Uncategorized – Page 2 – StartHub Africa

Empower YOU: Transforming Youth Entrepreneurship in Gulu and Lira

In the bustling towns of Gulu and Lira, a transformative initiative called https://starthubafrica.org/empoweryou (Empower YOU) is shaping the future of young entrepreneurs. At its core lies a commitment to equipping youths with the essential skills needed to thrive in the business world. Let’s delve into the story of Joshua Opakrwot, a determined youth whose journey embodies the impact of Empower You.

Joshua Opakrwot, a recent graduate from Good Samaritan High School in Nansana, Kampala, found himself at a crossroad during his vacation year. Faced with the need to become self-reliant, Joshua embarked on a quest to turn his aspirations into reality. Inspired by a desire to venture into entrepreneurship, Joshua sought guidance from a friend involved in shoe manufacturing.

Joshua making a presentation during one of the trainings

Through determination and a thirst for knowledge, Joshua immersed himself in the art of shoemaking under the mentorship of his friend. However, his entrepreneurial journey truly took flight when he discovered Empower YOU, a program tailored to empower young business minds like his own. Introduced to the program by his mentor, Joshua seized the opportunity to expand his skill set and enhance his business acumen.

What distinguishes Empower YOU is its focus on providing practical training in business management, a crucial aspect often overlooked in traditional education. Despite not having prior exposure to business subjects, Joshua recognized the significance of mastering financial management, savings, and record-keeping. These newfound skills not only fortified his current endeavors but also ignited a vision for the future.

Joshua and his colleague having a discussion about their experience with the Empower YOU with some of the StartHub members

With clarity and determination, Joshua envisions himself as a business owner with his own workshop and manufacturing space within the next five years. Empower You serves as the catalyst propelling him towards this goal, offering invaluable resources and mentorship along the way.

Joshua’s story is a testament to the transformative power of programs like Empower YOU. Beyond the tangible skills acquired, it instills confidence and ignites ambition in young entrepreneurs, empowering them to realize their dreams. His heartfelt recommendation echoes a sentiment shared by many: the true value lies not just in monetary gain but in the invaluable skills imparted by Empower YOU, offered completely free of charge.

Joshua Opakrwot showcasing samples of his products

As we celebrate initiatives like https://starthubafrica.org/empoweryou (Empower YOU), we extend our gratitude to StartHub Africa for spearheading such impactful endeavors in the Empower YOU project. Through their unwavering commitment, StartHub Africa is sculpting a brighter future for the youth of Gulu and Lira, one entrepreneur at a time, by enhancing sustainable income generation and life skills for youth micro and small business owners in these cities. Joshua’s journey is just one of many, a testament to the boundless potential unlocked when passion meets opportunity

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Zetu Africa: Reshaping Education and Design

In the ever-evolving realm of social entrepreneurship, few narratives carry as much resonance as that of Zetu Africa, an innovative enterprise committed to reshaping the landscape of education and design. At its helm stands Arnold Leon Mugagga, the Managing Director of Zetu Africa and Co-Founder of Zetu Foundation, whose unwavering commitment to social impact has propelled the company from its inception to remarkable heights.

Arnold Leon Muggagga, Managing Director of Zetu Africa

Zetu Africa’s journey began in 2019 with a simple yet revolutionary idea: the SeatPack. Inspired by the dire conditions faced by students in schools across Uganda, Arnold and his team embarked on a mission to provide sustainable alternatives to traditional classroom furniture. Through tireless research and experimentation, they developed the SeatPack—a school bag that transforms into a chair with a writing surface, offering children a portable and stable learning environment. This innovative solution not only addresses the pressing issue of inadequate classroom furniture but also contributes to environmental conservation efforts by utilizing recycled materials.

As with any startup, Zetu Africa faced its fair share of challenges along the way. From implementing efficient production systems to managing competition in the market, the journey has been marked by perseverance and dedication. Through strategic partnerships with organizations like StartHub, Zetu Africa has been able to overcome these obstacles, leveraging resources and expertise to drive innovation and growth.

At the core of Zetu Africa’s mission lies a commitment to driving impact through innovation. By providing sustainable alternatives to traditional products and fostering a culture of design thinking, the company is transforming education and design across Africa. Through initiatives like the Zetu Foundation, Zetu Africa extends its impact beyond profit-making activities, channeling part of its profits towards philanthropic endeavors and distributing SeatPacks to schools in need.

In envisioning the future of Zetu Africa, Arnold sees a world where millions of children benefit from SeatPacks distributed through the Zetu Foundation and millions of Africans incorporate Zetu-designed and built products into their daily lives. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and social impact, Zetu Africa is poised to shape a brighter future for communities across the continent.

The Zetu Africa story is evidence of the power of entrepreneurship to drive meaningful change in society. Through their innovative solutions and unwavering commitment to social impact, Arnold and his team are reshaping the landscape of education and design, one SeatPack at a time. As they continue their journey, Zetu Africa serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs everywhere, demonstrating the transformative potential of business as a force for good in the world.

