Category: Growth Series

Kali Kimanzi: What It Really Takes to Work with International Clients from Africa

You can be the most talented developer in your country. You can win innovation awards. You can land international clients. And still lose opportunities not because you’re not good enough, but because they simply can’t pay you.

Kali Kimanzi knows this reality too well. As someone who’s navigated the gap between African innovation and European optimization, who’s registered businesses on two continents, and who’s watched transaction fees eat into hard-earned payments, he’s learned that talent without access is just potential waiting to be unlocked.

In this conversation, Kali shares what nobody posts on LinkedIn: the rejections, the waiting, the payment nightmares, and the unglamorous truth about building a global career from Africa.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us what you do?

My name is Kali Kimanzi. I’m the CTO and Co-founder of CodeX Safari, and I also serve as the CEO.

At CodeX Safari, we build technical solutions both hardware and software for businesses, governments, and NGOs. We also develop internal products that help businesses manage their operations more efficiently.

One of our key products is Codex POS Store, which is an inventory and point-of-sale platform.

Currently, we work with clients across Kenya and internationally, including the United States, as we are incorporated both in Kenya and in Wyoming, USA.

How did your journey into the digital or creative space begin?

My journey began during my university days. My background is in Mathematics and Computer Science.

In 2019, I went to Austria to pursue my Master’s degree in Computer Science. During that time, I got my first experience working in the digital space within a larger company.

Over time, I started comparing what was happening in Europe and Africa. Europe is more focused on optimization improving existing systems while Africa is still in the innovation stage, where there are many problems to solve.

I saw bigger opportunities in Africa, especially in Nairobi. That’s what led me to start my company and eventually return in 2022 to focus on building it fully.

What first inspired you to start building your career online?

For me, it has always been about solving problems.

From high school, I was involved in innovation programs where we created solutions for societal challenges. In university, I was recognized among the top innovators in the country for a water management system I digitized using IoT devices.

That experience showed me there is a huge gap where technology can improve systems and make life more efficient.

So my inspiration has always been to build solutions that automate processes and improve how society functions.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when you were just starting out?

One of the biggest challenges was not just building solutions, but getting people to adopt them.

Many businesses across Africa are not yet fully digital. A large number of business owners belong to older generations Gen X and baby boomers who are not as quick to adopt new technology.

So even when we had strong solutions, it took time for them to understand the value:

  • How it improves their business
  • How it makes operations easier
  • Why they should trust it

Adoption has been one of the biggest challenges, because building a solution is one thing, getting people to trust and use it is another.

Did you ever face issues receiving payments from international clients? How did that impact your growth?

Yes, receiving payments was very difficult in the beginning.

There were high transaction fees, especially with platforms like PayPal. You could receive $500 and lose a significant portion to fees and conversion charges.

This affected growth because even when you had clients, accessing your money wasn’t always smooth.

What was your very first international payment experience like?

It involved a lot of waiting.

On paypal, SWIFT transfers were supposed to take about 4 to 5 days, but in reality, it could take a week and a half or even two weeks.

So most of the time, I just waited for days, hoping the payment would come through.

How did you handle the payment challenges at the time?

I adjusted and adapted.

There weren’t many options, so I learned to be patient and plan around delays.

In your opinion, how important is having a reliable dollar payment account for freelancers and digital creators?

It’s like oxygen for freelancers.

Without a reliable way to receive payments, you miss out on opportunities not because you lack skills, but because clients cannot pay you easily.

Was there a particular moment or opportunity that really changed things for you?

Yes.

At one point, I had to register a business in the United States just to be able to receive payments properly. That meant paying taxes both in Wyoming and in Kenya, which wasn’t ideal.

But it became a breakthrough moment because it allowed us to operate internationally and receive payments more reliably.

What skills or mindset helped you grow the most in your career?

Networking and continuous learning.

You can be highly skilled, but if you don’t network, opportunities won’t find you. Most of the projects I’ve worked on came through connections, conversations, and referrals.

What lessons would you share with African freelancers looking to work with global clients today?

Trust and reliability are everything.

When clients trust you and you deliver consistently and on time, they don’t just come back, they refer you.

Growth often comes from referrals, and over time, that builds into something much bigger.

How do you stay consistent and motivated even during slow or challenging periods?

I remind myself that I’m not alone.

I talk to other entrepreneurs, and I’ve realized that everyone faces challenges, even if they are different.

