3mtt Hackathon 2.0: My Journey & Transformative Experience

As a television program producer with a background in Botany, I never thought I'd find myself in the tech industry.

??From Science to Media

Despite a first degree in botany, I found myself at a television station after an exhaustive job search. There, I explored various departments, eventually discovering a passion for producing television programs. While my experience in the media industry was rich and fulfilling, I always sought opportunities for further knowledge and growth.

??My Transition into Tech

While working as a TV program producer, my curiosity drove me to explore various technology courses. I began taking online classes and attending boot camps, focusing on UI/UX design and basic programming. Coming across the @3MTTNigeria initiative reinforced my passion for acquiring tech skills. The program's emphasis on skill development resonated with me, and I knew I had to be a part of it.

??Discovering 3mtt Nigeria

Late last year, I stumbled on a 3mtt Nigeria post on X (formerly Twitter) and was initially skeptical. I thought it was yet another government initiative that would only benefit those with "connections”. However, the involvement of Honourable Minister Bosun Tijani, a respected figure on Twitter, Nigeria, Africa, and beyond, encouraged me. His commitment to empowering Nigerians with technical skills gave me the confidence to apply for #SoftwareDevelopment to boost my career in product design. Although I didn't make the first cohort, I stayed engaged with 3mtt's social media accounts.

??The Breakthrough

I was thrilled to be selected for Cohort 2, and joined an Applied Learning Cluster (ALC) @ITSkillsCenter. Attending physical classes was an enriching experience, providing a hands-on learning experience that I desperately needed. I had the opportunity to ask questions, solve problems with my amazing colleagues and receive feedback from instructors. The 3MTT program exceeded my expectations.

??Participation in the Hackathon tagged #TechForGood

My dedication paid off when my team #LearnMakers was selected as one of the top 5 hackathon teams in Lagos State. My resilient teammate Oluwatosin Oguntoyinbo [AAA] and I developed "JSM" (Junior. Senior. Mentor.) which aimed to empower Nigerian Secondary School students through free online introductory technology courses and mentorship. (With an AI search feature that teaches basic tech skills).

??Hackathon Success

The #LagosStateImpactSummit 2024 was an exceptional opportunity to showcase our product. Creating a responsive website and pitching JSM to esteemed judges was a challenging yet rewarding experience, allowing us to share our vision.

I am deeply grateful to the judges Bola L. @DamilolaTeidi @AbimbolaAdebakin @AkeemHassan for their generosity with the monetary gift to encourage participants.

?? I also extend my sincere appreciation to 3MTT Programme Director @FrancisSani and the 3MTT Hackathon 2.0 organizers, including everyone behind the scenes, for:

1. Providing a platform for innovation and entrepreneurship.

2. Facilitating networking opportunities with like-minded individuals.

3. Encouraging creativity and problem-solving.

You have inspired me to continue pursuing my passion for technology. Thank you for this transformative experience.

??My deep gratitude ITSkillsCenter for their exceptional training. Shout out to the manager @OlabanjiAbiola and the instructors, Mr. Emmanuel and Mr. Callistus. Shout out to my fellow hackers from the centre Olufunmilayo Busari and Chimaobi Okolo it was fun with you guys.

Thank you to the Lagos Community Manager Oluwaseyi Ayodele for continuously engaging the members.

I'm grateful to the Honourable Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani for the 3mtt Nigeria initiative. This vision, supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has empowered Nigerians to access free technology courses.

??My tech journey has been transformative. I've learned the importance of resilience, hard work, and collaboration.

I'm proud to be part of the #WomenInTech and 3MTT community.

Interested in learning more about 3MTT Nigeria (3 million Technical Talent) initiative or registering for the program? I encourage you to visit their website https://3mtt.nitda.gov.ng/ And follow their social media pages.

Seize the opportunity to learn, discover your passion in the tech world and identify your interest.

I am excited and positive for the future and committed to continuous learning and growth.

Together, we can learn, grow, and make a difference in Nigeria. God bless Nigeria ????