Zetu Africa is among the many startups that have been nurtured through the StartHub Africa Catalyzer program, a venture-building program that helps businesses grow faster.

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Innovate4FoodSecurity- Transforming Agriculture for Climate Resilience and Food Security

Imagine a world where food security is not threatened by climate change and young people are empowered to drive agricultural innovation. This ambitious vision is at the core of Innovate4FoodSecurity, an initiative spearheaded by StartHub Africa and Ennovate Ventures in partnership with NOREC.

Climate change poses a grave threat to food security in East Africa, and the region is experiencing unpredictable weather patterns and irregular rainfall. Conventional agricultural methods are ill-equipped to withstand these challenges. However, innovative approaches and forward-thinking perspectives must be embraced to ensure resilience, particularly those championed by younger generations.

At Innovate4FoodSecurity, our approach to this is to harness the potential of the youth by facilitating cross-border exchange programs that bring together young entrepreneurs from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. These endeavors offer them prospects to gain knowledge, forge connections, and participate in inventive pursuits and below is how:

1. Identifying Opportunities:

The project begins with intensive needs assessments alongside market analysis. Participants engage with diverse stakeholders across the agricultural value chain while unearthing challenges and gaps within the system.

2. Fueling Creativity:

Equipped with valuable insights, participants engage in dynamic “ideathons,” or brainstorming sessions tailored to ignite innovative solutions. These sessions comprise students from diverse disciplines who bring fresh perspectives into play.

3. From Idea to Venture:

Ten highly potential teams arise from ideathons and proceed to a six-week incubation program led by seasoned mentors. During this period, they enhance their ideas while crafting business strategies tailored toward practical implementation in the real world.

4. Sharing Successes

Every semester concludes with Demo Days, during which teams present their ventures to investors and judges, including potential partners. This event represents an opportunity for them to secure funding, receive invaluable feedback, and embark on their entrepreneurial journeys.

5. Continuous Growth

Chosen teams are granted continuous mentorship and coaching, propelling them toward sustainable expansion and meaningful impact.

Talking about impact, Innovate4FoodSecurity’s core focus goes beyond empowering individuals; it looks at building resilient food systems capable of enduring climate change shocks. Additionally, the project encourages increased participation among youths across the agricultural value chain, thereby creating job opportunities and income prospects.

The idea of fostering cross-border collaboration that facilitates knowledge exchange and innovation remains core to the project while cultivating a generation of climate-conscious entrepreneurs and driving positive changes.

Join the movement!

Innovate4FoodSecurity is a dynamic ecosystem consisting of dedicated individuals who are committed to creating a future where food security and climate resilience are interdependent. Join us as participants, mentors, investors, or supporters, and let’s empower young minds to build brighter futures for everyone!

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How StartHub Africa is Bridging the Gap Between Ugandan Talent and the Private Sector

Innovate For Employment Kickoff Event: Group Photo

Uganda’s vibrant youth population boasts potential, but unfortunately, that potential often faces a harsh reality: unemployment. Uganda witnesses a staggering influx of 700,000 young job seekers annually, yet only 12,000 formal job opportunities are advertised. This isn’t just a personal struggle; it’s a missed opportunity for Uganda’s private sector to unlock the next level of growth. The ecosystem is losing out on expansion and capacity, and the public sector is losing out on tax base growth.

Innovate for Employment is more than just a graduate program; it’s a bridge. It recognizes the disconnect between the skills universities equip graduates with and the demands of the private sector. Through a secure and risk-free training program, it equips students and graduates with job-ready skills, offering mentorship, industry exposure, and networking opportunities. Think innovation challenges, company placements, and expert workshops—all preparing them to hit the ground running.

StartHub Africa understands that Uganda’s future lies in the hands of individuals who can not only adapt but also proactively influence their workplaces. Through the program, we foster innovative thinking, problem-solving, and a hunger for growth—qualities coveted by any forward-thinking company.

Innovate for Employment’s long-term vision is ambitious yet achievable. StartHub Africa aspires to create a generation of skilled, proactive Ugandan professionals who can either transform existing organizations or build successful businesses of their own. This, in turn, will fuel private sector growth, resulting in a thriving and dynamic economic landscape in Uganda.

Our approach is strategically driven by three core elements: partnership, practical skills training, and innovation.

Our public-private sector collaborations help us to ensure that the program is relevant and sustainable. Our training is focused on practical skills and industry needs, not just academic qualifications. Fostering a culture of innovation and risk-taking enables participants to gain a strong sense of proprietorship, cultivate a growth mindset and demonstrate responsibility.

Innovate for Employment is implemented by StartHub Africa in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Uganda. Checkout our program website to learn more and to get involved.

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StartHub Launchpad Alumna Barbara Shines in Business World

Nakato Barbara is an entrepreneur and director at Nature’s Love Packaging (NLP), specializing in eco-friendly custom packaging. She holds a bachelor’s degree in procurement and logistics management from Ndejje University. Nakato is a graduate of the Continental Boot Camp Training on AfCFTA and the Stanbic Incubator Program. She holds certificates in Enterprise Development, Intra-African Trade, and Export Readiness.