That helped me understand that business is about challenges, it’s how you respond to them that matters.

What is one honest truth about building a global career that nobody tells young African creators and freelancers?

There will be a lot of rejection.

You might face hundreds or even thousands of rejections, but that’s part of the process.

People only show success online, they don’t show how many times they failed before getting there.

Platforms like Novacrust are trying to make international payments easier for freelancers. What are your thoughts on solutions like this?

Solutions like this are very important because they bring inclusion.

Without access to global payment systems, you’re excluded from opportunities—not because you lack skills, but because you can’t get paid.

But when that barrier is removed, you can offer your services globally and access more opportunities.

Would you consider signing up for a platform like Novacrust? Why or why not?

Yes, I would and I already have.

Because I understand what it means to have access to a system that makes payments easier.

Being able to receive money and move it into local systems like mobile payments is very important, especially in Africa.

Kali’s journey highlights a key reality: talent alone is not enough. Access, systems, and persistence play a major role in building a global career.

From navigating payment barriers to building innovative solutions, his story shows that success comes from consistency, adaptability, and resilience.

For African freelancers and creators, the opportunity is global but unlocking it requires the right tools, mindset, and determination.

Struggling to Get Paid from Abroad? Cynthia Did Too. Here’s How She Made It Work

From unpaid gigs to managing international clients, Cynthia shares the lessons, struggles, and solutions that helped her build a global freelance career

Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us what you do?

I am Cynthia Ozumba, an Executive Operations Assistant and an Online Business Manager (OBM). I help brands with systems, automation, and coaching.

I work with clients across different parts of the world, offering services like administrative support, virtual assistance, and system optimization.

I started with writing and social media management, but over time, I transitioned into operations and executive support, which is my current focus.

How did your journey into the digital or creative space begin?

My journey began with writing for coaches creating copy for seminars, courses, and marketing campaigns. I realized I could help clients manage their online presence while building my own skills.

From there, I transitioned into social media management and virtual assistance. I noticed I could scale my services and offer more value to clients. Over time, this led me to become an Executive Operations Assistant, managing multiple international clients with diverse needs.

What first inspired you to start building your career online?

I realized that even posting once a week on LinkedIn or Facebook could resonate with people. I would get questions, DMs, and requests for advice.

I thought: Why hide my journey when I can actually build a brand around my experience and knowledge?

So I started sharing my insights, my career path, and what I was learning. My goal was to create a space where people could gain knowledge and experience to succeed in their own online careers.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when you were just starting out?

Starting out came with many challenges:

  • Confidence: I struggled to present myself well in interviews, especially with international clients. Sometimes my speech would falter, or I would feel unsure of myself.
  • Positioning: Being Nigerian presented its own hurdles. Many clients and platforms had doubts about hiring talent from Africa, so I had to prove my skills and professionalism.
  • Payment issues: In the early stages of my journey, there were limited options for receiving international payments. I had to manually arrange payments through platforms like Payoneer or bank transfers, which wasn’t always smooth.

Despite these challenges, I stayed consistent, learned quickly, and kept improving.

Was there a particular moment or opportunity that really changed things for you?

Yes. One breakthrough came when a client reached out after seeing my comments on LinkedIn. She needed temporary help because she was about to have her first baby. I took a three-week assignment, and that became my first real international paid experience.

Before this, I had done volunteer work or small local gigs. That opportunity gave me credibility, confidence, and a portfolio that opened doors to other international clients.

Many young Africans want to work online today. From your experience, what do you think is the biggest mistake beginners make?

The biggest mistake beginners make isn’t always a lack of skill it’s:

  • Poor positioning: They know the work but can’t package themselves for clients.
  • Seeking quick money: Many expect high pay without putting in consistent effort.
  • Underestimating perception barriers: Being from Africa, clients may question reliability or skill.

Beginners often focus on the wrong things instead of building their brand, skillset, and visibility.

Have you ever had moments where things were slow or discouraging? How did you push through them?

Absolutely. There were months when I applied for multiple jobs without getting any offers. At times, I faced rejections or limited opportunities.

I pushed through by keeping a mindset of persistence: treating every “no” as data, not failure. I reminded myself of my skills and value, kept learning, and diversified the platforms I applied onUpwork, LinkedIn, Contra, GetMagic, etc.

Have you worked with international clients or global teams before?

