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Nigeria Represented as TikTok Introduces $1M Grant for Social Impact Creators, Non-Profits
- Charity Ekezie Selected as TikTok Changemaker
Building on its commitment to fostering a global community passionate about using #TikTokforGood, TikTok has officially launched the TikTok Change Makers Program.

This program marks the platform’s first-ever global social impact creator elevation initiative, spotlighting creators and non-profits who drive meaningful change in their communities through TikTok.

It aims to showcase the diverse voices and the strength of its global community as it educates, advocates and inspires communities to drive meaningful, positive and lasting change.

Programme Details

The six-month programme will support selected creators from around the world in building engaged communities, reaching new audiences, and unlocking real-world opportunities. This will be achieved through dedicated tools, resources, and donations to designated non-profit organisations.

An integral part of the TikTok Change Makers Programme is the TikTok Change Makers Grant. Through this grant, TikTok will donate over $1 million to more than 30 global and local non-profit organisations supporting various important causes.

Each Changemaker will be honoured with a $25,000 direct donation to support their respective advocacies, thereby elevating the impact of their work.

Selection Process

To officially launch this program, the firm is celebrating and unveiling an inaugural global list of Change Makers, comprising 50 purpose-driven creators from around the world.

Whether it’s spreading positivity or sharing good deeds, these Change Makers continue to advocate, inspire, and educate their communities to drive collective change on TikTok and beyond.

TikTok: Focus on Africa

As part of the TikTok Change Makers Programme, four purpose-driven creators from Africa have been selected to make a significant impact and inspire their audiences on TikTok and beyond.

In Nigeria, Charity Ekezie, known as @charityekezie, has been chosen as a Changemaker.

A Nigerian, Charity Ekezie, named in the TikTok Change Makers’ list

Charity understands that many people outside Africa hold stereotypes about the continent based on media portrayals.

She uses her platform to sarcastically dispel these myths and educate people about the reality and beauty of African culture.

“I use TikTok to dispel negative stereotypes about Africa and educate people about what an amazing place it is. I use my platform to not only entertain but spread awareness on the beauty of African culture and its people,” said Charity Ekezie.

Charity will partner with Paradigm Initiative, an NGO that works to connect underserved young Africans, empower them with crucial digital, life, and business skills, and ensure the protection of their rights.

Their programmes include Life Skills, ICT, Financial Readiness, Entrepreneurship (LIFE) training, and other digital rights programs.

“At Paradigm Initiative, we are constantly looking to explore creative ways to communicate the great work we do to protect and promote digital rights and inclusion in Africa. We strongly believe that this opportunity brings life to that aspiration. We are looking forward to working with Charity in the coming months to reach new audiences and to communicate key messages to this demography of TikTok audiences”. “We appreciate TikTok for this partnership and look forward to continuing to work together with TikTok and other platforms of expression to advance digital rights and inclusion objectives in Africa and the rest of the world” said Adeboye Adegoke, Senior Manager, Grants & Programs Strategy, Paradigm Initiative.

Meet the Change Makers from Sub-Saharan Africa and learn more about their incredible journeys.
- Kenya’s @theroamingchef, a self-taught chef and former international rugby sevens player, known for his trademark monosyllabic commentary “Done!”
- South Africa’s @doctor.siya, who gained fame by sharing content on medical myths and sexual health.
- @pilot_onthegram, the first South African pilot to be verified on TikTok, creates educational videos to inspire future pilots and aviators, especially women.
“The TikTok global community harnesses creative self-expression to drive positive impact by rallying support, raising awareness, and advocating for the causes they truly care about. We’re proud to launch the TikTok Change Makers Programme to help social impact creators and non-profit organisations reach more communities, unlock real-world opportunities, and bring about lasting, meaningful change,” said Kim Farrell, Head of Creators, TikTok.

Change Makers

Click here to get to know more about the Change Makers from all over the globe. Over the next six months, the company will feature inspiring programming and impactful stories.

Join your fellow Change Makers by championing everyday good using #TikTokforGood, starting today!
June 5, 2024
Alphabet Names Anat Ashkenazi as New CFO

Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google today, announced that Anat Ashkenazi will join the company as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) starting July 31, 2024.

Anat Ashkenazi, who is leaving her current position as CFO of Eli Lilly and Company, will succeed Ruth Porat, who is transitioning to a new role as President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google.

Anat Ashkenazi’s resignation from Eli Lilly, confirmed today, concludes a 23-year tenure of extensive contributions to the pharmaceutical giant.

Eli Lilly CEO, David A. Ricks, commended Ashkenazi’s impactful career, particularly her recent three-year stint as CFO during a period of growth for the company.

“During her last three years as Lilly’s CFO, we have experienced tremendous growth and laid the groundwork to help us reach even more patients with our medicines. I want to personally thank Anat for her partnership, friendship, and leadership of our financial organization and to wish her well in her new role,” Ricks said.

Ashkenazi joined Eli Lilly in 2001 and ascended through various financial and strategic roles. Her diverse portfolio includes positions such as Senior Vice President, Controller, and CFO of Lilly Research Laboratories, as well as CFO for several of Eli Lilly’s global divisions, including Oncology, Diabetes, and Research & Development.

She holds an MBA from Tel Aviv University and a BA in economics and business administration from the Hebrew University.

In her new role at Alphabet, Ashkenazi will be based in the Bay Area and will report directly to CEO Sundar Pichai who is confident in Ashkenazi’s capabilities, noting her “track record of strategic focus on long-term investment to fuel innovation and growth.”

He emphasized the importance of her role in Alphabet’s continued push into artificial intelligence and other innovative technologies. “The AI era is giving us an incredible opportunity to innovate at scale across our core products, and to create entirely new products and experiences for our users and customers. I look forward to working with Anat as we invest responsibly to support our next wave of growth,” Pichai said.

