Amanda

Tell us about your journey into tech?
My journey into technology began in the year 2018 when I was unemployed and needed more out of life. As a business developer, I felt unfulfilled on the job. I quit my job and was looking for better ways to be relevant and productive.

After eight months, I got an opportunity to be trained by IBM on Data analytics and Business Intelligence. This was my turning point. I researched and found countless opportunities in technology. On the other hand, Nigeria was also transferring its workforce opportunities to experts due to the existing lack of technical skills and competence.

To successfully thrive in our changing workforce, I needed to position myself with the knowledge gained and keep learning future-focused skills that I can pass on to the younger generation. It has been a remarkable journey. I have met wonderful people, I keep learning and sharing in the best way I can.

How do you feel you have made a difference in what you do?
It was typical that after being trained in Data Analytics, I should begin to apply for jobs, right? But I did not. We had thousands of young talents who were not aware of such skills to acquire in positioning themselves for better livelihood and being self-reliant.
I decided to begin an initiative that gives Africans the tools, knowledge and skills to thrive in their respective countries. It’s been two years now, and we have been leaving indelible marks and impact in local communities, schools, and different economic segments.

We have mentoring programs running thrice in a year that addresses the under-representation of young women and girls in STEM; help schools and teachers in integrating STEM and project-based learning activities; design skill-based training and practical workshops for underemployed/unemployed talents and budding technologists.

What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I see achievement as happiness given or shown to others (The ability to impact the lives of others). My biggest achievement has been seeing my mentees, team and the communities we serve breaking out of existing stereotypes, narratives and having the ability to design their success by themselves. I have seen my advice given to mentees and program initiatives designed for our communities transition them to a position to excellence. I find this rewarding.

How do you think people can go about making a difference, in regards to spreading awareness of Black Women in tech?
I think we should Walk our Talk. A Lot of times, we advocate and talk about sensitizing the world of Black Women in Tech. Now, that’s amazing! But we can do more. As Black women in Tech, we can begin to raise the younger generation of girls by mentoring, providing career and academic support, telling our stories (this is so important). Our stories can inspire Black Women to Lead. The more we keep sensitizing (talking) about this, the more we get distracted by the existing functions of it. We need to get to work, put ourselves out there, be our own cheerleaders, share our stories, motivate each other and the young women and girls who are looking up to us.

What is the best advice you ever received?
The world may not give you what you want and without a fight. You need to take it and take it by force.