2019: The Beginning, The Middle, The End?

The Beginning

Our building was formerly a PEP store and for a while, it was the identity we wore as an organization; it was the first thing a lot of people who came in for the first time pointed out. It was either that or “oh I just pass by this white building all the time but I never really figured out what happens here.”

We didn’t have a problem with this, as with all new things, all beginnings, there is a phase for recognition. A phase where you have to define yourself before existing and functioning in the capacity you’ve envisioned. So, we’d smile, nod our heads in affirmation and then proceed to do an information session on the spot — eager to leave that phase, as all start-ups should be.

Our beginning was also riddled with finding the right team and to say that that was not one of the most important phases of our growth would be a disservice to this success story. It was crucial that we brought on-board young minds who understood the gravity of our operations and were/are supportive of our vision and mission. Slowly and efficiently, we put together a fine crop of leaders — Elders — with a variety of strengths, most of which align with the brand values of our organization.

Having done that, we embraced our operations wholeheartedly — diving headfirst into the sea that is the tech ecosystem, rumoured to have shallow waters.

The Middle

We on-boarded 3 cohorts and ran them concurrently throughout the year — each cohort recording an increase in gender and regional balance and diversification with each induction. Currently, 40% of them have secured job placements and/or are in the process of doing so.

• Cohort 1: 31 Natives
• Cohort 2: 40 Natives
• Cohort 3: 50 Natives

Every one of these individuals has a unique story. A good number of them have commenced a journey that they hope will change the trajectory of their lives to a large extent and so the middle was and still is quite a big deal. We are a bridge, their bridge and we owe it to them to help make sure they get across safely.

That we have embarked on a journey, and it’s not just one that starts and ends with training through a curriculum of Design Thinking, Software Engineering, and Business Management. We are acutely responsible for molding the future of 121 people (soon to be more), responsible for imparting knowledge while also inspiring a radical transformation in the lives of these individuals. The middle is a really deep one and in this sea of probabilities, we like to think of ourselves as relentless swimmers.

It’s been a roller-coaster ride — a different kind, one that only goes up. Hackathons were won, communities were built, innovation challenges were effectively worked on, exhibitions were attended and speeches were given. A lot of speeches, most of them leading to the influx of support we received during our operations this year. We were heard.

So in this middle, we are sincerely appreciative of the corporate relationships we have established and built so far. Individuals and entities have stepped forward in the spirit of partnerships, sponsorship and multiple collaborations, and we are beyond thankful for their contribution towards making this year a success. You see, the middle doesn’t care if you’re a relentless swimmer. It’s really deep and all your efforts to stay afloat will amount to nothing if you don’t get a few floaters here and there.

So here’s to Henley Business School, our major partner on this journey. IHS Towers, dare we call them our best friend. Stanbic IBTC, MTN, ATC, Keystone Bank, Internet Solutions (Dimension Data), Wema Bank, Access Bank, most recently the Oando team and a fine host of individuals that have supported our cause one way or the other.

In the course of our operations, we’ve been very intentional about growing a culture that promotes unity, a sense of family and oneness. It’s been as beautiful and interesting as it’s been challenging — trying to bring together people from all walks of life in an environment that prides itself on the diversification of her cohorts. The more we think about it, the more we realize it’s not so far from our status quo; call us a mini-Nigeria, if you may.

In Conclusion

Is there really an end to this? That, in a society overwhelmed with talent, we cease to create and maximize opportunities? That we attempt to put a cap on social impact?

We are still focused on identifying talented minds that will harness the power of innovation to transform industries and boost economic growth and development. We are planting trees, all 121 (and soon to be more) of them dedicated to being part of a thriving community of technologists — head-strong on eradicating the plague of unemployment and under-employment.

We hope to do more next year, to be more next year and are very intentional about implementing the strategic goals we’ve set out for the year. Some being:

• Facility growth and expansion
• Cohort growth and expansion
• Gender inclusion
• Regional inclusion
• Health initiatives
• CSR initiatives
• Community engagement, growth, and expansion

So, cheers to a fantastic 2019 and an incredible 2020. We’ve come a long way from being the building that was formerly a PEP store…