Precious Lesupi is back. Cybersecurity specialist, accessibility advocate, BRICS gold medallist, and one of the most honest voices to sit across from Hlulani on this platform.

This time they are in the same room, and the conversation goes everywhere.

From getting dirty in a primary school in Welkom teaching kids to use AI for grief support, to facilitating cybersecurity training for human rights defenders at the UN, Precious is doing the kind of work that does not make the LinkedIn highlight reel but changes lives anyway.

They talk about what corporate spaces get wrong about neurodivergent employees, why Precious stopped trying to change the rooms that would not listen, and what it actually looks like to build inclusive tech from the ground up rather than waiting for permission.

In this episode:

• Why accessibility advocacy only made sense once Precious went hands-on in communities
• Working with UN Women to protect human rights violation records safely
• Competing solo at the BRICS Skills Competition in Russia and taking third place
• What corporates get wrong about autism and ADHD in the workplace
• Why Precious stopped advocating in implementation rooms and went straight to policy
• Documenting African art and knowledge before it disappears
• Building a virtual reality fitting room for wheelchair users

Support the show buymeacoffee.com/shetalkstech

#SheTalksTech #WomenInTech #GirlsInSTEM #WorkCulture #AfricaTech

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In this episode, we sit down with Palesa Sibeko, co-founder of Better Work and Girls Invent Tomorrow, for a conversation that goes well beyond the buzzwords. Palesa has spent over a decade asking a deceptively simple question: what would it take to make work more human? From the digital agency frontier of early social media in South Africa, to building custom PCB hardware through Signal, to coaching leaders navigating change, her career is a masterclass in following curiosity without apology.

We talk about why systems create the behaviour we complain about, what it really means to listen in an organisation, and why fixing culture in a two-hour workshop is a fantasy. We also get into Girls Invent Tomorrow, the girls in STEM organisation she has poured her heart into for over 14 years, and what it will actually take to change the numbers.

What we cover

• Growing up in Soweto, reading everything in sight, and how curiosity became a career
• The early days of social media for brands in South Africa and pioneering digital engagement on Mxit
• Why systems create behaviour and how Better Work approaches change from the inside out
• The gap between an organisation's intent and what employees actually experience every day
• Return to office, trust, and why one-size-fits-all workplace policy rarely works
• Signal: building custom hardware, PCB boards, and gesture-controlled experiences, until COVID ended it
• Girls Invent Tomorrow, what has shifted for girls in STEM and what stubbornly has not
• The invisible barriers in the home that shape what young girls believe is possible for them
• What Palesa would tell her 10-year-old self

Support the show

If She Talks Tech has added value to your life, consider buying us a coffee. It helps fund guest research, production, and keeps the stories coming. buymeacoffee.com/shetalkstech

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

Connect with us #SheTalksTech

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Have you ever walked into a room and immediately questioned whether you belonged there? In this episode of Emerging Tech Voices, your hosts Hlulani, Modeni, and Lanni get candid about the moments their voices trembled, faded, and eventually found their footing in professional spaces.

From boardrooms to consulting firms, the trio reflects on the universal experience of imposter syndrome and what it actually takes to speak up when everything in you wants to stay quiet.

In this episode, we cover:

• The first time each host felt small in a professional space
• What "having a voice" really means and how it evolves over time
• How upbringing and birth order shape the way we show up in rooms
• The role of community, mentorship, and relatability in building confidence
• Why identifying gaps and taking ownership can amplify your voice in tech
• Practical advice for anyone who has shrunk for too long and wants to start speaking up again

Key takeaway: You were chosen for the room you're in. The moment you truly believe you belong, everything changes, including your voice.

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In this episode, we sit down with AI consultant and technology leader Lisle Jenneke, whose career journey spans continents, industries, and roles. From falling into tech by accident to founding Love Africa, Lisle brings a refreshingly human lens to one of the most rapidly evolving fields of our time.

She shares her thoughts on what leaders get wrong about AI adoption, why diversity is a business performance issue and not just a values conversation, and why keeping humans at the centre of AI decision making is non-negotiable.

You'll also hear about:

• The ethics and bias embedded in AI systems
• Why she coined the term "experts in the loop"
• How vibe coding platforms are democratizing innovation in Africa
• What she would tell her younger self about leadership and uncertainty

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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Episode theme: UX, inclusive design, leadership, and building communities that help women thrive in design and tech.

Episode summary

In this in-person conversation in South Africa, Hlulani sits down with UX leader Inez Patel to unpack her “accidental” path into UX, what UX really is beyond pretty screens, and how user research shapes better products. Inez also shares her leadership journey, the realities of managing people, and why inclusive design matters… plus the impact work behind She Can Do and Girls Invent Tomorrow, and her involvement with One Young World.