Ruth Porat, who has been with Google since 2015 after a distinguished career at Morgan Stanley, will remain as CFO through the company’s second-quarter earnings report. She will then fully transition to her new role, overseeing Alphabet’s investments and strategic initiatives.

Porat’s tenure as CFO has involved helping the company through challenges, including the increasing competitive pressures in AI and various regulatory scrutinies.

Ashkenazi’s move to Alphabet is part of a realignment within Google’s financial and executive teams. Earlier this year, Porat announced a restructuring of the finance unit to better align with Alphabet’s AI-driven focus, a move that involved global layoffs and relocations.

This transition also comes amid a series of executive changes at Google, with several key figures, including YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki and AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton, having departed or announced their departure in 2023.

Alphabet’s hires and organizational changes aim to maintain the dynamic drive in technology and innovation, expanding its AI capabilities and other forward-looking projects. Ashkenazi’s experience in managing large-scale financial operations will help the company’s goal achievement.

June 5, 2024
Woherem Discusses The Place of Technology in Human, Earth’s Evolution

Dr. Evans Woherem, an award-winning African technology researcher, author, analyst, and writer has been looking at the evolutionary stages in human life and how these have shaped human interaction with the cosmos, hinting at a future of human-universe unity.

In an article published on his website, ewoherem.org, the technology promoter, and futurist noted that since its formation 4.5 billion years ago, planet Earth has undergone a remarkable developmental transformation marked by a series of milestones, each one propelling humanity further into the realm of complexity and consciousness.

“This remarkable story of transformation, narrated primarily from the vantage point of groundbreaking scientific insights spanning stardust, living organisms, technology, and even quantum consciousness, serves as a testament to the enduring resilience of life and the boundless human spirit.

“Our progress in understanding the universe, the human brain, and consciousness has brought us to the cusp of a new era of quantum consciousness, where artificial intelligence and quantum computers challenge our perceptions of reality,” he said.

In the 21-page article titled: “A Cosmic Dance: From Stardust to Singularity,” Woherem took a holistic look at the remarkable pattern the developmental milestones that have shaped the history of the planet have taken.

SPIRAL DEV MILESTONE

According to him, “Since the formation of the Earth, the pace of development has accelerated, with each milestone marking a significant leap forward in complexity and consciousness. This accelerating pace presents an ever-decreasing circle of development and a self-reinforcing positive feedback loop where advancements in one area fuel progress in others.

“The evolution of human thought has paralleled our technological advancements. As we progressed from the concrete to the abstract, science and technology emerged as powerful tools for understanding and manipulating the world around us. These tools have enabled us to explore the vastness of the universe, delve into the intricacies of the human brain, and even contemplate the nature of consciousness itself.”

Woherem, erstwhile Executive director at both First Bank of Nigeria and Unity Bank averred that the relentless pursuit of knowledge seems to be guiding humanity towards a new era of quantum consciousness, where the boundaries between the physical and the abstract blur.

He opined that the concept of technological singularity, the hypothetical moment when artificial intelligence surpasses human intelligence coupled with the emergence of quantum computers, raises profound questions about humanity’s future and the quantum nature of consciousness.

“Our journey has taken us from the physical world to life, to civilization, to technology, to artificial intelligence, and now to quantum computers. This path seems to be leading us into the uncharted territory of the unknown. From the inanimate to the quantum, from physical existence to consciousness, this journey is a testament to the Earth’s extraordinary capacity for transformation and the human spirit’s boundless quest for understanding,” he said.

Woherem, who also mentors young Startups, CEOs, and Entrepreneurs posits that as humanity stands at the threshold of a future filled with challenges and immense potential, the developmental milestones discussed in this article serve as a reminder of the remarkable journey that has brought humanity to where we are today.

On the challenges and ethical considerations in the Information Age, the technology expert noted that the Information Age brings with it new problems, adding that its technological advances have transformed every element of existence even as he cautioned that the widespread access to information and AI needs serious ethical concerns.

“As we look to the future, with possibilities like “Quansciousness” on the horizon, ethical use of technology will be critical. Navigating this unfamiliar terrain necessitates a reflection on our prior experiences, ensuring that our technological advancement stays sustainable and ethical,” he cautioned.

He observed that the Information Age has ushered in a new era of digital connectivity and globalization with Artificial intelligence, big data, and other transformative technologies further accelerating this transformation, redefining interactions with the world, and shaping a future characterized by unprecedented automation, personalization, and efficiency.

“As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future, it is important to remember that humanity is capable of great things. We have overcome many challenges in the past, and we can do so again,” Woherem further said.

Read the full article here…

June 5, 2024
The Innovative Power of RCS Messaging to Transform Business Communications
The business communication landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the emergence of Rich Communication Services (RCS), a communication protocol aimed at replacing SMS messaging.

Unlike traditional text-based SMS, RCS is redefining the way businesses engage with their customers, and it is anticipated that the increasing adoption of technologies such as Communications Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS) will be the main driver for enterprises leveraging operator-led RCS channels for rich business messaging.

A study by Juniper Research has found that the global number of active RCS users will reach 1.1 billion in 2024, up from 930 million in 2023.

The rising adoption of RCS signifies a fundamental change in how businesses connect with their customers.

While SMS remains a powerful channel that brands use extensively because of its reach and device support, it has some limitations that RCS successfully compensates for with its rich feature set.
- For example, SMS is typically a one-way messaging platform, whereas RCS supports a two-way communication channel that allows interactive messages to be sent, allowing interactivity between both sender and receiver.
SMS can be used to deliver an alert, notification or One-Time Password, RCS can be used for transactional messaging, calls to action or obtaining customer feedback.

Sender verification

Another advantage that RCS holds over SMS is sender verification, which is a key feature of RCS that increases trust and thus drives the adoption of this channel for business messaging. Similarly, unlike SMS, RCS offers better security in the form of end-to-end message encryption.

