Julieth Agbo is a digital and data inclusion advocate with a career spanning data governance, IT education, operations leadership, and strategic data management. A first-generation graduate in tech, Julieth began her journey as an IT Instructor, teaching foundational digital skills and witnessing firsthand how access to technology can transform lives. She later transitioned into operations and project leadership roles, building systems and programs that support sustainable growth and stakeholder collaboration. She is the founder of A-Aston Technologies, a remote business support and training company, and Data for Her, a data literacy initiative focused on equipping women and young people with practical digital skills for the future of work. She is also a leader in the Nigerian M365 Community and an advocate for initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Quality Education and Gender Equality. She shares her story in this exclusive interview.
Childhood Influence
Yes, they did. From a young age, I had a deep love for education and learning. By Grade 5, I had developed the habit of documenting my daily experiences and lessons learned from everyday events. That practice of reflection shaped how I learn, think critically, and teach today. It laid the foundation for my analytical mindset and my passion for knowledge-sharing, which continue to influence my work in technology, data governance, and digital education.
The Turning Point
Before COVID-19, I was part of a core team that built a course grading software for an organization. During the pandemic, that experience became incredibly relevant and impactful. I went on to pioneer a large-scale digital data migration project for a client, which involved developing a comprehensive data governance strategy for over 5,000 users. The project required compliance with both local and international data standards, ensuring structured, secure, and reliable data management.
By the end of the project, we achieved elevated stakeholder trust, improved operational efficiency, and optimized dashboards that increased the ability to track sales by 95 percent. These outcomes significantly strengthened my desire to pursue a career focused on structured data oversight and digital inclusion. I saw firsthand how proper data governance protects organizational credibility and mitigates both internal and external compliance risks. Building on these experiences, I identified an opportunity to expand access to digital skills through a data and digital literacy workshop series. These initiatives are designed to teach individuals about data, digital tools, technology, and AI. I strongly believe technology is no longer just a career path, it is a way of life. My work is focused on democratizing access to data and tech skills, making them inclusive and accessible to all.
Data for Her Initiative
One of my proudest achievements is the launch and growth of the Data for Her initiative. In our first call for participants, we aimed to reach 1,000 women and successfully attracted 90 percent women across five countries. Since then, we have transformed the initiative into a mentorship hub that brings together subject matter experts, scenario-based learning resources, and practical digital literacy execution all within one platform. Currently, I spearhead the coaching of 71 Data for Her champions, supporting career pivots, industry-specific upskilling, and employability pathways for women and young people. Watching participants gain confidence, skills, and access to opportunities has been deeply fulfilling.
Why Data Literacy Matters for Women and Youth in Underserved Communities
Data literacy is essential for women and youth in underserved communities because it equips them with relevant global digital skills. It empowers them to make informed career decisions, build financial literacy, and improve their income-generating capacity. When women and young people are digitally empowered, the impact extends beyond individuals. It strengthens community development, fosters innovation, supports knowledge transfer, and promotes digital safety. Data literacy is not just a skill, it is a catalyst for economic inclusion and sustainable growth.
Lessons From a First-Generation Graduate in Tech: What More Women Need to Hear
First, resilience and focus are non-negotiable. As a forward-thinking leader, I’ve learned that distractions exist everywhere, especially in male-dominated industries, unfair competitive landscapes, and environments with limited cultural support. My advice to women is simple but powerful: set clear goals, commit to the work, and keep your eyes firmly on your destination.
Second, never underestimate small beginnings. Internships, volunteering, and service roles are invaluable. These early experiences help you build technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and stakeholder communication abilities that are essential as you grow in your tech journey.
Women Who Inspired Me This Year and Why Their Leadership Matters
Dr. Gomathi S.: Dr. Gomathi is a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP), Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) Community Lead, author, and global speaker specializing in Data Analytics, AI, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Her career, built on impact, excellence, and service, has been deeply inspiring. Her achievements remind me that consistency compounds, and they continue to energize my work in tech education, advocacy, and capacity building as we move into 2025 and 2026.
Olajumoke Toriola: Founder of the Nigeria M365 Community and CTO at Ha-Shem Limited, she inspired me through her ability to lead leaders. Her approach to delegation, empowerment, and community building demonstrates that sustainable impact comes from shared ownership and trust.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Her journey reminded me of the power of resilience and focus. Her return to the literary spotlight with Dream Count reinforced the truth that breaks do not signal loss of purpose. Pauses can be intentional, restorative, and necessary, especially for women navigating careers that demand constant visibility.
The Legacy Julieth Is Intentionally Building Through Technology, Education, and Advocacy
I am building a legacy centered on access to lived opportunities. As a first-generation student, I experienced how access can change lives, and I am committed to creating that access for women and young people. Initiatives like Data for Her, which aims to introduce over 1,000 women to data literacy, significantly lower the barrier to entry into data careers. I am also building a legacy that normalizes non-linear career paths. Women’s careers are often interrupted, and I want to demonstrate that pauses do not mean failure. Growth can stop and restart, especially in fast-evolving fields like tech. Finally, I am committed to advancing digital and data literacy as a core life skill. Through my work in data governance, I aim to influence systemic policies, create visionary playbooks, and drive grassroots awareness around data protection and digital safety.
What Being a Woman of Rubies Means to Julieth
Being a Woman of Rubies means living a life guided by purpose, responsibility, and impact. It reflects my commitment to lifting others while growing intentionally. It means knowing my worth, investing in skills, learning, and substance rather than rushing to prove myself. It means owning my story and voice, speaking with clarity and courage even when it is uncomfortable. It also means being an impact-driven leader, deeply committed to underserved communities, women, and youth. Being part of Women of Rubies aligns with my values and strengthens my resolve to use my talents, skills, and lived experiences as tools for meaningful change.
What’s Next: Projects and Impact in Progress
I am actively visiting organizations and schools to deliver digital insights and data literacy sessions. In January 2026, I led a seminar as a Computer Science alumna at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where I introduced students to Microsoft career pathways. I continue to coach, assess, and support their KPIs as they navigate their tech journeys. Additionally, through A-Aston Technologies, I design and execute paid tech training programs that equip individuals with future-ready digital skills essential for the evolving world of work.
Qualities That Have Shaped Julieth’s Growth Journey
Service has been the foundation of my growth. From early experiences in kindergarten, through national service and leadership roles across sectors in digital technology, facilities management, healthcare, and retail, I have experienced the value of service combined with purpose-driven leadership.
Commitment to Excellence is another quality that drives me: I completed my master’s at the University of Hertfordshire, UK and graduated as the best in my cohort and barged significant awards including the Deans award and the Rising star award. I am a strong advocate of excellence performance, and these qualities has provided opportunities for my personal and career growth.
In addition, Curiosity is a quality that keeps me learning, resilience keeps me grounded through uncertainty, and self-awareness ensures I grow intentionally while staying aligned with my values
