Where do I come from and what has it go to do with my work as a technologist?

Firstly, an apology: I realised that playing with writing and LinkedIn newsletter, I will not "always" write about technology "tips & tricks", s here you go.. I renamed "tips" to "échos" which suggest an international twist, since well... I can't help it :-)

Reflecting on my personal story of growing up in West Africa and then living in countries that are not the same as my family origin . I am convinced that it has shaped not only my tech career but also my values and perspectives. As technology keeps evolving, it is crucial to remember that what looks obvious to me, is a to be learnt by some: I am referring to diversity and inclusivity.

The topic is high everywhere, and we need to do more just like this fab campaign: "Men, Ask For More"

Growing up in West Africa in the 80s, I was exposed to a diverse range of cultures and experiences that shaped my perspective on the world. I really feel that this early exposure to different ways of life sparked my curiosity in people and ignited a passion for technology. Probably because communication between countries was so limited and expensive that I didn't keep in touch with my childhood friends like a young person would today.

My interest in technology began with my IT studies and first job fresh from Staffordshire University, which focused on delivering document management and collaborative solutions using Lotus Notes Domino (I was going to add a emoji with "grey hair" but since I receive an offer once a year for this kind of work (which I decline), it is still around apparently ??).

As technology evolved, so did my skills, and I smoothly transitioned to working with early versions of SharePoint in 2004.

Since then, I have developed numerous enterprise applications and intranet sites using various associated apps depending on the time / trend (some remember "InfoPath and SharePoint Designer"? ????).

But more than just being proficient in these technologies, I seem to have a natural talent for communicating complex concepts in simple terms. This has allowed me to train hundreds of users and system administrators through individual and group classes.

As a Digital Specialist and Trainer, I have had the opportunity to work with businesses of all sizes, facilitating user adoption and providing group coaching on digital skills. My goal is always to ensure comprehensive understanding and drive purposeful use of technology.

Now based in London with my family of three, I enjoy the city's vibrant offerings while also indulging in outdoor activities as much as I can when dry weather permits it.

We all have a bit of diversity in us!

Some diversity are not that visible.

I am also proud to be a professional within the LGBTQ community.

It is essential for me to bring diversity and inclusivity into the tech world as we continue to push boundaries and innovate.

Through my website 365coach.me and social media profiles such as Instagram https://www.instagram.com/digital_francois, my wish is to connect and collaborate with other like-minded individuals who share my values and vision: bringing digital skills to help advance career and mindsets.

What moved me this week:

• International Women's Day event that I attended organised with HubDot and BelEve that melted my heart. A great event hosted by Spotify in London, some poignant stories with amazing successful outcomes from their fantastic women who didn't take no for an answer and could teach men a lot of lessons in savoir-vivre and entrepreneurship!