Women of Softcom

IWD 2022

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Adaeze Odurukwe

How would you describe the work you do at Softcom? And what are you most proud of?

I’m a Front-end Developer at Softcom, so one of the ways to easily describe my work is blue and black screens. The part of software development I’m often excited about is the art of creating – using my skills, knowledge, and experiences to bring an idea to life. Seeing an idea take form is one of the reasons I chose the frontend. It will always be exciting – I hope.

 

I’m having a good time building Softcom’s Identify product and I hope that when we launch, it will be a proud moment for me.

What would access and inclusion look like for you in the Africa Softcom is trying to build?
In software development, when you see “accessibility”, your mind is taken to building products for disabled people. Is the contrast good enough for people who do not have 2020 vision? Am I putting the right labels to ensure screen readers can get all the information on my site? So for me, it’s primarily a world where people are ascribed the basic human dignity and respect and also offering consideration and empathy where need be.
How did you get into the tech environment?

I did a computer proficiency course with Aptech Computer Education while doing my university internship with the same company. My mum came up with the idea and I ran with it. She felt there was a need for me to learn a skill related to my discipline.

 

Now when I think about it, I do remember lamenting to her in one of our prior talks about not seeing or understanding how I’d graduate and get a job when I couldn’t practically do anything. I was in my second year in the university at that time. But now, I know companies hire people and train them because it was a major concern for me.

 

I try to tell this story as much as I can so that more people who can are reminded to invest more time in/with their children – listening to them and trying to help them as much as possible.

What do you do for fun?
I watch movies and series. When there is cable, I invest most of my free time in watching reality shows and the Universal channel’s Law and Order: SVU. I once wrote short stories, and I hope to do so again. I love storytelling, and this (with a sprinkle of Lagos traffic) led me to creative reading as well. I also like having conversations, from flimsy to wholesome ones while eating good food… haha. Pretty basic stuff.
Tell us two truths about yourself and one lie.

– I am 6ft tall.

– I once commanded a storm still.

– When I was younger I had dreams of being a triple threat – actor, model, singer.