Success truly is not gender based. It answers to anyone who aligns with the principles and process that makes it emerge.
One person who’s journey to success has evolved is Chioma Ukpabi. She’s a Tech Maverick with a Heart of Gold driving innovation, leading change, and empowering communities through Skill Up With Kahdsole. In this interview with Yinka Padonu, she gives a brief insight on how it all began.
Can we meet you?
My name is Chioma Ukpabi, I’m a fierce advocate for change, a tech enthusiast. I’m that girl who’s all about creating ripples of impact.
From studying Communication Arts to founding a Start-up. My mission is clear: empower and transform.
I’m that combo of tech enthusiast and social entrepreneur, hustling to bridge the opportunity gap one skill at a time.
Can we know the name of your startup?
It’s called Skill Up With Kahdsole (SUWK)
Can you share with us briefly the inspirational journey into the Social Tech Startup?
My journey into the world of Social-Tech industry was sparked by a drive to bridge the opportunity gap for underserved communities.
SUWK started with the vision of providing skills training and economic mobility to underserved communities, harnessing technology’s potential to overcome geographical constraints.
Can you tell us if the objective for SUWK been met?
Absolutely, our initial objective was to empower young people from underserved communities through vital skills training and create economic opportunities.
With over 800 beneficiaries empowered and a global marketplace platform connecting talents to wide audience, we’re exceeding our initial aspirations.
What are some of the activities the organization engage in?
SUWK offers skills training through our network of SUWK partners, followed by onboarding beneficiaries onto our global marketplace platform to showcase their talents to our ever ready users on our platform.
What practical steps have you taken to develop yourself that has influenced your brand today?
Continuous learning and networking have been pivotal. Engaging with mentors both locally and internationally, attending relevant workshops, and staying updated with industry trends have positively influenced me to shape SUWK’s strategies effectively.
What are core solutions you have brought to your African audience?
SUWK has democratized skills training, breaking down geographical barriers and connecting talents to a global marketplace. This approach drives economic empowerment, benefiting both local communities and the broader African audience.
What is one striking testimony can you recall starting out?
One of many of our inspiring stories is that of a young girl from a marginalized community who received training through SUWK partners in hairdressing and later got onboard on our marketplace and started securing jobs from our marketplace.
Her success story is a testament to the impact we’re making in transforming lives.
What are critical 5 factors that aided your success?
Collaborative partnerships, innovative solutions, community engagement, relentless dedication and leveraging technology have been key factors propelling SUWK’s success.
What role do you think Govt can do to further support what you and others do in this space?
Governments can facilitate easier access to funding, provide supportive policies for startups, and foster collaboration between startups and established organizations, thereby fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth.
What’s your final thought on Africa, her leaders and her people
Africa’s potential is boundless. As leaders and individuals, let’s harness our strengths, embrace innovation, and collaborate to build a continent where every talent is nurtured, every dream realized, and progress becomes a shared journey towards prosperity.
Thank you.
