Join HERpower for an inspiring conversation with Jennifer Ndlovu, a rising star in tech and a passionate advocate for African women in tech.
From overcoming challenges to trailblazing in the Salesforce ecosystem, Jennifer’s journey is all about turning obstacles into opportunities.
Read on to see how she empowers others in their tech journeys.
Bio
Jennifer Ndlovu is a Salesforce Certified Professional, ERP Accounting Implementation Consultant, and AI Specialist with a remarkable track record in the tech industry. As a finalist in the Women Changing the World Awards 2023 for Women in Corporate and Women in Tech and a finalist in the Globant Women that Build 4th Edition 2023, Jennifer’s achievements reflect her impact and influence. She is also a two-time Salesforce MVP nominee.
Her dedication is further demonstrated through her work with the Salesforce Partner Equality Committee and her leadership of the Trailblazer Community in Zimbabwe. Jennifer is passionate about supporting others on their Salesforce journey. As a Salesforce Trailblazer Mentor and founder of the African Women in Salesforce Community, she is committed to empowering African women in tech.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jennifer balances her roles as a proud mother of three boys and a supportive wife, using technology to drive innovation and positive change.
The Conversation
Question: Welcome to HERpower, Jennifer! Can we start with a bit about your background?
Jennifer: I’m Jennifer Ndlovu from Zimbabwe. I graduated with a marketing degree in 2012 and initially worked in my family’s business. When that business collapsed, I found myself doing various jobs to make ends meet, including working as a cleaner at a local hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a difficult time, but I was determined to keep moving forward.
Question: That must have been challenging. What happened next?
Jennifer: After my cleaning contract ended, I took on a driving role for a nonprofit organization. It was physically demanding and kept me away from my family for extended periods. This was emotionally tough because I was missing important moments with them. During this time, I had a conversation with a colleague’s brother, who introduced me to Salesforce technology. At first, I was skeptical because it seemed so complex and far from anything I’d ever done.
Question: What made you decide to pursue a career in Salesforce?
Jennifer: My contract was coming to an end, and I saw an internal job opening for a Salesforce administrator at my organization. I didn’t have any other job prospects, so I decided to give it a shot. I started studying Salesforce with a determination I hadn’t felt in a long time, often studying for 14 hours a day. Within a month, I passed my first certification exam.
I knew that just one certification wouldn’t be enough, so I kept studying and earned three certifications in one month. Despite this, I faced numerous rejections when applying for jobs. Employers were hesitant to hire someone from Zimbabwe, and that was disheartening. But I didn’t give up. I started sharing my journey on LinkedIn, which helped me connect with others and even led to mentorship opportunities.
Question: That’s impressive! How did you eventually break into the tech industry?
Jennifer: My initial interest in technology was sparked during my university studies. I had a strong desire to understand how technology could solve real-world problems, but the path wasn’t always clear.
I began by seeking out foundational knowledge through online courses and local tech meetups. I dedicated evenings and weekends to learning new skills, focusing on areas like programming and data management. At the same time, I networked extensively within the tech community. Building connections with professionals and mentors proved invaluable. These relationships helped me gain insights into the industry and provided guidance on the skills and certifications that were most in demand.
One of the key turning points was obtaining my Salesforce certification. I chose Salesforce because it offered a structured path with clear milestones and was widely recognized in the industry. Gaining this certification not only validated my skills but also opened doors to job opportunities. It helped me stand out in a competitive job market.
Volunteering for tech-related projects played a crucial role. I offered my skills to non-profits and startups, which allowed me to build a practical portfolio and gain real-world experience.
Persistence was crucial. Despite facing many rejections and setbacks, I kept refining my skills and applying for roles. My breakthrough came when I landed a position at a tech company that valued my skills and potential rather than just formal experience. They hired me as an implementation consultant, and I’ve been thriving in this role ever since. I work directly with clients, focusing on reporting and analytics, which I love. The client-facing aspect of my job has also really helped me grow my confidence and communication skills.
Overall, breaking into tech was a combination of continuous learning, strategic networking, earning relevant certifications, and gaining hands-on experience through volunteering. Each step built upon the previous one, leading me to where I am today.
Question: What exactly do you do in your current role, and what aspects of your job do you enjoy most?
Jennifer: In my role as an implementation consultant, I work directly with clients to implement and customize systems according to their needs. This involves gathering client requirements, collaborating with a project team, and integrating those requirements into the system.
I primarily focus on reporting and analytics within our ERP system. This means I build and design financial reports based on client specifications. My work also involves using Salesforce for various reporting and implementing Sales Cloud integrations, which can be quite complex.
I really enjoy the client interaction aspect of my job. Initially, I lacked confidence in speaking with clients, but I’ve grown significantly in that area. Communicating effectively with clients is now one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. Overall, the blend of technical work and client interaction keeps me engaged and motivated.
Question: Why did you choose to work in tech, and how has it impacted your life?
Jennifer: I chose tech because it offered a chance to leverage my skills in new ways. I realized that technology could leverage my transferable skills, like communication and problem-solving. Technology is not just about coding; it’s about applying various skills in a new context. I wanted to show other women that they, too, can excel in tech and break through any self-imposed or societal boundaries.
