Introducing Q-Tech Academy Class of 2024: Trailblazers of Tomorrow
As the world of technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, a new generation of innovators is rising to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.
The dawn of a new era is here as Q-Tech Academy proudly introduces its inaugural cohort, the Class of 2024. These six dynamic individuals represent the cutting edge of tech talent, each with their own unique blend of skills, vision, and a shared passion for innovation. As the first-ever cohort to embark on this exciting journey, these trailblazers are poised to make a significant impact in the world of technology and beyond.
Meet the Inaugural Class
Agim Gracejoy (Geejay): A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
Agim Gracejoy (Geejay) is a transgender man whose life is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to advocacy. As the Safety and Security Focal Person Expert and a volunteer Communication Officer at the West African Trans Forum (WATF), Geejay plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and visibility of the transgender community across West Africa.
With a career that spans safety and security, Geejay is also a creative force, bringing his artistic vision to life through graphic design and content creation. His passion for human rights, particularly transgender rights, fuels his work both as a professional and as an activist. Geejay’s story is one of self-discovery and empowerment, a journey that inspires others to embrace their truth and pursue their passions without compromise. His dedication to fostering safer spaces for transgender individuals and his creative contributions make him a leading voice for change, reminding us all of the importance of living authentically and fighting for equality.
Samuel Obande: Bridging Language, Technology, and Advocacy
Samuel Obande is a linguist with a burgeoning passion for computational linguistics and technology. His experience as the Events Officer for ReportOUT, a UK-based queer organization, has given him invaluable insight into organizing inclusive, impactful events that promote social change. Through this role, Samuel has fostered a deep commitment to advocacy for sexual and gender minorities.
Now, as a member of QTech Academy, Samuel is eager to gain hands-on experience in the tech world, with a particular focus on computational linguistics. He aims to leverage technology to create innovative solutions that advance both language processing and the rights of marginalized communities. His journey reflects a powerful intersection of technology and advocacy, driven by his desire to make meaningful contributions to both fields.
Olaoye Olabode: A Fusion of Culinary Art, Design, and Advocacy
Olaoye Olabode is a multifaceted professional—chef, social worker, and graphic designer—hailing from Abuja, Nigeria. With a deep commitment to advocating for the rights of intersex individuals and sex workers, Olabode challenges misconceptions and champions inclusion across every platform he engages with.
Through his business, Olabode seamlessly blends his culinary artistry and design skills with his passion for human rights. Whether crafting a dish or a design, his work is rooted in values of consent, respect, and dignity. He uses his platforms not only to showcase his talents but to educate and inspire others, creating spaces where all individuals feel seen and valued. His mission goes beyond his professional roles, as he continues to be a voice for change and inclusion in his community.
Chinedu Ndufuechi: Championing Public Health, Research, and Human Rights
Chinedu Ndufuechi is a sociologist and dedicated human rights activist with a special focus on medical sociology. As a passionate advocate for public health and community development, Chinedu seeks to drive positive change through research, program management, and advocacy. His work is rooted in a deep commitment to understanding the social determinants of health and leveraging that knowledge to create impactful solutions.
An open-minded and attentive listener, Chinedu thrives on collaboration and meaningful dialogue. His passion for research fuels his desire to continuously learn and find innovative ways to address health disparities. Through his dedication to human rights and public health, Chinedu is determined to create healthier, more equitable communities.
Yakub Habib (ShugsHabib): Merging Science, Technology, and the Arts
Yakub Habib, widely known as ShugsHabib, is a visionary pharmacist based in Gombe State with a deep passion for integrating technology into healthcare. As an aspiring member of Q-Tech Academy, Yakub is actively advancing his tech skills, with the goal of combining pharmaceutical practice with cutting-edge technological solutions that improve patient care and streamline medical processes.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Yakub is creative at heart. He balances his love for science with a passion for the arts, expressing himself through singing and dancing. His unique ability to fuse the worlds of healthcare, technology, and creativity positions him as a dynamic force, driven to innovate and inspire across multiple fields.
Chidiebere David: Championing Education, Inclusion, and Technology
Chidiebere David is an educationist based in Nigeria with a deep-rooted passion for technology and a commitment to creating inclusive, safe spaces for all, especially within key populations. His work in education reflects a strong belief in the power of knowledge as a tool for empowerment and social change.
By collaborating with Q-Tech Academy, Chidiebere is eager to expand his expertise in technology, with the goal of using this knowledge to positively impact his community. He is driven by the vision of equipping others with the skills they need to thrive in the modern world, fostering inclusion and innovation through education. His journey is a powerful example of how tech and education can intersect to drive meaningful change.
A Bold Future Ahead
The Class of 2024 is not just the inaugural cohort at Q-Tech Academy; they are the pioneers who will set the standard for future tech leaders. Over the coming months, they will engage with the latest tech modules, collaborate on groundbreaking projects, and work with industry experts to hone their skills. These talented individuals are ready to lead the charge into a future shaped by innovation and technology.
As we celebrate the launch of Q-Tech Academy and welcome the Class of 2024, we look forward to the many contributions they will make to the tech ecosystem. Stay tuned to follow their journey and see how they will redefine what’s possible in the world of technology.