Across the United Kingdom, the digital skills gap continues to be a pressing challenge, particularly for children from underrepresented communities.
At the forefront of bridging this gap is Wale Atekoja, a Nigerian-born technology expert, entrepreneur, and educator, who is turning his decades of experience in tech into life-changing opportunities for Black children in the UK and Europe.
Atekoja, a Data, AI, and Machine Learning Engineer with over 16 years of experience in software development, database modelling, ERP systems, and business intelligence, is also the CEO of Boardelesstek Limited, a UK-registered technology company.
But beyond corporate success, his most meaningful work comes from mentoring the next generation of digital innovators.
“Technology has always been part of my life,” Atekoja shared in a recent interview. “Both of my parents were software developers. Growing up in that environment shaped the way I think, solve problems, and approach challenges. It also inspired me to teach children, so they can gain skills that truly prepare them for the future.”
Atekoja explained that the first decade of his professional life was spent learning and mastering software development, while the last ten years have been focused on entrepreneurship and capacity building.
This journey allowed him to recognise that technology’s most transformative power lies not in products or profits, but in people.
Through his initiative, Black Kids Coding in the UK (@AtexXeta), Atekoja works with Black parents across the UK and Europe to equip their children with future-ready digital skills. The program teaches children coding, AI, software development, and other tech competencies, enabling them to become creators rather than just consumers of technology.
“When children start learning tech early, they develop confidence and problem-solving skills that can change their life trajectory,” he said. “I want them to see that they can create, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the digital world.”
Atekoja’s relocation to the UK brought its own set of challenges. Despite a robust background in Nigeria, he had to rebuild his career from scratch in a new market.
“Starting over professionally in the UK was humbling,” he admitted. “But teaching children coding gave me a purpose beyond personal achievement. It reminded me why I entered this field—to impact lives positively, not just run a business.”
He encourages other Africans in the diaspora to leverage their skills and businesses developed back home while adapting to the realities of operating abroad.
“Business in the UK is structured and straightforward, though taxation is high,” he noted. “But ultimately, success is about choice, perseverance, and the value you create for others.”
In less than two years, Atekoja’s initiatives have already trained over 100 children, with plans to expand further and reach more young minds.
“As a 40-year-old, giving back isn’t optional, it’s essential,” he said. “Every child we train is an investment in the future, not just for them, but for society as a whole.”
Boardelesstek Limited, the company he leads, combines innovative, scalable, and technology-driven solutions with social impact programs. While the company provides business solutions that drive digital transformation and efficiency, training and capacity building remain at its core, demonstrating how tech companies can create tangible value for communities, not just shareholders.
“Value creation isn’t just about profits,” Atekoja explained. “It’s about impact. When you empower children with skills in AI, software, and technology, you’re shaping a generation that can innovate, lead, and change the world.”
As the UK faces growing digital inequality, initiatives led by diaspora professionals like Atekoja highlight the human side of technology, where digital skills become tools for empowerment, opportunity, and hope. His work serves as a blueprint for leveraging expertise, culture, and entrepreneurship to nurture the next generation of innovators.
