Bridging the Remote Work Divide
Rethinking African Talents and Amplifying Voices in Remote Work
Hi Superstar,
Welcome to a new week, filled with fresh opportunities and career dilemmas to tackle.
As Africans seeking remote opportunities, you may have felt limited, as if your chances were as scarce as a genie's three magic wishes. I have felt that way too, numerous times, that my chances were limited. But let me tell you, as Africans, we shouldn't settle for just three wishes—we deserve unlimited possibilities.
The roadblocks you often encounter are not because you lack the ability to apply for these remote positions, but rather because these opportunities lack the necessary inclusivity for us to fully participate. The door may seem closed but you should refuse to accept that. You should be ready to break down barriers and create your own path. Moreover, It is important to look beyond stereotypes and embrace the unique perspectives and boundless creativity that you can bring to the table. You have the power to shape the future of remote work by infusing it with your rich heritage, diverse experiences, and fresh insights. Remember, each day is an opportunity to showcase your talents, explore new possibilities, and challenge the status quo. As you navigate your career journey, keep the fire burning within you. Let your passion and determination drive you forward, propelling you to new heights. Also, shoot your shot, seize those remote opportunities, and make your mark on the world. It's time to redefine what it means to be an African professional in the remote work sphere.
For organizations, remote work isn't a magic fix. It's crucial to acknowledge that there are still challenges to overcome to ensure accessibility and equality for all. The time for inclusivity and empowerment is now, and it begins with us. For example, access to reliable internet and technology is still a major issue in many parts of Africa, which can make it difficult for people to participate in remote work. Additionally, there are cultural differences that need to be taken into account when working with people from different parts of the world, and it's important to create an environment that is inclusive and respectful of everyone's unique perspectives. Despite these challenges, I believe that remote work has the potential to be a powerful tool for amplifying African voices and creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce. By recognizing the unique skills and perspectives that African talent can bring to the table, we can create a more vibrant and dynamic remote work environment that benefits everyone involved.
Remote Worker Segment
Shattering Stereotypes and Amplifying African Talent: Meet Karen Kavete an African Woman from Kenya. With an unwavering determination to shatter stereotypes and conquer the remote job market, Karen is on a mission to build a fulfilling and rewarding career that defies all odds.
Join us as we delve into the untold story of Karen's quest for success in a realm often plagued by limitations and preconceptions. From the picturesque landscapes of Kenya to the virtual spaces connecting professionals worldwide, Karen's journey serves as a testament to the unwavering spirit and boundless potential of African talent. Her story is not just about personal achievements; it represents a collective struggle to dismantle barriers and amplify the voices of African professionals in remote work.
Hi Karen, thank you for joining us, could you please provide a concise summary of your background and professional experience, particularly in the context of remote work?
My name is Karen Kavete, and I hold a degree in Sociology from Maseno University in Kenya. As a Freelancer, I have had the privilege of working remotely in diverse sociological fields such as Community Development, Research, Program Support, and Monitoring & Evaluation. Over the course of seven years, I have collaborated with both local and international organizations. Previously, I served as the community manager for Well Aware, a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing clean water to communities in Kenya. In addition to my professional endeavors, I am actively involved as a volunteer life coach in various girls' schools and conduct workshops on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in schools and communities.
That’s so amazing, could you also elaborate on your experiences of working remotely as an African?
Working remotely has brought me immense joy and a sense of liberation. Unlike traditional office-based roles, I have the freedom to manage my own schedule and prioritize tasks according to my preferences. This autonomy enables me to deliver exceptional results, exceeding what is possible with fixed schedules. Additionally, remote work has allowed me to spend more quality time with my family, which was a luxury I did not have in previous office-based positions.
On the topic of remote job opportunities, have you encountered any challenges during your search for remote work?
One of the primary obstacles I have faced is the relatively limited availability of remote work in my region. Remote jobs are still relatively new and unfamiliar here, leading to fewer opportunities. Moreover, establishing the necessary professional network plays a vital role in securing remote employment, which can be challenging due to its nascent nature. Another hindrance has been the bias based on country. Some remote recruitment platforms exclude certain African countries, limiting the options for aspiring remote workers.
Considering your aspirations, which remote job boards and companies align with your career goals, and what draws you to them?
My dream has always been to contribute to transforming the lives of children, particularly in refugee camps and marginalized communities. Consequently, I am constantly seeking out projects that support children's well-being and empower young girls. I possess strong project management skills and am fully capable of initiating and leading startup organizations. From an early age, I have aspired to work or volunteer with the United Nations because of its unwavering commitment to humanity.