What you’ll hear in this episode

• How Inez went from a general BA and media studies into UX through an unexpected internship opportunity
• The moment she realised UX is about empathy, research, and designing for real human needs
• What a UX designer actually does day-to-day… research, wireframes, testing assumptions, and translating insights into usable experiences
• The gap between what’s taught and what industry expects, and why UX education evolves so quickly
• Consulting vs freelancing vs permanent roles… what she learned from each path
• The shift into leadership… and why managing people can be harder than design work
• Building impact outside a 9-to-5… She Can Do, Girls Invent Tomorrow, and creating pathways for women
• Representation, intersectionality, and why uncomfortable conversations are necessary
• AI and UX… why human understanding is still the core skill

About Inez Patel

Inez Patel is a UX leader and Design Director with experience across agencies, consulting, fintech, banking, and healthcare.

She is also the CEO of She Can Do, a nonprofit empowering women in design and tech through training programs, mentorship, research, and community events.

She is a co-director at Girls Invent Tomorrow, supporting high school girls through exposure to careers in tech and design.

Inez is also part of the One Young World global leadership community.

Organisations mentioned

• She Can Do… nonprofit empowering women in design and tech
• Girls Invent Tomorrow… nonprofit supporting high school girls
• One Young World… international leadership community and annual global summit

Memorable moments

• “UX is like scientific design”… backed by research, not just aesthetics
• “Users don’t read”… but context always matters
• Leadership is not just a title… community building is leadership
• Inclusive design is not optional if you truly care about impact

Listener takeaway

If you’re entering UX… focus on understanding humans deeply. Tools will evolve. AI will change workflows. But empathy, communication, and inclusive thinking remain your strongest advantages.

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

And connect with She Talks Tech Podcast on LinkedIn for episode updates and guest highlights.

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Season 4 of She Talks Tech begins here.

In this opening episode, Hlulani reflects on the journey so far and shares what’s guiding the conversations this season. Season 4 continues the space built in previous seasons… honest, thoughtful conversations with women in tech.

Follow and subscribe to stay up to date with new episodes.

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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In this episode, I sit down with my former classmate Matshidiso Tladi, now a Principal Technical Solution Architect, to retrace her journey from uncertainty after matric to leading high-stakes technology teams.

She opens up about quitting nursing after a month, dropping psychology, and spending years feeling lost before a learnership finally introduced her to tech. From hardware support to software development, consulting, banking and now architecture, her story is one of courage, curiosity and choosing purpose even when the path felt unclear.

We talk about imposter syndrome, being a highly technical Black woman in male-dominated rooms, the constant pressure to prove yourself, and how she anchors herself through competence, consistency and giving herself grace. She also shares the toughest chapter in her career, the moment she knew she truly belonged in tech, and what keeps her grounded today.

We close the episode with a beautiful letter she reads to her 10-year-old self… a reminder that you don’t need to have everything figured out to build a meaningful and impactful life.

What We Cover

• How she discovered tech after years of uncertainty
• Moving from hardware to software and finding her passion
• Consulting, banking and navigating high-pressure technology environments
• Transitioning into architecture and leading technical teams
• Managing imposter syndrome and documenting her achievements
• Being a woman of color in technical leadership spaces
• Her advice for young women entering tech
• The emotional letter to her younger self

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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Quetzalli shares how her early curiosity for computers — and even hacking childhood games — led her into the world of cybersecurity. She opens up about growing up with limited resources, finding purpose through resilience, and how she discovered her calling in penetration testing and data protection.

We talk about:

• How poverty and perseverance shaped her path in tech
• Transitioning from functional testing to pen testing
• The emotional and technical challenges of working in cybersecurity
• AI, privacy, and the future of data protection
• The importance of teaching, mentorship, and empowering women in tech
• Why creativity is an underrated skill in cybersecurity

Quetzalli’s story is a beautiful reminder that curiosity, courage, and compassion can take you further than you ever imagined.

🎧 Tune in for a story that blends technical brilliance, emotional strength, and purpose-driven impact.

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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From the streets of Zimbabwe to leading conversations on inclusive innovation at Philips, Nancy’s story is one of audacity, purpose, and becoming.

In this episode, Nancy shares how her early experiences during the HIV/AIDS crisis shaped her lifelong mission to bring equity into healthcare — and why she believes inclusion must be at the heart of innovation. We talk about career pivots, creating community in corporate spaces, and what it truly means to belong.

Nancy also opens up about founding BsquaredC, a podcast spotlighting the journeys of Black women in corporate spaces — a platform built to amplify voices, bridge representation gaps, and redefine what leadership looks like.

🎧 Listen to BsquaredC Podcast on Spotify

This is a conversation about courage, community, and carrying your dreams — even when no one else can see them yet.

🌍 Connect with us:

Follow She Talks Tech Podcast on Instagram and LinkedIn for more stories of women redefining what’s possible in tech.

Also follow us on Instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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What does it mean to grow up in a world that told you who you should be — and then choose to become yourself anyway?

In this episode, Hlulani sits down with Cécile Deprez, a scientific researcher at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) working on Europe’s next-generation satellite systems. Cécile shares their journey from a childhood shaped by gender expectations in Belgium to a career designing the future of space navigation.

