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My Tech Story Africa

English, Finance, 2 seasons, 27 episodes, 22 hours, 49 minutes
About
Welcome to "My Tech Story Africa", the podcast that brings you inspiring stories from tech professionals all over Africa and beyond. Hosted by Alice Kanjejo, this podcast dives deep into the journeys and experiences of guests who work in the tech industry, exploring the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned, and the successes they achieved along the way. Come and join us as we explore the incredible stories of Africa's most innovative tech leaders, and discover how you too can make your mark on the world of tech ?
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HUSTLE & HEART: Gerald Black’s Guide to Thriving in the African Tech Ecosystem

In today's episode of My Tech Story Africa, we feature Gerald Black, a distinguished and award-winning tech ecosystem builder. With over 11 years of work experience, he is currently a partner at Black Ops, a community for top operators on venture-backed startups across Africa as well as the host of "Backend by Gerald Black" podcast, which is a platform for spotlighting and celebrating achievements of tech founders, operators, investors and hubs across Africa. This episode goes beyond Black's impressive entrepreneurial background, delving into the specific challenges and opportunities facing FinTech startups in the region. He also shares practical advice on building strong networks, finding effective mentors, and adapting to the ever-changing African context. This is definitely a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of African Tech and gaining valuable knowledge from a seasoned industry leader. ____ Connect with Gerald here: linkedin.com/in/geraldblack-b4716953 ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join our community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
2/21/202454 minutes, 27 seconds
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1 MILLION DEVS: How Robert Wekesa is Revolutionizing Tech Education in Africa | Power Learn Project

In this engaging episode of My Tech Story Africa, Robert Wekesa unfolds the fascinating chapters of his extraordinary journey from lecturing at a number of universities like the University of Greenwich UK and ALU Rwanda to being The Head of Training and Knowledge Manager at Power Learn Project. At the heart of their mission lies the dedication to train a staggering one million software developers across the diverse landscape of Africa. Through their ingeniously crafted 16-week hybrid program, their main goal is to narrow the skills gap prevalent between fresh graduates and the dynamic demands of the tech industry. This unique initiative places a distinct emphasis on experiential, project-centered learning, ultimately nurturing intrinsic motivation among learners. Robert paints a vivid picture of the impactful success stories emanating from this approach, with thousands of graduates not only acquiring crucial skills but also venturing into the realm of entrepreneurship, birthing startups that contribute to the tech ecosystem. The episode concludes with a powerful message – "No one has monopoly over knowledge; always be ready to listen and learn." ____ Connect with Robert here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-wekesa-b6552127/ ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join our community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
2/14/20241 hour, 19 minutes, 31 seconds
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MENTORSHIP MATTERS: Mercy Thira's Commitment to Empowering Women | Moringa School

In this episode of My Tech Story Africa, we delve into the remarkable journey of Mercy Thira, whose path in the tech world was anything but straightforward. From early experiences with typewriters in her mom's office to navigating a business degree that felt off-track, Mercy explored accounting and even contemplated medicine before a web hosting internship ignited her passion for coding. Moringa's bootcamp became her pivotal launchpad, offering not only technical skills but also a profound boost in confidence. The journey wasn't a linear progression and overcoming self-doubt and societal expectations that whispered, "This isn't for girls," Mercy discovered the strength to persevere. Now a software Chief Technology Officer at Pigi, Mercy pays it forward by mentoring other women, bridging the gap she once faced. Her story isn't just about tech; it's about defying expectations, finding a supportive community, and showcasing the audacity that can rewrite the code of what's possible for women in the tech world. ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join our community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
2/7/202438 minutes, 59 seconds
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Crypto Entrepreneurship is Not for the Weak | David Kimani’s Journey into Founding Afrex