Currently, she leads partnerships and engagements for the Independent Continental Youth Advisory Council on AfCFTA, promoting AfCFTA initiatives and awareness among traders and entrepreneurs.

We recently had a chat with Barbara. She shared about her remarkable journey through the StartHub Launchpad program and the transformative impact it had on her business and career.

Barbara has seen remarkable growth since then. Without further ado, let us dive into her inspiring story.

Nakato Barbara, director at Nature’s Love Packaging (NLP)

What year did you join, and how did you learn about the Launchpad program?

In 2019, while I was in my second year at Ndejje University, I met the Starthub Africa team. They had set up a tent on our campus, passionately sharing information about their program and the opportunities they offered to students.

I was intrigued by the things they said, so I approached their tent to learn more. That’s how I learned about an information session and registered.

The idea of diving into the world of entrepreneurship and gaining hands-on experience instantly captivated me. I later submitted my application, considering that the program was also highly recommended by one of my entrepreneurship lecturers.

What made you want to participate in the program?

I had a desire to understand the intricacies of the business world, particularly how to start a business with little to no capital.

During my high school years at Mengo Senior School, my twin sister and I heard a lot during entrepreneurship classes that one needed capital as a fundamental requirement to start a business. When the team at StartHub said it was possible to start a business with as little as Ush 5,000, I wanted to see if it would work.

At university, I knew I wanted to do more than just attend lectures, return home, and repeat the cycle. So I embarked on the journey of learning and self-discovery.

I was eager to uncover the secrets of generating income beyond the classroom, put theory into practice, and taste what real entrepreneurship looks like.

At the time of joining, did you have a business, or you were at the idea stage?

I didn’t have a business yet, but my sister and I had some ideas, though we were not sure about the right one to pursue.

How did the Launchpad program affect the kind of business idea you came up with?

When I joined the Launchpad program at Ndejje University, I soon became an ambassador for the StartHub Club at the university, alongside two other students.

Some of our roles as StartHub ambassadors included organizing weekly entrepreneurship sessions, where we encouraged fellow students to join and learn with us.

During one session led by Mr. Joel Bamwise, we were tasked with brainstorming business ideas that we could start with capital of Ush 5,000 (about $2).

At first, we considered making crisps but then decided against it since the Ush 5,000 would not have been enough to make it a success.

My sister Allen came up with the perfect idea: to make packaging material. We went ahead and bought material with part of the Uhs 5000 and started making paper bags from old newspapers and our schoolbooks, which we no longer needed.

We supplied this packaging material to the school canteens and local businesses in our village. This 5k business challenge marked the beginning of our venture, which has now grown into Nature’s Love Packaging.

How did the Launchpad program help you establish your business?

During our time in the Launchpad program, we were tasked with several critical activities, such as identifying market opportunities, calculating business expenses, and determining profits. We shared our progress and findings every Friday.

This hands-on experience taught us about the realities of entrepreneurship beyond the confines of textbooks. We actively established our presence in the market and learned on the job.

As we progressed, we formalized our business and registered with URSB under the name “Nature’s Love Packaging Company.”

Our core focus was solving packaging challenges. We identified several problems and embarked on a mission to develop sustainable solutions.

Our first clients were school canteen owners. We also received a lot of support and mentorship from the academy facilitators, including notable business leaders like the CEO of SAS Best Foods, Mr. Aksam Mivule, and the CEO of Grin Foods Restaurant.

We were overjoyed to receive our first order from Grin Foods Restaurant. That empowered us to keep pursuing our dreams as entrepreneurs.

What major things did you learn that pushed you to implement your business idea?

As a StartHub ambassador, I often visited other universities like Makerere and Uganda Christian University (UCU) to invite students to our info sessions so that they could learn about our StartHub club and other programs they could be part of.

During one of the visits at UCU, a certain student asked us if we had our own business. At that time, we had not yet started fully running our business, but we felt pushed to move forward, implement our packaging idea, and promote the business even more.

By doing this, If someone else asked if we had a business, we would proudly say we had businesses and therefore were Good StartHub ambassadors.

I was also inspired by a testimony from Arnold of Zetu Africa. His business makes bags, which can also be turned into classroom furniture. Such stories made me want to impact my community too.

Packaging for EFC made by Nature’s Love Packaging (NLP)

How did the Launchpad program shape your view of entrepreneurship?

Absolutely, yes. After joining the program, I became a problem solver. With NLP, we’re now among the nationally recognized businesses working hard to tackle the negative effects of climate change by making branded, affordable, eco-friendly packages.

I started believing that entrepreneurship was doable and not as hard as I had thought. Today, we have a knowledgeable customer base, provide employment opportunities for casual laborers, and maintain a team of six permanent workers.

We probably wouldn’t have made it this far without the program.

