Kawele Josephine Shaba
Kawele Josephine Shaba
Software developer and Junior Consultant at Lusaka Systems
CISCO certification
CCNA Certification
ESEFA ERP Certification
BSc Computer Science
Who is Josephine?
I was born and raised on the Copperbelt, Kitwe to be specific, but I recently relocated to Lusaka for work.
Favorite Music:
I love country Music, currently I’m enjoying music by Dan + Shay, Florida Georgia Line and my all time fave Carrie Underwood.
I also love Alternative Rock as well as Pop rock, my favorite being Daughtry.
And who doesn’t love Khalid?? His music is so relatable.
Hobbies and Interests:
I have a great love for reading. There’s a saying by George R.R Martin which I love and completely understand, he said: “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one” I haven’t reached the thousand lives mark yet but I’m on my way there.
I wouldn’t call this as a hobby because it’s something I am completely and solemnly passionate about but I’m a fashion designer. Starting out I thought that I would have to choose between my career in tech and my career in fashion but I asked myself “Why can’t I do both?” And that’s what I have decided to do. I know I can’t do everything I want to do because we only have 24hours in a day but I’m content being able to do these two to the best of my abilities.
Travel Destination:
The Maldives. I have never seen a place so beautiful, that’s definitely a paradise destination. And Italy, I think it’s so artistic.
Favorite Life Quote:
“All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must do to them.“ -Matthew 7:12.
The reason why I love this scripture is because we all want good things to happen to us and for people to do good things to us. So why not do the same? That would create a cycle of goodness, I try HARD(because it’s not easy) to live by that in my little imperfect world.
Favorite Joke:
Favorite OS:
Favorite App:
Kindle- because I love to read.
JW library app which i use every day because it is my one-stop for what I need most, it hosts my bible, videos, songs as well as books.
And of course I can’t forget Pinterest.
Favorite Programming Language:
PHP and JavaScript.
Favorite Tech meme or GIF:
This meme is so relatable because, whether your code works or doesn’t work, in the end it still surprises you and leaves you with questions.
How did you get into tech?
I have always loved gadgets and I have always been curious about the latest technologies. When I went to University and found out they offered Computer Science I was ecstatic and it was my first choice. I’m glad I was able to make it there because I love what I do.
What are your responsibilities in the position you currently hold?
As a software developer. I work along with my team to develop web based software for different organizations as well as the government.
As a Business Systems Junior Consultant I provide support to the National Financial Switch.
Any particular challenges you have faced in your career as a woman in tech?
I think I pretty much face the same challenge most women in tech are facing, which is the lack of faith that people generally have toward us. People usually assume we have no idea what we are doing or that we are not up to the task. I’m so used to people being shocked when I tell them what I do, the response is usually “isn’t that hard? So that means you’re smart huh?” Which makes me quite uncomfortable.
How have you overcome these challenges?
By turning the negative into positive. My mom (Julliet) is my greatest cheerleader, she breathes love into me and because of that she’s helped me turn into such a confident and positive being. Coming to realize that I capable of so much makes me not shy away from tough tasks, I’m always eager to take on the next challenge and so even though people may think I’m not suited for this field I know I am and that’s what’s important, it keeps me going.
In your support system, are there men in Tech that support you in your work?
Yes there are. Both my boss and immediate supervisor have been such a positive influence on me. They’ve created such an open environment which allows me to grow. They constantly provide me with the needed resources in order to not only get my work done but also to learn.
Did you have any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are, what you believe in and what you’re committed to in your work and life?
What are the happiest moments of your endeavors in the tech industry?
Whenever I learn something new. Our industry is so broad and so exciting that I’m always glad when I grasp new concepts and technologies and how they are growing because I’m not trying to be left behind.
What word of encouragement would you give young girls considering a career in tech?
Go for it!!
It’s a decision they would not regret. It’s so broad such that there’s something for everyone and so long as they have a thirst for learning they’ll never get bored. Yes it’s not an easy field to be in but if I can do it, so can they.
Social Media handles:
Facebook : kawele shaba