Yes, I have worked with clients across different countries including the UK, USA, Germany, Australia, and Canada.

What has that experience been like for you?

Working internationally gave me exposure I couldn’t have gained locally. I’ve learned how to manage people, work across different time zones, and adapt to different communication styles. It has helped me grow professionally and understand how global businesses operate.

One challenge many freelancers face is getting paid by international clients. Have you ever experienced any issues receiving payments from outside your country?

Yes. Early on, payment issues were a major challenge. Platforms were limited, and clients often had difficulty sending money.

How did you handle those payment challenges at the time?

I arranged alternative payment methods manually Payoneer, bank transfers, and later, platforms that simplified receiving USD or crypto payments. I learned to communicate clearly with clients and provide multiple payment options.

In your opinion, how important is it for freelancers and digital creators to have access to a reliable dollar payment account?

It’s crucial. Reliable dollar accounts allow freelancers to receive payments quickly, manage earnings, and work confidently with global clients without worrying about lost or delayed payments.

Do you think payment limitations affect how African freelancers work with global clients?

Absolutely. Payment restrictions limit opportunities, reduce trust, and can discourage talented freelancers from pursuing global work. Having access to platforms that make payments seamless is a game-changer.

Platforms like Novacrust are trying to make international payments easier for freelancers and digital service providers. What are your thoughts on solutions like this?

I think platforms like Novacrust are excellent initiatives. Linking accounts from Upwork, Fiverr, and other platforms allows freelancers to receive international payments easily, even in Nigeria. This reduces barriers, improves trust, and empowers African freelancers to compete globally.

If someone wants to start working with international clients today, what are a few things they should prepare for?

  1. Get a high-income skill: Focus on skills clients need, not what friends suggest.
  2. Optimize your profile: LinkedIn, portfolio, and resume should be professional.
  3. Build a strong portfolio: Clients decide based on what they see, not personal meetings.
  4. Give it time: Treat “no” as data, not failure.
  5. Diversify platforms: Don’t put all eggs in one basket—Upwork, LinkedIn, Contra, GetMagic, etc.
  6. Set boundaries: Protect your time, respect yourself, and gain hands-on experience.

What keeps you grounded when the journey becomes difficult?

My “why.”

I constantly remind myself of the reason I started, the goals I have, and the kind of life I want to build. That purpose keeps me going even when things get difficult.

If you could go back and advise your younger self at the beginning of your career, what would you say?

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
  • Don’t be ashamed of charging your worth.
  • Build confidence and put yourself out there, even for small opportunities.

Finally, what one honest truth would you share with young creators and freelancers in Africa who want to build a global career?

Imagine being awake while your own country is asleep. Opportunities abroad require consistent effort, patience, and resilience. Focus on building skills, positioning yourself well, and creating value. Success doesn’t come overnight, but if you stay persistent and confident, you can compete on a global level.

Cynthia’s journey proves that resilience, skill-building, and strategic action are the keys to success. Start small, optimize your profile, diversify your client base, and never underestimate the power of persistence. Working with international clients is not just a dream it’s achievable for African freelancers with the right approach.

From less than $100 to $3,000+ Monthly: Ajide Victor’s Journey from Lockdown Learning to a Webflow Partner.

Victor Ajide didn’t stumble into web design by accident. What started during the COVID lockdown as curiosity and experimentation has grown into a full-fledged career building scalable websites and digital products for startups and businesses.

Today, Victor runs a web studio in Nigeria, mentors upcoming designers, and helps founders turn ideas into products that don’t just look good but work. In this Growth Series interview, he shares how consistency changed his life, the lessons freelancing taught him early, and why his younger self would be proud of how far he’s come.

Hi Victor, welcome to our Growth Series. Can you tell us about yourself and your journey into web design and Webflow?

My name is Ajide Victor. I’m a web designer, developer, and product builder. I run a web studio in Nigeria where we work with startup founders and businesses to turn ideas into scalable websites and digital products that don’t just look good but actually work.

My journey into tech started during the COVID lockdown when schools were shut down and we were all at home. While exploring online, I discovered web design, and a friend who was already a developer introduced me to Webflow. I took my time to learn the tool, shared my learning process publicly, and gradually began building real products.

What I enjoy most is taking ideas from zero and turning them into usable products. Along the way, I’ve also mentored people and guided others who are just starting out.

What was your first paid project, and what did it teach you?

