Women of Softcom

IWD 2022

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Karika Yonreme

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

My role at Softcom as the VP, Programs involves building and managing socio-economic programs with the aim of solving societal problems to advance humanity, enable society and ensure inclusive human growth for the everyday African. For instance, with respect to business, the average Nigerian business owner can relate to limitations such as access to financial support, relevant knowledge, data for insightful decision, coaching, mentorship and guidance, when it comes to entrepreneurship.

 

As a company, it became important for us to tackle these problems that entrepreneurs face and build a platform to enable businesses thrive. Eventually, all our thoughts and brainstorming birthed LIFT – a Softcom initiative which means Learn. Improve. Focus. Transform.

 

One of my proudest moments so far at Softcom has been establishing a program called LIFT. LIFT has served as a platform to enable SMEs attain business growth by giving them access to knowledge, capital and coaching. Through LIFT, we are LIFTing businesses up and pivoting them to their next levels.

What does choosing to challenge mean personally for you?

There are a number of social norms that I would love to choose to challenge. Some of these misconceptions include the challenge that Africans businesses rarely transcend generations, the challenge of 50% of the population being unbanked which leads to financial exclusion, the challenge of insufficient data that businesses face which could hinder them from making data-driven decisions, the challenge and restrictions that Africans face in accessing knowledge… So many challenges.

 

However, with regards International Women’s Day, I choose to challenge the societal conditioning that Women should not be visible and vocal about their needs, wants and achievements. For far too long, women have endured taking lower-paying roles, greater job insecurity and under-representation in leadership positions. I believe it is time for women to understand that “They are the Value” and own their narrative.

What would access and inclusion look like for you in the Africa Softcom is trying to build?
Access and inclusion for me is a society where people have equitable access to growth tools such as mindset, knowledge, capital, data, and no limits to how far they can grow. My work at Softcom is exciting for me because it is aligned with my core beliefs that “Every human is uniquely resourced, and should be encouraged to explore their potentials.”
How did you get into the tech environment?
As far back as I can remember, I believed that science would change the world and advance us into the future. This led me to study Engineering and take on STEM related job opportunities. In the last 12 years, my interest in tech increased as a result of seeing the innovation, disruptive effect and advancement of humanity that tech has created and will continue to do. This led me to fully immerse myself in the industry.
What do you do for fun?

I am a multifaceted being with numerous interests and passions. On some days, fun for me is going on adrenaline pumping activities such as sky-diving, bungee jumping, swimming with sharks; travelling to new countries and learning about their culture.

 

On other days, fun involves writing, reading, researching and garnering knowledge to empower others, food tasting, trying out new cuisines. However, one thing that is consistent is my love for networking, conversing with humans, learning from their knowledge and experiences and reminding them of how valuable they are.

Tell us two truths about yourself and one lie.

– I love seafood.

– I love curating gifts for others.

– I enjoy photoshoots.