“Women's ability to foster teamwork is fostered by collective intelligence.”
Jennifer Okeke Ojudu trained as a lawyer but works in the technology industry. As AfriLabs' Senior Ecosystem Engagement Manager, she powers the most influential conferences in Africa's technology and innovation ecosystem. She also serves as a strategic bridge to foster positive relationships between AfriLabs and African governments, international organizations, and stakeholders, improving the organization's image, advancing its objectives, and promoting regional and Ensure alignment with international interests.
Prior to his current role, he headed the Abuja office of the United Nations agency Empretech Nigeria Foundation (a function of UNCTAD) and served as political and diplomatic liaison for the Abuja Times newspaper.
A law graduate from the University of Nottingham in the UK and a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), she has lived and been active in Europe and Africa. A goal-driven, results-oriented professional and a skilled relationship builder specializing in client, staff and management management, she has worked in a variety of sectors, from the legal field to the innovation ecosystem, and has worked internationally. We have also volunteered for worthy causes such as international refugee evacuation and international refugee assistance. Cancer research and awareness in rural Africa. In this interview,
IJEOMA THOMAS-ODIA talks about her impact on women in technology.
Please tell us about your career path.
Since I was 10 years old, my father has been running one of the oldest tanneries in northern Nigeria. It is very famous for supplying products to Louis Vuitton and Prada. That is, we and our brothers have worked with him throughout his life, from trimming to processing, to every element of the factory.
I obviously chose a different path. I went to law school in England. I returned to Nigeria after work and was called to a bar. I was thinking of becoming a lawyer. During my youth ministry, I worked for the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). I was working directly in the minister's office at the time. I also worked in the legal drafting department and redrafted the bill that is still in use today regarding tenancy in Abuja. When I was 21 years old, as a senator, I championed this bill that we wrote and it passed.
After working at FCDA for a while, I decided to try working elsewhere. So, I moved to Lagos and worked as a management trainee at Fine & Country for about three years. While working there, I was always volunteering at a cancer research facility that organized races through the school. Previously, the massive Lagos Marathon was held across Lagos Island to raise awareness and funds for cancer research and awareness in rural Nigeria.
I got married and moved to Abuja to work for the Abuja Times as a diplomatic liaison with all embassies, government semi-governmental agencies and major organizations. It gave me enough background and learning ability to help me work at AfriLabs. As my role has grown, I've realized that over the past few years I've accumulated enough skills to do more than one thing.
What important initiatives have you led to empower women within the technology and innovation ecosystem?
One project that is especially important to me is “The Working Mother's Guide.” It aims to support working mothers, especially those working in the technology and innovation sector. This guide, which I led, is designed to help mothers balance work and family responsibilities. This provides valuable insight for mothers to continue working seamlessly during and after pregnancy. It also stipulates that parents, including fathers, be instructed to take time off from work after the birth of a newborn. This can also help organizations create small but effective changes to foster a work environment that is conducive to the continued presence of working mothers.
As a female leader in technology and innovation, what is the most important lesson you have learned in your career?
Throughout my professional journey, I have gained valuable insights that emphasize the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and strategically leveraging one's strengths. Embracing challenges rather than avoiding them has been a guiding principle driving my growth in the dynamic landscape of the technology industry. Challenges, when viewed as opportunities for learning and growth, have the potential to develop individuals into more resilient and adaptable professionals. Maintaining a curious mindset has proven to be another important aspect of sustained success in the ever-evolving technology industry. Rapid advances in technology require a proactive approach to learning new skills and staying abreast of industry trends. A commitment to continuous learning enables individuals to not only keep up with the dynamic nature of technology, but also to meaningfully contribute to innovation and progress. Building a strong support network has been a cornerstone of my career journey. This network is made up of mentors, colleagues, and collaborators who provide a safety net during difficult times and a platform for collective problem-solving. The power of collaboration and mentorship cannot be overstated. Not only will it accelerate your personal and professional growth, but it will also foster a sense of community within the tech field.
Additionally, the importance of recognizing and leveraging your unique strengths cannot be overstated. Each individual brings unique skills, experience, and perspectives. Embracing and celebrating this diversity not only increases the richness of ideas and solutions, but also contributes to a more inclusive and innovative technology ecosystem. In fostering a culture of collaboration and mentorship, I have seen first-hand the transformative impact it can have on realizing the full potential of women in technology. By creating an environment that encourages knowledge sharing, mutual support, and celebrating accomplishments, we pave the way for ambitious women to grow and make meaningful contributions. Essentially, my career journey has taught me that resilience, continuous learning, leveraging unique strengths, and fostering a collaborative environment are not just individual traits, but critical elements that advance the technology field as a whole. He taught me something.
What strategies do you employ to promote mentorship and networking opportunities for women within the tech community?
We established The Women of AfriLabs Platform, an initiative to foster a network for women hub leaders, facilitators, and partners. The platform will serve as a mentorship hub, providing opportunities for women to engage in meaningful dialogue, share experiences, and provide mentorship to each other. Each woman in the network contributes by submitting a profile detailing her expertise, qualifications, and what she is willing to teach other women. This initiative empowers women to connect, learn and support each other in the field of innovation.
What do you think about the role of women in shaping the future of innovation in Africa?
With their multifaceted experiences and perspectives, women play a critical role in shaping the landscape of the innovation and technology ecosystem. Their unique journeys in life, distinct challenges, and diverse backgrounds create a rich tapestry of insights that have a major impact on the industry. In technology, diversity is more than just a checkbox. It is the engine of innovative thinking and problem solving. Women in the technology industry frequently demonstrate a collaborative and empathetic leadership style, which gives them a strong influence in the industry. In a world where collaboration and connection are important, women's ability to foster teamwork creates a work environment that leverages collective intelligence. This spirit of cooperation not only enhances problem solving but also fosters a collaborative and creative atmosphere. The story of women's influence is one of flexibility, resilience, and dedication to diversity. Women in technology are leaders, inventors, and mentors who open the door to a more progressive, dynamic, and balanced industry that values the breadth of experiences and ideas that define the collective voice of women.
What advice would you give to young women who want to pursue a career?
I believe resilience is paramount for young women who want to build a successful career. Developing strong skin and facing challenges head on is an important aspect of this journey. Personally, I have overcome crossroads in my career by embracing resilience and understanding my greater purpose. Many women may lack the confidence to overcome challenges. And society's expectations can make us more vulnerable. However, as young African women, it is imperative that we persevere, see challenges as opportunities for growth, and keep moving forward. The greater the challenge, the more rewarding the results.
As a successful woman in the corporate sector, what are your future goals and aspirations?
Working with AfriLabs and other strong women around me, I recognize the importance of leadership, training, and opportunities for young women. Especially in Africa, leadership roles and opportunities for young women are often limited. To address this gap, I want to establish a leadership academy for young girls and develop their innate leadership skills. In my role at AfriLabs, I look forward to continuing to work on initiatives such as her RevUp Women initiative, The Working Mother's Guide, and The Women of AfriLabs Platform. It will provide an opportunity to push quintessential African women and local African women into leadership roles. I want to ensure that women accelerate their advancement and reach leadership positions.
Source: guardian.ng