In Mid March, Bolt started a a program to enable more women get into the tech industry. One of the strategies was to offer paid internships in operations, marketing, PR and engineering for 12 women across Africa. One of those women in the program that ended last month is Omedo Gladys and in her words, the internship has been immersive and a good platform to help her build her career.
Here are some words from Gladys.
Among many applications received, you were selected to intern with Bolt in the Drive4WITech initiative. How did you feel when you were selected?
It was exciting and a blessing to be selected for this internship programme.
What area did you specialise in during the programme?
I specialised in marketing.
Tell us about the experience and the new skills you learnt during the programme?
My experience has been amazing and educational. I have learnt new skills like coming up with marketing strategies, localisation of press releases, influencer management, and coming up with PR plans.
What impact has Drive4WITech had on you and how will it enhance your career?
The program has challenged my mind to be creative while coming up with ideas and strategies, and to think on my feet. It has also shown me the value of having an open mind to learn new things every day. Thanks to Drive4WITech, I’m now confident in my work as it has greatly impacted my confidence through various presentations.
How do you plan to use the knowledge gained to your advantage in the tech industry?
I will communicate better with different perspectives in the tech industry like with service providers, retailers, and clients. I now know how to reach different audiences with knowledge on social media marketing and with the statistics and insights, I’m able to know the impact of the various strategies used for marketing.
Did you have any challenges interning at Bolt?
Adjusting to the machine ha!
The Drive4WITech initiative positions Bolt as an inclusive and diverse organization. How immersing was it for you?
It was very immersive. My line manager would always involve me in meetings where they discussed how to market the brand better, localisation of press releases, actively finding influencers to work with the various campaigns put in place and engaging me on my interactions with the app. This helped me to know how to better marketing strategies.
Did the programme meet your expectations?
Yes. My expectation was to be more skilled in my work and by all means, I have grown in my work ethic and I am better at what I do.
What is that one thing you will miss about interning at Bolt?
How it continues to teach until you can find a place you best-fit meaning you learn every day. Bolt also ensures you have resources you need to be successful in your role.