In this episode of My Tech Story Africa, we follow the fascinating journey of David Kimani, a young artist whose story unfolds with a paintbrush in one hand and a Bitcoin in the other. Overcoming challenges in the cryptoverse, he found unexpected guidance from local Bitcoin exchanges and bookies, ultimately cashing out a substantial amount. As David went on to pursue a master’s degree in international contemporary art design practice, he balanced freelance graphic design with Bitcoin profits. While in the UK and Malaysia, difficulties in transferring funds to Kenya inspired his vision for making his own impact in the crypto world. He is now the founder of Afrex, which is an innovative platform for buying and selling digital assets. Despite challenges, David’s story showcases a creative spirit and the limitless possibilities at the crossroads of art and technology. ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join our community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
1/31/20241 hour, 4 minutes, 43 seconds
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THE HACKATHON MASTERMINDS: Kimutai Kiprotich’s Guide to Tech Transformation | Moringa School

In this My Tech Story Africa episode, we share a virtual cup of coffee with Kimutai, a dedicated software developer at the Open Institute. He enthusiastically unveils his progression from exploring diverse fields post-high school to the pivotal discovery of programming during his university days. While pursuing his studies, he honed his skills through Moringa School and boot camps like Microverse which played a role in transforming his programming approach. Balancing Moringa School with university studies posed challenges, highlighting the role of self-teaching in consolidating his programming understanding. A captivating segment delves into Kimutai's hackathon journey with friend Michael, featuring rejection, strategic thinking, and triumph. Looking ahead, Kimutai expresses ambitions to continue learning, innovate, and explore entrepreneurial opportunities, specifically his venture, CampusTab. As an exemplar of diversity in the tech sector, Kimutai encourages aspirants to embrace unique journeys, build publicly, and persistently push forward. ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠⁠⁠⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join our community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠⁠⁠⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
1/24/202440 minutes, 53 seconds
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THE HACKATHON MASTERMINDS: Michael Munavu’s Transition into Tech | Moringa School

In this episode of My Tech Story Africa, we explore the story of Michael Munavu, an unconventional tech entrant, who initially ventured into telecommunication and information engineering. Shortly after, his interest in magic led him to his passion for coding and technology, through self-guided learning. Key to his story is his collaborative spirit that birthed an enduring partnership with Kimutai, a companion from high school. This connection proved essential when they crossed paths again at Moringa School, where they navigated the complexities of the tech field together, highlighting the importance of strategic alliances. Hackathons also emerge as a central theme, where Michael's impressive track record of over 10 victories showcases the value in exuding confidence and the thrill of crafting impactful products. The conversation concludes with Michael's passion for product development, exemplified in his current project—an innovative patient management system with a health data focus. Additionally, a unique concept to introduce a song request system tailored for events and clubs surfaces, infusing a layer of creativity and forward thinking into his endeavors in the ever-evolving world of technology. ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: ⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠⁠⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠⁠⁠ Join our community: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠⁠⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠⁠⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
1/17/202437 minutes, 25 seconds
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MEDIA ROOTS TO STARTUP IMPACT - Arnold Kwizera’s Vision for African Startups l Norrsken East Africa

In this episode of the My Tech Story podcast, entrepreneur Arnold Kwizera shares valuable insights into entrepreneurship and business development. The conversation delves into practical aspects, covering crafting marketing plans, engaging with marketing outlets, and perfecting a two-minute elevator pitch. Arnold emphasizes the significance of addressing fundamental yet critical elements that can propel businesses to the next level. The discussion seamlessly extends to the mission of Norrsken and its impact on Africa's startup ecosystem, especially focusing on the upcoming Norrsken Africa Week. Here, Arnold provides insights into the event, designed to bring together leading investors and entrepreneurs, fostering deal flows and providing crucial funding and support for startups. Drawing from his previous role as the lead anchor at CNBC, Arnold discusses his journey and experiences, highlighting the importance of persistence and resilience in the entrepreneurial space. The episode concludes with Arnold offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the significance of persistence and resilience, and expressing gratitude for the blessings in his life. He highlights the value of betting on oneself, committing to continuous improvement, steering clear of revenge, and fostering positive energy as essential elements for overcoming mediocrity. ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠⁠ Join our community: ⁠⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
12/13/202341 minutes, 5 seconds
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MASTERING DATA SCIENCE - Ariane Shimirwa’s Journey from Doubt to Distinction | CMU