By adopting RCS to engage with their customers, businesses can access analytics that are not available on the SMS platform, which allows them to analyse customer behaviour.
- For example, RCS enables organisations to track open rates, how long it took for a customer to open a message and what actions were taken once they opened the message, such as whether they clicked on a link or further explored a particular product promotion.
There are several fundamental ways in which RCS is expected to transform the landscape of business communication.

RCS allows messaging to shift from being passive to becoming an active engagement. By providing richer multimedia content, customers can expect interactive experiences and deeper engagement with their brands and ultimately a better customer experience.

Additionally, based on user analytics, RCS messaging allows for customer segmentation and more personalised interactions, while also enabling businesses to automate their communication through the addition of chatbots that process simple requests and frequently asked questions and ensure 24/7 engagement.

Measuring the impact

One of the most significant advantages of RCS for businesses is its measurability. RCS allows organisations to measure the impact of their campaigns, thus enabling them to make informed decisions.

However, businesses still face some common challenges when implementing RCS. Since RCS is relatively new, especially in the African region, there is some technical complexity that comes with the implementation of the platform.

These challenges can be mitigated by choosing the right communication platform vendor to assist the organisation to transition to RCS.

Another challenge is that RCS is currently only compatible with Android devices, but concerted efforts are being made by various parties and stakeholders to extend its interoperability to iOS devices.

Despite these challenges, the future of RCS as a communication channel for businesses looks bright. As the messaging channel gains more traction, we expect to see many different and unique use cases developing for different business lines and different customer segments.

Soon, we can expect to see more businesses leveraging RCS to interact with their customers, resulting in a boom for personalised marketing.
June 5, 2024
Airtel Africa CEO Segun Ogunsanya Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award

Segun Ogunsanya, outgoing CEO of Airtel Africa, has been named winner of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in the 14^th African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA) 2024.

The awards are a flagship annual recognition event run by Africa Leadership Magazine (ALM), aimed at honouring exceptional corporate practice and outstanding achievers in Africa’s business landscape and private sector.

The awards showcase Africa’s businesses and leaders, celebrating exemplary business leadership on the continent.

Mr Ogunsanya will be presented with his Lifetime Achievement Award at a special ceremony during the 9th ALM Africa Summit, taking place from 17-18 July 2024 at the UK House of Lords.

The theme of this year’s Summit is ‘Africa Unleashed: Navigating Disruptions, Enhancing Opportunities’, with policymakers, private sector leaders, civil society leaders, thought leaders and stakeholders from across Africa and the rest of the world expected to attend.

Mr Ogunsanya’s landmark contributions towards advancing Africa’s socio-economic growth and development include his 12-year career at Airtel Africa.

He ran the Nigeria operations of the telecommunications and mobile money company for nine years before his appointment as CEO of the Group in 2021.

With deep knowledge of the continent, coupled with extensive distribution experience, he led the company in maintaining double-digit revenue growth over many quarters and in delivering new, innovative products to its customers across Africa.

Segun has more than 35 years’ business management experience in banking, consumer goods and telecoms.

Before joining Airtel Africa in 2012, he held leadership roles at Coca-Cola Bottling operations in Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya (as MD and CEO).

Segun has also been the Managing Director of Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd (Coca- Cola Hellenic owned) and Group head of retail banking operations at Ecobank Transnational Inc, covering 28 countries in Africa. He is an electronics engineer and a chartered accountant.

Segun Ogunsanya, CEO of Airtel Africa, said:

“I am truly humbled by this recognition alongside such other distinguished Africans. It truly belongs to all those who have been on the journey with me at various times. My career has been focused on serving the needs of people across the continent, most recently through enhanced digital and financial inclusion. I remain determined to help make Africa a better place for its people, and hope my journey inspires the next generation of Africa’s business leaders.”

Mr Ogunsanya will retire from Airtel Africa on 1 July 2024, and will become the Airtel Africa Charitable Foundation’s inaugural Chair, building on the work undertaken during his time as CEO, including the launch of the Company’s first sustainability strategy.

Dr Ken Giami, Chairman of the African Leadership Organisation and Publisher of the African Leadership Magazine, said:

“Our award winners exemplify the spirit of innovation, resilience and excellence driving growth and development across the continent.”

June 4, 2024
IG4D 2024: Edetaen Ojo to chair NDSF on Internet Governance

One of the top 10 digital change makers in Africa and Executive Director of Media Rights Agenda (MRA), Mr. Edetaen Ojo would preside over the 2024 Nigeria DigitalSENSE Forum on Internet Governance for Development (IG4D).

The Lead Consulting Strategist, DigitalSENSE Africa, a project of ITREALMS Media group, Sir Remmy Nweke, made this disclosure, saying that Mr. Ojo, a renowned internet freedom advocate on the continent has been confirmed to chair this year’s forum on the theme “IG4D: Innovative Digital Economy & Safer Civic Space in Nigeria.”

He also said that this year marks the 15 years of Internet and domain name advocacy in Nigeria by DigitalSENSE Africa and would be held at the prestigious Welcome Centre Hotels, along international Airport Road, Lagos.

As said by Nweke, the Nigeria DigitalSENSE Forum (NDSF) series on Internet Governance for Development, made a debut in 2009 and has remained a rallying point for Internet stakeholders and eco-system in the country.

Stressing that some recognition has been lined up for corporates and individuals who distinguished themselves in deepening Internet penetration across access, openness, affordability, connectivity, advocacy and empowerment of the citizenry on the use and application of the internet for good.

NDSF series on IG4D, powered by ITREALMS Media group is hosted by DigitalSENSE Africa, an At-Large Structure (ALS) certified by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), in collaboration with relevant stakeholders including Internet Society (ISOC), Nigeria chapter, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), Digital Realty Nigeria, among others.

Nweke recalled that Mr. Ojo holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Studies from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) and a Master’s degree in International Journalism from City University in London, where he was a British Chevening Scholar.

He also has a diploma in NGO Management from Galilee College in Israel and was a Visiting Media Fellow at DeWitt Wallace Center for Communications and Journalism at Duke University, North Carolina, in the United States.

