Technology is rapidly reshaping the world we live in, and Nigeria is no exception. In this digital age, a new generation of young minds is emerging, harnessing the power of technology to create a more inclusive and connected future. These individuals are breaking barriers, driving innovation, and making a profound impact in various fields. Let’s delve into the stories of some remarkable young people in tech who are paving the way for a digitally-inclusive Nigeria.
1. Aderinsola Oluwafemi:
A self-taught force in the industry, Aderinsola’s remarkable journey as a Product Designer and her passion for empowering others make her an inspiration to aspiring designers.
Aderinsola is a Product Designer renowned for her remarkable ability to craft immersive digital experiences that not only captivate users but also streamline operational processes. Possessing an unwavering attention to detail and an innate passion for problem-solving, she has made significant contributions to a diverse array of projects, earning the respect and admiration of both organizations and individuals she has collaborated with.
Aderinsola’s commitment to excellence and unparalleled talent have garnered widespread recognition. In 2022, she was honored with the prestigious Excellence award at Eden Life where she is currently utilizing her skills. This is a testament to her unwavering dedication and significant impact within the company. This esteemed accolade further solidifies her position as a leading figure in the design industry, reinforcing the trust placed in her abilities and the awe-inspiring heights she has reached.
Yet, Aderinsola’s story extends far beyond her professional achievements. Driven by a profound desire to share her journey and empower others, she has become a revered figure within the design community. Through insightful interviews, thought-provoking articles, and captivating speaking engagements at esteemed tech and design events, Aderinsola has managed to captivate audiences worldwide. Fearlessly recounting her personal growth, triumphs over challenges, and invaluable lessons learned along the way, she exudes authenticity that serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring designers. Aderinsola’s candid storytelling instills in others the confidence and resilience necessary to forge their own creative paths.
What sets Aderinsola’s journey apart is the fact that she did not follow the traditional path of formal education. Instead, she chose a self-taught approach to design, fueled by her unwavering determination and buoyed by the unyielding support of her friends and the design community. It is through this relentless pursuit of knowledge, coupled with her adaptability and capacity for growth, that she has emerged as a formidable force within the industry, transcending any perceived limitations. Aderinsola’s success story serves as a powerful reminder that talent, passion, and hard work have no bounds.
As a Product Designer, Aderinsola embraces a philosophy firmly rooted in simplicity and enhancement. She fervently believes in the transformative power of design, recognizing its capacity to streamline complex processes and elevate everyday experiences. Her genuine passion lies in developing solutions that directly address the real-life challenges faced by individuals and organizations alike. By ensuring efficiency, enjoyment, and user satisfaction, Aderinsola’s designs are reshaping the digital landscape, leaving an indelible impact.
2. Mubarak Alabidun:
Meet Mubarak Alabidun, a Product Designer Creating Intuitive Digital Experiences across Industries.
With extensive experience in driving growth and creating intuitive digital experiences across diverse industries, Mubarak has become a trailblazer in the field, shaping the way we interact with technology.
By leveraging his skills in user research, prototyping, and iterative design, Mubarak plays a vital role in the development of cutting-edge financial technology products at Kuda, a leading tech company.
What sets Mubarak apart is his insatiable curiosity and unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of design trends. He understands that innovation is the key to creating unique and impactful solutions that push boundaries.
Mubarak’s ability to navigate diverse industries is a testament to his adaptability and versatility. Whether revolutionizing the education sector through intuitive ed-tech platforms, transforming the financial landscape with user-friendly banking applications, or enhancing the entertainment experience through immersive digital interfaces, Mubarak consistently raises the bar for digital design.
At the heart of Mubarak’s approach lies his dedication to user satisfaction. He understands that great design goes beyond aesthetics and functionality. It evokes emotions, establishes connections, and leaves a lasting impact on users. By combining his technical expertise with a genuine passion for improving people’s lives, Mubarak creates digital experiences that seamlessly integrate into users’ everyday routines, fostering engagement, and building long-term loyalty.
As the design industry continues to evolve, Mubarak remains at the forefront, adapting and honing his craft. He embraces emerging trends, explores new technologies, and pushes the boundaries of what is possible in digital design. With his wealth of experience and forward-thinking mindset, Mubarak is well-equipped to tackle future challenges and deliver innovative solutions that exceed expectations.
3. Dinma Aniugbo:
A Product Designer and Advocate for Diversity and Growth in the Design Community
There are individuals who go above and beyond their professional responsibilities to make a lasting impact. Dinma Aniugbo is one such remarkable individual. As a Product Designer, content creator, and the founder of Design Chics, a non-profit organization, Dinma is dedicated to empowering and connecting African women in design. Her mission is to provide them with the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive and grow in their careers.
Dinma’s professional journey has been characterized by versatility and a passion for solving problems across diverse industries. Currently holding the position of Product Designer at Shopify, she combines her expertise with occasional freelance projects on Toptal. This allows her to engage with international clients from various sectors. Her ability to adapt and excel in different industries showcases her versatility and problem-solving skills.