In your professional experience, have you ever encountered discrimination based on your race during a remote job interview or in the job market? If so, how did you handle such situations?
Fortunately, I have been fortunate enough to undergo a fair and professional interview process in my previous experiences. Discrimination based on race has not been a significant challenge for me personally.
That’s really nice. Considering the potential for remote companies to benefit from African talent, what actions do you believe such companies can take to ensure greater visibility and hiring of African professionals?
There is an abundance of untapped potential in Africa waiting to be harnessed. Remote companies can establish partnerships with local universities to tap into fresh talent and leverage social media platforms to promote their work, consequently reaching out to the vast talent pool within Africa.
I agree, that would help bridge the gap and provide a wider access to amazing African Talents. Are you currently seeking new opportunities in the job market? If so, what would you like to highlight as your unique selling point to recruiters or founders who may come across your profile?
Yes, I am actively exploring new opportunities. As an experienced remote worker, I offer flexibility in terms of working hours and location, ensuring seamless connectivity across all communication channels. Furthermore, I pride myself on being adaptable, well-organized, focused, and intelligent. My track record of delivering successful projects demonstrates my ability to work diligently and maintain a high level of integrity even in the absence of direct supervision.
Lastly, I would like to seek your advice for fellow remote workers or job seekers. What words of wisdom would you impart to them?
My advice to fellow job seekers is to embrace diversification and lifelong learning. The journey of education and personal growth never ends, and during periods of unemployment, one can acquire new skills to stay engaged and combat the anxieties that often accompany job searching. Engaging in volunteer work is also highly beneficial for both your CV and mental well-being, as it helps maintain and enhance your skill set. Most importantly, never lose hope and remain steadfast in your pursuit of opportunities.
P.S., Karen is currently looking for remote opportunities and she would love to contribute to the success of any organization. You can reach out to her via Email or LinkedIn
How To Succeed Working Remotely as a Gen Z
Gen Z are known as the hyperactive employees and with remote work, it’s quite difficult for us to adapt as sometimes we struggle to figure out the company’s structure without regular face-to-face interactions. Here are five steps to help you when working remotely;
When it’s time to work, your phone should be your enemy. It’s not surprisingly that our phones are like our candies, we can spend hours and hours on it. However, when working remotely, they are be highly distracting and can prevent us from being productive. So avoid using your phone during work hours and to resist temptation, you can try locking it away in a cupboard.
Over Communicate. We need to remember that unlike our relationships, remote work needs effective communication. Ask questions when you need clarifications and avoid assumptions.
Ask for help. There is no reward for being a ‘hard guy’ in remote work and no one is going sub you on Twitter or WhatsApp status for being incompetent. So ask for guidance and seek mentorship from senior colleagues.
Always upskill. Another term for remote work is digital working, this means you need to be adept with new work technologies. I know most of us don’t like learning but to succeed working remotely, we need to daily equip our learning with online resources and take advantage of skill-building online workshops.
Build a schedule. When working remotely eradicate the term ‘YOLO’ from your dictionary. Time isn’t your friend and to avoid burnouts, you need to manage your time schedule effectively and prioritize your tasks. Work when you are meant to work and play when you are meant to play.
Resources to Help in Your Remote Career Journey
Our Slack community: this is a community built to connect with job seekers and digital nomads around the world. We have monthly free training, resources, and a helpline. Also, you get to make friends with other members. Link
Our job board: The Inclusively Remote job board is tailored to ensure everyone around the world gets equal opportunities, especially Africans. We have jobs that are inclusive for Africans. Link
Our Social Media Handles: For daily tips on navigating your remote work career or tips to corporate success, check out our social media handles here Link
Introduction to Remote Work: Access our free ebook on what remote work is and how you can get remote jobs, especially other platforms to check out. Link
The ABC of a Successful Remote Job Application: Access our free ebook on how to tailor your resume and apply to remote jobs. I have tailored a resume template you can use as well as cold mail messages in drafting your cover letter. Link
The Remote Salary Handbook: This is the first published guide on remote work. Having been a remote worker from Africa, I know the struggles of getting good pay, I have been paid less countless times. This ebook lays down tips as well as templates to ensure no one gets to be like me. It’s currently on sale and would go a long way in your career journey. Link
Yours Truly,
Mary-Esther Anele (Your Career Cheerleader)