As many tech companies embrace, prioritize and promote diversity and equality in the workplace, we continue to bridge the digital gender divide and increase the representation of women in tech, with approximately 53% of our team made up of women. 

We talked to some of them to learn how they got into the tech industry and what it’s like working in tech. 

How did you get into Tech?

Zaynab: I’ll say curiosity (thank God I’m not a cat, lol). Asides from that, my desire to learn at least one tech skill was also a key motivation.

Uduak: I got into the ‘soft side’ of Tech by chance. I like to call Digital marketing the soft side of tech because there’s been an argument about whether or not it’s tech. Well, a friend who knew I write poetry and short stories wanted me to write captions for a fashion brand he was working with at the time. I sent a few samples, and they loved it. I started getting content gigs from there, and the rest is history. 

Dara: What sparked my original interest in tech is the ability to develop products that cater to users’ needs and provide solutions to their problems. This passion prompted my decision to pursue higher education to develop my skills and now here we are. 

Did you ever think of giving up at some point? 

Zaynab: No, one thing I’ve always admired about myself is my tenacity. I happen to be someone who strives to give her best no matter what and frankly, I just don’t like giving up.

Uduak: Yes, but giving up, wasn’t going to pay my bills.

Dara: Yes, working in tech especially as a woman, is not without its frustrations but I believe with God, supportive spaces, gender-inclusive communities, and mentorship, I have been able to persevere during times of difficulty. There’s a lot of work that still needs to be done to bridge the gender disparity gap in tech but that’s a story for another day.

What motivated you to stay in tech regardless of the challenges you faced?

Zaynab: The challenges are a lot. I won’t deny that, but the passion I have for tech was strong enough to keep me. That zeal to contribute to something, not just one thing, but a lot of things that are aimed at solving problems for people and generally making their lives easier.

Uduak: I’d say the thoughts of looking back and seeing how much I’ve grown. I felt like throwing in the towel would be a waste of the years I invested in learning. 

Dara: I am deeply passionate about creating relevant solutions. The ability to see products come to life, and gain users positive and constructive feedback is a joy and constant motivation to keep going.

What would you say are the top skills you’ve developed since you joined the tech world?

Zaynab: Understanding people better, that’s one. Innovative thinking and improved creativity.

Uduak: Emotional Intelligence, People Management, Analytical Thinking

Dara: As a marketer for a technology company, developing technical knowledge is crucial. It is important to understand the technology, products, and services of the company to market them effectively to the target audience. It is also important to develop digital marketing skills, which include but are not limited to search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, email marketing, and online advertising to reach and engage with potential customers. In the tech world, analytical skills are essential. The ability to analyze and interpret data from various sources, such as web analytics, customer behaviour, and market trends, is crucial to identify opportunities and making data-driven decisions.

What’s it like working in a male-dominated industry?

Zaynab: It’s great. Before now, it might have been overwhelming, being surrounded by males but right now; especially with the loads of opportunities out there that are aimed at getting females into tech; I’ll say both males and females now have equal opportunities working in the tech field and that’s just impressive.

Uduak: I think it’s super cool. it’s like being the only girl in the family with 5 brothers. You’re always forced to separate emotions from work. 

If you could pursue a career outside tech, what would that be?

Zaynab: Hmmn, I think that would be research (scientific research), or biotechnology.

Uduak: I’d be an OAP

Dara: If you asked me this question a few years ago, I would have said Lawyer but now, I want to be a Social Media Influencer.

If you were to share one of your greatest achievements as a woman in tech, what would that be?

Zaynab: One of my greatest achievements as a woman in tech would be breaking the barriers and conception that tech is for males alone.

Uduak: Having the opportunity to share what I’ve learnt over the years with ladies who are interested in Digital Marketing

Dara: Breaking into the tech industry and pursuing my passion ranks high on the list of my greatest accomplishments.

Everyone has an episode of the embarrassing moment as a tech novice. What was yours?

Zaynab: Ugh! My most embarrassing moments would be my Laptop device misbehaving especially in the middle of a presentation, a meeting or something along that lines.

Uduak: Lol! One episode I will never forget is when I got a gig to work on a website content. To be honest, I didn’t know what it was then so I just wrote short paragraphs for each section. When I sent it to the client, the feedback broke my heart. The client asked if what I sent was for a WhatsApp broadcast. I didn’t recover from that feedback for a long time. 

If had superpowers to develop or invent anything at all in one day, what would that be?

Zaynab: Hmm, this is a deep one. I’ll say a way to imbue *Positivity*. This life is hard enough as it is for some people, so, I’ll love to invent a way for people to stay positive in the worst times. Coz, positivity gives hope and purpose to everyone when they need it most, even when they don’t think so.

Uduak: I’d invent a device that can detect when I’m hungry, and choose a meal for me based on my mood so I can just walk into the kitchen and prepare it. Deciding on what to eat is a chore!

What’s it like working in Charisol as a woman?

Zaynab: It’s been fun and very interesting. I have the opportunity to play to my strengths while also exploring and perfecting other skills too.

Uduak: It’s amazing. Charisol gives you room to grow.

Dara: In one word, supportive. My time here has been nothing short of supportive. From providing the tools that I need to succeed, to the regular words of encouragement, Charisol truly supports their women (and men) employees and wants to see them thrive.

Any advice for women looking to pursue a career in tech?

Zaynab: First thing I’ll say is to stay consistent. As a woman in tech, you are your best motivator, you have to be dedicated to whatever field you’ve chosen, give it your very best, trust the process and stay committed.

Uduak: It won’t always be rosy. Some days you win, and some days you lose. Always remember why you’re doing what you’re doing.

Dara: Although it may look daunting, don’t be afraid to jump in and take up space, you deserve to be here! Learn the relevant skills and be prepared to take advantage of every opportunity. 

Fun Question: What do you do for fun?

Zaynab: I read novels. I have a wild imagination, so, I just cuddle up with a book, dive into the story and let my imagination take me away. Oh! And I love singing too.

Uduak: I goof around in my room, listen to music and surf the internet. I’m learning how to hang out too.

Dara: I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, reading romance novels on the beach, and travelling to new places.