Mr. Ojo currently serves as a member of the Advisory Network of the Freedom Online Coalition (FOC), a partnership of 39 governments around the world working to advance Internet freedom; a member of the National Media Complaints Commission (NMCC) of Nigeria, and as Chair of the Board of the International Press Centre (IPC) in Lagos.

He has sat on the boards and governing bodies of numerous organizations around the world.

He served as inaugural Co-Chair of the National Steering Committee of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) in Nigeria from 2016 to 2019 with then Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN).

He has also been Chair of the Steering Committee of the African Freedom of Expression Exchange (AFEX), a network of freedom of expression organizations in Africa; Chair of the Working Group of the African Platform on Access to Information (APAI); Convenor (Chair) of the governing Council of the International Freedom of Expression Exchange (IFEX), a global network of freedom of expression organizations based in Toronto, Canada; Chair of the Board of Directors of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) in Ghana; Chair of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC); a member of the Board of International Media Support (IMS) in Denmark; a member of the Steering Committee of the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD); a member of the Task Force of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) that coordinated the Strengthening Africa’s Media (STREAM) process; a member of the Advisory Group of the Africa Media Development Initiative (AMDI); and a member of the Steering Committee of the Web We Want, a global campaign for Internet freedom; among others.

From 2004 to 2007, Mr. Ojo was UNESCO’s Technical Adviser to the Government of Liberia in the post-war reconstruction of the media sector in Liberia. He was also Coordinator of the International Partnership on Media and Conflict Prevention in West Africa, an alliance of UN agencies, international, regional and national non-governmental organizations.

In 2013, he was a member of the International Advisory Committee for UNESCO’s project on “The Safety of Online Media Actors Doing Journalism” and was also in 2013 named an Internet Freedom Fellow by the U.S. State Department.

Ojo received several honours including the 2018, “Defender of Press Freedom Award” by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) among others.

In January 2024, Mr. Ojo was named by the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA), based in Kampala, Uganda, as one of 10 digital rights experts across Africa who have played a pivotal role in shaping the continent’s digital and Internet freedom advocacy landscape over the past 10 years.

June 5, 2024
Tinubu Appoints Obiageli Amadiobi as new DG for NOTAP

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved the appointment of Dr. Obiageli Edith Amadiobi, as the director general and CEO for the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion.

NOTAP is an agency under the purview of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST).

The appointment was disclosed by Solomon Nshem, deputy director, Public Relations & Protocol at NOTAP.

Until her appointment, Dr. Obiageli Edith Amadiobi was a retired permanent secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Imo State and was before her retirement responsible for initiating vibrant policies in the ministry that has garnered great support for the present administration in Imo State.

Dr. Amadiobi is an alumni of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigerian Law School, Imo State University, Abia State University and the Polytechnic, Nekede.

She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting, Bachelor of Laws degree LLB BL, Masters degree in Banking and Finance, Masters degree in Financial Management and a Doctorate degree in Financial Management.

She is a member of many professional bodies including Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Nigerian Bar Association, International Federation of Female Lawyers and a fellow of the National Institute of Marketers.

Dr. Barr. Amadiobi has attended many National and International Conferences, Seminars and workshops and received many awards for outstanding performance in the workplace and her community.

Dr. Amadiobi’s vast educational and professional qualification and wide working experience in the Imo State Civil service spanning more than three decades coupled with her impeccable pedigree of hard work, integrity and accountability will be brought to bear in her new assignment as Director General of NOTAP towards realising the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

Her hobbies include Reading and Lawn Tennis and she is happily married with children.

June 4, 2024
Oluwaseyi Olowu | Career Experience | Transitioning From Mechanical Engineering to UX Design

As a mechanical engineer by training, my work became a predictable routine over the years, and I felt my creativity bank running dry.

Each project and meeting felt like a repetition of the last; it felt like I was in a loop. I really wanted to create things people could make use of and had always entertained the idea of transitioning into tech.

The good news was that I had studied a fair amount of engineering design during my time in the university, and was already in love with technology. Soon enough, I heard of a tech field called UX from a friend of mine who was already in it.

Later, I was invited to a Digital Skillup bootcamp on UX design and my mind was blown that day, it suddenly felt like I had been wasting my time doing something else.

I realized from the bootcamp that there was a place for people like me in the tech field without any prior knowledge of programming, contrary to what I had always thought. My ability to analyze complex systems and data was invaluable in UX research and testing.

My engineering background turned out to be a significant asset in this new field of UX design.

I was struck by the similarities between the two fields but upon further research, I discovered differences between both fields. Although both disciplines revolve around solving complex problems and creating user-friendly solutions, I won’t dwell on that in this piece..

Here, I will walk you through my journey and how I successfully moved from the engineering discipline to the UX space.

Why Move To UX Design?

Many people consider engineering a reputable profession. Mechanical engineers, electrical and electronics engineers, systems engineers, etc., are all regarded as good problem solvers who get paid pretty well to do their jobs.

While this may be the case, people may have different reasons for wanting to move to another field. Some of my reasons for transitioning include:

Creative Freedom: UX design offers opportunities for creative expression and innovation that may be lacking in traditional (mechanical) engineering roles.

Designing user interfaces and experiences allows individuals to explore novel solutions and design aesthetics rather than being streamlined to technical support.

Engineers are, simply put, problem solvers. Some problems are simple, others are complex. Some have only one solution, others have many.

The problems that engineers solve tend to be on the complex side, but there are usually too many restrictions to allow for many solutions.

In contrast, UX design offers a broader canvas for innovation and artistic expression. There are often multiple valid solutions to a single problem. Designers can experiment with different layouts, color schemes, and interaction patterns to find the best user experience.

The transition from mechanical engineering to UX design brings a unique opportunity to embrace creative freedom.

While engineering instills a strong foundation in problem-solving and analytical thinking, UX design offers a platform to apply these skills in a more imaginative and user-centered way.

