Of course, I’m an albino… and a software engineer

JUDE MGBEJI

My name is Jude, a Nigerian senior software engineer. 

For me, science and technology have always been a default choice right from a tender age. I have always had my way with complex mathematical problems. Growing up as an albino in Nigeria, I often encountered the frequent curious gazes and whispered murmurs of those who failed to understand the uniqueness of my existence. Some people even coined chants and songs they sing every time they see me walk by, you know that “oyibo pepper, if you eaty pepper, you go yellow more more.” Are you guilty? Lol. Yet amidst the shadow of ignorance, even from my teachers, I found solace in my abilities, and outsmarting my peers then became my canvas for expression. 

Embarking on my journey in the tech industry, I quickly realised that challenges lay ahead. In a world where people judge based on stereotypes, I faced an uphill battle to prove myself. Despite setbacks, my determination to defy expectations and find my place in the digital world kept me going. 

No one succeeds alone, right? I had amazing support from caring friends at Longbridge [xxx], especially Kunle Oladipo. My tech journey would have been different without them. I faced obstacles that could have distracted me from my goals. From straining my eyes staring at computer screens to staying alert in meetings and conferences, and even dealing with challenges in the corporate world, I encountered it all. 

But I refused to let society’s narrow-mindedness hold me back. With perseverance and passion by my side, I embraced my work with all my heart, following the Latin mantra “age quod agis toto corde.” With every line of code I wrote, I broke down barriers and left a trail of innovation and inspiration behind me. 

At the risk of sounding immodest, I have led and contributed to great teams of engineers who have ensured the successful delivery of high-quality products. I have played a central role in designing and developing critical systems and platforms, I prioritise excellence by conducting developer code reviews and ensuring adherence to clean, quality coding standards throughout the software development lifecycle. I have led and contributed to the scoping and development of new business requirements across various products demonstrating my capability to address complex technical challenges and deliver innovative solutions.

From flipping the switch to powering the dreams of small business owners, driving financial inclusion for the unbanked to mentoring other software engineers and tech enthusiasts, I have dedicated myself to breaking down the barriers that prevent people like myself from realising their full potential. 

Now, here is my pause and reflection moment so this story doesn’t read like a desperate showboat or auction for a new job. 

Far from whatever this piece might imply, I am not the first albino in the tech industry. I am only sharing my story because I believe the significance of representation cannot be emphasised enough. Stereotypes should never limit one’s potential, as each person holds a reservoir of untapped brilliance waiting to be unleashed. My default preference is to always (literally) avoid the spotlight. But I am here, now, this day, hoping that journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of promoting inclusive environments where everyone, regardless of outward appearance, can boldly pursue their tech aspirations. 

When we embrace inclusion, we unlock endless possibilities. We must continue to nurture environments that not only hear but celebrate diverse voices because when we do that, we create a space for innovation to flourish and for young dreams to soar. I am rooting for a tech industry that not only recognises but actively champions the inherent worth of every individual, lighting the way to a brighter, more equitable future for all. 

And to be honest, if there is anywhere where these limitations are irrelevant – it’s in tech!

You can connect with Jude Mgbeji via [email protected]