Tag: Olatomiwa Williams

[Microsoft at 50] REWIND: ‘Our Investments in Nigeria Beyond Business’ – Ola Williams

As Microsoft celebrates its 50 anniversary, we looked back at the recent announcement by the tech giant to invest $1 million to deepen artificial intelligence (AI) training for Nigerians within the next three year.

During its recent AI Tour (Nigeria), Ola Williams, the country manager of Microsoft, Nigeria & Ghana, in the company of Lillian Barnard, president, Microsoft Africa, made the announcement in Lagos.

L-r: Lillian Barnard, president, Microsoft Africa, and Ola Williams, the country manager of Microsoft, Nigeria | Ghana during the announcement of $1m AI investment in Nigeria at Microsoft AI Tour in Lagos | Photo: Peter Oluka/Techeconomy

In a powerful presentation, Ola said that Microsoft’s investment in the West African country is beyond business.

She thanked Microsoft for believing in Nigeria and Nigerians.

“Thank you, Microsoft for this great investment. The truth is that Microsoft’s interest in Nigeria is beyond business. We want to impact lives and the economy positively”, the country manager said.

The AI Skill Development programme, Techeconomy gathered, is for startups, businesses and government officials.

Aside that, Microsoft has been empowering enterprise businesses in the country too. For instance, TD Africa, the continent’s leading technology distributor, announced a mouthwatering offer, substantial discounts on essential Microsoft licenses as part of its commitment to driving business growth and fostering digital transformation across Africa.

Although, a limited-time juicy promotion, but for businesses that were able to leverage the opportunity, it allowed them access significant savings on a range of Microsoft solutions such as 15% reduction on Microsoft 365 E3, 40 % price slash on Power Apps premium and Power Automate premium Per User Licenses and 30 % rebate on Office 365 E1 plus.

While Microsoft 365 E3 enables seamless collaboration of all Microsoft suite which include email, cloud storage, productivity tools such as Word and Excel, and advanced security features, PowerApps Premium licenses simplifies app creation without coding, helping businesses simultaneously automate processes and improve data visualization.

Power Automate on the other hand, boosts productivity by streamlining workflows and automating repetitive tasks even as Office 365 E1 helps seamlessly boost essential productivity tools, such as web-based versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, combined with email and basic collaboration features.

Microsoft has been impacting the economy, particularly, in the digital transformation journey.

The global tech giant has been pushing for AI adoption, of course, exposing professionals to benefits of leveraging Copilot.

In her recent article published on Techeconomy, Ola mentioned that AI at work is a reality today and it is transforming the way we spend our time.

Nearly 60 percent of businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa anticipate that expanding digital access will significantly influence their business strategies between 2025 and 2030.

Across the continent, AI and information processing technologies are expected to have the most profound impact.

“It’s incredible to think that the global job market is set to grow by 78 million jobs by 2030, with technological advancements helping lead the way”, she wrote (read more here)

50 years down the line Microsoft continues to introduce tools like Copilot, Azure that are shaking up productivity, letting people work more efficiently and freeing up time for creative and strategic tasks.

Still 50 hearty cheers to Microsoft!

April 4, 2025
Lagos to Premiere Africa’s First Tech, AI-Themed Feature Film, Makemation

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has revealed the release of Makemation, Africa’s first feature film centred on technology and artificial intelligence.

The Nollywood production is scheduled to hit cinemas nationwide from April 18, 2025, during the Easter weekend.

The governor stressed his administration’s focus on ensuring creativity and innovation in the state’s film and entertainment industry. “We have consistently prioritised the growth of our creative industry and believe that fostering creativity and innovation is crucial for our state’s development. By supporting initiatives like this, we aim to promote our talented filmmakers and artists while showcasing technology’s immense potential in storytelling,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

Makemation explores the combination of artificial intelligence and real life, tackling themes such as STEM education, financial literacy, digital skills, and gender equality.

Producer Akerele-Ogunsiji described the film as a solid attempt to inspire young Nigerians to look beyond just consuming technology to actively developing it.

“Viewers will see young people designing bras that detect breast cancer. We must move beyond consuming innovation and start building our own. Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations. This film is for the future. Success isn’t reserved for a select few,” she said.