My first paid gig wasn’t web design it was graphic design. I used a mobile app called PixelLab to design flyers and mockups for small businesses. I earned between ₦500 to ₦3,000 per job.

At that time, many people my age were involved in internet fraud, so realizing I could earn honest money from a digital skill even if it was small meant a lot to me. It showed me that skills could pay and that growth was possible.

Was there a moment you realized this could be a full-time career?

It wasn’t sudden. I didn’t even know about freelance platforms at first. What changed everything was understanding the power of visibility.

I started posting consistently on Facebook sharing my work, teaching what I was learning, and documenting my progress. I showed up daily and weekly. Over time, people began to understand what I did, and clients started reaching out. That consistency made me realize this could become something serious.

Did you recognize your potential before seeing it as a career path?

Not initially. I was still a student then and graduated in July 2025. Design was just a side hustle to survive.

That changed when I worked on a Webflow project that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. It required problem-solving, attention to detail, and confidence in my decisions. Completing that project made me realize I could handle complexity and that this skill could take me far.

Can you share a major challenge and how you turned it into growth?

One major challenge was communicating with international clients, especially because of my accent. I used to be afraid of speaking on calls because some people judged me before hearing what I had to offer.

Instead of letting that stop me, I worked on improving my communication. I started speaking more at events, slowed down my speech, and let my work speak for itself. Over time, the fear faded, and my confidence grew. That experience taught me resilience and adaptability.

How do you stay motivated during slow periods or with difficult clients?

I don’t wait for motivation I focus on preparation. During slow periods, I improve my skills, review past work, identify gaps, and learn new things.

I also optimize my portfolio, refine my Upwork profile, experiment with ideas, and stay visible online. Slow periods are part of freelancing, and I use them as opportunities to level up.

How do you balance creativity with client expectations?

It starts with clarity. Before designing anything, I make sure I fully understand the client’s goals. Creativity is a tool for solving problems not just making things look good.

Every design decision I make is tied back to business goals and performance. Clear communication and regular updates help keep everything aligned.

Do you follow a structured workflow or work intuitively?

I follow a structured workflow. Structure gives creativity direction and ensures smooth delivery.

I start by understanding requirements, reviewing the brief, and breaking the project into milestones. I communicate consistently so there are no surprises. This approach helps me deliver quality work every time.

How do you position yourself to attract high-paying clients?

I focus on value, not volume. I’m intentional about the clients I work with and clearly state my pricing.

I showcase recent, relevant work, explain my process publicly, and maintain a strong presence on X (Twitter). My portfolio, pricing, and online presence are aligned with the level of clients I want to attract.

Do you share your process publicly to teach or inspire others?

Yes. I share my work openly. When I was active on Upwork, I helped people optimize their profiles, reviewed accounts, and even sponsored connects for some.

I also share educational content, host X Spaces, and organize learning sessions for people interested in Webflow and no-code development.

Have you mentored others? Can you share a moment where your help made a difference?

Yes. One case I remember clearly was someone who had been applying for jobs for a long time without success. Instead of only advising him, I brought him in to work with me, gave him real tasks, and paid him.

That experience helped him gain confidence, build experience, and move forward in his career.

How important is community to growth?

I haven’t built a personal community yet, but I’ve actively participated in many. I’ve contributed by helping others, sharing resources, and answering questions.

In some communities, I was eventually made an admin because of my involvement. Community accelerates growth, exposes you to opportunities, and keeps you accountable.

How do you balance learning, work, and mentorship?

Time management is key. I schedule mentorship sessions between 9pm and 10pm after my workday ends.

During the day, I focus strictly on client work. At night, I mentor, respond to messages, and attend to requests. Clear boundaries help me stay productive.

What’s a hard truth about freelancing beginners should know?

Not every proposal gets a response. Many clients don’t understand the work happening behind the scenes.

Freelancing includes rejection, slow periods, and misunderstandings. It’s part of the journey.

Have you faced challenges with international payments?

Yes. Many platforms like PayPal and Wise are limited or unsupported in Nigeria. This is a major challenge I’ve personally faced when working with international clients.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Start early and ask for help not money, but guidance.

I reached out to people to learn about Upwork, proposals, and profile optimization. Those conversations saved me months of confusion. Don’t try to figure everything out alone.

What mistake shaped your growth the most?

For a long time, I believed I didn’t need better tools. I kept using an old HP laptop because it could “manage” the work.