If you went back in time to do the Launchpad again, what would you do differently?

If I went back, I’d urge all my university friends to join the Launchpad program.

In Uganda, we’re not taught to challenge ourselves and do hard things. Everyone wants to do easy businesses like selling clothes and shoes.

The more we challenge ourselves, the more opportunities we’re exposed to. But as for the rest of the journey, I proudly say I made it in life because of Starthub Africa.

What wins, successes, or recognitions have you received along the way?

Our business, Nature’s Love Packaging (NLP), is now a registered business in Uganda. We have managed to create a diverse product range, including branded paper bags, shawarma wrappers, and eco-friendly tote bags.

We are committed to raising awareness of environmental sustainability, particularly among women and youth, through training programs.

We have gained certifications from reputable organizations like Rotaract Ladies Initiatives (ROLI) and the Stanbic Business Incubator.

One of the certifications Barbara has received

We also have partnerships with institutions like the Girl Power Ministry, where we actively participate in skill-building initiatives for young women. We teach them how to create paper bags and equip them with the tools to enable them to start their own businesses.

Our journey has been marked by milestones, including a growing permanent workforce and media coverage on prominent platforms such as Spark TV, Baba TV, BBS TV, and various YouTube channels.

These platforms have allowed us to share our story of how we began and capitalized on the opportunities presented by the lockdown.

My sister Allen is now pursuing a Master’s Degree in Energy Economics to enhance the company’s intellectual capabilities in product development and quality management.

A certificate awarded to NLP by Rotaract Club Kampala Central

Any words of wisdom to young people who aspire to become business owners soon?

My advice to young entrepreneurs is to build a dedicated team of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the business.

Entrepreneurship, especially in the early stages, can be isolating, leading to challenges like overwhelming responsibilities and limited experiences when trying to share the burden. Having a well-organized team allows for effective task delegation.

Networking is another helpful skill you need. But you’ll need faith and perseverance even more. You will meet many obstacles, but as long as you keep believing in yourself and in your business, you will make it.

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If you enjoyed Barbara’s story, click here to learn more about the StartHub Launchpad program.

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How KaziConnect is Transforming Tanzanian Hiring: Meet the Inspiring Mbaga Sisters

Welcome to the fifth #SheTechsTheFuture interview series, where we celebrate the remarkable journeys of pioneering female tech entrepreneurs in East Africa. Through these stories, we aim to inspire and empower young women, encouraging them to chase their dreams of establishing thriving tech enterprises on the African continent.

In today’s interview, we interview sisters, Gizzel and Gillian Mbaga, co-founders of KaziConnect.

KaziConnect is a human resource consulting and technology company in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Gizzel and Gillian share the story of how their business was built and the lessons learned so far.

“Our business name is KaziConnect, an HR Tech company whose name stands for both “job” and “mission” in Swahili.”

Gizzel (L) and Gillian (R) Mbaga, co-founders of KaziConnect

How did you start your company?

We are very passionate about people, culture, technology, and human psychology. In the past 10 years cumulatively, we have worked as Human Resources professionals, where our expertise lies in recruiting, consulting, AI, and B2B sales servicing organizations from NGOs, FMCGs, Fintech, engineering, and SMEs in the private sector.

Two years ago, we accidentally founded KaziConnect due to increasing client demands while Gizzel was on sabbatical in the US and Gillian was working at a Logistics company.

KaziConnect is a modernized recruitment platform that leverages technology, specifically smart matching technology, and AI-based search, to connect job seekers to employers.

The future of talent acquisition and job search is evolving more than ever, and there’s no question that AI will or is changing the job market. We are strategically positioning our company, KaziConnect, with innovation and creativity to revolutionize the recruitment industry for good.

What inspired you to pursue a career in technology?

Technology is constantly evolving, and there are always new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow. We wanted to be part of the change.

The main reason we’re pursuing careers in HR technology is the desire to solve employability problems and create innovative solutions that can benefit society.

But specifically, to shy away from the traditional way of recruiting. We mainly use technology as the center of our work. Technology is an enabler to transform the way we work, especially in the recruitment and job search space.

How have you seen the tech industry evolve during your career, and what changes would you like to see in the future?

Over the years, we have seen HR technology undergo significant changes. These changes have been driven by advancements in technology and the increasing demand for digital solutions to support HR processes.

Some of the key changes that have occurred in the HR tech industry over the past decade include; a shift towards cloud-based solutions, an increased focus on employee engagement and experience, greater use of data analytics, and the increasing use of AI and chatbots.

Looking to the future, we hope to see the HR tech industry adopt some changes like an increased focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion and more personalized experiences for employees.

How do you stay motivated and focused on achieving your goals?

We’re very passionate and purpose-driven individuals. Being able to wake up every day to help people find jobs and see their lives change, empowers us.

We also rely on our friends and family and surround ourselves with like-minded business owners who encourage and challenge us in many ways.

How do you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in technology and ensure your company stays ahead of the curve?