The movie’s cast includes Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu. It blends research, pop culture, and high-stakes storytelling with AI-driven themes.

Government’s Investment in Creative Talent and Digital Innovation

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, noted the state government’s sustained steps to empower creatives over the past six years.

She noted that nearly 20,000 young Nigerians have received training in filmmaking, content creation, and other creative fields through partnerships with institutions such as EbonyLife Academy, Gidi Creatives, AMA Creative Academy, and Delyork Academy.

Beyond skills development, the government has provided financial support to filmmakers, ensuring that Nollywood productions can compete on the global stage. “By investing in local storytelling, we ensure our narratives reach global audiences while creating jobs within the industry,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.

She also stressed Lagos’ movement into digital innovation, pointing to a recent visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami. “Our visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami was a strategic step toward fostering strong digital partnerships. We aim to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy,” she added.

Ali Nuhu, who is a big part of the film and also serves as managing director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, praised the Lagos State government’s support for the industry. “As part of the cast, I am excited about this project. The governor’s support is commendable. We now need the media’s backing to create buzz around this innovation,” he said.

Microsoft’s Country Manager, Olatomiwa Williams, stressed the importance of building young Nigerians with responsible AI skills and called for collaborative efforts between the government, tech hubs, schools, and private organisations to drive AI education. “This initiative is inspiring. With government support, we must focus on educating Nigerians on responsible AI use,” she stated.

Oluwadamilare Art Alade, co-founder of Livespot360, highlighted AI’s part in preserving African culture and history. He emphasised that technological innovation should be harnessed not only for entertainment but also for cultural preservation.

Makemation is a huge step forward for Nollywood, blending artificial intelligence, social themes, and entertainment in a way that has never been done before in African cinema.

With Nigeria growing in digital innovation and the creative economy, this film will help bolster the country’s growing influence in both sectors.

With support from the Lagos State government, tech giants, and industry veterans, Makemation is expected to bring in new conversations around AI, digital transformation, and the future of Nollywood on the global stage.

March 10, 2025
Uzemi Leadership Summit 2.0: A Game-Changer for Women in Tech

The Uzemi Leadership Summit 2.0, held over the weekend in Ikorodu, Lagos, brought together tech industry leaders, visionaries, and aspiring female professionals to advance women in technology leadership.

Organized by the Uzemi Technology Empowerment Initiative (Uzemi Africa), a registered non-profit organization, with the aim of preparing, promoting, and positioning women for leadership roles in technology.

Held at the Resource Center Ikorodu, the summit left an indelible mark on the realm of women in technology leadership, marking a pivotal moment for aspiring female leaders and those nurturing essential leadership skills.

Convener of the Uzemi Leadership Summit Olatomiwa Williams, and founder of Uzemi Africa giving her opening remarks at the Uzemi Leadership Summit 2.0 held recently at the Resource Center, Ikorodu, Lagos.

The event featured thought leaders from government, the private sector, non-profits, and the diplomatic corps.

Olatomiwa Williams, founder of Uzemi Africa, emphasized the importance of supporting women in tech leadership roles, stating, “We are nurturing women that are coming into technology to grow into leadership positions. We need to ensure that women also have the right support to achieve this growth.”

She highlighted the need for mentorship and training programs, inclusive work environments, and advocacy for policies that address the unique challenges women face.

By creating networks and communities, and promoting diverse perspectives, we can build a more innovative and resilient tech industry.

Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, CEO of Rise Network, delivered an electrifying keynote on “Leading with AI: Women Pioneering Tomorrow’s Technology,” emphasizing the need for upskilling.

Keynote Speaker Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, CEO of Rise Network, delivering on Leading with AI: Women Pioneering Tomorrow’s Technology at the recently held Uzemi Leadership Summit 2.0 at the Resource Center, Ikorodu, Lagos.

She remarked, “Artificial influence is not what will take your job; it’s the person that knows artificial intelligence that will take your job. The question is, what are you doing to upskill and reskill yourself?” She stressed the importance of continuous learning and adapting to new technologies, especially for women aspiring to lead in AI. By taking advantage of resources and training programs, women can position themselves as pioneers in the tech industry, driving innovation and shaping the future. Her call to action urged everyone to proactively seek opportunities for growth to stay competitive and relevant.