They talk about breaking free from patriarchal norms, navigating queerness and neurodivergence in STEM, and finding belonging in spaces that weren’t built for them.

This conversation is tender, honest, and deeply human — a reminder that self-acceptance can be the most radical act of all.

🪐 In this episode

✅ Growing up under rigid gender expectations

✅ Finding the courage to study science despite fear

✅ From geomatics to Galileo: how satellite systems shape our world

✅ Why Cécile left their PhD to protect their mental health

✅ Building inclusive workplaces and Employee Resource Groups that truly support people

✅ Challenging the “colonizing space” narrative and re-imagining exploration

✅ What real diversity and belonging look like in tech

Memorable quote

“Belonging is not a slogan. It’s a practice.” — Cécile Deprez

Connect

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow Cécile on LinkedIn to learn more about their work.

💡 Follow us on Instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast for more stories that elevate women and gender-diverse voices in tech.

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Episode Summary

From being a shy bookworm to founding a thriving recruitment firm, Julia Arpag shares her journey into tech, navigating layoffs, and building Aligned Recruitment with faith, grit, and integrity. We dive into A-player teams, using AI wisely, and the skills every founder and job seeker needs today.

Highlights

• Breaking out of shyness and finding her voice
• Pivoting into tech recruiting and rapid upskilling
• Getting laid off on maternity leave and starting her own firm
• What it really means to hire A-players
• Why communication and integrity matter more than ever

Memorable Quote

“You can do hard things.”

Connect

• Julia Arpag on LinkedIn
• Aligned Recruitment https://www.alignedrecruitment.com/

Follow us on Instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast and on LinkedIn for more stories of women in tech.

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✨ What you’ll hear in this conversation:

• How Omotola helped She Code Africa grow from 200 to 50,000 members
• Why she believes tech thrives in communities, not silos
• The pivotal moment she discovered her path in tech and community building
• How volunteering became the launchpad for her global career
• The power of open source as an entry point for underrepresented groups
• Her strategies for getting partners to say yes
• The mindset that turns every challenge into a stepping stone
• 
  

If you’ve ever wondered how to create real impact in tech, Omotola’s journey will inspire you to dream bigger, start where you are, and build with people.

🎧 Tune in and be inspired.

👉 Also follow us on Instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast.

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We talk about what it means to grow up different, to discover her autism later in life, and to navigate spaces that were not always built with inclusion in mind. Jessica opens up about the role her mother played in shaping her love for tech, her winding path across industries, and why she believes being “too much” is actually a superpower.

What we cover in this episode:

✅ Jessica’s childhood in Germany and her early curiosity for science

✅ Lessons from her mother, a self-made CEO and constant source of inspiration

✅ How she discovered her neurodivergence and what neuro-inclusive workplaces should look like

✅ The beauty of being a “scanner personality” and refusing to live a linear career path

✅ Building impact across sustainability, diversity, and ESG

✅ Why AI excites her and the importance of tackling bias in technology

✅ Her letter to her younger self and the reminder that you are never “too much”

Jessica’s story is a reminder that difference is strength, and that our curiosity and uniqueness can shape not just careers but entire industries.

🎧 Listen now and be inspired by Jessica’s journey.

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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We talk about:

✅ Why teamwork and diversity are the real drivers of innovation in semiconductors

✅ Navigating 20+ years at IBM and stepping into the CEO role at C2MI

✅ Making sustainability a core part of tech innovation — from product design to cleanroom operations

✅ Staying grounded while leading high‑impact R&D teams

✅ Advice for women in STEM: “Nothing’s stopping you — you can do it all”

Whether you’re in engineering, leadership, or just curious about how semiconductors shape our everyday lives, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to embrace the challenges ahead.

🎧 Listen now and discover how Marie‑Josée is shaping the future of semiconductors — with purpose, people, and planet in mind.

Also follow us on Instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of She Talks Tech, we sit down with the brilliant Tarnia Gonzo — founder of TNS Consulting — whose journey from Zimbabwe to the UK, from corporate consulting to building her own tech business, is packed with lessons, honesty, and inspiration.

Tarnia’s career path hasn’t been conventional — and that’s exactly what makes her story powerful. From her early days working at PwC, to navigating culture change in large organisations, to launching her own consultancy focused on AI, digital transformation, and making tech work for people — Tarnia is proof that your unique perspective belongs in tech.

We unpack the realities of leading digital change, the human side of AI, and why breaking into leadership or consulting isn’t reserved for the few. She also shares how motherhood shaped her decision to start her own company, and why good work should always be paired with impact.

Plus, she offers practical advice for companies navigating AI adoption — and a heartfelt letter to her 10-year-old self reminding us all to slow down, have fun, and be unapologetically ourselves.

