As part of our Women in Tech series, we had a chat with Stephany Wakeanda on her journey in the tech world. Here is what she had to say.
Tell us about yourself?
My name is Stephany Wakeanda aka Wakanda, a Data Engineer at Safaricom where I am the Chapter Lead within the team. I am tech enthusiast with a passion for unravelling the intricacies of the digital realm. From coding to exploring the latest technological trends, I find immense joy in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of technology.
I also lead the One Tech Academy internship program at Safaricom, where I spearhead a mission to empower women in technology, leveraging the same program that once welcomed me as an intern. Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Oracle, I provide interns with transformative opportunities, including certifications and soft skill sessions. Also, as a Women Techmakers Ambassador, I advocate for diversity and inclusion globally, amplifying voices and sharing insights to shape a more equitable future for all.
Beyond the lines of code, I’m an avid reader, finding solace and inspiration in the pages of both fiction and non-fiction. There’s something magical about getting lost in a good book.
Tell us about your journey in tech and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
My journey in tech kicked off at Jomo Kenyatta University of Technology where I studied for a degree in Mathematics and Computer Science specializing in Statistics. It was during this time that I stumbled upon the world of coding while working on some projects. To my surprise I became very good at it, and it started bringing in some extra pocket money.
During my third year of schooling, I applied for and got an internship position at Safaricom through their Women in Tech program and was posted to the infrastructure team. This is where my fascination with tech deepened as I found myself contributing to the setup of their big data systems. At this point, I must admit, I didn’t fully grasp the magnitude of what I was doing, but there was a certain magic in the air.
I was fortunate to work alongside a colleague who seemed to have the tech world at his fingertips. His expertise and passion for the craft left me in awe, and I knew I wanted to dive deeper into this dynamic realm. When the internship concluded, I returned to school with a newfound determination to unravel the mysteries of big data.
After, I graduated I applied to Safaricom and, to my delight, found myself back in the same team. So far, it has been a journey of continuous learning, growth, and the occasional “aha” moment as I navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology. What inspired me initially was the allure of coding, but what keeps me going is the endless potential for discovery and the opportunity to contribute to something larger than myself.
What challenges have you faced so far in your career?
Throughout my career, I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges, key among them being uncertainty and imposter syndrome. The ever-changing nature of the tech industry often brings a sense of uncertainty, making it challenging to predict the next technological wave or market shift. Navigating this ambiguity requires adaptability and a willingness to embrace change.
Imposter syndrome, on the other hand, has been a persistent adversary. Despite achievements and competence, there are moments of self-doubt, a lingering fear of not measuring up to expectations. Overcoming this challenge has involved acknowledging accomplishments, seeking support, and understanding that growth often happens when one is outside their comfort zone.
Rather than putting me down, these challenges have been instrumental in shaping my resilience and determination. They have taught me to navigate the unpredictable terrain of the tech world while fostering self-confidence in the face of imposter syndrome.
What can you say are the unique perspectives that women bring in the tech industry?
Women in the tech industry bring a kaleidoscope of perspectives that enrich the entire landscape. Our diverse approach to problem-solving often introduces innovative solutions that might not have been considered otherwise.
Collaboration and communication tend to be strong suits, fostering a more inclusive work environment. Additionally, a focus on user experience often gets a prominent place in our approach, ensuring technology is not just functional but also user-friendly. Embracing these unique perspectives helps create a more well-rounded and effective tech ecosystem for everyone involved.
What is the highlight in your career so far?
The highlight of my career so far has been stepping into the Chapter Lead role. This has marked a significant milestone, allowing me to take on more responsibilities and contribute to shaping the direction of projects.
Picking up this lead role provided me with new challenges, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to lead and inspire a team. It has been a rewarding experience, both personally and professionally, as I continue to learn and make a meaningful impact in my role.
How do you see the tech industry being involved in terms of diversity and inclusion?
We’re slowly stirring things up. While it’s been a rocky road, I see the tech world finally waking up to the reality that diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity for innovation and progress. That being said, we are witnessing more initiatives, from mentorship programs to inclusive hiring practices, but there’s still work to be done. Let’s keep nudging those tech enthusiasts to embrace diversity like they embrace their latest gadgets—wholeheartedly and with a touch of brilliance.
What support systems do you think are necessary to encourage more women to join and thrive in the industry?
First off, there is need for mentorship program which pair up seasoned tech wizards with aspiring female trailblazers who can provide invaluable guidance and inspiration. Then, let’s sprinkle in some networking opportunities, because in this digital age, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know.
Of course, we can’t forget about flexible work arrangements and family-friendly policies—let’s make sure women can code with one hand and conquer the world with the other without feeling guilty. And last but not least, let’s cultivate a culture of inclusivity and respect where everyone’s ideas are valued, regardless of gender. With these support systems in place, we’ll see women not just joining the tech industry, but thriving in it like the rockstars they are.
Have you had mentors or role models who have influenced your career?
Absolutely, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors and role models who have significantly influenced my career trajectory. They played a crucial role in helping me navigate the tech landscape and discover my professional aspirations. Their guidance helped me discern whether I wanted to pursue a path as an individual contributor or transition into a managerial role.
By offering advice, sharing experiences, and providing support, they empowered me to explore different opportunities and take on new challenges. Ultimately, their mentorship helped me make informed decisions about my career path and provided me with the confidence to pursue my goals.
What advice would you give to other women considering a career in technology?
To my fellow tech-savvy ladies considering diving into the tech world, I’d say this: Fear not the sea of code, for it’s just a puzzle waiting to be solved. Embrace your inner tech goddess, wear those algorithms like armor, and remember that every bug is just a tiny adventure in debugging. Don’t shy away from asking questions—after all, curiosity didn’t kill the cat; it probably just found a new way to optimize its nap schedule.
Build your tribe of like-minded women; it’s like having your own digital Avengers, ready to tackle any challenge. And when imposter syndrome comes knocking, kick it to the curb like an outdated software update—because, my friend, you belong in this ever-evolving tech landscape.
Oh, and never underestimate the power of a well-timed coffee break. Caffeine can be the secret sauce to debugging brilliance.