Welcome back to another episode of My Tech Story Africa! Today, we're diving into an inspiring conversation with Ariane, a Carnegie Mellon University student, as she shares her journey from self-doubt to triumph in the world of data science. In the midst of a pandemic, Ariane shares her journey applying to Carnegie Mellon based on a friend's recommendation, triumphing over initial skepticism. She recalls the emotional moment of receiving admission and reflects on the challenges of orientation in her Master's program, emphasizing the significance of persistence that ultimately resulted in an impressive 3.9 GPA. The conversation further explores Ariane's insights as a data scientist, touching on authenticity in university applications, experiences in data collection, and the potential misuse of data. Ariane also shares her perspective on the evolving field of data science in Africa, emphasizing the role of government policies in addressing ethical concerns. The interview wraps up with Ariane offering valuable advice to aspiring individuals, encouraging them to act on their passions while embracing the principle of 'Be afraid, but still do it.' Don't miss this powerful narrative of perseverance and the pursuit of aspirations. ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: ⁠https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠ Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠ Join our community: ⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
12/6/202348 minutes, 18 seconds
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CODING FOR CHANGE - Clare Korir’s Leadership Impact | Moringa School

In this episode of the My Tech Story Africa podcast, Clare Korir, Director of Product at Moringa School, shares her inspiring journey. From an unexpected shift from chemistry to economics at Columbia University to pivotal roles in educational institutions across Africa, Clare emphasizes the importance of values-driven education and early exposure to leadership. The episode further explores Clare's experiences in New York, highlighting the cultural challenges she faced and the significance of a supportive community for those studying abroad. Clare provides valuable advice on navigating international education, stressing the importance of understanding one's context. The focus then shifts to Clare's impactful role at Moringa School, where she discusses the institution's values, course offerings, and its remarkable 70% success rate in student employment post-graduation. The podcast highlights Moringa School's approach to workforce preparation, including soft skills programs, CV refinement, and mock interviews. Clare's journey becomes a testament to the transformative power of education, showcasing Moringa School's commitment to bridging the gap between education and employment. Claire Korir's story serves as inspiration for tech enthusiasts, educators, and those seeking to shape Africa's tech landscape. ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica⁠ (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true⁠ Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1⁠ Join our community: ⁠https://www.mtsafrica.co/join⁠ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: ⁠https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7⁠ __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
11/29/202348 minutes, 9 seconds
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LIMITED RESOURCES TO LIMITLESS POTENTIAL - Sildio Mbonyumuhire’s tale of tenacity | TechnoServe

In this episode of the My Tech Story Africa podcast, Sildio Mbonyumuhire's inspiring journey unfolds from an aspiring priest to the Director of Labs Product Management and Engineering at TechnoServe. Despite initial aspirations of priesthood, Sildio's fascination with computers led him to pursue a degree in computer science, overcoming limited resources and family expectations. The pivotal shift from theoretical teachings to immersive programming saw Sildio overcoming obstacles, securing admission to Carnegie Mellon University in Rwanda. His experiences at CMU laid a robust foundation, and post-graduation, he strategically engaged in internships, emphasizing the importance of practical skills. As a technology leader at TechnoServe, Sildio's expertise in software engineering and product management has driven impactful initiatives across Africa and Latin America. Certified as a Project Management Professional with an Executive MBA and a Master's in Information Technology from CMU, Sildio excels in fostering collaboration and delivering market-based solutions for poverty alleviation. The episode highlights Sildio's journey as a fusion of technical expertise and societal transformation, encouraging Africans to drive their own development. It underscores the power of leveraging technology for social good and emphasizes continuous learning for personal and professional growth. Sildio's story concludes with a compelling call for African self-reliance, inspiring individuals to overcome obstacles and contribute to a future marked by innovation and positive change. The overarching message is clear: Africa has the talent and capability to drive its own development, with individuals like Sildio paving the way for a brighter future. ____ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring!  Here are some useful links: https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true Twitter: https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1 Join our community: https://www.mtsafrica.co/join Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7 __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
11/22/20231 hour, 23 minutes, 48 seconds
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VC FUNDING - Kosen Kenta’s career from Legal roots to Venture Building I Antler East Africa