What We Talk About:

✅ Growing up between Zimbabwe and the UK — and the early influences that shaped Tarnia

✅ How her mother's quiet resilience became her biggest inspiration

✅ From avoiding tech to running a business that helps organisations adopt AI

✅ The real challenges of change management (Hint: it's always about the people)

✅ How AI can both disrupt and elevate the workplace — and why reskilling matters

✅ Practical tips for organisations overwhelmed by AI but ready to start

✅ What it’s really like starting your own consulting firm

✅ Lessons in leadership, self-confidence, and doing the work differently

✅ Tarnia’s honest reflections on motherhood, perfectionism, and letting go

✅ Why diversity in tech — especially in AI — is non-negotiable

Connect with Tarnia:

🌐 https://www.ts-consulting.co.uk/

Loved this conversation?

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Share this episode to help amplify the voices of incredible women making an impact in tech.

Also follow us on Instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast and be part of a growing community breaking barriers and building a more inclusive tech world.

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In this episode of She Talks Tech, we sit down with Thoko Miya, a powerhouse in community-driven innovation and creative strategy. Thoko shares how she’s building ecosystems that centre people first — blending technology, youth empowerment, and purpose-driven leadership.

We unpack how her work moves beyond code to create platforms that amplify voices, support local innovators, and rethink how we define tech success.

🎧 What we talk about:

• Building inclusive tech ecosystems
• Why community is your greatest metric
• Creating platforms that uplift youth and creatives
• Leadership rooted in listening
• How to design for people, not just users

Also follow us on Instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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In this heartwarming episode of She Talks Tech, we sit down with QA professional and lifelong learner Petronela Ramoleta. From growing up in Limpopo to navigating unexpected pivots in tech—from web development to quality assurance and now business analysis—Petronela shares what it means to lead with purpose, kindness, and curiosity.

What we talk about:

• Making career transitions with intention
• The unplanned shift from dev to QA
• Finding joy and balance in life and work
• The human side of working in fintech
• Why being kind to yourself matters just as much as being good at your job

Also follow us on Instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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From her early days coding in South Africa to becoming a global voice in the Android space, Rebecca opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, finding joy in building, and the importance of showing up authentically in tech.

🎧 In this episode, we cover:

✅ How Rebecca found her way into Android development

✅ The shift from building apps to supporting developers

✅ What it’s like working at Google (and staying grounded)

✅ Why representation and mentorship still matter in tech

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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🎙 Episode Title: Millicent Okumu: Growing the Future with Agri-Tech

Welcome back to She Talks Tech with Hlulani, the podcast spotlighting women building bold, brilliant futures in STEM and technology.

In this episode, I speak with Millicent Okumu, a rising force in agri-tech innovation and public service in Kenya.

Millicent is on a mission to transform agriculture through technology—making food systems more efficient, sustainable, and accessible for communities that need it most.

She doesn’t just talk about impact—she builds it, especially for women and youth in rural areas.

From digitizing traditional farming to driving innovation at government level, Millicent’s story is one of purpose-driven leadership, tech-savviness, and deep care for the land and its people.

✨ In this episode, we explore:

✅ How Millicent got into agri-tech and why it matters

✅ The real-world impact of digitizing food systems

✅ Challenges and breakthroughs in public sector innovation

✅ Empowering women and young people in agriculture through tech

✅ Why tech solutions must be rooted in local realities and purpose

This is a story about more than farming—it’s about food security, economic resilience, and using tech to create lasting change where it’s needed most.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform.

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

#SheTalksTech #AgriTech #WomenInSTEM #TechForGood #DigitalFarming #PublicInnovation #FoodSecurity #MillicentOkumu #AfricanWomenInTech

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Lydia's journey spans decades in South Africa’s public sector — from dietetics and healthcare to national innovation and digital transformation. We dive deep into how she leads innovation in government without a traditional tech background, her passion for developing young talent, and why she believes "the work is never about the title—it’s about legacy."

✨ In this episode, you’ll hear about:

How Lydia went from dietician to tech leader in public service

Why innovation in government must be people-first

What leadership looks like when grounded in empathy and trust

The work she’s most proud of—hint: it’s not in a CV

Her mission to make government more connected, human, and future-fit

A letter to her 10-year-old self that will move you to tears

Lydia's impact isn’t just in the policies she shapes or programs she oversees—it’s in the people she uplifts, the legacy she’s building, and the clarity with which she walks her purpose.

📣 If you’ve ever wondered what human-centered leadership looks like in tech and government—this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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Liked this episode? Please follow and share the podcast and while at it, leave us a review :)

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

Show notes:

In this soul-stirring episode of She Talks Tech, we sit down with Mabedi—chartered accountant turned tech leader—whose story is equal parts intentional, inspiring, and necessary.

🌍 From her early days growing up in Botswana’s villages to leading large-scale tech transformation programs across the African continent, Mabedi shares:

• Why audit was her bootcamp for excellence
• How she transitioned into tech leadership without a STEM background
• The power of intentional mentorship and role modelling
• Her philosophy on legacy, leadership, and lifting others as she rises
• Why she believes "the only thing separating you from a leader is time"
• 
  

✨ Whether you’re pivoting into tech, navigating imposter syndrome, or just need to feel seen—this episode will speak to your heart.