By exploring diverse solutions, focusing on user needs, and enjoying the freedom to experiment, former engineers can find immense satisfaction and success in the world of UX design.

This shift not only enhances professional growth but also allows for greater creative expression and a more fulfilling career.

Career Growth and Opportunities: The field of UX design is rapidly growing, with increasing demand for skilled professionals.

Transitioning to UX design can provide opportunities for career advancement, diversification, and the chance to work in dynamic and innovative industries such as technology, finance, e-commerce, and digital media.

UX design careers tend to have more fluid and varied paths. Designers can move horizontally across different specialties (such as UI design, interaction design, or research) and vertically into senior design roles or management.

Advancement is heavily influenced by the quality of the portfolio and the impact of past projects. Demonstrating successful, user-centered design solutions is key to climbing the ladder.

Given the dynamic nature of the tech industry, UX designers often experience quicker career progression, especially in fast-growing startups and tech companies.

In contrast, mechanical engineering typically follows a more structured and gradual career progression. Engineers often need to accumulate significant experience and additional certifications (such as PE – Professional Engineer) to advance.

Engineering projects often span years, meaning career milestones and advancements are linked to the completion of long-term projects, slowing down the pace of career growth.

While deepening technical expertise is crucial, it can also slow down career progression as it requires substantial time and effort to master complex engineering concepts and technologies.

Career growth in mechanical engineering is often tied to specific industries, which may not offer the same level of cross-industry opportunities as UX design.

While both UX design and mechanical engineering offer valuable and rewarding career paths, UX design provides more rapid and flexible career growth opportunities.

The dynamic nature of the tech industry, the importance of portfolios, the high demand for UX skills, and the direct impact on users all contribute to quicker advancement and higher compensation in UX design.

For professionals seeking a faster-paced, creatively fulfilling career with diverse opportunities for growth and mobility, transitioning to UX design from mechanical engineering can be a highly advantageous move.

Direct Impact on Users: Building intuitive, accessible, and user-friendly products and experiences is the core of UX design, which has its roots in human-centered design practices. UX designers have the opportunity to see the immediate impact of their work on users, which can be highly motivating and lead to quicker recognition and career advancement.

While mechanical engineers’ work is crucial, its impact on end users is often less visible and more indirect, making it harder to gain immediate recognition.

Switching to UX design enables people to use their problem-solving abilities to tackle user demands and difficulties directly and see results glaringly.

Flexibility and Work-life Balance: Besides working as a software engineer, few engineering roles allow flexibility in hybrid or remote work. Mechanical engineering often requires on-site presence, especially in industries like manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace.

This necessity can limit remote work opportunities. Engineers typically work at specific locations such as factories, laboratories, or offices, which can restrict flexibility in choosing where to live and work.

Freelance opportunities are less common in mechanical engineering due to the need for specialized equipment and facilities, making it harder to find flexible work arrangements.

On the other hand, UX design hardly requires a physical presence for productivity. UX design, being closely tied to the tech industry, is well-suited for remote work.

Designers can often work from anywhere, provided they have a reliable internet connection and the necessary design tools. The demand for UX designers allows for plentiful freelance and contract opportunities.

This flexibility enables designers to choose projects that fit their schedules and preferences. UX designers can work in various settings, including tech companies, startups, agencies, or as independent consultants. This diversity allows for a range of employment arrangements and work environments.

On work-life balance, UX design projects often have clear start and end points, allowing designers to manage their time effectively and avoid prolonged periods of overtime.

The agile methodology commonly used in UX design promotes regular, manageable work cycles (sprints), reducing the likelihood of extended work hours.

Many companies recognize that creativity thrives when employees maintain a healthy work-life balance.

As a result, UX designers often enjoy flexible hours and the ability to take breaks to recharge their creative energies. However, in the field of engineering, projects can span months or even years, leading to periods of intense work, especially as deadlines approach or during the testing and implementation phases.

Meeting safety and regulatory standards often requires rigorous schedules and extensive documentation, which can lead to long hours and work on weekends.

Also, the need for on-site presence can limit the ability to adjust work hours, making it harder to achieve a balanced work-life routine.

Continue reading >>>> here.

June 4, 2024
SEC DG to Speak on Nigeria’s Green Economy At Oriental News Nigeria Summit

Dr. Emomotimi Agama, the director general of the Securities and Exchange Commission, would be x-raying key policies and options available in the country’s drive to strengthen her green economy while aligning with global push towards promoting green economy.

This will be the high point at the 3rd National Conference being put together by Oriental News Nigeria, coming up on July 25th , 2024, at Radisson Blue GRA Ikeja, Lagos at 9am.

Oriental News Nigeria a leading digital media platform would gather key policy makers, Government and non Governmental Organisations, industry experts in Nigeria’s financial sector to the conference which revolves around Nigeria’s Green Economy Initiative.

The theme of the 2024 Conference: ” Green Economy, Sustainable Growth and Infrastructure Transformation” considers various options available for Nigeria to sustain economic development and growth.

Sub-themes of the conference include, Green Finance, marketing, and supply chain, Strategies and Policies for a green economy, Renewable energy and Ecosystem for a green economy and Digital economy Entrepreneurship.

Agama, who has confirmed his attendance, expressed the belief that opportunities in terms of green economy are linked to the enormous possibilities for sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, ecotourism, and coastal development.

Also, other stakeholders have highlighted that Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing its natural resource potential could make the country a pioneer in promoting green economy development, hence the choice of the theme of the conference.

The conference, according to Yemisi Izuora, the publisher, Oriental News Nigeria Online, is segmented into two main broad areas, with the opening programme to address the key thematic topic through the guest speakers’ intervention and chairmans remarks with comments from participants which centers around the conference theme.

The second segment is round-table discussion through wider engagement by select professionals to discuss the main theme and sub-themes of the conference.

In recent years, economies all around the world have been experiencing a protracted slowdown driven by structural, global, and cyclical factors.

