I have always been passionate about technology and innovation, especially in the African context. I believe that Africa has the potential to become a global leader in the digital economy, by leveraging its rich and diverse human and natural resources, and by solving its own challenges with homegrown solutions.

But as someone who lives in Nigeria, I have faced many obstacles and frustrations in pursuing my tech dreams. Some of them are:

- Lack of access to quality and relevant education and training: The formal education system in Nigeria is outdated and inadequate, and does not equip me with the skills and knowledge I need to thrive in the tech industry. There are also few opportunities for informal learning, such as online courses, workshops, bootcamps, or mentorship programs, that are affordable and accessible.

- Lack of exposure and connection to the global tech community: The tech ecosystem in Nigeria is still nascent and isolated, and does not offer enough platforms and events for me to network, collaborate, and exchange ideas with other tech enthusiasts, experts, and investors, both locally and internationally.

- Lack of support and recognition for my tech projects and products: The tech market in Nigeria is still immature and conservative, and does not appreciate or reward the value and impact of my tech innovations. There are also few resources and incentives for me to launch, grow, and scale my tech ventures, such as funding, infrastructure, regulation, and media coverage.

That is why I was thrilled when I discovered NODO, a web platform that aims to engage and build the Pan-African tech product ecosystem through collaboration between tech lovers and tech builders.

NODO was launched in 2020 by EMURGO Africa, the official commercial arm of Cardano, a leading blockchain platform. NODO is designed to be the ultimate destination for anyone who is interested in or involved in the tech industry in Africa, whether they are developers, designers, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, or enthusiasts.

NODO offers a range of features and benefits that cater to the needs and aspirations of the African tech community, such as:

- NODO Feed: A content discovery and engagement platform that showcases the latest and best Pan-African tech news, opinions, and products, curated from various sources and influencers. NODO Feed allows me to stay updated and informed about the trends and developments in the tech scene, and to interact and share my views with other users.

- NODO Learn: A learning and development platform that provides access to high-quality and relevant online courses, workshops, webinars, and podcasts, covering various topics and domains in the tech industry, such as web development, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and more. NODO Learn helps me to acquire and improve the skills and knowledge I need to succeed in the tech field, and to learn from the best and brightest minds in the industry.

- NODO Build: A product creation and collaboration platform that enables me to showcase my tech projects and products, get feedback and support from other users, and find potential partners and collaborators for my tech ventures. NODO Build also connects me to various opportunities and resources for launching, growing, and scaling my tech products, such as funding, mentorship, incubation, and exposure.

- NODO Connect: A networking and community platform that connects me to other tech lovers and builders across Africa and beyond, and allows me to join or create groups, events, and challenges, based on my interests, goals, and location. NODO Connect helps me to expand my network, build relationships, and exchange ideas with other like-minded and talented individuals and organizations in the tech space.

Since I joined NODO I have had an amazing and rewarding experience. I have learned a lot from the courses and content on the platform, and I have improved my tech skills and knowledge. I have also met and collaborated with many inspiring and supportive people on the platform, and I have received valuable feedback and recognition for my tech projects and products. I have also discovered and explored new and exciting opportunities and resources for my tech career and business.

NODO has truly changed my life and perspective on the tech industry in Africa. It has given me the access, exposure, support, and recognition that I have always wanted and needed. It has also empowered me to pursue my tech dreams and ambitions, and to contribute to the development and transformation of the African tech ecosystem.

NODO is more than just a web platform. It is a movement and a culture that reflects the vision and values of the African tech community, who are passionate, innovative, collaborative, and impactful. As such, NODO is not only here to stay, but also to thrive and transform the future of Africa.