How Bolt’s Drive4witech initiative is propelling gender inclusion in Africa

For young women, defining a clear career path is a critical aspect to selfdevelopment, long term productivity and professional success.

Whilst career aspirations may differ, there is a shared understanding that more women need to be involved in tech-related sectors, to meet the growing need for constant innovation across the world and addressing the topic of gender inclusiveness.

Women’s month celebrated globally provided an opportunity to showcase female-focused initiatives to empower and drive growth for women.

Amongst the several initiatives launched this year to celebrate International Women’s day, Bolt introduced its Drive4wi

Tech ( Drive for Women In Tech) initiative to support women in building a career in technology. The initiative is an internship programme for young women who choose to start a career in technology regardless of their existing educational background.

From the vast number of applicants across Africa, 9 interns were selected from Ghana, Nigeria and Kenya. The goal for Bolt is to equip these interns, with preliminary knowledge and hands-on tools required to expand their career paths into areas in technology.

The interns chosen are made up of undergraduate and post-graduates across different interests with three lucky Nigerians - Onyekachukwu Orji, Miracle Nebo and Oluwakorede Oseni selected in the tightly contested programme.

The journey into tech for women in Africa is an ongoing talking point of discussion, largely influenced by cultural norms to societal expectations with gender.

Bolt, an inclusive mobility company, said it recognises this and is fulfilling its commitments to include more women in tech. The internship is a hands- on experience that allows the interns to harness their career in the technology industry.

The company has designed a curriculum to immerse its interns in their various departments and get the chance to work closely with highly skilled industry experts for the period.

“Tech is key to development in Nigeria and Africa. Initiatives like the Drive4wi Tech initiative will in the long term, boost Nigeria’s economy, encouraging an environment of inclusivity,” Bolt said.