Issue #2: International Women's Day Event

In the last month, I've had trouble getting my thoughts together to write this newsletter. Initially, I wanted to write every week, but it's been tough. It takes a lot of time to organize my ideas, and I end up with a bunch of half-finished drafts. But today, I'm happy to finally share something with you that could make a difference in your life.

You probably know that March 8th is International Women's Day, where we celebrate women's achievements worldwide. On March 9th this year, I went to an event by Women Techmakers Kigali to celebrate this day with women in tech. I missed Minister Paula Ingabire 's remarks, but I caught the panel discussion and learned some cool stuff that I want to share with you in this article.

Cookies are exposing you

During a technical session led by Jacques Nyilinkindi , we learned about how websites use cookies to track our online activities. Despite efforts by governments and companies to minimize tracking, trackers keep finding ways around these measures. Jacques provided a practical example of how AI agents use tracked information to create detailed profiles about us.

Imagine a profile that includes your bio, online purchases, content preferences, favorite celebrities, visited websites, shared ideas, and online searches. While having such a profile can sometimes be helpful—for example, by suggesting what to buy or watch next—it can also be risky if it falls into the wrong hands. Malicious actors could use it to target you with spam or manipulate your behavior.

Jacques advised us to clear cookies whenever possible while browsing and to be cautious about clicking on links. Instead, copying links and opening them in new tabs without tracking code can help minimize the information collected about you. However, he emphasized that it's virtually impossible to avoid being tracked entirely.

Key takeaway: While browsing the internet, you'll inevitably be tracked, but you can take basic security measures like using incognito mode, periodically changing your IP address, and regularly clearing caches to minimize tracking.

Ticket to opportunities

In conversations with numerous software engineers, particularly those new to the field, a recurring concern emerges: the fear of limited job prospects once they complete their training. Vivens Uwizeyimana , CEO of Umurava , shines a light on this issue, demonstrating that accessing job opportunities isn't just about what's available locally in Rwanda, but extends to global possibilities. His company serves as a bridge, connecting talent with companies, yet often faces the challenge of not finding enough skilled individuals to meet demand—a clear indication that opportunities abound.

Vivens emphasizes the pivotal role of networking in securing job opportunities, revealing that a staggering 85% of jobs are filled through this avenue rather than traditional job postings. His advice is straightforward: actively engage in spaces where opportunities are shared, make meaningful connections, and let opportunities come to you. He cautions against expecting instant results from networking efforts, urging individuals to adopt a long-term perspective. As he aptly puts it, investing in networking—whether through attending events or other means—can yield substantial returns, potentially far surpassing the initial investment.

However, networking alone isn't sufficient. Vivens underscores the importance of competitiveness, advocating for a diverse skill set and a willingness to adapt to changing technological landscapes. He encourages individuals to explore various avenues within the field while also honing expertise in a specific area. Being proactive in understanding industry trends and embracing the future of work with discipline and passion are also key ingredients for success. In essence, the formula for seizing global opportunities includes a blend of competitiveness, adaptability, and robust networking efforts.

Impact the future with no resources

Ever found yourself with a vision but lacking the resources to bring it to life? Iyubu Solange certainly did. When she embarked on creating URWEJO TECH HUB —a platform aimed at teaching programming to kids aged 6 to 8 using Scratch—she faced a daunting obstacle: a lack of money, space, and support. Yet, her journey is a testament to the power of determination and resourcefulness in making a meaningful impact.

Solange's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Despite having her first encounter with a computer in university, she has since become a software developer at QT Global Software —an incredible feat in itself. As she launched URWEJO, she turned to local government leaders and rallied youth volunteers to join her cause. Through her sheer grit, she trained these volunteers to assist in educating young minds, even utilizing her own salary to procure computers, often borrowing them from friends to facilitate training sessions.

Her ingenious approach to overcoming challenges truly inspired me. Rather than allowing obstacles to halt her progress, Solange viewed them as opportunities to innovate and find alternative solutions. Her story serves as a reminder that challenges are not roadblocks but rather signals to seek alternative paths. It's a powerful lesson for anyone aspiring to make a difference: in the face of adversity, resilience and problem-solving skills are invaluable assets.

Transitioning to a Tech Career

For those considering a switch to a tech career but feeling uncertain, the insights shared by Arlette WICLEF MUNEZERO , Christine Niyizamwiyitira, PhD , Julius Kanneh Jr , and Jacques Nyilinkindi offer valuable guidance. Arlette reassures that while entering public institutions might pose challenges, private institutions offer accessible pathways into the tech field. Christine, from Carnegie Mellon University Africa , emphasizes the ease with which individuals can transition to tech careers. Through focused training, even non-tech backgrounds can swiftly transform into expertise, leading to employment opportunities in a matter of months

Julius Kanneh Jr highlights the importance of community engagement as a means to immerse oneself in the tech industry. Joining communities not only facilitates networking but also provides a support system of like-minded individuals who can offer motivation and guidance throughout the learning process.

Jacques's advice underscores the significance of personal initiative and research. Before seeking assistance, it's crucial to undertake independent research and make informed decisions. Taking ownership of one's learning journey lays a solid foundation for seeking guidance and support from industry professionals.

The key takeaway resonates with the theme of possibility and empowerment: transitioning to a tech career is indeed feasible, but it requires deliberate research and thoughtful decision-making to identify the most suitable path forward.

This encapsulates a powerful realization: information holds value only when put into action. I'm eager to make use of the knowledge gained—whether it's to enhance our operations, support our clients, or share insights like these. The ultimate goal is transformation—to make a tangible impact on the future, which is a driving passion.

It's essential to recognize that technology doesn't just benefit users; it also empowers those who create it. I extend my gratitude to Women Techmakers Kigali , Women in Tech Club CMU-Africa , GDG Kigali , and their partners for their contributions, which have positively impacted countless lives. However, there's still much work ahead of us. We must strive to expand the community across the country and ensure accessibility for everyone, reinforcing our commitment to driving meaningful change on a broader scale.

Cheers!