We make sure to attend industry events, regularly catch up on industry publications, and follow thought leaders such as Jacob Morgan and Megan M. Biro.

Which opportunities do you see for young women in tech?

We believe that technology has no limits. Young women in technology have vast opportunities like training and mentorship programs across the world, an ever-growing demand for female tech stars, and advancement in their careers by being able to get job opportunities anywhere in the world.

Gillian Mbaga during a workday at KaziConnect

What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a female tech founder, and how did you overcome them?

Some of the biggest challenges we have faced include the fact that there is gender bias and discrimination in the tech industry. It is a male-dominated space, and most investors tend to prefer to invest in a company that has at least one male founder.

If a company is led by an all-female team, it has low chances of getting investment. This has made it hard for us to raise the necessary resources we need to grow the business.

There are also very few women who have built successful tech companies, which makes it hard to find the right leader to emulate.

To overcome these challenges, we have sought and joined communities of other female founders and discovered mentorship programs so that we can get guidance from experienced leaders in the industry

What are some key traits you believe all successful tech founders share?

Every founder who wants to achieve success in tech must have at least three of the following traits; adaptability, persistence, passion, visionary thinking, and strong leadership skills.

What advice would you give to young women who aspire to start a career in tech?

Building a career in tech can be daunting, but it is doable, and you can be good at it. Seek out hackathons, training boot camps, and fellowships.

Actively participate in founder communities to be informed of any grant or funding opportunities that arise. Don’t forget soft skills, learn how to speak in front of a crowd, get good communication and presentation skills, and learn how to effectively build networks.

Where do you see your company five years from now?

Five years from now, we hope to have advanced AI and Automation on our platform and expand into new markets. We want to grow KaziConnect into a leading HR company in Tanzania and across borders.

Thank you!

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If you loved this story, follow Gillian and KaziConnect on LinkedIn to stay in touch with the company’s journey of transforming HR and recruitment in Tanzania.

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The Power of Emerging Technologies: Evelyn Ngatia’s Brilliant Business Transformation Story

Welcome to the third #SheTechsTheFuture interview series, where we celebrate the remarkable journeys of pioneering female tech entrepreneurs in East Africa. Through these stories, we aim to inspire and empower young women, encouraging them to chase their dreams of establishing thriving tech enterprises on the African continent.

In today’s interview, we had the honor of speaking with Evelyn Ngatia, the CEO and founder of TechaWatt. Evelyn’s story is one of relentless determination and groundbreaking achievements in the world of technology.

As we delve into her experiences, we’ll uncover the remarkable trajectory of her tech consultancy business and explore the prestigious global recognition she has garnered, including the Inspiring 50 United Kingdom Award and the esteemed Accenture Gender Mainstreaming Award.

Hi Evelyn, tell us about yourself and what you do.

I am the Founder & CEO of TechaWatt Ltd and the Board Chair of the Women in Tech Alliance at the European Technology Chamber. TechaWatt Ltd operates out of Nairobi, Kenya, but our services span the globe.

How did you start your company? (Share your company story)

During my tenure as a relationship manager at a bank, I dealt with clients across power, infrastructure, manufacturing, and real estate sectors at varying times. Feeling unfulfilled, the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic allowed me the time and opportunity to delve into my passions. Engaging a coach who held me accountable for the strategic decisions I made, I began writing articles, published a book, and started a company focused on emerging technology.

My love for teaching, novelty, and innovation led me to consultancy as a business model, combining training, strategy development, thought leadership, and emerging technology. In line with my focus on the strategic aspect of emerging technology, I firmly believe that being a techie isn’t a prerequisite for working in the tech industry.

Emerging technologies encompass those in early development stages, including artificial intelligence, internet of things, blockchain, 5G technology, and 3D printing, among others. This concept links closely with ‘Industry 4.0’, representing the convergence of physical and digital worlds, epitomized by the ‘digital twins’ concept—a digital replication of a physical factory, car, human, etc.

Evelyn won the Positive Role Model Award in the Professional Services Category at the Accenture Gender Mainstreaming Awards

What inspired you to pursue a career in technology?

While in the power and infrastructure sector at the bank, my work on strategy development for the off-grid sector in East Africa piqued my interest in emerging technologies. While working on the strategy, the industry’s use of big data, data analytics, and the Internet of Things sparked my interest, leading me to explore these topics under the broader category of emerging technologies.

The awards and recognition I received further motivated me to persist in the technology field. These acknowledgments were a testament to the appreciation of my contributions to this sector. I’ve had the honor of receiving global accolades such as the Inspiring 50 United Kingdom Award and the Accenture Gender Mainstreaming Award.

Additionally, I’ve been identified as one of the Top 50 Global Thought Leaders on Emerging Technology and made the Who’s Who in Industry 4.0 list. Moreover, TechaWatt has been recognized as one of the Top 50 thought-leading companies on Renewable Energy for its contributions to emerging technologies in the renewable energy sector.

