Empowering African professionals through Technology: Mariam Obiageli Chukwuemeka’s Inspiring Journey

“Giving cannot be measured – you don’t need to have a lot of money to give”
These were Mariam’s remarks as she recounted how a classmate’s act of kindness in primary school inspired her to give back to her community. After a home accident crushed her right hand, leading to weeks of hospitalisation and a long recovery, a classmate from a humble background supported her return to school by tutoring Mariam.

In an era where technology continues to revolutionise the way we live and work, Mariam Obiageli Chukwuemeka is committed to paving the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps, by giving her time and resources to advance others, just as her classmate once did for her. With an impressive 15-year career spanning information technology, project management, and research, Mariam has established herself as a leading figure in the niche healthcare – technology industry, inspiring countless others with her journey.

As a certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Project Manager, Mariam has had the privilege of working with renowned organizations such as the National Health Insurance Authority, UNDP, AfDB, and UNOPS. Her extensive international experience, garnered from working across multiple continents, is a testament to her adaptability, expertise, and dedication to delivering exceptional results.

Mariam’s academic credentials are equally impressive, with an MSc in Electronic Business Management from the prestigious University of Warwick, UK, and a BSc in Computer Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Her commitment to ongoing learning and professional development is evident through her membership in esteemed associations, including Nigeria Computer Society, Project Management Institute, ISACA, Nigeria Women Information, Technology, Global Health Mentors, Red Cross Society, ITEC.

Mariam is actively shaping the next generation of leaders, particularly women, and fostering a culture of innovation and progress. Her tireless efforts to promote the girl-child movement demonstrate her resolve to create a more equitable society. This commitment has propelled Mariam to actively participate in the mentor-mentee program organised by ISACA, where she supports young professionals through life coaching, career mentorship and skills acquisition. Beyond volunteering her time, she also gives back her resources through the social good initiatives which supports less priviledged children, ensuring they have all they need to finish secondary school.

Mariam describes her ultimate motivation as “Selflessness and a commitment to God”. In keeping with her Christian faith, Mariam volunteers as a technical lead for her local church in Nigeria, utilising her ICT skills to drive innovation. Although she does not do these things for the accolades, Mariam notes that her journey and commitment to excellence has won her several awards both at work and from notable communities, including the Nigerian Computer Society (NCS), Command Secondary School alumni society, ISACA and a notable award as the best mentor on the Global Health Mentorship Program (GHMe). As the Deputy Commandant General of the Command Secondary School global alumni association, Mariam used her leadership skills to foster a deep sense of community, promote equity and support a healthy online community.

Looking to the future, Mariam aims to take on a larger role in her secondary school alumni association, focusing on social development projects, capacity building among members, and giving back to the school where she formed lasting friendships. Furthermore, she hopes to mentor 50 young people in the coming year and continue to support access to education by providing educational materials for less privileged families. As an avid reader and a writer, she hopes for more opportunities to collaborate with other women in technology to curate their experiences in written works that will encourage the younger generation. As she says, “giving describes me.” Mariam continues to invest in her development, aiming to stand out as an African female in the global technology space and enhance her ability to mentor young African professionals.

Mariam Obiageli Chukwuemeka’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring IT professionals, particularly women. As we celebrate Mariam’s achievements, we honor the excellence, empathy, and dedication that define her remarkable career and look forward to her bright and impactful future.