Economic strategies that have been implemented to tackle recession and achieve rapid economic development have endangered sustainable growth by contributing to environmental degradation, global warming, and other negative repercussions.

Changing the paradigm to a green economy will boost natural capital stocks, safeguard the environment, and ensure social justice by providing practical tools and approaches to achieve sustainable growth while reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities.

A transition to a green economy, however, faces challenges such as a lack of an appropriate policy framework, inadequate capital expenditure, varying levels of development, and resource endowments.

Therefore, for green sustainable development, newer business models, strategic changes and innovation in the use of resources, responsible and cleaner business practices, and green technologies are needed.

The conference will draw together and engage researchers, eminent practitioners, and policymakers from across the country who will form part of the plenary (Round-Table) session that will deliberate on the latest findings on practices and policies for a green economy and sustainable growth through strategic change and identify priorities for action by stakeholders to pursue the most promising policies and practices.

The conference will also serve as a venue where academic peers may exchange information, share experiences, collaborate, and develop management answers to pressing business issues.

June 4, 2024
BCG Appoints Aly-Khan Jamal as MD/Partner in its Nigeria office
Boston Consulting Group (BCG), a global leader in management consulting has announced the appointment of Aly-Khan Jamal as a Managing Director and Partner in its Nigeria office.

Jamal focuses on principle investors and private equity (PIPE), social impact, and climate and sustainability work.

He has experience with clients across the development finance space, commercial banks, institutional investors, private equity, and catalytic impact investors.

In his new role Jamal will focus on supporting financial institutions and investors to attain sustainable success, long-term returns, and measurable impact.

His focus will be on addressing financing gaps across Africa while meeting the continent’s climate, sustainability, and social impact goals.

Before BCG, Jamal worked for Dalberg Global Development Advisors, a strategy and policy advisory firm dedicated to global development and innovation. Jamal holds a master’s degree in economics from McGill University and a bachelor’s degree in politics, philosophy, and economics from the University of Oxford.

“Africa faces substantial financing gaps in commercial and socio-economic needs,” said Jamal. “We need public and private capital to come together to address this. BCG offers unique expertise across development and commercial finance to help meet these challenges, and I am excited to join and build on this work.”

Tolu Oyekan, managing director and partner and Office Leader at BCG Nigeria said about the appointment:

“Adding Aly-Khan to our leadership team bolsters our local expertise and aligns with the potential we see within Nigeria and in Africa. At BCG, our vision is to work with our clients to contribute meaningfully and unlock the potential of Africa.”

BCG also announced additional appointments in the region: Jacqueline Foster-Mutungu as Managing Director and Partner in Johannesburg, South Africa; and Nabil Mikou and Badr Choufari as Managing Directors and Partners in Casablanca, Morocco.

Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
- Founded in 1963, and with offices in over 50 countries, BCG’s diverse, global team comprising of 30 000 plus people bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives that provide clients with management consulting solutions.
- Through its transformational approach aimed at helping all stakeholders, BCG empowers organisations to grow, build sustainable competitive advantage and drive positive societal impact.
- BCG is well established in Africa, with offices in: Cairo, Casablanca, Johannesburg, Lagos, and Nairobi, bringing together a team of nearly 600 collaborators.
June 4, 2024
No time like the Present: The Modernisation Journey of a West African enterprise

Throughout 2023, a major trend was picked up among West African enterprises that saw businesses commencing with their IT workload modernisation plans and working to become “cloud-first”.

Up until then, many companies – specifically those that had not yet adopted cloud computing or fully migrated to cloud environments – had been cautious.

Regulatory uncertainty and concerns about future availability influenced this cautious approach, as they worried about the potential impact on their infrastructure and operations.

But now, thanks to the work of hyperscalers and other local providers, the cloud is closer and more viable for businesses than ever before.

Updating your enterprise IT to support and help realise your organisation’s current and future goals is no simple task.

It’s not a case of simply picking up your applications and dropping them into a new environment; moving away from a legacy platform to a more optimised and modernised one can have significant consequences for your overall infrastructure. And so, it’s worth reminding ourselves about what that journey entails.

Going “cloud-first”

According to research by McKinsey, while Africa’s cloud market is relatively small compared to other markets, its adoption rate is on par with the likes of North America and China.

A survey of African executives reveals that almost a fifth of their companies have all their workloads in some sort of cloud environment, with many of them being in the public cloud.

In West Africa specifically, cloud adoption is driven by multiple factors, most notably changing customer needs, new models of working and, importantly, a growing ecosystem of hyperscalers and system integrators who can help businesses migrate to the cloud.

For many businesses, becoming “cloud-first” is the ultimate goal. The strategy is two-fold: moving all or most of your infrastructure to the cloud, and prioritising cloud offerings when organisations want to start a new project or solve a problem. That being said, no organisation can become cloud-first overnight, nor is every organisation right for the strategy due to issues ranging from security and compliance to skills gaps and costs.

Any move towards becoming cloud-first requires a comprehensive and well-planned application modernisation process.

Trust the process

First and foremost, modernisation should be spread out across multiple phases. Organisations need to choose which applications to prioritise when moving to a hybrid cloud setup, thus not disrupting any existing workloads that are still on-premise.

The next step is simplifying application deployment and management through containerisation. By encompassing the entire application, containers enable organisations to consistently test and deploy while reducing costs and operational complexity.

Additionally, organisations should extend the capabilities of their applications to all developers using application programming interfaces (APIs). That way, they are made available across all cloud environments.

Enterprises may be wondering how best to take care of legacy applications that began life on-premise. The answer lies with microservices and using them to break down monolithic applications into deployable parts with individual functions. That way, developers can work on those parts without compromising overall functionality.

Microservices also form the basis for new, cloud-native applications and lower the always-on risks associated with development.

In countries like Nigeria, where businesses face stiff competition and challenging market conditions, companies need enhanced agility and to be able to respond to customers’ needs and market opportunities.