Goodwill messages were conveyed by the Lagos State Commissioners of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Cecilia Bolaji Dada; Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende; and Innovation, Science, and Technology, Tubosun Alake.

Tubosun Alake, the Commissioner of Innovation, Science, and Technology in Lagos State, delivering a goodwill message at the recently held Uzemi Leadership Summit 2.0 at The Resource Center, Ikorodu, Lagos.

Tubosun Alake encouraged women to cultivate patience and seize opportunities, stating, “Always seize the moment and the opportunities it brings. consistency and patience are key to excelling in your field.”

A panel session, moderated by Oluwamuyemi Orimolade, included insights from thought leaders Kenise Hill, Omonigho Aito-Imonah, Shoyinka Shodunke, and Chinazo Anebelundu on navigating tech careers and thriving in the AI era.

The summit also featured contributions from Sonny Iroche, Chairman of GenAI Learning Concepts Ltd; Dr. William Tsuma from UNDP; and Michael John, Country Manager for Tech4Dev, highlighting opportunities for young people in Nigeria.

Breakout sessions catered to various attendee levels, offering practical advice on building tech leadership skills. Where resource persons for this session included; Yejide Aina, Ochuko Ege, Azeez Omosun and Micheal John.

The event concluded with an award ceremony and raffle draw, celebrating and rewarding outstanding community members.

November 12, 2024
GetFundedAfrica Celebrates the Remarkable Achievements of Olatomiwa Williams

GetFundedAfrica an ecosystem company that nurtures and supports African entrepreneurs, has recognized, and celebratde the exceptional achievements of Olatomiwa Williams, an esteemed figure in the Information Technology industry in Africa.

Hailing from Abeokuta, Ogun-State Nigeria, Olatomiwa has made a profound impact on the technology sector through her unwavering commitment to empowering and promoting women.

As the first female dual country director for Microsoft in Africa (Nigeria and Ghana), she has emerged as a prominent voice and advocate for women in the field of technology.

During the recently held Abeokuta Innovation & Tech Party (AITP) in conjunction with the Ogun State Government, a special tribute was paid to Mrs. Olatomiwa Williams.

In recognition of her groundbreaking achievements as the first female Country Director for Microsoft in West Africa and her Abeokuta roots, a plaque unveiling and the dedication of the “Olatomiwa Williams Hall” were commissioned.

This historic milestone not only signifies a remarkable achievement within the technology industry but also across various sectors.

It provided a significant platform to inspire future generations, encouraging them to pursue excellence and overcome barriers in the ever-evolving realm of technology.

“Olatomiwa personifies our vision of nurturing Africa’s next generation of young leaders, and we are elated that her triumph will inspire numerous aspiring minds to pursue their dreams,” commented Adebola Omololu, Founder and CEO of GetFundedAfrica. This recognition showcases GetFundedAfrica’s unwavering commitment to supporting and amplifying remarkable talents like Olatomiwa, who are driving change and innovation in the African technology landscape.

Through the acknowledgment and celebration of Olatomiwa Williams, GetFundedAfrica aims to inspire and motivate individuals, particularly women, to embark on fulfilling careers in technology and make significant contributions to the industry. This momentous occasion underscores the pivotal role of diversity and inclusion in the technology sector, emphasizing the invaluable contributions that women bring to the industry’s growth and success.

Speaking in response to this recognition, Olatomiwa Williams expressed her gratitude, stating,

I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from GetFundedAfrica and be celebrated for my contributions to the technology industry. This milestone represents not only my personal achievements but also the collective progress we are making in empowering women in technology. I hope that my journey inspires young minds to pursue their dreams fearlessly and encourages more women to break barriers and make their mark in this ever-evolving field. Together, we can create a diverse and inclusive future where innovation knows no boundaries.”

As a trailblazer and role model, Olatomiwa Williams exemplifies the potential for transformative change and the boundless opportunities that lie ahead.

GetFundedAfrica remains resolute in its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to shape the future of technology in Africa.

By providing the necessary support, mentorship, and resources, GetFundedAfrica aims to create an ecosystem where visionary leaders like Olatomiwa can thrive and drive sustainable growth in the technology sector.

June 5, 2023

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