you’re bombarded with as a woman in a patriarchal society. Generally the world is male-run, but Africa is a notch higher, so there are stereotypes that come with that. In these circumstances, I have learned to respond respectfully while offering my opinion — to be very gentle, but also very firm. I show that I’m an expert in my business and in my industry, and that I am called upon to give my opinions all over the world, so I know my stuff. I convey that “if you don’t have me in your corner, you don’t have the right people”. That’s the confidence that I carry myself with.

Then there are the internal barriers that we each have to work against. Women love to second-guess ourselves. We specialise in it, so I always have to self-talk and tell myself:

I can do this. I have what it takes and I’m able.

So go for it! What’s the worst that could happen?

But what if I fail…?

Good! I’ll know one way not to do it and I’ll try again and again.

I have come a long way, with maturity and learning ways of doing things differently. Being self-aware has helped me overcome a lot of my internal barriers.

What excites you about the future of tech and the value that women in STEM bring to the equation?

Give a woman something, and they will incubate it, nurture and take care of it, and with time, hand it back to you in a new form.

In my opinion, STEM is critical for girls and women because nurturing and building are things that come naturally to us. Give a woman something, and they will incubate it, nurture and take care of it, and with time, hand it back to you in a new form. If you buy them vegetables they will make you a meal, give them a house they will make you a home, give them seed, they will give you back a baby, and so on. That is typically what women do — we nurture things naturally.

In STEM, we have buildings, cars, etc — everything is built. And with all respect to men, there are softer aspects of life that women naturally get that men don’t; it’s just how we’re wired. If you need a building put up, there’s a helpful touch that a woman can add to the design of it. In manufacturing a car, it’s wonderful to have men design it, but there are aspects of comfort that we get better. So there’s a necessary spice to life that women add. If half the population is not involved in building stuff, we’ll have a boring world. So let’s get more girls in STEM!

It’s important that girls are at the forefront of this digital age, because nobody will hire you if you do not have tech skills.

To support this, I am a mentor in an organisation called Pwani Teknowgalz in Kenya. These girls are taught to code, and it’s unbelievable what they are able to achieve in a month. They create mobile apps for whatever they fancy — hair salons, market places, and so much more. I’ve been involved in the adjudication of some of these apps and it’s interesting to compare the interfaces of the apps created by girls to those created by boys. You can tell that some things are more intuitive and natural for the girls. There’s more thought about where the app will take you next when you click. For the males, it works — but I have to think about where to go next. If we don’t have half the population involved in STEM, we’ll miss out on a vast number of benefits.

How important is it for young African women to equip themselves with digital skills?

Absolutely important. There’s nothing we can do now without tech. It’s imperative that girls leverage themselves with tech knowledge because it’s the way we are going. More people today are working from home. I’m in Doha, but I’m still working remotely. How else would we do that if not for technology? It’s important that girls are at the forefront of this digital age, because nobody will hire you if you do not have tech skills. And you don’t have to be the greatest coder; I’m not just talking about that. But you need to at least understand technology, because we are working in a global village. Pre-COVID, we were working very differently to the way we are working now. If you have not upskilled yourself in terms of general tech knowledge and skills, it’s going to be a downward spiral for you.

So I believe it is important for girls — and boys — to equip themselves with digital skills. Let’s not forget the boys, because they are the other 50% of the population. We all need each other.

We live in a world where technology shifts every three to six months, so when I have someone who is twenty years my junior and a lot more tech savvy than I am, they help me to keep abreast of the times.

What advice would you give to young women in tech just starting out in their careers?

When I look back at when I was in high school and college, we didn’t have as much mentorship as we do now. As a mentor, I emphasise this privilege to the girls I meet. If we had had this, we may have turned out a little bit different. For the girls coming up now, they have us. We’ve walked the path and have seen where there are hurdles and learned to wiggle around them or just walk right through them. My advice to young women in tech is to use us. Ask, “What can I do better? How can I go through this?” Tapping into support systems in this way makes a world of difference.

There is also the fact that there is reverse mentorship; it’s not just me giving, it’s them teaching me as well. We live in a world where technology shifts every three to six months, so when I have someone who is twenty years my junior and a lot more tech savvy than I am, they help me to keep abreast of the times. So for everyone, when you request for help with your professional journey, it’s unbelievable what mentorship can do.

 At ALX, we believe in the vital importance of bridging the digital gender divide in Africa and increasing the representation of women in tech. Find out more about how we’re building a new generation of digital women leaders and innovators for the 21st century.

The post How Women in STEM Can Navigate the Digital Revolution in Africa first appeared on ALX Africa.

Mary Mwangi is the Founder and CEO of Data Integrated, an innovative Kenyan ICT company that offers financial solutions to Africa’s SMEs. She has blazed a trail in Kenya’s public transport system, boldly making use of the latest advancements in technology to solve long-standing challenges in the industry. We caught up with Mary at the 2022 Doha Forum, where she shared her passion for tech and why she believes it’s crucial for young women in Africa to empower themselves with tech skills.

What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?

I like people and I’m a bit of an independent person, and I really like helping people build solutions. I also like to feel that I believe in what I’m doing. Coming back to Kenya after being in the US for so many years, I spent some time thinking about what I could do and where I could add value. I looked at the problems on the ground and I realised that there were a lot of companies moving from legacy systems to enterprise systems. And because I had a lot of experience in helping companies with that transformation process, it inspired me to start Data Integrated.