In today's My Tech Story Africa podcast episode, we feature Kosen Kenta, the current Program Manager at Antler, East Africa. He takes us on a captivating journey through his diverse career, transitioning from law ⚖️to managing startups over at Antler, East Africa. 🚀 Antler, a day zero investor, is committed to backing the world's most driven founders. Operating in Nairobi's vibrant startup hub, Antler brings together entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to build companies that drive progress globally 🌏 . They collaborate with individual founders boasting strong business and technical acumen and early-stage startups leveraging technology to address profound challenges across the African continent 🌍 . Kosen's story underscores the importance of learning from failures, navigating challenges, and maintaining focus, all with the crucial support of friends and family 💪🏽. Initially admitted as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, Kenta swiftly shifted gears post-graduation, entering the realm of management consulting at Open Capital. The episode explores this shift, detailing the interview process and Kenta's experiences working on projects ranging from social media strategy to financial models for Agtech companies. The narrative then shifts gears again as we follow Kenta's entry into the tech industry at Antler. The episode delves into his role, involvement with Talent to Transform Africa, and excitement about ventures like Tulix. Kenta's trajectory is a testament to adaptability and continuous learning, intricately woven into Antler's pivotal role in the startup ecosystem🔥. Insights abound, shedding light on Antler's dual role as a venture builder and early-stage VC, the importance of a diverse skill set, eligibility criteria, and the unique fusion of the VC model with a venture studio mentality. Further enriching the conversation, Kuson Dutta, another program manager at Antler, shared insights on funding, the global network, community support, and the application process. As the episode concludes, Kosen encourages listeners, urging self-belief, humility, and a commitment to continuous growth. This episode promises to be particularly valuable for startups seeking funding across the continent🤩. Enjoy the episode!☺️ __________ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring! Here are some useful links: https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true Twitter: https://x.com/mtsafrica_?s=21 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mytechstoryafrica?_t=8hBOKRveWRB&_r=1 Join our community: https://www.mtsafrica.co/join Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here: https://forms.gle/ffAniezzFHoEvhPY7 __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
11/14/20231 hour, 13 minutes, 46 seconds
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LEADERSHIP,EDUCATION AND IMPACT:Dr.Yvette Underdue Murph’s Extraordinary legacy fromNYC toRwanda|CMU

