Think about why you want to get into tech. Maybe it’s for the freedom to work from anywhere, a life where you can set up your laptop by the beach or explore the world without being tied to a single office. Or maybe it’s to break free from financial struggles, to build a future where you’re in control. Some of us just want to use our skills to make a difference, to solve real problems and leave a mark.
Whatever your reason, getting into tech is a great decision. But like any journey worth taking, the path to success in tech isn’t without its challenges. You’re going to face obstacles that test your commitment and push you out of your comfort zone. In this article, we’ll dive into the challenges that aspiring techies often encounter—and share how you can turn them into stepping stones on your way to achieving your dreams.
One of the common challenges faced by aspiring techies in Africa is the tendency to jump from one skill to another without a clear sense of purpose or strategy. Many struggle to focus on a single skill, switching between different technologies without a clear strategic direction. It’s important for aspiring techpreneurs to take a step back and reflect deeply on their underlying motivations and goals. By aligning your tech skill development with a genuine desire to solve problems and make a tangible difference, you are more likely to find long-term success, rather than just chasing skills around.
Take Tomilola Adejana for example, she realized her passion lay in using technology to drive financial inclusion. This led her to learning and building skills that align with this goal.Tomilola’s passion and focus on solving a significant issue in her community helped her stay grounded and driven, proving that a clear mission can help tech professionals overcome challenges like career indecision
Another key challenge facing aspiring techies is the prevalence of unrealistic expectations fueled by a “get-rich-quick” narrative. There’s this perception out there that all you have to do is learn to code, and you’ll instantly become a millionaire.But the reality is that building a successful tech career or business requires immense dedication, resilience, and a willingness to grind through the difficult times. When you read through the stories of tech CEOs like Sim Shagaya and Tomilola Adejana, it all began with the desire to learn and become better while solving problems that matter to people.
Breaking into tech can often require substantial financial resources, from paying for courses and bootcamps to purchasing software and devices. In regions like Africa, these costs can feel even more burdensome, especially for those without access to scholarships or financial aid. The economic barrier discourages many talented individuals, slowing down the growth of potential tech careers.
One solution is to start with free resources. And if you desire to shorten your learning curve, you can watch out for reputable edutech platforms like ours, TechCrush we offer invaluable learning materials for beginners on scholarship.These scholarships offer discounted learning paths tailored for beginners.
With the rise of AI and automation, many people worry that their newly acquired tech skills might soon become obsolete, or worse, that AI will replace their jobs altogether. This concern can create hesitation and self-doubt, hindering their journey before they even start.
Rather than fearing AI, it’s crucial to embrace it as a tool that enhances human capabilities. The tech industry constantly evolves, so staying curious and adaptable is key. Many tech roles are likely to involve AI, but human creativity, critical thinking, and complex decision-making remain irreplaceable. Aspiring techies can focus on AI-enhanced skills—like data science, machine learning, or ethical AI design—to future-proof their careers while contributing to fields where AI complements rather than replaces human work.
In a field as competitive as tech, many new entrants worry about not standing out. They fear their projects, ideas, or skills will be lost among countless others, especially on global platforms where they are up against highly skilled individuals from all over the world. However, everyone you can think of as a famed expert in tech today.
One way to stand out is to specialize in a niche or community-specific problem. Instead of aiming to become a generalist, focus on addressing unique challenges in your region or industry. Build a personal brand by sharing your work on LinkedIn, GitHub, or even Medium, where you can showcase your journey, projects, and successes. Over time, you’ll gain visibility and credibility, setting yourself apart through your unique experiences and insights.
The tech journey can be lonely, especially in regions where tech communities are sparse or poorly connected. Many aspiring techies face isolation, lacking a network of peers, mentors, or role models who can guide them and provide constructive feedback.
Seek out online communities like the TechCrush community, join open-source projects, or attend virtual meetups. Platforms like Slack, Discord, and LinkedIn have thriving tech groups where you can ask questions, share knowledge, and connect with mentors globally. A sense of community not only eases the loneliness but also offers an invaluable support system that can help you grow and succeed.
Aspiring techies often focus intensely on building hard skills like coding, ignoring the soft skills that are crucial to long-term success. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management are all essential in navigating a tech career, especially when moving into leadership or collaborative roles.
Take time to develop soft skills alongside technical ones. Look for opportunities to work on team projects, practice presenting your ideas, or take on leadership responsibilities, even in a small capacity. By honing these abilities, you’ll be better prepared for the collaborative and client-facing aspects of tech roles, which can often be as important as technical expertise.
The tech industry may seem overwhelming, but the journeys of successful African tech entrepreneurs prove that there’s room for everyone.
Whether you’re facing financial limitations, battling self-doubt, or struggling to decide which skill to pursue, remember that these challenges are not roadblocks—they’re stepping stones. Tech isn’t just for those who want to code; it’s a vast field with roles for creators, problem-solvers, and visionaries across diverse interests and backgrounds.
The 7 challenges faced not even in Tech alone but in real life are a big facts.
Wow! Nice write up. Motivated to strive for more. 🤗
This is amazing, it an answer to all the questions running through my mind.
Thanks for this, however, for those with limited resources, what’s the advice