I realised that, in Africa, companies were going to be in a lot of trouble if they didn’t adopt digitisation. Mobile money was starting to grow, and I thought perhaps we could use mobile money to help digitise SMEs on the continent — and that’s where I thought I could contribute most.

The fourth industrial revolution will help Africa leapfrog a lot of the old legacy systems that we’ve had.

My mother has been a business woman since as far as I can remember, and she also has served as a source of inspiration. The friends that she was working and socialising with were also trying to run their own businesses. At that time, it wasn’t very common to see women leading in certain areas of business in Kenya. Women were struggling in their little businesses, but now a lot of these businesses are coming up.

As these businesses grow, it becomes very difficult for them to scale. My goal has always been to help them digitise, especially so that they don’t feel they have to be tied to the counter collecting money, going there first thing in the morning and trying to close the business late at night. I felt that for women to be able to run their families and their businesses efficiently, it would be good if we had a digital system.

What made you pivot into public transport?

We were trying to assist SMEs — thinking about brick-and-mortar types of shops and places where we could bring digital systems to help the small business — but along the way we got into public transport. When we finished our first solution, we thought, “Let’s pilot it with public transport, because they don’t have too much complexity in terms of what they provide as a service — it’s just ticketing. And then we can get back to our other business as usual.” But since we got into public transport in around 2014, we’ve never turned back.

We realised that the challenges in public transport were humongous, but we were able to put in controls and systems with a digital platform, so we found a niche where we could actually build around it. We started with one solution, and right now I think we have about seven solutions around public transport. So we are really more of a public transport solution provider!

What excites you about innovations in tech and the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Africa?

The fourth industrial revolution will help Africa leapfrog a lot of the old legacy systems that we’ve had. We will be able to capture data and use it in a more transformative way for businesses on the ground and help to solve a lot of the challenges that the continent faces. For me, it’s exciting because it makes things affordable. It makes technology accessible to people who would not have had it previously. I’m very excited about that.

So much of the technology that we’re using in our business evolved without us even realising where we were going — we were just trying to solve problems as we found them. And because we were trying to do this with public transport, and buses are on the move, we had to put devices on them — we needed them to respond to us — so we got into IoT (Internet of Things) almost by accident. And then because we had to train the devices, we got into artificial intelligence. With this, we are able to bring certain solutions to the industry, which we would never be able to do without technology.

You’ve been an innovator in hiring young tech talent for your team. Why did you feel this was important?

We started out with about two tech people, and now on the tech team, I believe we’re close to 30 people, and many of them are young interns or recent graduates just starting out in their careers.

Being a start-up, we didn’t have a chest of funds at our disposal, so what we had to do was train the team that we’d need. We started out with about two tech people, and now on the tech team, I believe we’re close to 30 people, and many of them are young interns or recent graduates just starting out in their careers.

We wanted to try building our own hardware from the start, so our hardware team has always been a part of Data Integrated. On the team, we have a lot of people coming from college. When we were trying to find people who could do hardware before, we couldn’t find any — I don’t think universities were training people in hardware. But we are very excited to see programmes coming up that train young people in this, since it’s not a very common thing on the continent.

We also do a lot of software development, and the interns we bring in are taught through the process, and sometimes we’ll absorb them into full employment. After they’ve been with us a few years, some will stay, others will move on — mostly to do their Masters or join big organisations.

It’s very exciting to see how these teams and young people are growing. When they come in, at the beginning, they’re a bit shy, they don’t want to talk — they don’t have much confidence. But later on they are leading and building things. The impact is amazing.

How important do you think it is for young African women to equip themselves with tech skills?

It’s critical. We need the skills, if we’re going to move to the technology economies that we are seeing. It’s crucial that not only do they train in school, but have applicable experience where they are able to utilise what they’ve learned and learn from each other. They’re very smart, very curious, and very hardworking. They want to learn. And I think it’s important that we grow and nurture this.

It is so important for young women to empower themselves with tech skills right now.

I read that in Nigeria it has always been about oil, oil, oil. This year for the first time, tech overtook oil in GDP earnings for the country! The potential of it is humongous, and it is so important for young women to empower themselves with tech skills right now.

On our team, we’ve hired both young women and young men. When the young women come in they are just as green as the men. Both are learning and practising their skills. What I’ve noticed though is that with time, the men remain more introverted, but for the women, as they get experience, you can see them blooming and getting out there. They’re more willing to socialise, learn more from each other and hold each other’s hands through it all. So I do think that to grow a lot of the tech skills in Africa, women are just as important, if not more.

In our hardware team, there are more women than men. They wear overalls and they’ll go and install devices in vehicles, and do all the mechanics. The only issue is that of safety because of the nature of public transport, and them having to go out late at night; I’m a bit protective of them.

What are some of the challenges you have faced as a woman in tech?

Recently we had to work with the government on a big project where we are trying to aggregate all public transport and commercial vehicles on a platform for the whole nation. It’s been challenging, as I’ve received a lot of pushback and endured many people looking down on me, and that is probably because I’m a woman. It’s not often that women are in that type of role, and I believe that’s why I get so much pushback.

What advice or words of wisdom would you give to young women just starting out in their careers?

You can do it. There’ll be days when you’ll feel like you’ve hit rock bottom, but you have to get up. Know that every day there’ll be challenges and there’ll also be successes. Don’t let the challenges discourage you, and look for your strength. Look for something that gives you strength, turn to that, but keep going.

At ALX, we know that our collective future depends on women across Africa not just having a seat at the table, but redesigning the table. Find out how we’re empowering the women leaders of tomorrow through our first-ever women-only Software Engineering cohort.

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