Leading with Impact: Oluwafunke Kofoworade in Africa’s Tech Landscape

In celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, we shine a spotlight on Oluwafunke Kofoworade, a visionary tech leader whose work is reshaping fintech and EdTech across Africa. Through her expertise in product management, leadership, and mentorship, Oluwafunke has become a leading voice in driving technology that empowers communities and transforms industries.

Growing up in Nigeria as the eldest of three children, Oluwafunke assumed responsibility early, managing her education while supporting her siblings. These formative experiences instilled accountability, initiative, and perseverance qualities that have guided her professional journey. Her curiosity for technology led her to earn a National Diploma in Computer Engineering and a Higher National Diploma in Computer Science. Over time, she discovered a passion for product management, realising that technology’s greatest value lies in solving human problems.

Oluwafunke’s career has been defined by a commitment to user-centered, impact-driven innovation. In fintech and EdTech, she has led projects that enhance operational efficiency, streamline user experiences, and deliver tangible benefits to communities and businesses alike. Her approach integrates creativity, strategy, and data-driven decision-making, ensuring that technology produces meaningful, scalable outcomes.

Recognition has followed her dedication and results. She was named a Next-Generation Talent in Digital Tech Product Management by YALI and received awards from the Nigeria Technology Awards (NiTA) for her innovation and leadership in tech solutions that empower entrepreneurs. These accolades reflect her influence, but her true impact is seen in the teams she leads, the inclusive environments she fosters, and the transformative solutions she delivers.

Beyond her professional achievements, Oluwafunke founded TechProductGems, a global community that empowers product managers at all stages of their careers. The platform provides mentorship, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities, creating a space where aspiring tech leaders can grow, collaborate, and find guidance. Through TechProductGems, Oluwafunke amplifies the voices of underrepresented talent in tech, nurturing the next generation of change makers.

Central to Oluwafunke’s leadership philosophy are integrity, innovation, collaboration, and impact. She believes that ethical decision-making, inclusive teamwork, and purpose-driven projects are the cornerstones of sustainable success. She also prioritizes mentorship, supporting emerging tech talent and creating opportunities for underrepresented voices across Africa’s tech ecosystem.

Looking forward, Oluwafunke envisions Africa as a global hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership. She is committed to advancing inclusive technological solutions, bridging the digital skills gap, and driving economic growth while empowering communities. Her work exemplifies how leadership, innovation, and meaningful impact intersect to shape Africa’s future in technology.

Oluwafunke Kofoworade stands as a testament to what can be achieved when curiosity, resilience, and purpose converge. As she continues to inspire and lead, her journey highlights the transformative potential of technology to improve lives, promoting inclusion, and position Africa at the forefront of global innovation.

Her work exemplifies how leadership, innovation, and impact intersect, positioning Africa at the forefront of global technological advancement.

“The future of tech is inclusive, ethical, and designed to improve lives. That is the journey I am committed to leading.”