If you did not get the email you may wonder "what did she write?". Well in the email, I announced that we were going to collectively work towards achieve the vision and Mission of our community.One of the ways I higlighted to help us achieve this was through a Merch line . This would serve two purposes, help us offer collective value to all members while raising funds to support our Projects, namely : The Tech Sapphire Bootcamp and Educating Nigerian Girls in New Tech. These are very important causes and we can make these happen as a group. There is an adage that loosely transalates “It is more befitting to walk together”

To make this happen ,I am glad to inform you all that our Merch Store is now Live!

All items were designed by me and there is currently a Freebie for everyone : ) . Visit the Techy Muslimah Merch Store. Make sure you don't leave empty handed

May Allah accept it as an ongoing goodness from Me and from You.

Assalam Alaykum,

Balqis Olanike

Assalamu Alaykum Sisters,

In a world filled with a plethora of career options, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or uncertain about which path to follow. Let’s talk about how to stay focused, especially in a fast-paced, ever-evolving field like tech.

Focusing on your career journey involves two key things:

1. Staying committed to the path you're on.

2. Knowing what to focus on at each stage of that journey.

Navigating Tech Careers with Clarity

We live in a time where we're constantly exposed to other people’s success stories. These stories often highlight the outcome, a new job, a promotion, a high-paying role, but rarely the process behind it. While this can be motivating, it can also create pressure or lead to self-doubt.

Imagine you’ve chosen to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Then, you come across a story about someone who landed their first job in data analytics after just three months. Suddenly, you start wondering if you made the wrong choice. But in doing that, you might forget how far you’ve already come.

So, how do you focus on your focus?

Start by asking yourself:
Why did I choose this path?

Knowing your “why” helps you stay grounded. If, after honest reflection, you believe you’re building on a solid foundation, then stay the course. Everyone’s timeline is different. Don’t let someone else’s pace make you doubt your own journey.

Your Journey Is Unique

Even when two people are in the same field, their growth paths will never look exactly alike. It’s okay to feel uncertain at times, but don’t stop showing up. Keep improving your skills, sharing your work and applying for roles that align with your skills and values. You might be just one yes away from your breakthrough.

Trust in Allah’s Plan

Above all, trust in Allah (SWT). Once you've chosen your path, seek His guidance and rely on Him to help you navigate the journey. There will be tough moments, but don’t let them shake your faith. If you are confused about what path to choose, ask Allah for guidance.

“But Allah is your Protector, and He is the best of helpers.”
— Qur’an 3:150

Make du’a, stay consistent in your efforts, and keep believing that what’s meant for you will find you at the right time, as long as you do not give up.

Keep Watering Your Garden

Lastly, track your progress. Be so focused on watering your own garden that you forget to compare it to anyone else’s. Let growth, not comparison, be your motivation.

You’re doing better than you think. Keep going.

While life isn't a bed of roses and rejection is inevitable, growth often requires developing resilience. As Muslimahs, we are blessed with a beautiful foundation: our complete trust in Allah. In Surah Ad-Duhaa, verse 4, Allah reassures us: "rest, knowing that what is to come will be better than what has gone by." Let this divine promise be your source of confidence.

When an opportunity slips through your fingers or an expected offer doesn't materialize, view it as feedback rather than failure. Each experience is a stepping stone toward improvement, and Allah's timing is perfect. The path forward isn't about settling for less than what you desire simply because your dreams require more time, effort, and dedication.

If you must give up something, let it be a bad habit or for Allah's sake – but never your dreams. You can pause, rest, or take a break, but don't throw in the towel. Keep telling yourself, "I will try one more time." We aren't here to watch others succeed; we too can make things happen.

A Story of Persistence and Trust

Consider Karimot's inspiring journey. She recently applied for a highly competitive international internship, despite previous rejections. When faced with a challenging UX/Accessibility task in the second round, doubts crept in. The design library was the largest she'd ever encountered, and she found herself competing against experienced designers from around the world.

Instead of retreating, she chose to try. "Each time I opened my laptop clueless on how to go about my task," she shares, "I just kept saying, 'Yah-Allah please help me.'" A month later, she received the acceptance email. What made the difference? She didn't let the fear of rejection stop her, and most importantly, she placed her complete trust in Allah.

Your Turn to Shine

Dear Sister, have you considered that you might be more qualified than you realize? You'll never know your potential if you don't try. Complete certainty isn't a prerequisite for taking action – if we were always certain, there would be no room for trusting in Allah's plan.

Try when doubt clouds your mind.

Try when your confidence wavers.

Try even when you feel sure.

Just try, and trust in Allah.

Ramadan Mubarak

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Happy to have you here

Dear sisters, as we countdown to the Gregorian Calendar New Year, we wanted to take a moment to encourage you to embrace gratitude, have a positive outlook and keep going on your tech journey. It might seem hard sometimes, but with the help of Allah whom we all rely on, ease is assured. In Surah Ash-Sharh, verse 6, Allah said: "Surely with ˹that˺ hardship comes ˹more˺ ease" . This is a charge to you, to keep your gaze upon Allah and choose hope in the midst of doubt.

Yes, we are human and part of being human is having varying levels of doubt sometimes. But in all of this, look to Allah for help, for He is always near.

We thought to share some opportunities with you

Please look through the links carefully and apply to those that match your skills or interest. Give them a shot, please do not self-reject. You got this, sister!

Outreachy Internship pays $7,000 to interns (Initial application Opens mid January, 2025)

Marketing Intern at Trust Wallet

Remote Summer Internship - Open Philanthropy (We encourage you to apply if you have Masters or PHD)

Data science Intern (Remote) - with Fortify Health

Head of Growth - Tumblr (Remote)

Letting you in on some Tech news

Microsoft Ignite 2024: Enterprise Productivity Is the Easiest AI Sell.

Source: https://www.technewsworld.com/story/microsoft-ignite-2024-enterprise-productivity-is-the-easiest-ai-sell-179470.html

IBM’s New Environmental Intelligence Platform Delivers Data Via APIs. This cloud-based platform provides a variety of geospatial, weather, and climate APIs, enabling users to create applications that address sustainability…

Source: https://www.technewsworld.com/story/ibms-new-environmental-intelligence-platform-delivers-data-via-apis-179462.html

My Lord ﷻ “…And has made me blessed wheresoever I may be…”Quran 19 v31

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