Eniola Osabiya's journey as an entrepreneur started with a mission to teach teenagers how to code. In a recent interview with Itana, Eniola explained how a three-day program aimed to equip teens with the basics of coding formed the trajectory to building Community-driven startups in Africa. Since then, he has dedicated 95% of his time to building Sustainable Tech solutions and enabling young talents in Africa believe in a world of no limits.
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My early days into technology and entrepreneurship started with learning how to code and i faced numerous challenges. As a young techie in Africa with big dreams, i never expected my early days to be smooth. The biggest hurdle I faced while starting was not having a personal computer, which is a crucial tool for software engineers. I was left with only one option which was to use the PC’s of others.
Over the past 3 years, Eniola has built 2 growing startups. Frelapay, which is focused on enabling freelancers work seamlessly for global businesses. GenZTechies, a community driven startup where "Gen Z" developers, founders, designers, and techies across Africa connect, learn, and build tech enabled products.
One of the major challenges that young African talents face is the lack of adequate infrastructure and resources. Basic amenities like stable electricity and internet connectivity is unavailable, making it difficult for young talents to access information and technology tools that they need to hone their skills. I believe that there is often a lack of mentorship and adequate support for Gen-Zers and young African talents in the tech industry. Many young people lack access to committed mentors who can guide them and provide them with the necessary connections and resources to succeed in the industry.
I have learnt to always enjoy the experience. African Founders are faced with numerous challenges and peculiar barriers. I have consciously tailored my mind and actions over the years to focus on the positive and build solutions regardless of the economic, social and financial difficulties we face on the continent. Also, being part of a thriving community of founders, talents and entrepreneurs is a cheat code to scaling up quickly in the Industry.
My advice would be to never give up. Even if the environment seems challenging, don't let that be a reason to quit. It can be discouraging to feel unwelcome or uncomfortable in a particular setting, but unfortunately, that's the reality of the world we live in. If your goal is to become an entrepreneur or work for a specific company, don't let anyone or anything stop you from pursuing your dreams. Stay true to yourself and keep pushing towards your goals. With time, the world will adapt to your vision.
Eniola Osabiya also shared with us his experience so far being a Digital Resident at Itana and how crucial it has been in his career journey.
Feeling inspired? Keen to launch your own career in tech? Join the Itana Community today
The Itana Digital Residency is a community of global and local founders and innovators who believe in the future of Africa and want to leverage the opportunities to grow their businesses.
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