Embarking on the AfroTech 2023 journey was like stepping into a realm where the worlds of technology, culture, and community seamlessly intertwine. For this year’s event, I immersed myself in this vibrant celebration, and it became clear that AfroTech is not solely a conference but rather a pathway to endless opportunities for Africans in the diaspora.
One session that resonated with me was “The Power of Relationships,” led by Tito Alawode, Customer Success Manager at Shopify. Tito’s insights were more than just valuable advice; they were a testament to the limitless possibilities that can unfold through strategic connections. Tito’s success story not only inspired but also illuminated the entrepreneurial avenues available to Africans in the diaspora, providing a tangible roadmap for navigating the corporate landscape and fostering impactful relationships.
Tito’s dual role as the founder of My Chop Chop, the largest online African grocer in Canada, showcased the entrepreneurial spirit thriving within the African community. It was a powerful reminder that Africans in the diaspora possess the skills and resilience to forge their paths, and transform their ideas into successful ventures.
This year’s AfroTech Conference also featured a pop-up event created by Amplify Africa for the Africon conference which further solidified the notion that AfroTech is a catalyst for progress. The panel discussion on “Leadership in the Age of AI: Cultivating a Powerful Ecosystem for the Black Community” highlighted the significance of leadership and community-building in the tech landscape. Attending these discussions at AfroTech not only broaden our understanding but also provides a platform to actively contribute to shaping the future here in the United States, Africa and beyond.
The Jollof Festival also took place during AfroTech and I would describe it as a vibrant celebration of West African cuisine. This event further exemplified how AfroTech seamlessly integrates cultural pride into the tech narrative. For Africans in the diaspora, this festival emphasized the rich heritage of various African countries as well as the necessity for cultural celebrations to be part of our professional journey.
Tope Awotona, a Nigerian-American billionaire and founder of Calendly, presented a session during the conference, and his presence served as an example of the heights Africans in the diaspora can achieve. AfroTech serves as a magnet for trailblazers, providing a unique opportunity to connect with and be inspired by individuals who have navigated similar paths.
In essence, AfroTech 2023 showcased not just the latest in tech but the vast opportunities available for Africans in the diaspora. From Tito’s entrepreneurial insights to discussions on leadership and cultural celebrations, the conference is a testament to the expansive horizons waiting to be explored. It’s not merely an event; it’s a transformative experience that propels Africans in the diaspora toward new possibilities, collaborations, and success stories. It became clear that AfroTech is not solely a conference but rather a pathway to endless opportunities for Africans in the diaspora.
Written by Jennifer Onwumere for Trendy Africa Magazine
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