My 2023 Career Wrapped: A Year of Growth and Global Impact
Introduction: A Year of Tech Triumphs and Transformative Growth
As the sun sets on 2023, I find myself looking back on a year that has been nothing short of a whirlwind in the dynamic world of technology. Just three years ago, post-pandemic in 2020, I embarked on a journey in tech with a leap into a Product Owner role at Bojale Labs. That decision marked the beginning of what has been an incredibly enriching and challenging career path.
This past year, my third in product management stands out as a period of significant growth, learning, and global collaboration. It’s a year that saw me navigate the complexities of the tech industry, working with diverse teams across different continents — from the local brilliance here in Nigeria to the innovative minds in the USA and the skilled expertise of my colleagues in India.
As I share my 2023 career highlights with you, I hope to offer a glimpse into the life of a product manager navigating the ever-changing tech landscape, while also providing insights and learnings that may inspire those embarking on or progressing in their tech careers. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the milestones that made my 2023 a remarkable year in tech.
Achievement Highlights
Nominated as a Top Product Manager Early in 2023:
I received the exhilarating news of my nomination by Treford as one of the top 20 product managers to follow. This recognition was not just a personal triumph but a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence in my field. It reinforced my commitment to innovation and leadership in product management. I am deeply honored by this accolade and view it as a catalyst for further growth and impact in the tech community.
Transition to ProptechBuzz:
In a significant career move, I joined ProptechBuzz, embracing the challenges and opportunities of my second international role as a Product Manager. This transition was marked by a steep learning curve, where I delved into the nuances of property technology and led initiatives that aimed to revolutionize the industry.
Endorsed by Founder, CEO, and Mentor:
One of the most affirming moments this year was receiving an endorsement from the founder, CEO, and mentor at ProptechBuzz. This endorsement was not just a recognition of my work but a powerful statement of trust and confidence in my capabilities. It motivated me to push boundaries further and reinforced my belief in the impact of mentorship and leadership in shaping one’s career.
Previous Company’s Acquisition by Toptal:
Witnessing my former company, WeLoveNoCode, being acquired by Toptal was a moment of pride and reflection. Contributing to its growth for two years and then seeing it merge with a global leader like Toptal was a validation of our team’s hard work and innovative spirit. This experience taught me invaluable lessons about scalability, corporate strategy, and the importance of building a product with a clear, compelling vision.
Teaching and Mentoring with Treford and People in Products:
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my year was the opportunity to teach and mentor with Treford and People in Products, one of Africa’s largest product communities. Sharing knowledge and experiences with aspiring tech professionals was immensely rewarding. The highlight was witnessing several mentees secure their first tech jobs, underscoring the value of guidance and knowledge-sharing in building the next generation of tech leaders.
Personal Mentorship: Guiding Aspiring Tech Talents to Success
In 2023, alongside my professional commitments, I embarked on a deeply rewarding personal mission: mentoring individuals who reached out for guidance in their journey into tech. This mentorship, conducted independently of my involvement with Treford and People in Products, was a journey marked by personal connections, tailored guidance, and the joy of witnessing transformative career milestones.
Weekly Mentorship Sessions: Each week, I dedicated time to one-on-one sessions with aspiring tech professionals. These sessions were more than just teaching; they were collaborative discussions where we explored the intricacies of tech roles, industry expectations, and personal growth strategies. The focus was on building a solid foundation for their careers, tailored to each individual’s aspirations and challenges.
Resume and Interview Preparation: A crucial part of my mentorship was assisting mentees in preparing their resumes and honing their interview skills. We worked together to highlight their strengths, articulate their experiences effectively, and navigate the often daunting tech interview landscape. The goal was to not just secure a job but to empower them to present themselves confidently and authentically.
Success Stories and Future Plans: The impact of these efforts was tangible — several mentees successfully landed their first jobs in tech, making a significant transition in their professional lives. Their success stories are a source of great pride and motivation for me. As I reflect on these achievements, I am excited to announce that I will be more committed to helping people achieve their career goals in 2024.
Join Me on This Journey in 2024
If you’ve been inspired by these stories and are looking to make your mark in the tech world, I invite you to join me on this journey. In the first quarter of 2024, I’ll be announcing a more structured program through my Medium channel which will help motivate and prepare people to achieve their career goals in 2024. To stay updated and be part of this exciting venture, make sure to subscribe to my Medium account. Together, we can navigate the challenges and triumphs of a tech career, and I can’t wait to share more insights, strategies, and success stories with you.
