Digitalization has sparked radical shifts in how people live and work. It has increased the need for reshaping the world of work. Digitally-enabled jobs provide a viable solution to combat these challenges and create decent jobs.
A report by World Bank titled Demand for Digital Skills in Sub-Saharan Africa says by 2030, 50-55 per cent of all jobs in Kenya will require digital skills, driven by a thriving ICT sector and start-up ecosystem and resulting in strong growth in the demand for digital skills across the country,
This means there is a need for training and upskilling existing personnel to ensure there is a sufficient supply of personnel in the market with the required digital know-how to narrow the digital divide.
B, an inclusive mobility company, recognizes this fact and has made efforts to empower youths with much-needed knowledge, tools, and hands-on experience to expand their career paths. One of such efforts is its #Drive4WITech immersive internship programme launched in 2021 to support young women in Africa who have chosen to pursue a career in the technology sector.
Leah Wambui, one of the outstanding interns who was selected for the program, speaks about her experience interning at Bolt.
Q1: Bolt’s Drive4WITech programme is in its second year having been launched in 2021. How did you find out about the internship and what inspired you to apply?
I found out about the Bolt Drive4WITech from my networks and later came across social media ads that piqued my interest. I had just completed my coursework at university and was evaluating different opportunities and companies that would align with my career aspirations.
It is impressive that Bolt has the initiative to give women a chance to learn and boost our skills. Given my background in business and tech, I dared to dream and put in my application.
Q2: Bolt announced the receipt of hundreds of applications of which three of you were selected. How does it feel to be among the chosen few?
It was an exciting moment for me when I received an invitation to an interview. Many times I would check on social media or through my friends who applied if they had received any feedback on their applications.
How internships fit into your career plan
I definitely feel blessed and lucky to have been selected for the internship and at a chance to be part of an amazing team. I have now grown my network with a team who have now become my mentors and friends.
Definitely a great place to work!
Q3: What area did you specialise in during the programme and what skills were you able to gain?
Bolt food, operations. I have learned so much beginning with the great work that goes on behind the hood to make Bolt food what it is. I have learned how to analyse and interpret data, which is key in decision making and planning. Working with our restaurant partners has been a key learning experience on how to build relationships that are mutually beneficial.
I have gained a lot of knowledge on organisation skills, task management, working with teams, better communication, presentation skills and my best part, data analysis. Being able to analyse data and use interpretations to make suggestions for improvement has been my biggest gain.
Q4: How has the internship programme affected or enhanced your decision to work in tech?
The internship programme has positively impacted my decision to work in tech. It has definitely opened my mind into understanding tech from various perspectives, especially how people, systems and processes come together.
Q5: What was your biggest learning curve? Were there any challenges during the programme?
That learning never stops!
There is so much you are yet to discover and what seems obvious is actually very important. I’ll give an example, when you get a bouquet of roses, you most times check on them and see how fast/slow they will die.
That in itself is data and the next time you get a bouquet, you’ll be looking for the best way to keep them alive. The only challenge I had was feeling like there’s so much I didn’t know and I worked through it with my positive attitude towards learning. Knowledge truly is power.
Q6: As the Drive4WITech programme comes to an end, how was your overall experience?
My experience was pleasant. I have learnt a lot about the tech space, working in a high growth startup and a face paced environment. Also, the warmness of the team definitely made me look forward to work every day.
Q7: What are the biggest lessons you learnt from participating in the programme?
My biggest lesson was learning to identify your niche and use that knowledge to bring change and value to your organization. You get to bring value to the organization as a whole and also improve your personal skills while learning.
Q8: Will you recommend the Drive4WITech internship programme to other young female Kenyans?
Yes, I would! It’s the best place to get experience that can help you a lot later on in your career. There’s also great mentorship from the management team and peers, so be ready to learn and network. The internship period is however short; it would be great to review the time frame to allow a slightly longer learning period.
Q9: What is that one thing you will miss about interning at Bolt?
Definitely the culture and break-time snacks! I had the opportunity to work with people who were always willing to teach, share information and listen to your ideas while giving you the opportunity to grow. Everyone was warm and welcoming, it felt like a second home.