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A Day in the Life of a Self-Taught Software Engineer | Emerging Tech Voices

In this episode, hosts Murendeni Baloyi, Hlulani Baloyi, and Nhlamulo Sithole sit down with Trecia Kat, a passionate, self-taught software engineer whose journey from dropping out of college to becoming a full-stack dev is nothing short of inspiring.

🔹 What you'll hear:

• How Tricia taught herself coding using platforms like FreeCodeCamp
• Her untraditional path into tech—and how she landed her first dev job
• Insights into learning styles, debugging strategies, and her obsession with CSS
• Her love/hate relationships with Angular, React, Bootstrap, and Tailwind
• What a typical day looks like as a hybrid, full-stack engineer
• How confidence, community, and curiosity shaped her career
• 
  

🎧 This episode is packed with laughs, honesty, and practical advice for anyone curious about self-teaching, frontend vs backend, and building a career in tech.

📌 Note: We’re definitely bringing Tricia back—there’s more to her story we didn’t get to!

👉 Listen now

#EmergingTechVoices #SheTalksTech #SelfTaughtDev #WomenInTech #FullStackDeveloper #CSSArt #TailwindCSS #DebuggingDiaries #Podcast #TechCareers #YoungTechies

Follow @She_talks_tech_podcast on Instagram!

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Liked this episode? Please follow and share the podcast and while at it, leave us a review :)

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

Show notes:

Science, strategy, and showing up.

Dr. Avila Maja is a powerhouse in STEM.

🧪 Analytical Chemist

🌱 Climate Advocate

🌍 Executive Member of the South African Young Academy of Science

💎 Expert in platinum group metals (PGMs)

She’s proof that science isn’t just lab coats and equations — it’s leadership, innovation, and impact.

On this week’s She Talks Tech, we talk about:

• The link between chemistry and climate action
• The future of automation and green mining
• What it really means to show up and shine in your field
• And how mentorship multiplies power in STEM spaces

Let this be your reminder:

Representation isn’t just visibility — it’s visionary.

#SheTalksTech #WomenInScience #STEMLeadership #Podcast #BlackWomenInSTEM #Innovation #ChemistryWithPurpose #TechForGood

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In this exciting and inspiring episode of Imagine Tech Voices, we sit down with Gomolemo Likomanyane — a passionate software tester and content creator behind Tech with Gomo! 🚀

Ever wondered what quality assurance (QA) is really about? Gomo shares her journey from software development into QA, her day-to-day life as a tester, how she handles tech challenges, and how she’s using her platform to inspire the next generation of techies — all with heart, humor, and realness.

What We Talk About:

✅ What quality assurance (QA) really means in tech

✅ Gomo’s daily routine — standups, testing, and breaking systems 😄

✅ Tools she uses — Salesforce, Provar Automation, Azure DevOps

✅ Handling developer tension and staying professional

✅ Navigating male-dominated spaces with confidence

✅ Building Tech with Gomo to review products and inspire others

✅ Advice for anyone wanting to start a career in QA

✅ Gomo’s dreams: growing her platform and working with big brands 🌟

Follow @She_talks_tech_podcast on Instagram!

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Liked this episode? Please follow and share the podcast and while at it, leave us a review :)

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

Show Notes:

In this episode, we sit down with Sabrine Chennaoui, the CEO of Manzapo, who shares her inspiring journey from launching a startup in her garage to building patented green tech that transforms used cooking oil into natural cleaning products. We talk about resilience, pivots, and purpose-driven innovation in the world of sustainability and circular economy.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

✅ How her childhood shaped her drive

✅ The idea that started it all

✅ The tech behind Manzapo’s soap-making machine

✅ Lessons from building as a woman in green tech

✅ Her letter to her 10-year-old self

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In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Emerging Tech Voices, we shine the spotlight on one of our own — Nhlamulo Sithole, co-host and front-end software engineer! 🎉

Ever wondered what a day in the life of a software engineer looks like behind the scenes? Nhlamulo takes us through her journey, her daily routine, her favorite tools, and the challenges that come with building beautiful and functional user experiences — all while keeping it real, relatable, and a little bit funny.

What We Talk About:

✅ What front-end development really means

✅ Nhlamulo’s daily routine — from brushing teeth to standups

✅ Debugging code (and the occasional 3-minute cry 😅)

✅ Tools she swears by — React, Java, Next.js & Payload CMS

✅ The importance of collaboration and asking for help

✅ How she balances work, study, and life outside tech

✅ Facing criticism, dealing with imposter syndrome, and growing from it

✅ Personal hobbies — swimming, piano lessons, and dreaming big 🎶

Follow @She_talks_tech_podcast on instagram

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Liked this episode? Please follow and share the podcast and while at it, leave us a review :)

Also follow us on instagram @she_talks_tech_podcast

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Episode Summary:

Welcome back to Emerging Tech Voices! After a brief hiatus, we’re back and more committed than ever to bringing you insightful conversations, inspiring stories, and a sense of community in the world of tech. In this episode, hosts Hlulani Klingsiek Baloyi, Murendeni Baloyi, and Nhlamulo Sithole reconnect, reflect on last year’s journey, and share exciting plans for the podcast in 2025.