Eventually, I invested in better equipment, a proper workspace, and a refined workflow. My speed, quality, and confidence improved. Investing in yourself matters.

How do you define success today?

Success isn’t just money. When I started, I was simply using Webflow. Today, I’m Webflow certified. That progress means a lot to me.

Growth and consistency matter more than numbers.

Would your past self be proud of you?

Absolutely.

If you weren’t in web design, what would you be doing?

Before tech, I was into music. I played drums at parties, concerts, and events. If not web design, I’d probably still be pursuing music.

What’s one truth young creatives in Nigeria need to hear?

Consistency beats talent. If you don’t show up, people won’t know how good you are. Talent without visibility is almost the same as no talent.

How do you handle rejection?

I treat rejection as feedback. I reach out, ask for the criteria used to select the successful candidate, and improve on those areas so I don’t repeat the same mistake.

Can you share your first earnings versus now?

My first earnings were ₦500 – ₦3,000 per graphic design gig.

Today, I earn between $3,000 and $5,000 monthly, depending on projects. There’s no fixed amount, but the growth has been consistent.

Victor’s journey reminds us that growth doesn’t always come from big breaks it comes from showing up consistently, learning in public, and being willing to start small. From earning a few thousand naira designing on his phone to building to a Webflow Partner and mentoring others, his story proves that visibility, preparation, and resilience can open global doors. If you’re navigating freelancing, web design, or no-code development, Victor’s path is a powerful reminder that steady effort compounds over time.

When Hustle Meets Resilience: How Hillary Odogwu Went from ₦500 Writing Gigs to $6900 monthly 

Hi Hillary, welcome. If you had to define yourself in a few words, who is Hillary Odogwu?

My name is Hillary Odogwu. I’m a marketer and ads coach. I started my journey with dropshipping long before ads and coaching became part of my life.

What was your first money-making gig, and how did it shape you?

The first money gig I ever did was writing, and the pay was ₦500. I didn’t feel bad about it, but it taught me something important that I needed to do better for myself.

How did you transition from dropshipping to selling knowledge and then into ads?

While I was doing dropshipping, I used to compile training materials and PDF guides for people who wanted to learn how to become successful dropshippers. At the same time, I was selling shoes sourced from my wholesaler.

At some point, I realized I was passionate about selling information. I’ve always been expressive and open online, so selling what I knew felt natural. I kept thinking about how much knowledge I had in my head and how pointless it was not to monetize it.

The first product I sold was an Amazon KDP course. From there, I moved into affiliate marketing. Eventually, I discovered my passion for Instagram ads. Once I figured out what worked, I started teaching others the exact strategies and that’s how everything began.

What is the biggest myth people believe about digital marketing?

The biggest myth is that people think they can enter digital marketing and make money overnight. Marketing requires time, energy, and money. You have to learn many skills, and it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme the way it’s often portrayed online.

Anyone who thinks they can start today and make ₦500k next week is being delusional. It doesn’t work that way.

Your online presence is bold and sometimes controversial. How do you balance that with teaching and coaching?

I honestly just go with the flow. If I feel like making a controversial post, I do it. If I want to grow my account, I know exactly what to do.

But I don’t depend on social media for income I run a lot of ads. So people buy from me regardless. I don’t plan my posts or follow a strict content strategy. I just express whatever I feel like expressing at any moment.

Have you experienced difficulties receiving international payments?

Not really. There are many Nigerian startup apps that help with collecting USD payments. I’ve had enough options, so I haven’t faced any major issues.

You’ve mentioned learning some hard financial lessons. Can you share one that shaped you?

I don’t like to call them mistakes I call them lessons.

One major lesson was learning to avoid extremes: too much instant gratification and too much delayed gratification. Early last year, I felt I had worked hard for a long time and deserved to spend my money freely. I was earning decently, but spending immediately on gadgets and luxuries drained my finances.

Now that I earn more, I understand how to manage resources better. I only spend on things that multiply my income. You have to find a balance where you manage, save, and invest wisely.

What is the most important trait for success in marketing?

Resilience.

Some days sales are good. Some days they’re bad. Some days you won’t make a single sale. Things that worked for months can suddenly stop working.

You need resilience to keep going when everything feels uncertain. Without it, you’ll give up easily or jump from one thing to another.

What keeps you grounded when things get overwhelming?

I don’t care about public opinion. My principles are based on the standards I set for myself.

