How Mentoring Youth Shapes the Future of Technology in Africa- Rejoice Orjiene

Every person deserves a guide to unlock their full potential. In this conversation. In an interview with Rejoice Orjiene, a digital skills trainer, digital marketer and mentor whose work has empowered thousands of young people in Nigeria and beyond. Her journey into mentorship naturally evolved from her passion for teaching. Rejoice shares the insights, challenges, and personal wins that come from mentoring the next generation of African tech talent.

When she was asked why is youth mentorship important in the tech industry, especially in Africa? She says; Mentorship is important everywhere, not just in Africa or in tech. No one becomes great without guidance. You need someone who shares your vision, who will walk with you as you grow. Mentorship is that hand-holding that helps people move from uncertainty to clarity.

Rejoice Orjiene

When asked to describe the mentorship programs you’ve been involved in? She said One standout initiative was with a company called Career Express in partnership with a German sponsor where they trained and mentored over 100 young talents. After the training, we created a WhatsApp group to continue mentoring them, answering questions, reviewing their progress, and making sure they could soar on their own.

Rejoice was asked to identify and nurture young talent? She said; In the classroom, it becomes clear who’s truly engaged. They ask questions, stay back after class, and often say things like, Please, I want to be like you. ’ That’s when I know someone is ready. According to Rejoice, it’s about consistency, checking in, suggesting resources, and encouraging them when self-doubt creeps in. She was asked of what impact she has witnessed in the lives of the youths she mentors? She said; There are so many stories. One of my proudest is Damilola, who now works in the UK as a marketing expert. Another is Tony, who’s thriving as a business auditor analyst.

I think to myself, “If I died today, at least I know I made an impact. When asked how she guides mentees when they are uncertain about their path? She said; I listen, that’s key. A mentee might say they want to do data analytics, but they are struggling. Maybe they are better at coordination or communication. Rather than force-feeding a path, I open up the conversation to ask if they have looked into this other skill? What if you tried something different?’ Listening is what makes mentorship powerful. Asked what advice she would give to other professionals considering mentorship roles? Rejoice emphasized that they should Start by caring. Don’t just mentor for the title. Be present. Be flexible. And listen actively. You never know the kind of seed you’re planting in someone’s future.”

Empowering with Resources

Rejoice doesn’t stop at conversations — she also equips her mentees with free learning materials. One of her widely praised resources, Curiosity to Confident: Making a Techy Career, ” is an eBook that she offers free to the first 90 participants in every training cohort. This hands-on guide breaks down tech career choices into easy, actionable steps, helping readers take charge of their growth. Mentorship, for Rejoice Orjiene, is not a side project — it’s the heartbeat of her work. It’s how she pays forward the guidance she once received, and how she ensures Africa’s tech future is in capable, confident hands.