10 Communities to Join as a Tech Beginner in Nigeria
From software engineering to web3 and design
As a newbie in the tech space, I know how daunting it can be to figure out the right steps to take to succeed especially here in Nigeria where the barrier to entry into tech is super high.
Well, I have some good news for you: joining tech communities can be a total game-changer!
Not only do tech communities offer a ton of resources for learning and growth, but they also provide opportunities for networking and making meaningful connections. Plus, they're a great way to find mentors who can guide you as you navigate the industry.
With so many tech communities to choose from, though, it can be tough to know where to begin. That's why we've put together a list of five communities that are perfect for beginners like you. And don't worry, we'll give you all the details you need to decide if they're right for you.
Developer Communities
Google Developer Groups (GDG)
If you're a newbie to coding, look no further than Google Developer Groups (GDG). GDG is a global community of developers who use Google technologies to build and improve their skills. With a strong global presence and local chapters in many cities around the world, GDG is like a tech superhero that's always around to save the day. It's particularly important for beginners in tech because it offers a wealth of resources and support, including events, webinars, and workshops hosted by experts in the field. You'll also have access to a network of other developers eager to help you learn and grow, and since GDG is so large and diverse, you're sure to find a community that aligns with your interests and goals.
Looking to join a GDG group? It's easy! Just visit their website, search for a local chapter near you, and join a community of developers who are passionate about Google technologies. You can also connect with GDG on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. Once you find a chapter, attend their events and get involved in the community. Who knows? You may even end up presenting at one of their events or hosting your own workshop!
She Codes Africa
Being a woman in tech can sometimes feel alienating, but thankfully, communities like She Code Africa exist to provide a safe space for women in the industry to grow and excel. She Code Africa is a community of women in tech from across the African continent that offers mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. Joining this community as a beginner in tech can be especially important because they provide a supportive and inclusive environment where you can feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and learning from others. With access to experienced mentors, you'll be guided through the challenges of being a woman in tech and have the opportunity to connect with other women who have broken barriers and made strides in the industry.
Joining She Code Africa is easy and straightforward. You can become a member by visiting their website and signing up. As a member, you'll have access to their online community, where you can connect with other members and participate in their events and programs. Following them on Twitter is also a great way to stay up-to-date with their latest news and initiatives.
Design Communities
Friends of Figma
Design is all about creativity and problem-solving, but it can also be a solitary pursuit. That's why it's important to find a community of like-minded individuals who can inspire you and help you grow. Friends of Figma is a community of designers who use Figma, a popular design tool, to create and improve their skills. Being part of this community is important for beginners because it provides a wealth of resources and support to help you grow your design skills. Whether you're interested in UI/UX, especially on Figma, Friends of Figma has something for everyone. You can attend events, workshops, and webinars hosted by experts in the field, and participate in design challenges that will help you hone your craft.
Joining Friends of Figma is easy! Simply visit their website and sign up to become a member. You'll have access to their online community where you can connect with other members and participate in their events and programs.
Àṣà Coterie
Àṣà Coterie is a community of designers and creatives of African descent, dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the design industry. For beginners in design, Àṣà Coterie offers a unique opportunity to connect with designers who share your cultural background and understand the challenges and opportunities that come with it. By joining Àṣà Coterie, you can expand your network, learn new skills, and gain valuable insights into the industry.
One of the key benefits of joining Àṣà Coterie as a beginner is the opportunity to participate in their mentorship program. This program pairs beginners with experienced designers who can provide guidance and support as you navigate the industry. You'll also have access to workshops, webinars, and other educational resources to help you develop your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques.
To join Àṣà Coterie, simply visit their website and sign up for membership.
Data Science Communities
Data Science Nigeria (DSN)
Data Science Nigeria (DSN) is a non-profit organization focused on mentoring and teaching aspiring data scientists in Nigeria. Their goal is to create an ecosystem that encourages innovation, economic growth, and social transformation through data science education and research. They provide a range of programs, including boot camps, hackathons, and mentorship programs, to help beginners in data science develop their skills and connect with industry experts. You gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field of data science and advance your career.
To join DSN, simply visit their website and register for their programs or events. Don't miss out on the opportunity to join this vibrant and supportive community of data scientists in Nigeria!