In today's episode of the My Tech Story Africa podcast, we dive deep into the remarkable journey of Dr. Yvette Underdue Murph, a beacon of inspiration in the world of higher education. 🙌🏽 From humble beginnings in New York City to her current role as the Associate Director for Enrollment Management, Student Success, Marketing, and Communications at Carnegie Mellon University Africa, Dr. Yvette's story is one of perseverance, transformation, and the incredible power of education. Her path began as the youngest of twelve siblings, with dreams of becoming a teacher. It then took unexpected turns into the world of banking, where she tirelessly worked to help underprivileged individuals achieve home ownership. However, the 1987 banking crisis, "Black Monday," prompted her to rediscover her passion for education, setting the stage for her inspiring career in higher learning 📚. Throughout her journey, Dr. Yvette honed her leadership style through diverse roles at institutions with students from various backgrounds, including Hispanic-serving institutions, HBCUs, and institutions with students from Native American and African backgrounds. Her experiences crystallized her leadership style that is characterized by transformation and servant leadership.🤩 Upon her arrival at Carnegie Mellon University Africa in Kigali, Rwanda, Dr. Yvette continued her mission of promoting diversity and inclusion in education. Through partnerships with the government of Rwanda and the Mastercard Foundation, her team provides scholarships and opportunities for underrepresented students, particularly women in STEM fields. The institution now boasts of a diverse student body representing 21 African countries, with students embarking on internships across the globe. Dr. Yvette's dedication to retaining talent on the continent shines through, as 90% of alumni choose to stay in Africa. This achievement is in alignment with the university's mission of educating the next generation of tech leaders and innovators for the continent. 🌍 The episode wraps up with insights into the university's graduate programs, a glimpse into the rigorous application process, and Dr. Murphy's unwavering commitment to supporting incoming students during their transition. It's a showcase of the exciting achievements and the visionary future of Carnegie Mellon University Africa in transforming lives and shaping the tech landscape in Africa. 👌🏼 See you in the next episode. __________ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring! Here are some useful links: https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true Join our community: https://www.mtsafrica.co/join __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
11/7/20231 hour, 4 minutes, 15 seconds
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A PRIESTHOOD DREAM TO TECH LEADERSHIP: Alfred Wanjao’s path to CTO&CFO| Huuza Quest Limited

In this captivating episode of the MyTech Story Africa podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting Alfred Wanjao, a true testament to the power of resilience and self-belief💪🏽. Alfred's journey is a remarkable one as it began with dreams of becoming a priest as an altar boy but took an unexpected turn towards the tech industry. He started in the world of analytical chemistry, but his true passion for programming led him to a bold decision that changed the trajectory of his life🤩. From transitioning to coding and taking on data entry jobs to navigating the challenges of a night shift, Alfred's story is an inspiring tale of perseverance💪🏽. Today, he holds the esteemed positions of Chief Technology Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Huuza Quest Limited, a testament to the transformative power of embracing change and seizing opportunities 🔥. Alfred's journey is marked by experimentation and a fearless embrace of uncertainty. His unique background, which includes working long hours at his mother's shop, played a crucial role in shaping his perspective on life. He also shares insights from his experience with the Jasiri Talent Investor Program, which helped him identify problems and create tech solutions.🥳 This episode delves into Alfred's entrepreneurial venture, Huuza, which focuses on connecting people with their culture through custom-made games. It sheds light on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the importance of networking, and the significance of making decisions that align with your passions and values. In summary, Alfred's story is a powerful narrative of embracing uncertainty, taking control of one's path, and realizing the transformative potential of entrepreneurship. It's a reminder that entrepreneurship is not for everyone, but for those who embrace it, it can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling journey.👌🏼 See you in the next episode! Learn more about Huuza Quest Limited: https://huuza.io/ __________ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring! Here are some useful links: https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true Join our community: https://www.mtsafrica.co/join __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
10/31/20231 hour, 6 minutes, 10 seconds
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BRIDGING THE CYBERSECURITY GAP: Assane Gueye’s journey to CyLab Africa|CMU