What drives me is value giving people knowledge, showing them what’s possible, and providing tools that actually make their lives better. I’m value-driven, not validation-driven.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t be afraid to ask. And don’t be ashamed of receiving good things.

Growing up, I was scared to ask for money because adults around me always complained about finances. That mindset affected my marketing because I was afraid to ask people to pay for my products.

Eventually, I learned that people don’t pay just to buy they pay because an offer is attached. That realization gave me the confidence to charge my worth.

Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

I honestly don’t know, I go with the flow. But I always set goals.

By 19, I made my first million.
By 20,I left my parents house.
By 21, I had other goals I wrote down and achieved.

I don’t stop achieving things. That’s just how I am.

What are you currently building?

I’m building an agency called Andro media. The goal is to revolutionize how physical business owners sell online helping them sell out, hit targets, and scale.

We plan to support at least 70 business owners in our first month, between January and February. I also want to build startups, buy startups, and eventually launch my own brand possibly skincare or perfume.

After investing and setting everything up, I want the freedom to live life on my own terms.

Would you consider relocating if the opportunity arises?

Only if it’s the United States and only if it offers significantly more than what I earn now, plus a comfortable lifestyle, maybe a penthouse in New York.

If it’s not the US, the only other country I’d consider is the UK. Right now, I don’t see a reason to leave unless Nigeria becomes much worse.

Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, digital marketer, or creative looking to monetize your skills, Hillary’s story reminds you to stay resilient, stay bold, and always keep learning. In her words; success doesn’t come overnight, but consistent effort and knowing your worth will take you further than you ever imagined.

The rise of Benjamin Shotala: How he built a career against all odds from having only 700 naira to $15,000 a year

Benjamin Shotala has lived the struggle many young Africans face today. In this interview, he breaks down his journey, the hard truths no one tells you about landing a job, and how he’s helping others rise again

Alright, let’s dive in. Ben, can you please tell me about yourself? Who is Benjamin Shotala?

My name is Benjamin Olamide Shotala. I’m a marketing specialist, specifically a lifecycle marketing specialist and I’m also the founder of two startups that I’m currently building. I manage a community of passionate tech enthusiasts and people who are just beginning their journey in tech.
That’s pretty much about me.

You mentioned you’re a founder of two startups. Can you expand a bit on them?

Sure. One of the startups is a platform for hiring talents still in the building phase. The second one is centered around productivity. I can’t share much yet, but it’s focused on helping people lock in better and work more efficiently.

You run a community called Broke Ones Will Rise Again. What inspired you to start that community?

I realized many tech enthusiasts weren’t getting visibility. A lot of people were in my DMs saying they couldn’t get jobs. I’ve been there, and I understood how frustrating it can be. Since I had a bit of a platform, I felt I could use it to help others gain visibility. By posting and spotlighting them, someone searching for their skill might reach out. So the community was created to support and uplift each other.

What was the breaking point where people started seeing you as a mentor and reaching out for guidance?

People reached out because I shared the things I did to land my own job and connect with others. They felt they were doing something wrong, and I was openly sharing strategies that didn’t require spending a lot of money.
In many cases, all it takes is visibility. Just last week, someone I posted got contacted by someone in the US who wanted to hire them. Helping people genuinely makes me happy.

What’s the process like? Do people just message you, or do they have to pay?

It depends. You can start by joining my Wednesday Spaces. I’ve been hosting them weekly for a year now. It’s usually a five-hour space where people rant, share their struggles, and we dissect what’s going wrong.
We talk about landing remote roles, positioning yourself better internationally, and navigating the challenges of freelancing from Nigeria or Africa.

So what is one hard truth about job searching that people don’t talk about?, it always seems so easy online.

The hard truth is: nobody cares if you’re jobless.
You’ll apply to a lot of jobs, and you’ll get rejected from many of them. Expectations get crushed when we assume it’ll be quick. There will be many “no’s.”
That’s the reality.

What would you advise someone who receives 90% “no’s” and feels discouraged especially young graduates?

Receiving 90% rejection is personal, it’s also a sign to switch strategies.
There are conventional and unconventional ways to get a job. If the conventional isn’t working, use the unconventional. Don’t apply blindly. Have a feedback loop.
Stop relying on Easy Apply. Find people who need your skill the most, those who are actively hiring. People who really need it always stand out.
You should be able to land at least one opportunity if you’re doing it right.