Beyond that, I’ve had the privilege of participating in numerous major tech conferences and events as a keynote speaker and panelist. I’ve also enjoyed media interviews, which further confirm my alignment with this field.

In addition, my appointment as the Board Chair of the Women in Tech Alliance at the European Technology Chamber has reaffirmed my dedication to the tech sector.

Evelyn as a Panel speaker at the 2022 TransUnion Africa Summit. Photo by Safaricom PLC

How have you seen the tech industry evolve during your career, and what changes would you like to see in the future?

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 triggered a rapid evolution of technology trends. Significant advancements were observed thereafter in Generative AI, especially in natural language processing and deep learning. Machine learning models, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, have become exceedingly proficient at creating human-like text, with applications spanning numerous fields and democratizing access to information.

However, the emergence of such powerful AI technologies has also raised ethical and safety concerns, particularly related to their potential misuse for disseminating disinformation or creating deepfakes. Moving forward, I would like to see a focused effort on promoting the responsible and ethical use of technology, emphasizing data privacy and security, and making digital accessibility a priority.

Additionally, I have noticed a concerted push for advancing women in technology and encouraging girls in STEM, as well as promoting gender diversity in the tech industry. I view these developments as a positive step forward.

In 2021, Evelyn was recognized as Top 25 global thought leaders on emerging technology.

How do you stay motivated and focused on achieving your goals?

I am a firm believer in God and find motivation in the wisdom granted by God for witty inventions (Proverbs 8:12). This connection with God keeps me grounded, reminding me of my purpose and the direction of my journey. Additionally, passion is a significant motivator for me. The opportunity to contribute to the tech industry and make meaningful changes excites me.

How do you stay up to date with the latest advancements in technology and ensure your company stays ahead of the curve?

Staying informed is crucial, and I do this by carefully selecting my professional readings, following tech thought leaders, subscribing to industry newsletters, and reading reputable tech blogs. Moreover, I regularly participate in industry conferences, webinars, and workshops for insights into emerging trends and networking opportunities.

At 2023 East Africa Com – Roundtable Discussion on Gender Equality **in East Africa’s Tech Sector**

Which opportunities do you see for young women in tech?

Despite traditionally being a male-dominated industry, tech is evolving with an increasing demand for gender diversity. From software development and data analysis to product management, UX design, and tech entrepreneurship, there’s a vast array of careers that young women can pursue in tech. Diverse teams have proven to be more innovative and effective problem-solvers, so organizations are actively seeking to promote gender diversity. Moreover, there’s a strong push to encourage girls and young women to pursue STEM education, supported by many initiatives and scholarships.

However, we must acknowledge the existing hurdles, like creating inclusive work environments, ensuring equal pay, and providing mentorship and growth opportunities for women. These challenges also present opportunities for young women to influence and shape the tech industry’s future.

What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a female tech founder and how did you overcome them?

One of the main challenges as a female tech founder was the lack of representation. Being one of the few women in meetings or networking events can be daunting. I sought out women-centric tech communities and organizations that offered valuable resources and networking opportunities.

Another challenge was the unconscious bias that sometimes prevails in the tech industry. Instances where my expertise and abilities were overlooked or underestimated were frustrating but they also fuelled my resolve to succeed. I learned to assert my ideas and demonstrated my capabilities through the quality of my work.

Moderator at European Technology Chamber Webinar on Women in Cybersecurity: Why Diversity Matters. Picture by European Technology Chamber.

What are some key traits you believe all successful tech founders share?

In my view, successful tech founders typically share several key characteristics:

a. Ingenuity – The ability to devise innovative solutions to problems.

b. Vision and leadership – The ability to imagine something that does not yet exist and lead a team to bring it to life.

c. Grit – The perseverance to keep going despite difficulties and the passion to stay committed to long-term goals.

What advice would you give to young women who aspire to start a career in tech?

Start by addressing any limiting beliefs you may have about the tech industry. A limiting belief might be something like ‘tech is a male-dominated field, why bother’ or ‘tech is too complex’ or ‘I’m too old’. Challenge these beliefs by finding mentors and role models who have overcome these barriers. Believe in yourself and pursue your passion in technology.

Where do you see your company 5 years from now?

In five years, I envision TechaWatt Ltd as a global leader and innovator in the tech industry, continually pushing technological boundaries. I see us expanding our services and creating revolutionary solutions that make a significant impact on people’s lives.

………………….

Evelyn’s story leaves a lasting mark on the landscape of technology and business. Her unwavering determination, coupled with a relentless pursuit of innovation, has propelled her to the forefront of the industry.

As we celebrate her accomplishments, let us embrace her story as a testament to the incredible potential that lies within each of us to create, innovate, and lead the way toward a brighter, more technologically advanced future.

We are deeply grateful to Evelyn for graciously sharing her story with us. Her willingness to open up and share her experiences is truly admirable, and we hold her in high regard.

If you are captivated by the world of incredible possibilities that Evelyn’s story presents, we invite you to connect with her on LinkedIn by following this link.

