HOW TO BECOME A VIRTUAL ASSISTANT: A Guide for Literate Africans Entering the Global Workforce

The digital era has transformed career opportunities for literate professionals across Africa, and one of the most accessible and flexible roles is that of a Virtual Assistant (VA). This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a VA and how programs at I-Train Africa and the Skilled For Work Academy (SFW), founded by Aderinsola Adio-Adepoju, are equipping professionals with the essential skills to succeed in this fast-growing industry.

Who is a Virtual Assistant?

A Virtual Assistant provides remote support to clients, offering a range of services from administrative tasks, such as managing emails and scheduling, to technical or creative work, including social media management. As businesses worldwide increasingly embrace remote work, the demand for virtual assistants surges, offering literate Africans a gateway into the global workforce.

According to Statista, the global freelance economy , including virtual assistants, is projected to reach $455 billion by 2024, with an estimated 15% year-over-year growth. This growing demand presents a unique opportunity for African professionals to tap into a thriving global market.

One of the critical VA roles our partners requested in the last two months is for VAs to manage their online community. Seven students who just finished batch 4 of WFS on September 13 and enrolled on the internship program have been posted to our partners under the internship program we run.??

At I-Train Africa, we are committed to empowering professionals with the skills necessary to excel in the digital economy; we also emphasise Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), providing a robust learning foundation and promoting economic empowerment in Africa.

The Workplace Foundational Skills Program (WFS) offers training in key digital tools such as Google Workspace while also helping participants develop critical administrative skills like calendar management, client communication, and project coordination. Graduates leave fully prepared to work remotely, efficiently and professionally managing tasks for global clients.

The role of a virtual assistant not only provides financial independence for literate Africans but also contributes to solving global challenges. Virtual assistance supports decent work opportunities and fosters economic growth (SDG 8), creating sustainable employment that can be done from anywhere.

By offering accessible, high-quality digital education, I-Train Africa directly supports SDG 4, ensuring that no one is left behind in the rapidly changing digital landscape. Our training programs are tailored for African professionals seeking to upskill and transition into the global workforce.

Steps to Becoming a Virtual Assistant

1. Assess Your Current Skills

Many professionals already have the skills needed to enter the VA industry. Administrative abilities such as organisation, time management, and attention to detail are crucial. Proficiency with tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and project management software will also give you a competitive edge.

2. Enroll in the WFS Program at SFW

The Workplace Foundational Skills (WFS) Program at I-Train Africa’s Skill for Work Academy is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to succeed as a virtual assistant. From client management to mastering remote work tools, this program prepares you for a global career in virtual assistance.

3. Build a Professional Online Presence

In today’s digital world, having a strong LinkedIn profile is essential. Highlight the skills and certifications you’ve gained through programs like the WFS, and engage with content related to virtual assistance. Demonstrating your knowledge and experience online can open doors to new opportunities.

4. Gain Practical Experience

Experience is vital in this field. Building a portfolio of real-world experience, whether through internships, freelance work, or volunteering, will set you apart from the competition. I-Train Africa often provides opportunities for learners to work on live projects, helping them gain valuable experience before they enter the global market.

The Role of I-Train Africa in the Global Workforce

I-Train Africa has helped transform countless careers by equipping professionals with the skills to succeed in the digital economy. One example is Ndulaka Chinedu Oscar, who used his training to build a successful career as a digital consultant, working with clients worldwide.

The demand for virtual assistants continues to grow as businesses move towards more remote operations. Literate Africans, with the proper training and skills, can leverage this trend to secure meaningful work and play a critical role in the global workforce.

What are your thoughts on how virtual assistance can continue to help African professionals succeed in the global economy??