Journey and Impact

Over the past week, SK Collective has entered a more focused phase of work.

After holding two initial cohort sessions, Praise and I began a series of small 2:1 conversations with cohort applicants. These conversations are continuing into this week and are helping us move from general interest into clearer understanding.

So far, we have received 32 applications, and we have completed five in-depth interviews.

These conversations are not formal interviews in the traditional sense. They are intentional discussions designed to understand people better. We are learning about applicants’ goals, experience so far, and what kind of support would genuinely help them at this stage.

While SK Collective began taking shape earlier, this past week has been the first opportunity to slow down, listen closely, and begin shaping the cohort with real insight.

WHAT WE ARE LEARNING

One of the most important outcomes from these conversations has been clarity.

When applications first opened, we expected most people to be focused on developing remote, digital, or tech careers. Many are, and that remains a core part of SK Collective.

However, we have also learned that our cohort includes people at very different stages.

Some applicants are focused on building or developing their own businesses, including areas such as fashion, catering, and other service-based work. Some are recent graduates primarily seeking practical work experience rather than immediate employment. Others are developing digital or business careers and want structure, confidence, and exposure to real work.

These insights have helped us avoid making assumptions and instead respond to what is actually in front of us.

PRACTICAL UPDATES WE'VE MADE

Based on what we learned last week, we made two practical updates.

We updated our cohort application form to better reflect the different reasons people are applying and what they are hoping to gain.

We also launched a dedicated Our Cohorts page on our website, clearly outlining the different cohort pathways and how they sit alongside our client services.

These changes allow us to group people more intentionally and set clearer expectations from the start.

EXPERIENCE AND GROUPING

Another important part of this process has been understanding experience levels more clearly.

While our application form invites people to share portfolios or examples of work, not everyone initially provided these. Through the interview process, we are now requesting examples where relevant. This helps us understand readiness and group people in a way that supports learning while protecting quality.

At this stage, the most important signal is not output. It is presence. People who are willing to engage in conversation, reflect honestly, and show up consistently.

SHAPING VALUE CAREFULLY

We have a number of guest speakers and opportunities planned. As we continue meeting applicants, we are shaping these sessions around what we are learning to ensure they deliver genuine value.

This work does not affect our client services. Client delivery continues as planned, with UK-based oversight and professional standards maintained.

WHAT THIS PHASE REPRESENTS

This past week has been about moving from ideas into clarity.

The interviews are helping us understand who the cohort is, what support is needed, and how to move forward responsibly. It is early, but this phase is an important foundation for what comes next.

More updates soon as the conversations continue.

On 5 December 2025, SK Collective Cohort 1 welcomed Alex Adeiza, a full-stack developer, designer, and co-founder of Mulla. Alex joined us to share practical career strategies, personal experiences, and advice for thriving in today’s fast-changing tech landscape.

Building a Career After University

Alex began by sharing his journey from graphic design to web development. He emphasised the importance of building a portfolio through volunteer work and real projects, even before graduation. Members were encouraged to seek out opportunities for hands-on experience, as practical work is often valued more than academic grades.

Key Strategies for Success

Alex outlined three core strategies for kickstarting a tech career:

• Build your portfolio by volunteering, interning, and taking on real projects to showcase your skills.

• Focus on in-demand skills such as tech sales, cloud engineering, and cybersecurity. Address the skill gaps that employers are struggling to fill.

• Leverage referrals and soft skills. Networking and strong communication can open more doors than applications alone, since many opportunities come from trusted referrals.

Thriving in Remote and International Teams

Alex shared practical advice for working with remote and global teams:

• Prioritise written communication to overcome infrastructure challenges and time zone differences.

• Keep your digital portfolio up to date, as this is your “passport” for global work.

• Develop cultural intelligence by embracing different feedback styles and being flexible with meeting times.

Staying Relevant: AI, Cloud, and Continuous Learning

The session also covered the importance of AI, cloud engineering, and cybersecurity. Alex encouraged everyone to:

• Use AI tools for problem-solving beyond basic tasks.

• Pursue cloud and cybersecurity certifications from reputable platforms.

• Set aside regular time for structured learning and focus on building “T-shaped” skills, which means having deep expertise in one area and broad knowledge of others.

Q&A Highlights

Members asked thoughtful questions about moving between design and programming, finding internships and gigs, and when to start charging for their work. Alex stressed the value of confidence, knowing your worth, and not waiting for a perfect time to start charging for your services. He also reminded everyone that most of his opportunities came through referrals, but putting yourself out there is key to expanding your network.

Looking Ahead

Alex offered to return for future sessions with practical demonstrations of AI tools and to share relevant design opportunities with the community. The session closed with thanks from Praise Oluebube on behalf of SK Collective HQ, encouragement for members to stay engaged, and a reminder to keep sharing questions and feedback.

Tonight’s session was a powerful reminder that building a tech career is about persistence, curiosity, and community. We are grateful to Alex Adeiza for his openness, practical tips, and commitment to supporting emerging talent.

Stay tuned for more expert sessions and updates as our journey continues!

Welcoming Our First Cohort

On 4 December 2025, SK Collective proudly welcomed its first-ever cohort. This group brings together 29 talented early-career professionals and recent graduates from across Nigeria. The launch marks the beginning of an exciting journey to connect emerging digital talent with meaningful, real-world projects and learning opportunities.

A Community Built for Growth

Our opening session focused on introductions, inspiration, and setting the stage for what’s ahead. Led by our community manager, Praise Oluebube, the session brought together members with a wide range of skills, including UI/UX design, business analysis, marketing, cyber security, development, and creative entrepreneurship.

SK Collective is designed to be more than just a skills platform. We are building a supportive, collaborative environment where members can:

• Gain practical experience through real projects

• Build professional portfolios

• Receive mentoring and structured feedback

• Grow their confidence and networks

Setting Expectations

We made it clear to our new cohort that this is a space for both those with advanced skills and those just starting out. Whether you are looking to deepen your expertise or gain your very first hands-on experience, there is a place for you here. Members shared their availability and commitment, with most ready to dedicate 5 to 10 hours a week to learning, collaboration, and real client work.

Learning from Industry Leaders

One of the highlights of our session was a guest appearance from Oluwasegun Ajibola, a respected mentor, consultant, and founder of the “Mindset Over Skillset” programme. Oluwasegun shared his journey in business analysis, digital transformation, and people development, reminding us that clarity of purpose and a growth mindset are just as important as technical skills. His message resonated deeply with the cohort and set a positive tone for the months ahead.

What’s Next?

• Experiential Learning: Members will be grouped by skill sets and interests, working together on real projects sourced from UK businesses and beyond.

• Guest Speakers and Workshops: More industry experts are lined up, including sessions on AI, tech tools, and practical business skills.

• Mentorship and Support: Both beginners and experienced members will have access to mentoring, feedback, and resources to help them grow.

• Portfolio and Opportunity Building: While our goal is to secure paid projects, we are honest that this will take time. The focus is on building confidence, capability, and community.

Join the Movement

SK Collective is not just about training. It is about creating opportunity, supporting each other, and building a network that can shape the future of digital work in Nigeria and beyond. We believe that talent is everywhere and opportunity should be too.

We are excited to see what Cohort 1 will achieve, and we look forward to sharing more stories, wins, and opportunities as our journey unfolds.

Interested in partnering, mentoring, or learning more?

Email us at hello@skcollectivehq.com or get in touch via our Contact page.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to grow, learn, and make an impact together!