She Techs The Future is an initiative aimed at fostering female-led digital ventures in East Africa, specifically Uganda, and Tanzania. The project is implemented by StartHub Africa in partnership with the Business Scouts for Development (BSfD) by the Gesellschaft for Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Federation of German Industries (BDI), and Sequa on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

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Video: Patience Ankunda on Building a Fintech Company in Uganda

Welcome to the second #SheTechsTheFuture interview series, where we celebrate the remarkable journeys of pioneering female tech entrepreneurs in East Africa. Through these stories, we aim to inspire and empower young women, encouraging them to chase their dreams of establishing thriving tech enterprises on the African continent.

In today’s interview, Patience shares her inspiring journey building Culipa, driven by her desire to make a difference through technology.

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SheTechs the Future is an initiative aimed at fostering female-led digital ventures in East Africa, specifically Uganda, and Tanzania. The project is implemented by StartHub Africa in partnership with the Business Scouts for Development (BSfD) by the Gesellschaft for Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Federation of German Industries (BDI), and Sequa on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

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Meet Beth Wambui, the Woman Behind MyWagePay: Empowering Corporate Employees with Financial Wellness Solutions

Welcome to the first #SheTechsTheFuture interview series, where we highlight the stories of top female tech entrepreneurs in East Africa. Our goal is to inspire and motivate young women to pursue their dreams of building successful tech companies on the African continent.

In today’s interview, we had the privilege of speaking with Beth Wambui, CEO and founder of MyWagePay. As a leading entrepreneur in the fintech industry, Beth has built an innovative financial wellness company that targets corporate employees and helps alleviate their financial challenges.

In this interview, Beth shares her journey of starting and scaling MyWagePay, the challenges she faced along the way, and her advice for aspiring female entrepreneurs in East Africa.

We hope that Beth’s story will inspire and encourage young women to pursue their passion for technology and entrepreneurship and to see the potential that lies in building successful tech companies in Africa.

1. How did you start your company? (Share your company story)

In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the idea of Mywagepay was born. With economic instability in the country, even employees with stable jobs were struggling financially. To address this issue, we decided to launch a financial wellness company that targets corporate employees and helps alleviate their financial challenges. We officially launched in 2021 with a pilot program and began scaling into the larger market in early 2022.

Our launch was met with success, which led us to obtain a Digital Credit Provider (DCP) license from the Central Bank of Kenya in September 2022. As one of the first 10 companies to receive this license in our first year of operation, we have grown significantly. Today, Mywagepay aspires to transform into a fully digital bank that serves underserved populations in Africa, and we are committed to continuing our mission of providing financial wellness to those who need it most.

2. What motivated you to pursue a career in technology?

My passion for enhancing financial inclusion in the country inspired me to explore the tech industry, particularly fintech. Kenya is a rapidly growing economy with a tech-savvy population, and a significant portion of the population remains unbanked or underbanked. Through fintech innovation, we can address this challenge and provide financial services to these underserved communities. Thus, my decision to pursue a career in technology was driven by my desire to make a positive impact on society by leveraging the power of technology.

Beth attending Global Conference for Young Founders Program, Berlin

3. How have you seen the tech industry evolve during your career, and what changes would you like to see in the future?

Over the past decade, Kenya’s tech industry, particularly the fintech sector, has undergone significant evolution. Mobile money services like M-Pesa were introduced in the early 2000s and quickly gained popularity, providing Kenyans with access to basic financial services via their mobile phones. This paved the way for other fintech startups to emerge, offering a range of financial products and services, including digital payments (such as Mywagepay), lending, insurance, and investment.

Today, Kenya’s fintech industry is one of the most developed in Africa, with a thriving ecosystem of startups, investors, and support organizations. In recent years, there has been a focus on developing fintech solutions that address specific challenges facing the country, such as financial inclusion, access to credit, and remittances. The Kenyan government has been supportive of the fintech sector, introducing policies and initiatives to promote innovation and entrepreneurship and creating a permissive regulatory ecosystem.

Looking to the future, the fintech industry in Kenya is likely to continue to grow and evolve. Trends that may emerge include continued innovation in digital payments and mobile money, with the potential for new solutions that make payments even more seamless and accessible. Traditional financial institutions may also adopt more fintech solutions to compete with startups and meet changing customer needs. Fintech companies may also focus more on financial inclusion, developing solutions that reach underserved and marginalized communities. Finally, the use of data analytics and machine learning may increase, enabling the development of more sophisticated credit scoring models, fraud detection systems, and other applications.

Beth graduating from African Management Institute

4. How do you stay motivated and focused on achieving your goals?

I set clear and specific goals to achieve success in both my personal and professional life. To make sure these goals are manageable, I break them down into smaller tasks and prioritize staying organized.

Additionally, I celebrate small victories along the way to provide a sense of accomplishment toward my overall goals. I recognize the importance of surrounding myself with supportive individuals, including mentors and others who have experienced similar journeys.

5. How do you stay up to date with the latest advancements in technology and ensure your company stays ahead of the curve?