Taking the hybrid route

Discussions surrounding modernisation are inextricably linked to the hybrid cloud as the strategy remains the most popular and optimal for businesses.

Hybrid architectures provide the best of both worlds, offering the flexibility and scalability organisations need to grow their operations and infrastructure.

Hybrid cloud platforms equip businesses with a unified software foundation for their infrastructure and applications.

They enable applications and workloads to be moved effortlessly across cloud environments and offer integrated developments and operational capabilities that are essential for streamlined application deployment and management.

Crucially, hybrid platforms let an organisation transform at its own pace, giving you breathing room to outline and execute your modernisation plan meticulously.

Modernisation is not a journey businesses need to travel alone. With the help of infrastructure partners, they can receive the guidance they need and establish the systems they need to develop and deploy new, cloud-native applications.

June 3, 2024
Rajesh Chandiramani Takes Over as Comviva CEO

Comviva, the global leader in customer experience and data monetization solutions, today announced that Rajesh Chandiramani has assumed the role of CEO and Whole-time Director, effective from 1st June 2024.

The timing of this leadership transition coincides with Comviva’s significant milestone of completing 25 years in business.

As the company marks this achievement, it reaffirms its commitment to advancing as a global leader in Intelligent Software Platforms, embarking on a journey characterized by innovation and excellence.

Rajesh steps into this pivotal role following the retirement of Manoranjan ‘Mao’ Mohapatra, who concluded his remarkable tenure with the company at the end of May 2024. Following his retirement, Mao will continue to serve on the Comviva Board as a Non-Executive Director.

Rajesh brings to Comviva an impressive track record of over three decades, marked by his leadership in spearheading businesses and initiatives across a spectrum of organizations. Before joining Comviva, Rajesh held senior leadership roles at Tech Mahindra, where he served as the Business Unit Head for strategic markets spanning the UK, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, Japan, and India within the Communications, Media & Entertainment (CME) Vertical. His leadership extended to steering the Global Digital Business, where he oversaw transformative initiatives in Cloud, Data and Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, and Blockchain technologies for Tech Mahindra.

Rajesh’s strategic acumen also propelled growth as he led the Strategic Business Unit of APAC Enterprise business, driving significant expansion across various verticals.

Notably, his five-year tenure as the head of the Europe business for Tech Mahindra played a transformative role in enhancing enterprise and telecom businesses across European countries, solidifying his reputation as a visionary leader.

Welcoming Rajesh, Atul Soneja, Chairman of the Board at Comviva, said, “Rajesh’s appointment as CEO marks a strategic transition for Comviva, reflecting our commitment to sustained growth and innovation. With his extensive experience and visionary leadership, we are confident in his ability to steer Comviva towards new heights. Under his guidance, we look forward to further strengthening our position as a global leader in customer experience and data monetization solutions, delivering unparalleled value to our clients and stakeholders.”

Commenting on his appointment, Rajesh Chandiramani said, “I am extremely thrilled to assume this leadership responsibility at Comviva. We are living in an exciting digital era marked by unprecedented growth and opportunities. I am looking forward to driving impactful change and harnessing the power of digital platforms and technology to elevate Comviva to extraordinary heights. Our mission is clear, to deliver unmatched value and pioneer a new phase of digital excellence for our clients and stakeholders. I deeply appreciate the Comviva board for entrusting me with this opportunity to lead such a dynamic company”

Before Tech Mahindra, Rajesh was the Global Sales Officer (GSO) at Capgemini and has an impressive track record across multinationals like BCGI, Comverse, Tata, Global Telesystems, and Hughes Network Systems. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electronics and Telecommunications) and a master’s degree in Marketing Management from the University of Mumbai. He has also been part of the management development program at Harvard Business School (HBS) and Ross Business School, Michigan University.

June 3, 2024
What to Expect from 3rd Edition of Ecobank Nigeria ‘Adire Lagos Experience’

Ecobank Nigeria says it has concluded plans to host the third edition of ‘Adire Lagos Experience’.

The planned four days exhibition will take place at the ultra-modern Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) on Victoria Island, Lagos from Thursday, June 14th till Sunday, 17th, 2024.

Announcing the program in Lagos, Adeola Ogunyemi, head, Consumer Banking, said the exhibition will feature authentic Adire fabric displays from over 100 diverse merchants, indigenous cuisine, and African entertainment, adding that there will be series of masterclasses, as well as networking opportunities with entrepreneurs, shoppers, and everyone in the business of making or trading in Adire.

“We are encouraged with the success of the previous editions of the ‘Adire Lagos Experience’ and we plan to make this year’s edition bigger and better. The exhibition is in line with our brand promise as a pan-African financial institution to promote culture and boost tourism on the continent. We have through this opportunity playing a notable part in contributing to boost Nigeria’s tourism, culture and the creative industry using Adire as a key driver.

“High profile exhibitors, vendors, expatriates, influencers and dignitaries from different parts of the world and from all walks of life have indicated interest to be part of the event. I am therefore inviting Nigerians, diasporans resident in Nigeria and the diplomatic corps to attend the four day event,” she stated.

Further, Mrs Ogunyemi reiterated that the exhibition aligns perfectly with the Ecobank’s commitment as a Pan-African Institution to offer experiences that go beyond banking and also dedicated to creating enriching experiences that resonate with its customers’ lifestyles while celebrating the diversity of our nation’s culture.

“We are providing a cozy ambience with utmost serenity to make participants feel comfortable and safe. Participation is free, and everyone is welcome to invite family and friends to come over to witness the beautiful event. This Exhibition also presents an opportunity not only to sell and buy products but to experience the luxuriance in our culture.”

Expected to grace the occasions are top government officials from Lagos, Ogun and other neighbouring states and stakeholders in adire business.

Ecobank Nigeria, a key driver of tourism, culture and the creative industries in Nigeria recently hosted the +234Art, a 10-day art fair dedicated to nurturing and uplifting the burgeoning art industry in Nigeria.

