Empowering Africa's Future: Adora Nwodo on STEM and AI

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Power of Technology for Young Minds
3. The STEM Career Path
4. The Role of STEM in the Age of AI
5. Breaking into the Tech Industry
6. Adora's Journey in Tech
7. NEXskill: Connecting People to Opportunities
8. NEXskill Women: Empowering Female Tech Professionals
9. Exciting Trends in the African Tech Industry
10. Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals
11. Conclusion

Introduction

Welcome to another season of Third Culture Africans! In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Adora Wo, a woman in tech, speaker, author, and entrepreneur. Adora is passionate about engineering, STEM development, and the world of software. She shares her insights and experiences on pursuing a career in technology, breaking into the industry, and the exciting trends happening in the African tech scene. Let's dive in and learn from Adora's journey in this fast-paced and ever-evolving industry.

The Power of Technology for Young Minds

Technology has become an integral part of our lives, even at a young age. With access to YouTube Kids, TikTok, Netflix, and other platforms, children are exposed to a wealth of information and content. Adora emphasizes the importance of providing the right information to children from a young age, as it can Shape their worldview and aspirations. As someone who grew up in a Bubble and experienced the curated childhood that shaped her thinking, Adora understands the need to reach out to a wider audience and introduce them to the possibilities offered by technology.

The STEM Career Path

STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, encompasses a range of career paths. From studying mathematics, physics, aerospace engineering, to medicine, there are various fields within STEM. Adora, as a software engineer, is a part of the technology sector within STEM. She highlights the diverse opportunities available within STEM careers, including building AI, adopting AI, and utilizing AI in different fields such as Healthcare, autonomous vehicles, space travel, and more. The possibilities within STEM are vast, and young professionals have the chance to make a significant impact on the world through these careers.

The Role of STEM in the Age of AI

In the age of artificial intelligence, STEM careers play a crucial role in the development and implementation of AI technologies. Whether it's building AI infrastructure, creating data models, or developing technologies for other STEM careers to utilize, STEM professionals are at the forefront of AI advancements. Adora mentions the impact of AI in various fields, such as co-pilots for coding, CH GPT for programming assistance, and AI-powered solutions in the healthcare industry. STEM professionals have the opportunity to shape the future of AI and contribute to its growth in different sectors.

Breaking into the Tech Industry

Entering the tech industry can be challenging, especially for young professionals. Adora shares her personal journey of breaking into the industry. She emphasizes the importance of having an open mind, helping others, and continuously learning. Adora's persistence and determination led her to her first job, where she gained valuable experience and honed her skills. She also highlights the significance of support systems and mentorship, which can provide guidance and opportunities for growth. Overall, breaking into the tech industry requires resilience, networking, and a passion for continuous learning.

Adora's Journey in Tech

Adora's journey in the tech industry started at a young age when her father introduced computers into their home. Fascinated by technology, Adora immersed herself in learning and exploring the world of computers. From playing with hardware to tinkering with software, her passion for computing grew over the years. She pursued a degree in computer science and entered the industry as a software engineer. Adora's drive to prove herself and carve her own path led her to start Adora Hack Study Groups and later rebrand it as NEXskill. She continues to inspire and empower others in their tech journeys.

NEXskill: Connecting People to Opportunities

NEXskill, previously known as Adora Hack Study Groups, serves as a platform to connect individuals to job opportunities, mentorship, and skill-building initiatives. Adora's goal with NEXskill is to help aspiring tech professionals by providing access to resources, career guidance, and simulated work experience projects. NEXskill acts as a Community Hub where individuals can collaborate, learn from each other, and gain valuable work experience. Through partnerships with startups and other organizations, NEXskill aims to bridge the gap between fresh talent and job opportunities.

NEXskill Women: Empowering Female Tech Professionals

Recognizing the need for a safe and supportive space for women in tech, NEXskill Women was created. This initiative focuses on empowering women through personal branding, financial literacy, and professional development Sessions. NEXskill Women offers a community where women can network, learn from each other, and find inspiration. By showcasing successful female role models and providing resources, NEXskill Women aims to encourage more women to pursue careers in the tech industry.

Exciting Trends in the African Tech Industry

The African tech industry is abuzz with exciting trends and opportunities. Adora highlights the emergence of African unicorns, increased investment in African talent by global companies like Facebook, and the rise of the gig economy. Young African creators are dominating platforms like YouTube and TikTok, showcasing their talent and building successful careers. Additionally, the growth of remote learning, remote work, and the creator economy has opened up numerous possibilities for African tech professionals. These trends signify a promising future for the African tech industry.

Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals

For young Africans aspiring to pursue a career in technology, Adora offers valuable advice. She highlights the importance of having an open mind, continuously learning, and helping others. Building relationships, seizing opportunities, and having audacity in pursuing lofty goals are key factors in succeeding in the tech industry. Adora also emphasizes the significance of taking advantage of the growing number of resources available online, such as Udemy and YouTube tutorials, and participating in tech communities and hubs. By keeping a growth mindset and staying proactive, aspiring tech professionals can pave their way to success.

Conclusion

Navigating a career in technology requires resilience, continuous learning, and the support of a vibrant tech community. Adora Wo's journey exemplifies the possibilities that await African tech professionals who embrace these qualities. By fostering diversity, providing mentorship, and connecting individuals to opportunities, we can create a thriving tech industry in Africa. The future is bright, and with the right mindset and resources, aspiring African tech professionals can make significant contributions to the industry and shape the future of technology on the continent.

🌍🌟 Stay connected, keep learning, and embrace the power of technology! 🌟🌍

FAQ

Q: How can I stay updated with Adora Wo's work? A: You can follow Adora on Twitter (@adoranwodo), LinkedIn (Adora Nwodo), and Instagram (@adorahack) for the latest updates on her projects, inspirational content, and insights into the tech industry.

Q: How can I join NEXskill and NEXskill Women? A: To become a part of NEXskill, you can visit their website at www.nexskill.com. You can also follow them on Twitter (@nexskill) and join the NEXskill Women community by visiting www.nexskill.com/women.

Q: Are there any upcoming events or programs by NEXskill? A: Stay tuned to NEXskill's website and social media channels for updates on upcoming events, programs, and job opportunities. Adora Wo is continuously working on new initiatives, so there's always something exciting happening within the NEXskill community.

Q: Can I access the NEXskill study groups remotely? A: Yes, NEXskill offers remote study groups and resources, allowing individuals from different locations to participate. Visit the NEXskill website for more information on how to join their study groups and take advantage of their simulated work experience projects.