Dinma’s impact extends beyond her daily work. She has collaborated with renowned multinational organizations such as Babbel, CoCreation Hub, Swipe, and Zone tech park, contributing to projects that span a wide range of industries. Whether it’s working on initiatives in public health, finance, education, media, or logistics, Dinma’s involvement demonstrates her commitment to making a difference in diverse fields.
Driven by her passion for design and a desire to give back to the community, Dinma actively shares valuable insights and knowledge with fellow designers. Through her social media platforms, she provides tips, tutorials, and thought-provoking discussions, inspiring aspiring designers and fostering a sense of collaboration. Additionally, Dinma dedicates her time and expertise to mentoring budding designers on reputable platforms such as Designlab and ADPlist. Her guidance and support help shape the next generation of design talent.
Recognizing the need to bridge the gap between talented African designers and organizations seeking their skills, Dinma launched a Job board. This innovative platform is dedicated to assisting designers in securing remote and relocation opportunities. By curating job postings and connecting designers with potential employers, Dinma actively works towards empowering African designers and helping them advance in their careers. Her commitment to creating opportunities is reshaping the landscape of design in Africa.
4. Benjamin Ishaku:
Co-founder of Kwakol, Pioneering Innovation and Efficiency in Financial Technology
Benjamin Ishaku, an accomplished Software Engineer and Data Scientist who has made significant contributions to the world of technology. With his remarkable skill set and a passion for using technology to solve complex problems, Benjamin has emerged as a driving force in the realm of software development, product management, and data analytics.
Benjamin’s expertise spans across various domains, making him a versatile and sought-after professional in the field. His proficiency lies in Front-End Web Development, Software Development, Product Management, Technical Report Writing, and Data Analytics. This diverse skill set allows him to tackle multifaceted challenges and deliver comprehensive solutions that enhance efficiency and drive growth.
Benjamin’s entrepreneurial spirit and ambition led him to co-found Kwakol, a fast-growing international Financial Technology company. With a deep understanding of the industry and a relentless drive for innovation, Benjamin and his team at Kwakol have been instrumental in revolutionizing the financial technology landscape. Their groundbreaking solutions have reshaped traditional financial systems, bringing efficiency and convenience to users worldwide.
Benjamin’s academic background has played a vital role in shaping his career trajectory. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Software Engineering, equipping him with a strong foundation in programming principles and software development methodologies. Furthermore, he pursued a Master’s degree in Data Analytics from the esteemed University of North Carolina at Greensboro, enhancing his analytical skills and ability to extract meaningful insights from complex data sets.
One of Benjamin’s defining qualities is his unwavering commitment to problem-solving. His ability to approach challenges from different angles and think outside the box has enabled him to develop innovative solutions that drive positive change. Whether it’s streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, or improving user experiences, Benjamin’s work is driven by a desire to make a tangible impact through technology.
Benjamin is not only dedicated to advancing his own career but also to uplifting and empowering others in the tech community. He actively shares his knowledge and insights through various channels, including mentoring programs and technical workshops. By imparting his expertise and supporting budding technologists, Benjamin helps foster a culture of learning and growth within the industry.
5. Khadijah Amusat:
Meet the “Blockchain Baddie’’ who fearlessly transitioned from public health to become a prominent figure in the tech industry.
Khadijah Amusat is a dynamic individual who fearlessly made a bold transition from the field of public health to technology in 2020. Through her relentless pursuit of knowledge, active involvement in web2 and web3 communities, and diverse skill set, Khadijah has become a prominent figure in the tech industry.
Khadijah’s decision to shift her focus from public health to technology was fueled by her unwavering curiosity and determination to explore new horizons. Embracing online courses and boot camps, she dedicated herself to mastering the intricacies of technology, honing her skills in various domains. This journey of transformation allowed her to bridge the gap between her previous experiences in public health and the vast possibilities offered by the tech industry.
One of Khadijah’s defining characteristics is her deep involvement in communities that foster growth and empowerment. As a multi-sig holder and leader in Devrel at Celo Africa DAO, she plays a crucial role in shaping the future of decentralized finance and blockchain technology. Additionally, she actively engages with communities such as Web3 Ladies and Baddies in Tech, where she contributes her expertise and learns from fellow enthusiasts, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared growth.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Khadijah serves as an ambassador for Chimoney and Google’s Women Techmaker UAE. These roles allow her to amplify the voices of underrepresented groups in the tech industry and advocate for diversity and inclusion. By leveraging her platform, she strives to create a more equitable and accessible space for aspiring technologists, particularly women.
Khadijah’s passion for technology extends far beyond her involvement in communities and ambassador roles. She actively contributes to open-source projects and shares her insights through technical content. With a strong focus on front-end development, technical writing, developer relations, and blockchain development, Khadijah continuously expands her skill set and explores emerging technologies such as ReactJS, Typescript, Solidity, and Rust. Her dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements positions her as a trailblazer in the ever-evolving tech landscape.