As an AfricaBerlin Network Ambassador, I actively participate in conferences and events focused on technology. I also conduct thorough research to stay informed about developments in the field, especially in terms of regulatory changes and technological advancements. By doing so, I can ensure that Mywagepay stays ahead of the curve and remains up to date with the latest advancements.

6. Which opportunities do you see for young women in tech?

The tech industry in Kenya offers a multitude of opportunities for young women, including roles in product and project management, UX/UI design, marketing and communications, and entrepreneurship. However, support is crucial to help these women venture into these and other fields in the Kenyan tech scene.

beth wambui mywagepay — MyWagePay won best company with Best Impact Potential at Techbridge Accelerator Demo Day

7. What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a female tech founder and how did you overcome them?

As a professional in Kenya, I have encountered numerous challenges including gender bias and discrimination, limited access to funding, a dearth of role models and support networks, and the ongoing struggle to balance personal and professional life.

To overcome these hurdles, I have learned to rely on a strong support network, be proactive and assertive in seeking out funding opportunities, and collaborate closely with role models and advocates for equality.

Additionally, I make self-care and work-life balance a top priority to ensure that I maintain my mental and physical well-being. Despite the obstacles, I remain committed to achieving success in my field and advocating for greater opportunities and equality for all.

8. What are some key traits you believe all successful tech founders share?

Successful founders in the tech industry are typically visionary, innovative, resilient, and adaptable. They are driven to achieve their goals and are customer-focused, always striving to provide the best possible experience. With these qualities, founders can overcome challenges and achieve success in their companies.

Beth with her mentor, Mathias Von Bismark in Berlin during Westerwelle Foundation Demo Day

9. What advice would you give to young women who aspire to start a career in tech?

For young women, my advice is to pursue their passion and not give up. It is crucial to continuously build their skills and knowledge to stay ahead in their chosen field. They should embrace risks and be persistent in their efforts to become successful entrepreneurs.

10. Where do you see your company 5 years from now

Our vision for Mywagepay is to evolve into a fully digital bank within the next five years. We are determined to expand our services beyond our current payment, lending, savings, and infrastructure as a service solution to include partners across East and West Africa.

By doing so, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the regulatory environments and market dynamics in these regions, which will position us well to achieve our long-term goal of becoming a digital bank. Our focus remains on creating accessible and innovative financial solutions to meet the needs of underserved populations across Africa.

In conclusion, the story of Beth Wambui and MyWagePay is one that serves as an inspiration to aspiring female tech entrepreneurs in East Africa. Beth’s determination, vision, and commitment to innovation have led to the creation of a company that is enabling corporate employees to take control of their finances and alleviate financial stress.

We are grateful to Beth Wambui for sharing her journey with us and for the impact she is making through MyWagePay. Connect with Beth on LinkedIn.

SheTechs the Future is an initiative aimed at fostering female-led digital ventures in East Africa, specifically Uganda, and Tanzania. The project is implemented by StartHub Africa in partnership with the Business Scouts for Development (BSfD) by the Gesellschaft for Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Federation of German Industries (BDI), and Sequa on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

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The Open Innovation Program – All You Need To Know

The Open Innovation Program is an opportunity for early-stage innovators and entrepreneurs in Uganda to take their technology-driven solutions to the next level. The program is implemented by StartHub Africa in partnership with Make-IT in Africa, a project by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The Open Innovation Program is focused on bridging the gap between private and public sector needs and innovators/start-ups providing customized solutions in the areas of Smart Cities.

Open Innovation Program Uganda — Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash

The program is designed to refine smart city ideas or solutions from startups, potentially establish long-term partnerships between startups and relevant partners, and set the startups up for success through personalized venture development and business modelling.

The program will focus on two key smart city core thematic categories: mobility and transport, infrastructure and property technology, and an open category.

Through the program, participants will get access to partners, coaching and mentorship, learning workshops, investor meetings, and a community of awesome entrepreneurs.

The Open Innovation Program offers a unique opportunity for handpicked participants to access a range of esteemed partners, including Jumia, Housing Finance Bank, KaCyber, NITA Uganda and the E-trade association. Through collaboration with these partners, startups will receive invaluable assistance in refining their innovative ideas and solutions.

In fact, if a partner is particularly impressed with a startup’s solution, there is potential to establish a long-term partnership, with both parties working together to advance the solution to a stage where it can be successfully introduced to the market. By doing so, the program aims to tackle a significant challenge and bring Uganda one step closer to realizing its vision of smart cities.

To apply for the Open Innovation Program;

you must be working on a smart city solution in Uganda, and at least having a minimum viable product (MVP).
You must address at least one smart city problem statement and be open to co-create and potentially pivot.
You must also be in teams with a minimum of two people, with founders working full-time on the startup, at least 20 hours per week.
Finally, all participants MUST be fluent in the English Language.

The application period for the program opened on 11th April 2023 and will close on 4th May 2023.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, visit www.starthubafrica.org/openinnovation/ to submit your application.