Women in Tech: Spotlight on digital skills with Kreative Campus' Keitesi Aisha

In African countries like Uganda there is still a significant technology skills gap, especially when it comes to women.

Kreative Campus is a social enterprise focused on championing commercialization of creatives and startups in East Africa by providing training, certification and market access using expertise in technology, engineering and multimedia.

Headquartered in Mbarara in south-western Uganda, Kreative Campus' vision is to become East Africa's premier center for the commercialization of startups and creatives, driving positive impact through innovation.

It offers diverse programs from tech skills like machine learning, programing, and electronics to arts skills like photography and music production.

Ahead of Africa Tech Festival 2024, – which focuses on Women in Tech via the EQL:Lounge – Connecting Africa caught up with Keitesi Aisha, operations and finance lead at Kreative Campus, to find out more about her career and how skills development can make Africa's tech ecosystem more inclusive.

Connecting Africa (CA): What inspired you to pursue a career in technology and entrepreneurship?

Keitesi Aisha (KA): The journey into technology and entrepreneurship at Kreative Campus Ltd was driven by the recognition of a significant skills gap in Uganda, especially among the youth and women.

Inspired by the untapped potential within the creative and technical fields, Kreative Campus was established to provide hands-on training, certification and market access.

The mission is to empower young people, particularly women, by equipping them with the necessary skills and opportunities to succeed in the digital economy, thereby turning challenges into avenues for rapid commercial success.

CA: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry, and how have they influenced your career?

KA: In the Ugandan tech industry, several women have been influential as role models and mentors.

Juliana Rotich, co-founder of Ushahidi, has been a major inspiration with her innovative use of technology for social impact and her advocacy for tech development in Africa.

Irene Kaggwa Sewankambo, director of engineering at the Uganda Communications Commission, is another significant role model, known for her leadership in advancing ICT policies and infrastructure in Uganda.

Their work has demonstrated the impact of strong leadership and vision in tech, guiding me to value both innovation and community-focused solutions in my own career.

CA: Can you share a success story that highlights the impact of your work in the tech industry?

KA: A lady named Peace, who joined our program with a passion for photography but limited technical skills and resources. Through our hands-on training in digital media, Peace not only mastered photography but also learned how to market her work online.

With the support of Kreative Campus, she built a strong portfolio and gained the confidence to start her own business. Today, her success has inspired many others in her community, particularly young women, to pursue careers in tech and multimedia.

This story exemplifies the core mission of Kreative Campus: to equip young people with the skills and opportunities they need to turn their passions into thriving careers, ultimately driving economic empowerment and innovation in the tech industry.

CA: What technical and soft skills do you believe are currently in demand and most important for women to succeed in tech today?

KA: Success in tech today requires a blend of technical and soft skills.

On the technical side, coding, data analysis, digital marketing and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing are highly sought after.

Equally important are soft skills such as communication, problem-solving and adaptability – which are essential for navigating challenges and leading in diverse teams

CA: What emerging technologies or trends are you most excited about, and how do you see them shaping the future of the tech industry in Africa?

KA: I’m excited about AI, blockchain and digitalization.

AI can transform sectors like healthcare and agriculture, while blockchain enhances transparency in financial systems.

Digitalization is broadening access to global markets and fostering innovation. These technologies are set to drive significant growth and transformation in Africa.

CA: How do you see the role of women in tech evolving in Africa over the next decade?

KA: Over the next decade, the role of women in tech in Africa is expected to evolve significantly. As access to education and resources improves, more women will enter the tech field, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions.

Initiatives promoting STEM education and digital skills will likely empower more women to take on leadership roles and drive technological advancements. Increased visibility and support for women-led startups and tech projects will foster a more inclusive environment.

This growth will not only enhance the tech industry's development but also contribute to broader economic and social progress across the continent

Kreative Campus is helping Africa's youth to learn both tech and creative skills. (Source: Kreative Campus)

CA: What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a woman in tech, and how have you overcome them?

KA: Key challenges include navigating gender biases and finding equal opportunities in a male-dominated field.

Overcoming these involves seeking mentorship, building supportive networks, and focusing on continuous learning to build confidence and demonstrate competence.

Advocating for oneself and leveraging available support systems are crucial for success.

CA: How do you handle situations where you might be the only woman in the room?

KA: In situations where I might be the only woman in the room I focus on confidence and preparation. Being well-prepared helps me contribute meaningfully to discussions and assert my ideas effectively.

I also strive to build supportive relationships and seek allies who value diverse perspectives.

Maintaining a professional demeanor and advocating for inclusivity can help create a more balanced environment and encourage others to recognize the value of diverse voices.

CA: Can you share any resources for networking, mentorship and community development that have contributed to your journey in tech?

KA: Women Techmakers: Provides visibility, community, and resources for women in tech, offering networking opportunities and events.

Google I/O Extended: Local events that extend the insights and networking opportunities from Google I/O conferences to communities around the world.

Google Developer Student Clubs (GDS): Offers a platform for students to connect, learn and collaborate on tech projects, with mentorship and networking opportunities.

Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE): Provides training, resources and networking for women entrepreneurs to help them build and scale their businesses.

DevFest: A series of community-driven tech conferences organized by Google Developer Groups, offering a chance to network with other developers and learn about the latest trends in technology.

CA: What advice would you give to girls and women who are interested in pursuing a career in technology?

KA: Follow your passion by diving into what excites you in tech and seek mentorship to gain guidance and support.

Actively network through tech communities and events like DevFest and Google I/O Extended, and continuously update your skills to stay current.

Maintain confidence and persistence in the face of challenges, and support and uplift other women in tech to build a more inclusive industry.

* Keitesi Aisha is a nominee for the InspiringFifty Africa 2024 initiative. InspiringFifty Africa is on the lookout for fifty female leaders who are shaping the future and inspiring the next generation of tech leaders. You can nominate women from your network here. Winners will be invited to a reception on November 10, 2024, in Cape Town, before the opening of Africa Tech Festival.

*Connecting Africa is a media partner for InspiringFifty Africa 2024 and the EQL:Lounge at Africa Tech Festival.

— The Staff, Connecting Africa