For me, working in tech was a life-changing decision. For example, I had never been on a plane before starting in this field, but now I’ve traveled with my family. Technology has given me the means to provide for my family, take them on vacations, and support them better. It has allowed me to balance work and personal life more effectively. Now, I can work while caring for my son when he’s unwell, without the stress of a rigid schedule. This flexibility and opportunity are what I wanted and have significantly improved my quality of life.
Question: With remote work becoming more common, why do you think it’s still challenging for African women to secure tech jobs?
Jennifer: Even though remote work is on the rise, African women face substantial hurdles in securing tech positions. One major challenge is persistent stereotypes and biases. Some employers, whether consciously or not, may doubt the capabilities of someone from Africa or a woman in general. This skepticism can unfairly limit our opportunities and make it harder for us to be considered for roles. Additionally, there are often systemic issues and a lack of access to resources that further complicate the situation. It’s a persistent issue that needs addressing at both the individual and organizational levels.
Question: What has your journey taught you?
Jennifer: My journey has taught me that with determination and resilience, you can change your life, no matter where you start. I’m passionate about helping others, especially women from Africa, break into tech. That’s why I founded the African Women in Salesforce community. It’s a space where women can connect, share experiences, and support each other in this male-dominated industry. Diversity, inclusion, and equity are incredibly important to me, and I’m committed to promoting these values in everything I do.
I believe that if we unite and advocate for ourselves, it doesn’t matter where we come from, the color of our skin, or our background. What matters is our skills and our drive. We need to raise our voices and ensure that they are heard and valued.
Question: Can you tell us more about the African Women in Salesforce community and its mission?
Jennifer: The African Women in Salesforce community is dedicated to supporting and empowering women from Africa who are involved in or interested in the Salesforce ecosystem. The community was born from my own challenges in breaking into tech and the realization that there was a gap in support and representation for African women in this field.
A key part of our mission is advocating for opportunities. It’s vital that African women in tech are given a chance to prove their worth. We offer mentorship, training resources, and networking opportunities to help members navigate their careers in Salesforce. We encourage our members to create portfolios that showcase their projects and accomplishments on Salesforce. This approach not only validates their skills but also builds their confidence and visibility in the tech industry.
Our goal is to change perceptions and prove that African women bring valuable skills to the table. Despite limited resources, we strive to build a platform where our members can gain exposure, access mentorship, and receive support. By demonstrating our capabilities and advocating for ourselves, we aim to secure better opportunities and encourage a broader recognition of our talents and contributions.
Question: You’ve shared an inspiring story about overcoming challenges. Looking forward, what changes would you like to see in the tech industry to support women better?
Jennifer: One major change I’d like to see is a shift in how women are perceived in tech roles. The industry needs to move beyond outdated stereotypes and assumptions about women’s capabilities. There should be a focus on actual skills and potential rather than biases based on gender or background.
Women in tech need to unite and advocate for ourselves, creating a stronger collective voice. Organizations need to implement and enforce policies that promote diversity and actively work against discrimination. Community support is also crucial; raising awareness and educating others about these issues can drive change. By working together and pushing for systemic improvements, we can make a significant impact.
Question: What’s next for you?
Jennifer: Looking ahead, my focus is on continuing to expand my expertise in Salesforce and technology. I’m committed to lifelong learning, and I’m always on the lookout for new certifications and skills that will help me grow. Professionally, I’m aiming to take on more leadership roles and perhaps even delve into consulting on a larger scale.
I’m passionate about giving back. My goal is to enhance the African Women in Salesforce community, making it a more robust support network for women entering the tech field. I’m also exploring opportunities to mentor more young professionals and advocate for greater diversity in tech roles. Each step forward in my career is also a chance to inspire and support others who are on their own journeys.
Question: If you could switch jobs with anyone for a day, what role would you choose and why?
Jennifer: If I could switch roles, I’d choose a position in management. I think stepping into a management role would provide valuable insights into strategic decision-making and team leadership.
Question: What advice would you give to your younger self, particularly about career choices?
Jennifer: If I could advise my younger self, I’d say don’t waste time pursuing paths that don’t ignite your passion. I regret not applying my knowledge practically sooner. Instead of focusing on lengthy academic paths, I would encourage exploring technology and practical skills earlier. The tech industry offers many opportunities that can lead to fulfilling careers without extensive formal study.
Question: Tell us more about your home country, Zimbabwe?
Jennifer: Zimbabwe holds a special place in my heart. Despite its challenges, such as high unemployment rates and limited economic resources, the country is rich in culture and potential. The people of Zimbabwe are incredibly hardworking and creative, qualities that have always inspired me.
There’s a vibrant cultural heritage and a deep sense of community that stands out. From its stunning landscapes to its rich traditions, Zimbabwe has a lot to offer.
I believe there’s immense talent in Zimbabwe, and it’s crucial to find ways to harness and develop this potential. While the economic and political climate can be difficult, I remain hopeful and see great opportunities for growth and development. My experiences have shaped my desire to give back to my community, and I’m committed to supporting initiatives that improve the lives of people in Zimbabwe and beyond.
By investing in education, technology, and local entrepreneurship, we can create pathways for growth and development. Zimbabwe’s future is bright, and I’m dedicated to contributing to that positive change in whatever way I can.
Connect with Jennifer
If you wish to connect with Jennifer and learn more, seek advice, or share similar experiences, feel free to reach out to her via LinkedIn.