On a scale of 1–10, what’s your success rate when you help others?

I don’t teach people to land immediate jobs. Landing the job is on them.
University taught us skills but not job placement. Same thing here, I train the mindset, the strategy, and the positioning. But implementation is the student’s responsibility.
I’ve had people doubt the strategies until they finally try them. One lady in my community got a dollar-paying job on Upwork without using Connects because she applied the methods I taught.
Success depends entirely on the person.
If you apply for 10 jobs and quit, you’re not ready. You should be applying for 500+ a month if you want the dream job. That’s the truth.

You shared a story about coming from the trenches and flipping your life around. Can you tell that story again?

Sure. I come from a very poor background. Life was extremely tough. I graduated with a second-class lower and often questioned whether I’d make it.
But I had resilience. I knew that if I showed up consistently, something would change.
Last year, I had less than ₦700 to my name. I was completely broke. But I kept putting myself out there, sharpening my skills, and staying focused.
One morning, everything changed because of the effort I had been putting in. I made an incredible amount of money working from home.
I still live in the trenches, I hear the chickens every day but I show up for myself because nobody is coming to save me.
That mindset flipped my story.

How were you able to move from having less than ₦700 to earning over $15,000 in a year while living in Nigeria?

Positioning, consistency, and strategy.
I could’ve made more, but some opportunities didn’t align. Next year will be bigger.
It all depends on how you present yourself and the value you put out.

What advice would you give to people who have tried everything and are ready to give up?

First, stalk your idols. Many of them lie.
Study them deeply, search their LinkedIn, their Upwork, keywords they use, their strategies. Don’t let anyone sell you empty dreams. I moved from 0 to 100 without a mentor because I was tired of poverty. Build relationships, communicate well, and be kind. People underestimate kindness.

Also learn to sell yourself. Selling is different from marketing.
Marketing is making noise. Selling is using psychology, understanding why people buy, why someone chooses you, how your value converts into results.
Read books on sales. They will change your life.

Whether you’re a job seeker, new graduate, or tech enthusiast, Ben’s advice encourages you to stay consistent, stay curious, and never stop refining your craft.
Because in his words, nobody is coming to save you, but you can always save yourself.

Meet Florence Ogunbore: She started as a developer, now she is shaping the future of Product Managers

Florence didn’t set out to become a Product Manager, she simply followed her curiosity, her love for building, and her drive to solve real problems. What started as a front-end development journey gradually unfolded into a passion for product thinking, community building, and guiding others entering tech.

In this interview, she shares how she transitioned into PM, built Product Buddies, earned an industry nomination, and why the version of her from three years ago would be proud today.

Hi Florence, Welcome to our Growth Series. Can you please tell us about yourself. who is Florence Ogunbore?

My name is Florence Oguunbore. I’m a Product Manager by day and a Web Developer whenever I get the chance. I actually started my tech journey as a web developer, learning front-end. Along the way, I came across product management, although at the time, I didn’t know that was what I was doing.

While working as a developer in a software agency, I found myself taking on responsibilities like coordinating tasks, managing people, and handling product decisions. It wasn’t until later that I realized those responsibilities fell under product management. I’ve now been a Product Manager for over three years.

You mentioned you started earlier but didn’t know it was product management at the time. Can you clarify your timeline?

Yes, I started coding in 2018 and worked fully as a developer. In 2021, while working at a software agency, I was put in charge of an internal product. I was acting almost like the CTO managing people, assigning tasks, keeping an eye on deliverables, even though I didn’t know it was called product management then.

I remember telling a friend that I didn’t want to only build things; I wanted to be part of the process before the building started. Even as a developer, I always attended client meetings to understand what we were building.

Later in 2021, I stepped away from coding and focused solely on managing that in-house project. That was when I consciously began learning product management. From December 2021 to January 2022, I started taking PM courses. By early 2022, I moved fully into product management, and by the end of the year I got my first PM role.

You also mentioned you still work as a web developer when you get the chance. Why “when you get the chance”?

Because product management is extremely time demanding. You have meetings from morning to afternoon, working closely with teams in real time.

Web development, on the other hand, gives me flexibility I can jump into it any time my schedule is free. But PM work is mostly daytime and structured.

Tell us more about Product Buddies. What is it about, and what have you achieved so far?

