Tech Expert Unveils Tech-in-the-slum Initiative

An expert in the technology space, Mr Martins Ilesanmi, has concluded plans to train and empower women, youths and young adults in low-code Cloud solutions tech.

Ilesanmi who is also the brain behind the Tech-in-the-slum initiative said the event is scheduled to take place in Makoko, Lagos on December 16.

“Through partnerships with freelancers who share the vision of EvolveConnect and freelance organisations, especially Microsoft Gig+, offering job opportunities to skilled individuals globally, as well as others like Upwork CSS, Limitless, and Gigmos, we are actively reshaping the lives of our talents in the contemporary tech landscape, ushering in a new era of career possibilities.

“Tech-in-the-slum is an initiative dedicated to identifying and nurturing tech talent in underserved communities.”

According to Ilesanmi, they believe that innovation knows no boundaries, and by reaching out to slum areas, we aim to provide opportunities for individuals with potential.

He emphasised: “Our ‘Tech for the Underserved’ initiative is dedicated to discovering and nurturing tech talent within marginalised communities.

“Our mission extends beyond the introduction of technology to these underserved areas; we are also committed to bringing joy to children, mothers, fathers, and all individuals in need by providing food, clothing, and celebrating with love.”

He said this initiative is made possible through the collective efforts of individuals and freelancers worldwide working with the Microsoft Gig+ freelance community.

“We firmly believe in the power of innovation that transcends boundaries, and we are devoted to extending opportunities to those with untapped potential in slum areas.

“Through tailored training and mentorship, we empower individuals to pursue careers in tech support, building a bridge between disadvantaged communities and the tech industry,” says the founder.

The tech expert noted that empowering women, youths and those in underserved communities will go a long way in making the beneficiaries less dependent on the government.

“Through the sharing of information on technical support roles, we’ve facilitated job opportunities for over 500 individuals.

“This achievement is attributed to our comprehensive approach, including product-led webinars, technical training, mentorship, and interview preparations.

These individuals have successfully joined the Gig+, Gigmos, and Limitless Microsoft Support Group via our collaborative platform.

Moreover, more than 1200 Cloud support engineers, engaged with various Microsoft partners such as Gig+, Upwork CSS, Gigmos, and Limitless, actively utilise our platform.

They collaborate through our EvolveConnect platform, providing insights-driven resolutions for Microsoft customers worldwide. To streamline access to these opportunities, we’ve established an efficient collaboration system.

His words: “In 2021, we implemented an extensive training programme focused on empowering more than 200 female students and graduates in Nigeria.”

He underscored the goal of this initiative was to provide them with the necessary skills to thrive in the job market.

“Our dedication to creating a positive impact in underserved communities gained recognition in 2021.

“This acknowledgement underscores our commitment to narrowing the digital divide in disadvantaged areas through the ‘Tech-in-the-Slum’ initiative,” he added.