‘Women’s capacity to promote teamwork thrives on collective intelligence’

Jennifer Okeke-Ojiudu trained as a lawyer but she works in the tech space. As Senior Ecosystem Engagements Manager at AfriLabs, she drives the most impactful convening of the African technology and innovation ecosystem. She also serves as a strategic bridge fostering positive relationships between AfriLabs and African governments, international bodies and stakeholders to enhance the organisation’s image, promote its objectives and ensure its alignment with regional and international interests.

Prior to her current role, she led the Abuja office of the United Nations Agency Empretec Nigeria Foundation (a function of UNCTAD) and acted as a political/diplomatic liaison for the Abuja Times newspaper.

A graduate of law from the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom, and a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), she has lived and worked actively in Europe and Africa. A goal-driven, result-oriented professional and a proficient relationship builder with specialty in client, staff and administrative management, she has worked across various sectors ranging from the legal field to the innovation ecosystem while also volunteering for worthwhile causes like international refugee displacement and cancer research and awareness in rural Africa. In this interview with
IJEOMA THOMAS-ODIA, she shares her impact on women in the tech space.

Take us through your career path?
Since I was 10 years old, my dad is one of the oldest tanneries in Northern Nigeria. He is quite famous as he makes supplies to Louis Vuitton and Prada. So, all our lives, myself and siblings work with him, from every single element of the factory, from trimming all the way to processing.

I obviously chose a different path. I went to law school in England. I finished and returned to Nigeria and got called to the Bar. I thought I was going to be a lawyer. I worked at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) during my Youth Service. I worked directly in the Minister’s office at the time. I worked in the Legal Drafting Department as well, and we redrafted a bill that’s still in use today regarding tenancy in Abuja. At 21, I was in the Senate defending this bill that we drafted and it got passed.

After working at the FCDA for a while, I decided I was going to try working somewhere else. So, I moved to Lagos to work at Fine & Country as a management trainee for about three years. While I was working there, I was always volunteering at a cancer research facility where we put together races through schools. We had the big Lagos Marathon that used to run across the Lagos Island, creating awareness and raising funds for cancer research and awareness in rural parts of Nigeria.

I got married and moved to Abuja where I worked at the Abuja Times newspaper as their Diplomatic Liaison to all the embassies, government parastatals and key organisations. It gave me enough background and ability to learn, which has helped working at AfriLabs. As I grew in my role, I realised I had amassed enough skills over the last couple of years to do multiple things.

What key initiatives have you spearheaded to empower women within the tech and innovation ecosystem?
One project that holds particular significance to me is ‘The Working Mother’s Guide’. This aims at supporting working mothers, especially those in the technology and innovation sector. The guide, which I spearheaded, is designed to assist mothers in balancing their professional and family responsibilities. It offers valuable insights for mothers to seamlessly continue working, during and after pregnancy. It also provides guidance for parents, including fathers, to take time off work after the arrival of a new baby. This also helps organisations create little but effective changes, fostering a work environment conducive to the continued presence of working mothers.

As a woman leader in the tech and innovation space, what are some of the most significant lessons you have learnt in your career?
Over the course of my professional journey, I have garnered valuable insights that underscore the significance of resilience, continuous learning and the strategic utilisation of one’s unique strengths. Embracing challenges rather than shying away from them has been a fundamental principle that has propelled my growth in the dynamic landscape of the tech sector. Challenges, when viewed as opportunities for learning and growth, have the potential to shape individuals into more resilient and adaptable professionals. Maintaining a curious mindset has proven to be another pivotal aspect of sustained success in the ever-evolving tech industry. The rapid pace of technological advancements demands a proactive approach to acquiring new skills and staying abreast of industry trends. This commitment to continuous learning positions individuals to not only keep pace with the dynamic nature of technology but also to contribute meaningfully to innovation and progress. Building a robust support network has been a cornerstone of my career journey. This network, comprising mentors, peers and collaborators, provides a safety net during challenging times and a platform for collective problem-solving. The power of collaboration and mentorship cannot be overstated; it not only accelerates personal and professional growth but also fosters a sense of community within the tech sector.

Furthermore, the importance of recognising and leveraging one’s unique strengths cannot be emphasised enough. Each individual brings a distinct set of skills, experiences and perspectives to the table. Embracing and celebrating this diversity not only enhances the richness of ideas and solutions but also contributes to a more inclusive and innovative tech ecosystem. In cultivating a culture of collaboration and mentorship, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact it can have on unlocking the full potential of women in the tech sector. By creating environments that encourage knowledge sharing, mutual support and the celebration of achievements, we pave the way for aspiring women to thrive and make meaningful contributions. In essence, my career journey has taught me that resilience, continuous learning, leveraging unique strengths and fostering collaborative environments are not just individual attributes but crucial elements that collectively propel the tech sector forward.

What strategies do you employ to encourage mentorship and networking opportunities for women within the tech community?
We have established ‘The Women of AfriLabs Platform,’ an initiative fostering a network for female hub leaders, facilitators and partners. This platform serves as a hub for mentorship, providing opportunities for women to engage in meaningful dialogue, share experiences and offer mentorship to one another. Each woman within the network contributes by submitting a profile detailing their expertise, qualifications and what they are happy to teach another woman. This initiative empowers women to connect, learn and support each other within the innovation landscape.

What is your perspective on the role of women in shaping the future of innovation in Africa?
Women, with their multifaceted experiences and perspectives, play an instrumental role in shaping the landscape of the innovation and technology ecosystem. Their unique journey through life, distinct challenges and varied backgrounds bring forth a rich tapestry of insights that significantly impact the industry. In the realm of technology, diversity is not just a checkbox; it’s the driving force behind innovative thinking and problem-solving. Women in tech frequently demonstrate a collaborative and sympathetic leadership style, which is a strong influence in the industry. In a world where cooperation and connectivity are critical, women’s capacity to promote teamwork generates an environment at work that thrives on collective intelligence. This collaborative spirit not only enhances problem-solving but also leads to the cultivation of a supportive and creative atmosphere. The story of women’s influence is one of flexibility, resiliency and dedication to diversity. Women in tech are leaders, inventors and mentors who open doors for a more progressive, dynamic and well-rounded industry that values the range of experience and ideas that characterise the voice of women as a whole.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career?
For young women who aspire to build successful careers, I believe resilience is paramount. Developing a tough skin and facing challenges head-on are crucial aspects of this journey. Personally, I’ve navigated career pivots by embracing resilience and understanding my greater purpose. Many women may lack the confidence to persist through difficulties; and societal expectations sometimes push us to be more fragile. However, as young women in Africa, it’s imperative to persevere, view challenges as opportunities for growth and keep pushing forward. The greater the challenge, the more rewarding the outcome can be.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations even as a woman who has done well for herself in the corporate sector?
Collaborating with other strong women at AfriLabs and in my surroundings, I recognise the significance of leadership, training and opportunities for young women. Leadership roles and opportunities are often limited for young women, particularly in Africa. To address this gap, I aspire to establish a leadership academy for young girls, nurturing their innate leadership skills. In my role at AfriLabs, I would like to keep working on initiatives like the RevUp Women initiative, The Working Mother’s Guide, and The Women of AfriLabs Platform; which will bring opportunities to the typical or to the local African female to propel them to leadership roles. I would like to ensure that women in the workforce accelerate into leadership positions.