Product Buddies started as a support group. A popular product management OG created a PM challenge where participants picked a product and did a presentation. We created a channel for that challenge, and afterward we asked ourselves: Do we really need to disband this? Why not build something out of it?

That’s how Product Buddies was birthed. It started as a community for entry-level PMs and later grew to include mid-level and senior PMs. Today, we have over 1,000 members. We also have a Twitter community. We keep the group friendly, not overly serious, but still very supportive.

You were nominated for the Product that Counts Awards this year. How did that feel?

Honestly, I can never get used to how people see me. A friend asked for my information, and I was confused at first. Then she told me she wanted to nominate me for something.

The people who have won before are OGs in the industry, so it felt surreal. I’ve only been doing this for about three years, so the nomination felt big. I didn’t even know how to process it.

What are some cool things about product management that you’d tell someone interested in breaking into the field?

Two things:
1. You’ll learn a lot. PM exposes you to new knowledge, communities, and people.
2. You get to help people. There’s nothing like seeing users interact with a product you worked on, it’s very rewarding.

Would Florence from three years ago be proud of who you are now?

The 2022 version of me would be proud of me like mad! I’ve achieved so much, learned so much, and I’m genuinely enjoying this journey.

For someone who wants to go into PM or web design, what’s your advice? Should they get a job first and learn on the go, or learn first?

I’d say start with a beginner course. Learn the basics, the foundation is important and unavoidable. Use free resources too. First learn it, then decide if it’s really what you want.

After that, start putting yourself out there. Show your process, practice publicly, and apply for opportunities even if it’s an internship role.

Florence’s story is a reminder that career journeys don’t always follow a straight line, sometimes they unfold as we grow, explore, and step into new challenges. From writing code to managing products and building thriving communities, her path shows the power of curiosity, consistency, and learning in public. Whether you’re transitioning into PM, exploring web development, or still figuring out where you belong in tech, her story is proof that starting small, staying open, and showing your process can take you farther than you imagine.

Building With Purpose: The Story of Afolabi Sokeye, who Turned Ideas Into Impact.

“You don’t need a perfect product to start,” he says. “Test ideas, refine, and keep learning. Every step teaches you something.”

Thank you for joining us on our series. We’re really excited to hear your story and learn about your journey. To start, who is Afolabi?

This is one question I get asked a lot. Afolabi is a product and group expert who has been building for over three years. I’m also a community leader for both young and old, an authentic person who loves to help society at large.

You mentioned you’ve been building for over three years. What was that journey like before you became a product manager?

Before I got into product management, I was already building platforms and working in operations. In 2023, I decided to dedicate myself fully to this career. I started in university with a group of friends who loved solving problems. From 2019 to 2022, we were building startups at Babcock and developing ideas that could make life easier for people.

What motivated you to start building?

From when I was young, I’ve always been drawn to people who solve problems. That inspired me to do the same, to build things that help others.

Tell us more about your company. Is Tabs Editor your main product?

The company is called WetroCloud, and Tabs Editor is our flagship product. It’s a tool that helps users analyse and write documents with AI. We launched it around September 2024, and it’s already helping students, researchers, and professionals work more efficiently.

What challenges did you face building it?

Every startup faces challenges, especially when you’re young and trying to enter new markets. Getting users, generating revenue, and building trust aren’t easy. But once we saw Tabs Editor solve our own problems, we knew it could help thousands more. That was our turning point.

What advice would you give young Nigerians who want to start something but feel limited by resources?

Start small. You don’t need everything to be perfect. You can test your ideas with mini-apps or demos. Focus on solving real problems and learning as you go. Failure isn’t the end. it’s how you discover what works.

That’s powerful. Anything you’d like to say to young creators reading this?

Keep moving forward. Every attempt, every small success, and every setback teaches you something valuable. Life is about persistence. If you’re still trying, you’re already on the right path.

About Afolabi Sokeye

Afolabi Sokeye is a Nigerian product and growth expert, builder, and community leader with a passion for creating meaningful solutions through technology. He is the co-founder and CMO of WetroCloud, the company behind Tabs Editor, a productivity tool that helps users analyze and extract information seamlessly.

Over the past few years, Afolabi has been recognized for his problem-solving mindset and authentic approach to leadership, earning features in platforms such as Tech Cabal, Accrue etc.

Beyond his technical expertise, he remains deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of innovators and fostering a culture of resilience, creativity, and purpose in Africa’s tech ecosystem.