We discuss New Year's resolutions, productivity hacks, and the importance of breaking down goals into achievable steps. Plus, we dive into what’s in store for this season—including A Day in the Life episodes featuring software engineers, QA professionals, solution architects, and more.

And we need your help! What should we call our Emerging Tech Voices community? We’ve got a few ideas—Tech Insiders or The Innovators—but we’d love to hear your suggestions!

What You'll Hear in This Episode:

✨ The excitement of starting a new year and setting goals 🎯

✨ How breaking tasks into smaller steps can boost motivation 🚀

✨ Reflections on last year’s Emerging Tech Voices journey 🏆

✨ A sneak peek into this year’s episodes, including guest interviews 🌍

✨ The importance of creating a sense of community in tech 🤝

✨ Help us name our listeners! (Tech Insiders? The Innovators? You decide!)

Join the Conversation:

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Next Episode Teaser:

Coming up: A Day in the Life of a QA Engineer! Stay tuned as we explore what it’s like to work in quality assurance and software testing.

🎙️ Emerging Tech Voices—Your home for young, fresh, and bold voices in tech. See you in the next episode! 🚀

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Episode Description:

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Luthando, a passionate advocate for using technology to bridge educational gaps in South Africa. Luthando's journey from a PR and communications background to becoming a tech entrepreneur is inspiring. Join us as we delve into her motivations, the creation of Elimuverse, and her vision for empowering underprivileged students through innovative tech solutions.

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Episode Description:

In this episode, we are honored to speak with Dr. Christina Allen, a trailblazer in the STEM field with an impressive career spanning 25 years at Bayer. Christina's journey from a young girl passionate about science to a global leader in chemical engineering and health safety is inspiring. Join us as we delve into her early aspirations, the challenges she faced, her significant contributions to medical advancements, and her ongoing commitment to promoting gender diversity and sustainability in the scientific community.

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===============

Faye McCalpin is a full-stack software engineer and a dedicated activist. 

A vocal advocate for corporate responsibility, she champions gender equality in tech, with a focus on workers' rights and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Her appearance on this podcast follows her keynote speech at the Top Women Tech Europe conference, where she discussed her experiences in pushing for effective metrics and analysis of the gender pay gap at her company.

Beyond her primary role in engineering, Faye has been instrumental in advancing a data-driven approach to salary equality within her workplace. Over the past few years, she has worked collaboratively with her employer and the workers’ council to develop statistical frameworks for monitoring their ongoing efforts to foster gender equality. Together with her collaborators, she continues to spearhead an initiative to analyze and address the gender pay-gap and develop actionable policies to drive meaningful change. 

In her appearance on this podcast, Faye shares some thoughts about her activist philosophy, emphasizing the need to balance advocating for broad, systemic change with the practical efforts required to implement solutions within corporate environments. She discusses the unique challenges of driving change in the corporate world, stressing the importance of accountability and a strategic approach to ensure that ideas for equality are not just proposed but effectively turned into real outcomes.

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A bit about Honey below:

Honey is a dedicated tech professional with an unconventional journey that began in Windhoek, Namibia. At just nine years old, she was already running her own computer school, demonstrating an early passion for technology and education. She pursued studies in electric and electronic engineering at Stellenbosch University, later transitioning to network engineering. Honey's career includes roles in IT support, database management, and teaching, eventually leading her to a pivotal position at Spotify as a Product Manager. Her journey highlights a blend of technical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to impacting lives through technology.

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A bit about Vanessa below:

Vanessa is globally renowned for her contributions to the international Sourcing Community. She has delivered keynotes across three continents and trained teams from Auckland to Seattle. 

Vanessa launched her Talent Sourcing Training business in early 2019 and has not looked back. She is a qualified teacher with experience in agency recruiting and internal talent acquisition (she loved both roles!). She now gets to combine her love of empowering others to do better, with her passion for recruiting through her own Online Academy. 

She loves it when her training delegates experience that ‘light bulb’ moment as she knows that she has just changed someone’s career, for the better. 

When Vanessa is not doing research for her training, recording content, or delivering a Keynote, you can find her at the Beach or in the South African Bushveld, taking photographs.

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A bit about Angelique Mesch below:

Angelique Mesch holds a master’s degree in business and engineering. On completion of her studies at Clausthal University of Technology, Ms. Mesch took her first step on the career ladder as field engineer working on offshore facilities for Baker Hughes.

She then moved to various global positions in technical sales, program management, engineering, product management and digital transformation consultant to now moving the needle in the green hydrogen Space for Schneider Electric.

Ms. Mesch aims to pave the way for future generations, to which end she organizes career workshops, gives lectures and regularly brings people from different professional backgrounds together.

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Welcome to the episode of "Emerging Tech Voices," a segment on She Talks Tech, designed for early-career women in the tech industry. Join us as we explore inspiring stories, industry insights, and create a safe space for connection and learning.

