Jennifer is a driven, ambitious “Queen of the Nerds” whose role is to identify problems being faced by our business partners and consumers that Cellulant can solve using Technology. She leads a team of software engineers who actually build the ideas she comes up with.
What drives you? I enjoy solving complex problems. It’s a habit that started from solving crossword puzzles with my father when I was young
What drove you towards tech and Fintech generally? My interest is mostly due to the quickly changing technology landscape. I wanted a career where I would be constantly learning new things. The move to fintech happened quite organically as I was trying to find an opportunity to use my technology skills to solve problems that were close to home.
What would you say have been some of the most challenging moments for you as a woman in tech? During the early days of my career, some clients would still request for a man’s validation on any feedback/response/commitment that I made. It took a while for me to realise that the client’s bias had nothing to do with me personally but rather the unfortunate reality that I was the first female in technology they were encountering and they simply had no idea how to treat me.
Which have been the most rewarding moments? The most rewarding moments are definitely moments when I can demonstrate digital services to complete strangers
What words of inspiration would you give to young women and girls who still feel that tech is not for them?
Every rule has an exception. You can either be that exception or watch someone else do it, the choice is up to you.
What do you love most about working at Cellulant?
The knowledge that I am working for a company that is obsessed with solving problems that African consumers face every day.
Before joining Cellulant, Jennifer worked as a Systems Engineer for a Technology Firm in Harare.
#africanwomeninFintech series features women at Cellulant transforming our continent- one business at a time. One transaction at a time.