Young women take active role in shaping tech careers

DAR ES SALAAM: YOUNG women are increasingly taking an active role in shaping careers in the technology sector, breaking long-held stereotypes about who belongs in the industry.

Among those leading by example is Ms Happy Mkoloma, whose journey from environmental science to tech leadership reflects courage, curiosity and relentless determination. Her story is not just about success in a high-paced industry, it is a testament to the power of embracing change, seeking growth and daring to step into the unknown.

When most people think of technology careers, they imagine software engineers, developers or data scientists. Ms Mkoloma’s path was different.

“I did not start in tech, and I did not always know I would end up here,” she said.

“My background was in environmental science, and at the time, technology felt like a completely different world.” Her initial steps into the tech industry were intimidating. She entered a space filled with digital platforms, corporate partnerships and complex enterprise solutions, areas she had never worked in before.

“There were moments I felt out of place,” she recalls.

“You are surrounded by people who speak a different professional language about platforms, systems and strategies and you have to catch up fast. But I chose to see that as a learning opportunity rather than a limitation.” Rather than letting unfamiliarity hold her back, Ms Mkoloma adopted a growth mindset.

She embraced the challenges of learning a new field and dedicated herself to developing the skills she needed to succeed. “I told myself, ‘You may not know this yet, but you can learn it.’ That changed everything. I started asking more questions, seeking guidance and pushing myself beyond what felt comfortable,” she explains. Her determination quickly began to pay off.

Today, Ms Mkoloma serves as Team Lead for Tanzania at Bolt for Business, overseeing business development and client solutions in one of East Africa’s most competitive and fast-evolving markets.

In 2025, she was promoted and inducted into the Bolt Business Elite Club for securing multimillion-dollar deals in recognition of her strategic acumen, client relationship management and ability to deliver results consistently. Yet, Ms Mkoloma is quick to note that her journey has never been solely about accolades or titles.

“Success is not just about recognition or money. It’s about growing intentionally, learning continuously and showing up even when the path is uncertain,” she said.

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Mentorship has been a cornerstone of her career growth. From her early managers to executives she works with today, Ms Mkoloma has benefited from leaders who invested time and resources into helping her realise her potential.

“Mentorship played a huge role in my journey. Having people who believed in me, even when I was still figuring things out, gave me the confidence to keep going,” she shares.

“Sometimes all you need is someone to open a door or remind you that you are capable.” Her experience also challenges a common misconception: That technology is only for engineers or programmers.

Ms Mkoloma demonstrates that the industry thrives on diverse skill sets. Professionals in business development, strategy, operations and partnerships are vital to translating technical solutions into meaningful outcomes.

“Tech is exciting because it’s about solving problems and creating impact, not just coding,” she explains. “You can come from any background and still make a meaningful contribution.” Beyond her professional achievements, Ms Mkoloma emphasises resilience and adaptability as essential traits for young women pursuing unconventional paths. “There were times I had to step into roles I felt unprepared for,” she admits.

“The key was to treat those moments as opportunities to grow rather than obstacles to fear. Each challenge taught me something new about myself and the industry.” Her story also highlights the broader lesson that careers are rarely linear.

For many young women considering tech, the idea of entering a male-dominated sector or a completely new field can be daunting. Ms Mkoloma’s journey shows that unconventional paths can lead to meaningful and rewarding careers.

“Do not wait until you feel fully ready, because you may never feel that way,” she advises.

“Start where you are, use what you have, and trust that you will grow into the role. Sometimes the opportunities you never planned for turn out to be the most rewarding.” Leadership, she says, is not just about directing teams it is also about fostering an environment where others can grow. “I try to lead by example, creating space for my team to take risks, ask questions and learn. Supporting others is part of my success,” she notes.

This approach reflects her belief that mentorship and empowerment are essential to advancing women in tech. Her story resonates beyond her personal achievements. Ms Mkoloma’s journey is inspiring to young women and professionals from all backgrounds.

It demonstrates that determination, curiosity and the right support can enable anyone to thrive in industries that initially seem unfamiliar. By embracing challenges, building skills intentionally, and seeking mentorship, young women are increasingly taking active roles in shaping the tech landscape.

Ms Happy Mkoloma’s story is more than a career narrative it is a blueprint for growth, resilience and purposeful leadership. Her journey reminds us that success is rarely defined by following a straight path. Sometimes, the most rewarding careers are those built on courage, curiosity and the willingness to venture into uncharted territory.