Inside HerVest is a monthly series where HerVest staff members share interesting facts about their job roles and lives. Here, they share tips for thriving in their industries and things we never knew about them. Today, we talk to our Full Stack Developer, Marcus Hikmah Abdulganiyy. Hikmah walks us through experiences as a woman-in-tech and doles out power tips for transitioning into Tech. Enjoy the conversation.
Let’s meet you, please.
I’m Hikmah Abdulganiyy, a FullStack Developer at Hervest
How would you describe your job to a 7-year-old child?
Hey Cutie! Do you know who a builder is? A builder knows how to build a house from the ground up. They know how to lay a strong foundation, put up walls, install windows and doors, and create a roof that can keep you dry when it rains.
I’m a full-stack developer, so I’m like a builder, but I build websites and apps instead of building houses. A website is a place you or your parents visit whenever you go online. E.g., www.google.com.
So as a Full-Stack developer, I know how to write code (like a set of instructions) to make a website or an app work properly.
One fun fact about you?
I really enjoy sports (martial arts especially)
Out of pure curiosity, what motivated you to become a full-stack developer?
I’ve always loved a challenge. I developed an interest in tech when I was about to enter university, I found it difficult to combine it with school, but my interest in it didn’t wane throughout my stay in school.
After school, I realised that I had more interest in it than my course of study and ventured into it completely.
Did you find it difficult transitioning from dealing with chemicals to writing codes?
Not at all. Started like every beginner, it was challenging, but it wasn’t difficult because the interest was there, and I was willing. I’m so fulfilled when I see people use what I built. Tech no hard for me, na Biochemistry hard!
What’s your favorite part of working with HerVest?
My wonderful team members
What’s your biggest career win?
Still a newbie, but working with Hervest is currently my biggest career win.
How has HerVest impacted your money habits?
Working with Hervest has made me really conscious of my spending habits, I’m able to account for my money and also educate my friends on their spending habits.
If you weren’t a developer, what would you be?
A globetrotter and a student
What are you currently reading?
You can be the happiest woman in the world by Dr Ā’id al-Qarni.
What’s the general reaction you get from people when you tell them you are a woman in tech?
That I’m automatically a rich woman😂
What would you say to women afraid to transition into Tech because they feel they aren’t hardwired for Tech careers?
First, we are all women in Tech. Tech is a tool that everyone should leverage to drive efficiency.
Secondly, Change your mindset! Your mindset will determine whether you’ll grow or remain stagnant. There are people who believe they can’t do what you’re doing, but you are. You’ll thrive as long as you can change your mindset and are willing to put in the work.
What does equity mean to you?
In relation to the IWD, Equity to me is giving opportunities to the girl child and women regardless of their background, religion, tribe, etc.
Imagine you were at your TEDTALK, giving a 30 seconds speech advising youngins who are willing to transition into tech ending with “I hope to see you at the top.”
Start! That’s when the journey really begins. As long as you’re willing to learn and work, I assure you it will be smooth sailing. There are no shortcuts. I hope to see you at the top.
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