Episode 5:

How Masana Mdaka moved to Spain as a Junior in Tech ft Masana Mdaka,

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A bit about Masana below:

"Masana Mdaka is a 22-year old tech enthusiast. Having graduated with a double major degree in both Computer Sciences and Business Computing, I understand the fundamental linkage between software, data, business and people. My passion lies within building robust software systems and using tech to improve business models and make people’s lives easier.

I have a great interest in software engineering, and processing the data we capture from software to improve and advance business processes; that is where my love for business intelligence, data engineering, and machine learning begins.

My passion for software development was fuelled when I jumpstarted my career as a Software Development Engineer intern at Amazon (Cape Town) during my undergraduate studies. This sharpened my software design and coding skills in Java and Python.

I then went on to hone my skills on data engineering as a Graduate Data Engineer at the Multichoice Group (South Africa).

I am currently enjoying leveraging my skills, learning and growing my career as a data engineer at the Nestlé Global IT Hub in Barcelona under the IT Graduate Program."

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Welcome to the pilot episode of "Emerging Tech Voices," a segment on She Talks Tech, designed for early-career women in the tech industry. Join us as we explore inspiring stories, industry insights, and create a safe space for connection and learning.

Episode 5:

A day in the life of a data engineer graduate ft Masana Mdaka,

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For tooday 's episode, please kindly click on the link below and give Geekulcha Feedback:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeNmEQY2Nfi3G57cVCKHfsk5zWBC7u7sNdgjRAkXbXZxgpfCA/viewform

A bit about Keitumetsi below:

Keitumetsi has been named one of Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 South Africans in the Science and

Technology category for 2021, has been named one of South Africa’s Top 50 most inspiring women in

2021 and also got an award for the Top 25 Emerging Women in IT for 2023.

She studied BCom IT Management at the University of Johannesburg, holds a Post Graduate Diploma in

Management specializing in Corporate Governance from Monash University and is a BSI certified

ISO27001 Lead auditor.

After graduating in 2013, Keitumetsi joined KPMG's IT management consulting division from 2014-2016.

She then joined PWC 2016-2021 where she was manager in the Risk Assurance division specialising in

security risk, strategy, governance and compliance. She was a senior specialist in governance, risk and

control at Vodacom where her focus is on cyber security, she also acted as a cyber security officer in the

digital lifestyle services business unit. She is the CIO at Geekulcha, a youth tech development programme

, and was the Chairperson of the advisory committee for the National Youth ICT council which aims to

drive economic inclusion in the IT sector. In the month of September 2023, she started her new career at

MTN South Africa as a senior specialist doing digital security design.

Keitumetsi has strategically positioned herself to drive collaboration between the private sector, public

sector and academia for the realization of the fourth industrial revolution in South Africa and reduction

of the digital divide in the country.

Education

● BCom IT Management

● Post graduate diploma in management specializing in corporate governance (Cum laude)

● BSI Certified ISO27001 lead auditor

Personal achievements:

● Inspiring Fifty South Africa 2018 nominee

● Was on the cover of brainstorm magazine's women's day issue 2019 as a future tech leader

● Featured on The Feature magazine's March edition with the theme "Phenominal Women"

● Awarded Mail&Guadian Top 200 Young South African's in the Science and Technology category

● Featured in the August edition of the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies

Magazine, Qhaphela. The article spoke to the inclusion of Women in cyber security

● Lead the implementation of South Africa's first student focused security themed hackathon in

2017. The hackathon happens annually to date at one of the biggest security conferences hosted

by ITWeb in Africa. It continues to provide opportunities for bursaries, internships and other

employment opportunities in South Africa.

● Inspiring Fifty South Africa 2021 winner

● Awarded Top 25 Emerging women in IT 2023

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A bit about Zsuzsa below:

Zsuzsa has been instrumental in growing Antavo from a startup to a scaleup. As Chief Strategy Officer, she is transforming the company into a unique loyalty technology vendor, offering a best-in-class solution to the loyalty sector. A former local radio producer, Zsuzsa is now a key figure in the loyalty industry and was awarded as the Personality of the Year for the International Loyalty Awards 2024. As a co-founder, she is part of a leadership team that has achieved 3x annual growth and has worked with brands including Benefit Cosmetics, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Luisaviaroma, Brewdog and Ripcurl.

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A bit about Dr Julia below:

Dr. Julia Freudenberg is a dynamic leader and entrepreneur with a diverse background in music and business administration. With nearly two decades at Unilever, she launched Ben & Jerry's in Germany before transitioning to academia and volunteering, where she discovered her passion for digital education. As the CEO of Hacker School, Dr. Freudenberg is dedicated to empowering youth through coding skills and has won recognition for her work, including the Staff Social Federal Award. She believes in the power of curiosity and resilience to shape a better future for all.

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She Talks Tech Podcast - Emerging Tech Voices

Welcome to the pilot episode of "Emerging Tech Voices," a segment on She Talks Tech, designed for early-career women in the tech industry. Join us as we explore inspiring stories, industry insights, and create a safe space for connection and learning.

