Hi Uffa, it’s wonderful to catch up. Earlier this year, you received a Rising Star Dynamites Award, congratulations! What does it mean to you?
Thank you! Receiving the award was a pivotal moment for me, a significant milestone in my career. It’s a powerful encouragement and it fuels my passion for continuous learning. It’s not just a recognition of the hard work I’ve put in, it’s a reminder that my efforts are making an impact.
The award marks a significant progress in my career, demonstrating my growth from a novice to a respected professional in just three years! It confirms for me that I am on the right path and motivates me to keep pushing the limits of my capabilities.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background and your tech journey so far?
Ever since I was a child, I was fascinated by the digital world and its mechanics. This early interest led me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, specialising in Electronics.
But my passion didn’t stop at academia: I was naturally drawn to building tech communities, which, in turn, steered me towards a career in this field. My further education – a Master’s degree in Cybernetics and Communications Engineering – only cemented my resolve to become a software engineer.
What real-world problems do you want to solve through technology?
What interests me about technology is its potential to address real-world challenges. I am super excited about all the recent advancements in the tech industry, including new and emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence. However, in addition to developing cutting-edge software, I’m passionate about ensuring that the technology is safe, inclusive, and ethical. It’s so important for technology to reflect the diverse identities of its users and be accessible to all, regardless of their backgrounds. Upholding ethical standards in tech development is crucial to a sustainable and human-centric progress.
Apart from being a Python developer, you are a fabulous tech educator with us. What is your approach to teaching and how does it fit into the Click Start by TechUPWomen programme?
As a tech educator, I approach teaching with the empathy and understanding I gained as a learner. Having been in the tech industry for 4 years, I’ve developed effective strategies for assimilating new knowledge. On the Click Start by TechUPWomen programme, I use these experiences to empathise with learners, understand their challenges, and adapt my teaching style accordingly.
My goal is to demystify complex concepts, making them accessible and digestible. Patience is key, especially when tackling abstract ideas. I focus on clear communication and understanding learners’ unique struggles to guide them effectively. Having an empathetic approach means that our learners not only grasp the concepts but also feel supported throughout their learning journey.
We are so pleased to continue having you on board this year. What were your highlights from the previous two Click Start cohorts?
My experience of Click Start so far has been very enriching and full of precious interactions and learnings. Engaging with the learners, understanding their perspectives, and adapting to their learning styles is incredibly rewarding. Seeing their unique approaches to problem-solving and receiving feedback on various concepts gave me insights into effective engagement strategies.
What’s more, Click Start has fostered a vibrant community of women in tech, offering them a platform for networking and relating to shared experiences in the industry. This community aspect is not just uplifting but also crucial for mutual support and growth.
What do you do when you get stuck solving a coding problem? Do you have a go-to strategy for when it happens?
When I face a coding challenge, my first step is to ‘google it’. The internet is a treasure trove of information, and in most cases someone else has encountered a similar issue already.
Delving into technical documentation is my next move, as it often holds the key to understanding and properly utilising a particular tool or software. Another vital step in my problem-solving process is to collaborate and reach out for help from colleagues and peers.
If these approaches still don’t bring results, I believe in stepping back a bit to gain a fresh perspective. Taking a break and returning with a clear mind can make a significant difference to finding a solution.
Switching between various roles can be draining. How do you maintain focus and relax after hours?
Juggling various roles requires careful planning and clear communication. I organise my schedule and set realistic expectations with my colleagues, which helps me maintain focus and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Enjoying what you do is essential – my passion for technology and teaching keeps me motivated.
To unwind, I engage in my hobbies and activities outside of work, this helps me maintain a balanced lifestyle. Prioritising rest is also crucial. It means that I’m always refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges!
We have no doubt you will go on to do fantastic things! What are your long-term career goals?
My long-term career goals focus around positively impacting the global tech ecosystem by contributing to the development of ethical and inclusive technology. I hope to achieve this through continuous learning, actively participating in software development using cutting-edge technology concepts, and thoughtfully assessing the tech landscape to identify and bridge existing gaps.
I view The Rising Star Dynamites Award not only as recognition but also as a catalyst for my future endeavours. As I delve into another exciting year with Click Start, I look forward to more opportunities for learning, teaching, and making a meaningful impact in the tech world.
Based on your experience, do you have any advice for women thinking about starting a career in tech?
I would advise women who are considering a career in tech to be confident and resilient as they embark on their journey. It’s crucial to establish a strong technical foundation – this will really help you become an expert in the field. Make sure to trust the process and consistently work on your technical skills. Trying to learn everything too fast will only lead to you feeling overwhelmed and burned out.
Being collaborative is a key skill for anyone in IT, so I encourage you not to try to learn in isolation but to reach out and engage with peers and experts in the field. Building a strong network within the tech community will also help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in a sector that evolves so fast. You might also find some friends and allies along the way!