In today’s inspiring episode of the "My Tech Story Africa" podcast 🎙️ , we embark on a captivating journey with Assane Gueye, exploring his remarkable path to the forefront of the cybersecurity realm. Originating from Senegal, Assane's voyage is rooted in an early passion for mathematics and physics, setting the stage for a trailblazing academic journey that opened doors to extraordinary opportunities.🤩 Despite an unexpected twist of fate leading him to a scholarship in Morocco, Assane's unyielding determination guided him to Switzerland, where he strategically leveraged his brother's connections to secure multiple scholarships. This pivotal phase in Switzerland introduced him to the world of information and communication technology for development during an internship in Finland.🤩 It was this experience that propelled him to the vibrant city of Kigali, Rwanda, where he played a pivotal role in the establishment of CyLab Africa. Within this chapter, Assane's focus transitioned to the enhancement of cybersecurity within African financial services.🤩 Assane's journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment and resilience in the pursuit of academic and professional excellence across diverse countries and educational institutions. 🌍 This episode unveils the challenges he overcame and the opportunities that materialized, ultimately leading to his substantial impact on the cybersecurity landscape, particularly in the unique context of Africa. His current role at Carnegie Mellon University Africa and his significant involvement in the CyLab Africa Initiative underscore his dedication to fortifying cybersecurity within emerging economies 🔥. The episode further explores Assane's vision for the future of African cybersecurity, emphasizing the imperative of developing indigenous technology and capacity within the continent to ensure a secure digital landscape. Assane imparts valuable wisdom to aspiring individuals, stressing the vital importance of excelling in every subject and the urgent need to nurture digital and cybersecurity capacities across the African landscape. His parting words resonate with urgency, emphasizing the need for swift action to safeguard the digital future of the continent👌🏼. As the episode draws to a close, viewers are left with a renewed sense of motivation. Assane's story serves as a testament to the potential that lies within each individual, regardless of their background. By embracing the realities of the cybersecurity world and understanding the importance of resilience, viewers are empowered to face their own challenges and opportunities, embarking on their unique tech journeys 💪🏽. See you in the next episode! __________ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring! Here are some useful links: https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true Join our community: https://www.mtsafrica.co/join __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
10/24/20231 hour, 10 minutes, 47 seconds
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THE RWANDA CONNECTION: Exploring Tech in Africa.

Welcome to Season Two of the My Tech Story Africa podcast. 🥳We're back with an exciting lineup and a big thank you for your support during Season One.🥰 The theme for Season Two is "Building the Next Generation of Tech Leaders."🚀Our guests share a deep commitment to not only launching tech ventures but also providing the tools and knowledge for success in various tech fields. Our guest roster is diverse, including alumni from Carnegie Mellon University, a central reference for this season. We'll also feature influential venture capital funders like NorrsKen East Africa and Antler East Africa.🤩 We won't unveil all our surprises at once🤭, so stay tuned to discover the rest of our incredible guests. This season is ideal for those interested in the tech industry, startups, or securing funding, as our mission is to deliver engaging and informative stories. You might be wondering why we chose Rwanda as the focal point for Season Two. Rwanda's tech scene is growing rapidly, becoming one of the fastest-emerging tech hubs in East Africa and across the continent. Despite a 4.3% reduction in tech investments across the continent from the previous year, East Africa still leads with investments totaling $47.4 million, concentrated mainly in Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda. After Season One's strong emphasis on Kenya, we decided to explore what's happening in Kigali, and that's what we did in Season Two. We extend our gratitude to some incredible individuals who made this season possible. Monica Sumbi, the Associate Director of Marketing and Communications at Carnegie Mellon University, Africa, played a vital role in connecting us with our Season Two guests. Nick Carney provided invaluable support during my solo trip to Kigali. Their assistance is greatly appreciated.❤️ A big shout-out also goes to Sharon Machira, who not only encouraged me to explore Kigali but also provided essential guidance and advice throughout the journey. We owe a special thank you to Gideon Gathungu, who has been with us from the beginning, handling the editing and production for every episode. His contributions have been indispensable. So, we invite you to enjoy Season Two of the My Tech Story Africa podcast. It's a labor of love, and we're thrilled to share it with all of you.🤗 See you in the next episode! __________ Join Alice as she explores the world of tech and shares impactful stories with guests on "My Tech Story." Subscribe to our podcast, leave a like, comment, and turn on the notification bell to be alerted whenever we post content. Last but not least, tell a friend about us. Sharing is caring! Here are some useful links: https://linktr.ee/mytechstoryafrica (access youtube link here) Follow us on our socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytechstoryafrica/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-story-africa/?viewAsMember=true Join our community: https://www.mtsafrica.co/join __ Email us: mytechstory.ea@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alice-kanjejo/message
10/17/202310 minutes, 41 seconds