Phyllis the Philomath Is on a Lifelong Learning Journey With Tech

She’s an Executive Assistant to a busy CEO and an Operations Associate for a consultancy firm in Tema, Ghana. But that’s not all. So dedicated to her love of lifelong learning and continuous career development, Phyllis Laryea is also a learner in the ALX Software Engineering programme. As a firm believer in the importance of empowering women with a passion for technology, Phyllis aims to use the skills she’s gaining at ALX to create green solutions through software development. She shares her advice on how to persevere through ALX’s Software Engineering programme whilst working full-time, along with her thoughts on what it takes to succeed as a woman in tech.

As a woman starting out your career in tech, what excites you about the journey ahead?

I look forward to engaging with other people in the industry and learning new ways to navigate the challenges tech presents.

Have you been able to apply the skills you're learning at ALX in your daily life?

Yes, I’m using the skills I’m learning at work. I’m the Executive Assistant to the CEO and part of the Operations Support team at a management consulting firm called D4consult, and I’m always on the lookout for ways to apply tech to my operations management tasks.

Why do you believe it's important to have more young women in tech?

I have never met a group of people more powerful than women who know what they want. Every day, women and gender equality allies fight for equal opportunities in various industries, including STEM. Although men dominate the STEM field, women have always had an interest in it. Empowering women with a passion for technology will contribute to providing equal opportunities, promoting diversity and inclusivity in the industry.

How are you able to keep pushing through ALX’s notoriously rigorous Software Engineering programme?

I made a new friend whose name is Felix. He is a doctor, and he still manages to find time to code. To me, he’s an inspiration. He helps me with my projects and also provides counsel when I need it. I have gained a good friend because of ALX and I am grateful.

What lessons have you learned from your ALX journey so far?

I have managed to overcome major challenges through the course of this programme. They have helped me realise that you can never completely learn something in tech; it is a never-ending journey. But I love to learn, so I’m ready for everything out there. 

How do you aim to make a difference through your work and add value to the world once you've completed your training?

I really just want to spread my love for learning tech and provide green solutions through software development. 

What message would you give to young women in Africa wanting to pursue a career as a Software Engineer?

Know what you want and go after it. No matter what, if you have it in the back of your mind that you will figure it out, you will break through all your challenges, no matter how many there are.

Finally, what advice would you give to those who are about to start their training at ALX?

Make time and be intentional about studying. Only you know what you can and can’t take. Finally, let ALX’s mantra guide you: do hard things.

ALX is at the forefront of equipping young women with the most in-demand career skills that will power the future. Take the first step into a space where you can excel, thrive and lead. Apply to the ALX Software Engineering programme now!