How Yoma Helped Shalom Turn Her Passion for Design Into a Career

Bridging the Gap: Meet Shalom, who used Yoma ecosystem (Umuzi, Goodwall) to master UI/UX design, securing a full-time tech role and now inspiring the next generation of African designers.

Shalom Ayodele, 27, was a student who was looking for direction in her career. She was very interested in design but did not know where to begin. Her interest in design gave her an opportunity to gain a new skill that could secure her a job. While she was motivated to gain the skills for design, she felt directionless and uncertain about how to proceed toward her goal.

A big challenge Shalom faced was during the Covid-19 pandemic. When her school went on a mandatory break. Shalom however continued to search for opportunities to work and learn more about design from free online courses. However the courses were not comprehensive enough for Shalom to truly build her skills in design.

Discovering Yoma: A Game-Changer

She first came across Yoma through the ecosystem partners Goodwall, Umuzi and UReport. Yoma offered the comprehensive structured and in depth learning Shalom was looking for with the added benefit of a supportive community that made all the difference. These opportunities allowed Shalom to embark on her UI/UX design journey.

Engaging with Yoma’s Opportunities

Determined to upskill, Shalom engaged with several programs within the Yoma ecosystem:

U-Report: SMS updates on Women in Tech Scholarship opportunities

Goodwall: Women in Tech Challenge – “What skills are you bringing along with you into tech?”

Umuzi: Google UX Design Specialization Course

Didx: Internship Opportunity

Through these initiatives, she acquired hands-on experience, learning UI/UX design from scratch, sharpening her research skills, and developing the confidence to present her ideas effectively.

From Learning to Earning

Today, Shalom is thriving as a full-time UI/UX designer. The skills and experience she gained through Yoma’s programs have significantly shaped her career trajectory. More than just securing a job, she has developed a deep passion for her work and a strong commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Beyond personal success, Shalom’s journey has ignited a desire to give back. She is now motivated to contribute to projects that drive meaningful change in communities and empower others to pursue similar paths.

Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

As she continues her career in UI/UX design, Shalom remains focused on expanding her expertise and sharing the knowledge she has gained. She aims to create more opportunities for aspiring designers and help bridge the gap for those seeking to enter the tech industry.

Words of Encouragement for Aspiring Youth

Shalom has a powerful message for other young people from her experiences and journey:

“Yoma is more than just a platform; it’s a bridge to opportunities that can transform your life. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, grow your career, or connect with a supportive community, Yoma provides the tools and resources to help you succeed. If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, Yoma is the perfect place to start.”

Final Thoughts

Looking back, Shalom is immensely grateful for the support and opportunities Yoma provided. What started as an uncertain path has now led to a fulfilling career, and she credits the guidance and encouragement from Yoma’s ecosystem partners for making it all possible. Her story serves as an inspiring example of how determination, the right resources, and a strong support system can turn aspirations into achievements.