Heels and Tech, a champion for tech education for African women, celebrated a major milestone on July 5th, 2024, with their first-ever community linkup event. Held at the stylish La Chaumiere restaurant in Lagos’ Victoria Island, the event provided a vibrant space for aspiring female tech professionals to connect with industry leaders, share knowledge, and kickstart their journeys in the ever-changing tech world.
Heels and Tech, founded by tech leader Bisola Alabi, has come a long way. What began as a supportive community for women in tech has blossomed into a successful Edtech company with a strong course list. Offering over 60 courses across Africa, Heels and Tech has played a key role in helping over 100 women land jobs at top companies around the world.
The first community linkup event showcased Heels and Tech’s dedication to creating real opportunities for women in tech. The event was buzzing with excitement, attracting a diverse group of aspiring female tech professionals eager to learn, connect, and be inspired. Bisola Alabi, the driving force behind Heels and Tech, hosted the event, her passion for closing the gender gap in tech shining through in her warm welcome and opening remarks.
The highlight of the event was a series of engaging talks by prominent professionals across the Consulting and Finance industry.
Maris Akinsulere, the Senior Manager and Key Talent Acquisition lead at KPMG in Nigeria, Laid emphasis on networking without having to be told. He sparked the fire of networking at the event on Friday. He mentioned that if no one says get to know who is sitting next to you, many people will go home without speaking to each other. The MC ensured this happened after dining and wining and it was a beautiful moment as everyone introduced themselves and made instant friends. Shared contacts, business cards etc. He added that upskilling is also of great importance.
Zainab Kazeem, the People Operations Manager at the fast-growing fintech company, Payvantage Limited, shared with us her experience on how she was left with no choice to learn quickly as a new employee after her boss resigned a few months into her employment. She discussed her challenges and how she navigated through the experience to come out great. She also spoke about non-tech skills transferable into the tech space. She also spoke about networking and mentoring
Olajumoke Muftau, the Head of Human Resources at the well-respected Sovereign Finance Company Limited gave insight on how to climb the career ladder in the tech space. She also spoke about Work-life Balance.
Omolade Baderinwa, the People Operations Manager at the cutting-edge Dotx Technologies, spoke about visibility and blowing your trumpet. Ensuring you take every responsibility assigned to you seriously. She used herself as an example on how she prioritises each task and ensures everyone around her thinks of her first in her area of expertise. She recommended that we all should imbibe the culture of Excellence and Visibility.
These esteemed guests generously shared their knowledge and experiences, offering attendees practical advice on career development, essential skills for success in the tech industry, and the importance of building a strong network. The audience actively participated, asking insightful questions and sparking lively discussions.
The event wasn’t just about information sharing. It fostered a vibrant atmosphere of connection and collaboration. Attendees, united by their shared passion for technology and their desire to make their mark in the industry, readily exchanged ideas, formed valuable connections, and built the foundation for a supportive network.
“The energy at our first community linkup event was truly amazing,” said Bisola Alabi, Founder of Heels and Tech. “Seeing such a diverse and enthusiastic group of women come together to learn, network, and support each other reinforces our mission at Heels and Tech. We’re dedicated to empowering African women and giving them the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to not only succeed in the tech industry but also become the next generation of tech leaders on the continent.”
Heels and Tech is more than just tech courses. Their carefully designed curriculum is built to equip African women with a complete toolbox for success. The courses not only cover the technical side of different tech fields, but also equip participants with vital non-technical skills like project management, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This well-rounded approach empowers women to thrive in a demanding industry, adapt to rapid technological changes, and handle complex professional situations.
However, Heels and Tech understands that education alone isn’t enough. Events like the community linkup play a crucial role in creating a sense of community and belonging for women navigating the often-challenging world of tech. These events provide a platform for mentorship, knowledge sharing, and the creation of a strong support network.
Looking beyond the success of the first event, Heels and Tech is committed to making these community linkup events a regular feature. They envision a robust network of empowered and connected women across Africa, pushing each other forward and driving innovation within the tech sector.
The success of the first community linkup event is a testament to Heels and Tech’s dedication to empowering African women. As they continue to offer high-quality education, create supportive communities, and advocate for diversity in the tech sector, Heels and Tech is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of technology in Africa.
About Heels and Tech
Heels and Tech, a brand under The Learning Core Company, is a beacon of hope and opportunity for African women aspiring to excel in the dynamic world of technology. With a comprehensive curriculum of over 60 courses.
The impact of Heels and Tech extends beyond individual women. By empowering women to pursue careers in tech, they are contributing to a more diverse and inclusive tech landscape in Africa. This diversity of perspectives not only fosters innovation but also ensures that technology is developed and used in a way that benefits the entire continent.
Are you a woman in Africa passionate about technology? Are you looking to launch your tech career or take it to the next level?
Visit the Heels and Tech website to learn more about their courses, upcoming community events, and how you can become part of their vibrant network of empowered women.