The fair provided a platform to support emerging artists and encourage increased interest in art acquisition; also the bank organized the Photography, Art, and Design Exhibition (PADE) to commemorate World Photography Day in 2022; the bank also partnered “Songs & Stories” With Cobhams Asuquo; Redbull Dance Your Style; BellaNaija Style Summit and Loosing Daylight (An exhibition of the history of Nollywood organised by Nse Ikpe-Etim).

June 3, 2024
Konga Announces Mid-Year Shopping Festival

Konga, Nigeria’s leading ecommerce giant, has announced the third edition of its highly anticipated Mid-Year Shopping Festival. This epic sales campaign, which runs from June 1st through July 31st, 2024, offers two months of intense price slashes across all product categories.

It promises to be the biggest discount sale in the first half of the year, rivaled only by Konga’s legendary Black Friday extravaganza, Yakata.

This year’s Mid-Year Shopping Festival holds even greater significance, as it coincides with Konga’s 13th anniversary.

To celebrate this milestone and reward loyal customers, Konga has pledged massive discounts on a staggering range of products.

Partnering with renowned global brands such as Apple, Samsung, HP, Lenovo, Starlink, L’Oreal, Haier Thermocool, LG, Nestle, and others, Konga is offering shoppers genuine products at irresistible prices.

The ecommerce giant has pledged massive discounts across all categories and products, including Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Home and Kitchen Appliances, Electronics, Computing, Mobile Phones, Wine & Spirits, Fashion, and much more.

Whether for personal use or bulk purchases, the Konga Mid-Year Shopping Festival presents an opportunity for customers to make significant savings on their favorite products.

“We are incredibly excited to kick off our Mid-Year Shopping Festival and celebrate Konga’s 13th anniversary with our esteemed customers,” said Kunle Ajani, Head of Marketing at Konga. “At Konga, we are dedicated to providing our customers with genuine products at unbeatable prices. It is our way of saying thank you for your unwavering support over the years.”

In addition to the massive discounts, the Mid-Year Shopping Festival will feature exciting events such as Flash Sales, Treasure Hunts, and Live Auctions on specific campaign days. These events offer customers the opportunity to snag incredible deals and win exclusive prizes while enjoying the thrill of the shopping experience. Furthermore, Konga is extending special deals to walk-in customers at Konga stores, providing another avenue for shoppers to access exclusive discounts and savings.

Adding to the excitement, Konga will launch its revolutionary delivery solution, KongaNow, which enhances customers’ overall shopping experience through free same-day delivery in the major cities in Nigeria. This novel delivery service is set to redefine the standards of e-commerce by providing efficient delivery and ensuring that customers receive their orders promptly. Konga’s dedication to providing top-quality products, exceptional service, and unmatched discounts reflects its unwavering commitment to ensuring that customers receive maximum value for their purchases.

“We understand the importance of providing our customers with a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience,” said Mr. Ajani. “That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce KongaNow, our innovative delivery solution that offers free same-day delivery. With KongaNow, shoppers can enjoy the convenience of receiving their orders on the same day, completely free of charge.”

The excitement extends beyond the shopping experience! KongaPay, a member of the Konga Group, adds to what shoppers gain during the Mid-Year Shopping Festival. Enjoy the convenience of free transfers to any bank account within Nigeria while making your Konga purchases. Additionally, get rewarded for taking care of your everyday needs. For every airtime/cable TV/data/utility bill payment made using KongaPay, you’ll receive a 5% cash back (capped at N500). This empowers you to save even more while managing your essential bills conveniently.

June is already shaping up to be the hottest month for deals and discounts, courtesy of Konga’s latest promotional blitz.

During the Mid-Year Shopping Festival, you can confidently purchase genuine products from reputable brands.

This commitment to authenticity ensures you get the quality and performance you deserve for your hard-earned money.

June 3, 2024
Leveraging Food Tech to Elevate Lagos Dining Experience

Lagos, Nigeria, is a vibrant city with a diverse restaurant scene reflecting its dynamic energy. From trendy cafes to bustling street food stalls, Lagos offers a culinary adventure featuring over 3,000 restaurants showcasing a delicious fusion of Nigerian cuisine and international flavours.

Victoria Island, renowned for its luxury hotels and fine-dining establishments, boasts sophisticated ambiances and world-class cuisine, serving everything from modern Nigerian fare to delectable international delights.

However, despite promises of exceptional dining experiences, some Lagos restaurants and hotels have faced criticism for charging premium prices for meals that fall short in quality.

…Dinning is set

Customer reviews frequently cite the use of low-quality ingredients, leading to dissatisfaction with the value proposition.

Inconsistent food quality remains a persistent challenge for Lagos’s dining scene. A potential solution lies in partnering with food tech companies.

These companies can ensure a consistent supply of high-quality produce, allowing restaurants and hotels to elevate the overall dining experience in Lagos.

This not only benefits diners but also fosters a more vibrant culinary scene.

Food tech companies create a more efficient and transparent food system by connecting restaurants directly with local farmers.

This guarantees access to fresh produce, supports sustainable practices, and empowers restaurants to create exceptional culinary experiences showcasing the best of Nigerian cuisine alongside international flavours.

By leveraging food tech companies, farmers can gain access to a wider market and fairer prices, while restaurants and hotels receive fresh, high-quality ingredients consistently.

Ultimately, this translates to better quality meals and satisfied customers.

A food tech company like Foodstuff Store provides the right technology platform to streamline the process, making it easier for restaurants and hotels to order and receive the ingredients they need.

This ensures efficiency and reduces food waste. Foodstuff Store’s partnership with local farmers could be a positive step forward for restaurants and hotels in Lagos.

Their innovative approach has the potential to create a more sustainable and enjoyable food system.

By embracing technology and forging strong partnerships with food tech companies, Lagos’s restaurants and hotels can consistently deliver the exceptional dining experiences the city promises.

This will solidify Lagos’s reputation as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts around the world.

June 1, 2024

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