Web3 Communities
Web3Bridge
Web3Bridge is a global community-driven initiative that aims to increase diversity and inclusion in the web3 development space. They provide mentorship, training, and resources to beginners in web3 development, with a focus on underrepresented groups in the industry. Web3Bridge recognizes the potential of web3 technologies to create a more equitable and decentralized world and seeks to support individuals who want to contribute to this mission. You'll have the opportunity to network with other web3 developers from around the world, potentially leading to new job opportunities or collaboration on projects.
To join Web3Bridge, visit their website and fill out their application form. The application process is designed to assess your current skills and experience to determine the best program for you. Once accepted, you'll have access to their online community, mentorship programs, and training resources. Web3Bridge also hosts various events and hackathons throughout the year that you can participate in to further develop your skills and network with other members of the community.
Web3Ladies
Web3Ladies is a global community of women who are interested in or already working in the field of web3 development. This community aims to increase the representation of women in the web3 industry, which is currently dominated by men. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, Web3Ladies helps women develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in web3 development. This can provide you with a sense of belonging and help you develop relationships with other women in the industry. You'll have access to educational resources, mentorship opportunities, and events that can help you develop your skills and knowledge in web3 development. Being a part of this community can provide you with networking opportunities that can lead to internships or job offers in the industry.
To join Web3Ladies, you can visit their website and sign up for their mailing list to receive updates on their events and programs. You can also follow them on social media platforms like Twitter to stay up-to-date with their latest news and initiatives.
Other Communities
Ingressive for Good
Next on our list is Ingressive for Good, a non-profit organization focused on providing resources and opportunities for African youths to gain tech skills and improve their career prospects. The organization offers a variety of programs, including training, mentorship, and access to funding and job opportunities. You can participate in training programs that are designed to help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the industry. You can also connect with mentors who can guide you through the challenges of starting a career in tech. Ingressive for Good has a strong network of partners and sponsors who offer funding and job opportunities to members of the community.
To join Ingressive for Good, you can visit their website and fill out an application form. The organization reviews applications on a rolling basis and selects participants based on their skills, experience, and motivation to succeed in the tech industry. Also, follow them on Twitter to keep up with their activities.
No Code Academy
No Code Academy is a community of no-code developers, product managers, and product marketers across Nigeria and Ghana. They provide an opportunity for beginners in tech to learn how to build custom websites and web apps without writing a single line of code. Joining No Code Academy as a beginner is a great way to learn new skills and stay up to date with the latest trends in no-code development. You'll have access to resources such as courses, workshops, and mentorship programs, and you'll be part of a supportive community that encourages collaboration and growth.
No Code Academy organizes Cohorts to give people who are interested in a no-code career an opportunity to learn and improve their skills. Don't miss out on this chance to expand your knowledge and network with like-minded individuals.
To join No Code Academy, visit their website or check them out on social media platforms like Twitter. You can also keep an eye out for their upcoming events and workshops to get involved and start learning.
Dome Academy
And finally, it's time for us to introduce you to Dome Academy - the amazing tech community that's hosting this blog post! We might be a bit biased, but we can't help but highlight the benefits of joining this community as a beginner in tech.
At Dome Academy, the focus is on providing top-notch technical education to people at all skill levels. Whether you're just starting out in tech or you're a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone at Dome Academy. You'll have access to a wide range of resources, including courses, workshops, and mentorship programs, all designed to help you improve your skills and take your career to the next level.
But that's not all - what really sets Dome Academy apart is its tight-knit community of passionate and driven individuals. As a member, you'll have the opportunity to connect with other like-minded people who are just as eager to learn and grow as you are. You'll be able to network with industry professionals, make new friends, and even find potential collaborators for your next big project. And if that's not enough to convince you, we should mention that Dome Academy also offers plenty of opportunities to get involved and give back to the community. You can become a mentor to other members, lead a workshop, or even contribute to the community's open-source projects. It's a great way to build your skills, gain experience, and make a difference in the tech community.
So, if you're looking for a tech community that's all about education, connection, and collaboration, Dome Academy is the perfect place for you. To join, simply visit our website and sign up - we promise you won't regret it! Also, check out our Linktree to join our community across various social media channels.
Oh, and one more thing: if you're still hungry for more tech community options, we've got you covered. Check out Propel, a platform designed to help beginners in tech find and connect with various tech communities. Propel is an essential tool for anyone who wants to explore the vast world of tech communities beyond the six we have discussed in this blog post.
We encourage readers to explore the tech communities discussed in this blog post and find one that aligns with their interests and goals. Remember that these communities are welcoming and supportive, so don't be afraid to reach out and get involved!