Testimonial

In 2017, my brother lit the spark that set me on the path of programming. I was still in high school, trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. His encouragement to dive into computer science opened my eyes to a whole new world.

By 2018, I was wrapping up high school. My other brother came through for me with a laptop. That laptop wasn’t just a piece of tech—it was a lifeline. It gave me the tools I needed to start exploring my interest in programming more seriously.

2019 was a game-changer. I took a gap year and decided to teach myself Java programming. It wasn’t easy, but I was determined.
Every line of code I wrote felt like a step towards a brighter future.

In 2020, I took a big leap and started my BCom in Computer Science and Information Systems at Nelson Mandela University. University life was exciting, but I quickly realized that a degree alone wasn’t going to make me stand out in the job market.

2021 was a turning point. I reached out to some South African YouTubers who were into programming, hoping to join their projects and get some real-world experience. Most of them told me to start my own projects, but then I met Femi from Techbridle Foundation. He asked for my CV and introduced me to a project called ImaliBooks. That opportunity was a goldmine of learning and put me ahead of my classmates.

By 2022, we were deep into developing ImaliBooks. I got involved in more side projects, picking up skills in collaboration and business. Femi wasn't just a mentor in coding; he also introduced me to ethical hacking, which was fascinating. By May 2023, we launched ImaliBooks, and I became a director and co-founder, all while still at university.

In 2024, I graduated and started planning the next steps for ImaliBooks. I juggled side projects to earn some money and keep learning. Around February, Femi set up a call with a trainer named Thapelo. They both advised me to get a job for more experience and to support my family. I updated my LinkedIn, and within a month, I had several job offers. By March, I was starting a new job as a Software Developer with a UK company.

Looking back, I owe so much to the Foundation's mentorship. It opened doors I never knew existed and helped shape me into the man I am today—skilled, experienced, and ready for whatever comes next.

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