Episode 3:

What Makes a Successful Graduate?

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A bit about Apiwe below:

Ms. Hotele is a passionate advocate for the inclusion of women in Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). She founded #BreakingTheStereotype, an NPO aimed to empower, motivate, and encourage females to study Science and Engineering. Her company, Enlighten Edu, provides assistance to learners struggling with Maths and Science. Through the platform, learners can have live sessions, complete homework, and monitor their progress using analytics. She holds a BSc in Computer Science cum laude from the University of Fort Hare and an MSc in Computer Engineering from the University of Cape Town. Apiwe’s technical background is in project management, product development, technology innovation, systems engineering and spearheading socio-economic initiatives to improve entrepreneurship and innovation in rural areas. She has received a number of awards such as: Mail&Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans, News24 100 young Mandelas, top inspiring women in ICT, NYDA trailblazer, won the Rising Star Award in the ICT category, acknowledged by Inside Education as one of the 100 Shining Stars in Science and named as one of the 2023 Unsung Heroes by Sunday World.

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Welcome to the pilot episode of "Emerging Tech Voices," a segment on She Talks Tech, designed for early-career women in the tech industry. Join us as we explore inspiring stories, industry insights, and create a safe space for connection and learning.

Episode 3:

Landing Your First Tech Job

1.Introduction:

  - Welcome to Imaging Tech Voices with your host.

  - Gratitude for audience support and global community connection.

2. Host Check-In:

  - hosts share experiences in the tech world.

  - Emphasis on international audience and diverse perspectives.

3. Topic Discussion: Landing Your First Tech Job:

  - Challenges and emotions in securing the first tech job.

  - Insights on navigating rejection, applying, and interview experiences.

4. Closing Words:

  - Encouragement for continuous learning and embracing the tech journey.

  - Thanking the audience and inviting them to share thoughts using #SheTalksTech.

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-----------------------

A bit about Michelle Fraser below:

Michelle Fraser, an engineering veteran with 25 years of global experience, is currently the Lead Engineer for a prestigious oil companies worldwide. Breaking gender barriers in the industry, Michelle is on a mission to challenge traditional roles. Passionate about excellence, she specializes in Oil and Gas Commercial and Engineering, managing projects for Novatek, Total, Yamal, and CNR International. Her expertise spans onshore/offshore operations, design management, instrumentation, safety, and automation systems. Michelle's leadership includes overseeing EPC contractors and vendors, ensuring prolonged asset life, safety compliance, and increased production rates. Her impactful contributions extend to FPSO refurbishments, showcasing a strategic approach to maintenance and sustainability. Michelle Fraser is an influential force shaping the future of the oil and gas sector.

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Welcome to the pilot episode of "Emerging Tech Voices," a segment on She Talks Tech, designed for early-career women in the tech industry. Join us as we explore inspiring stories, industry insights, and create a safe space for connection and learning.

Episode Highlights:

Meet the Host:

• Learn about the host's journey in tech and her vision for this empowering space.

Why Emerging Tech Voices Matter:

• Understand the significance of amplifying the voices of early-career women in tech.

Featured Guests:

• Hear from incredible emerging voices in the tech community, sharing experiences and insights.

Building a Supportive Community:

• Explore the importance of fostering a supportive community for women in tech.

Tech Trends and Insights:

• Dive into the latest tech trends and gain insights from industry experts.

Listener Engagement:

• Join the conversation on social media using #SheTalksTech and share your thoughts.

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-----------------------

A bit about Tsholofela Nkosi below:

Tsholofelo Nkosi is a Women In Tech Award Africa Awards Finalist, Sasol Techno X speaker and a dedicated software engineering student at wethinkcode_ with a strong foundation in software development principles, algorithms, and data structures. She has a particular affinity for Java and Python, showcasing proficiency and innovation through hands-on projects.

Beyond coding, Tsholofelo is actively involved in various organisations namely PPYDO, True Love Movement and Women Think Code contributing to initiatives that uplift disadvantaged communities and also address gender inequality

Advocating for women, children, and the youth is a cause close to her heart. She believes that by embracing diversity and empowering underrepresented voices, we can reshape the future of technology and create a more inclusive world for all.

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Welcome to the pilot episode of "Emerging Tech Voices," a segment on She Talks Tech, designed for early-career women in the tech industry. Join us as we explore inspiring stories, industry insights, and create a safe space for connection and learning.

Episode Highlights:

Meet the Host:

• Learn about the host's journey in tech and her vision for this empowering space.

Why Emerging Tech Voices Matter:

• Understand the significance of amplifying the voices of early-career women in tech.

Featured Guests:

• Hear from incredible emerging voices in the tech community, sharing experiences and insights.

Building a Supportive Community:

• Explore the importance of fostering a supportive community for women in tech.

Tech Trends and Insights:

• Dive into the latest tech trends and gain insights from industry experts.

Listener Engagement:

• Join the conversation on social media using #SheTalksTech and share your thoughts.

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Liked this episode? Please follow and share the podcast

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