African Ideas

WE ARE HIRING 2 UCC ENGINEERS!

Join African Ideas! We are a leading strategy and innovation company in Africa. We are looking for 2 talented and dynamic individuals to embark on a 3-month journey with us, offering an opportunity to contribute to transformative ICT projects and solutions.

📍 Successful candidates will be based a client site (MTN's Centre of Excellence in Johannesburg)

💰 R25 000 - R30 000 per month

📆 Closing Date: 3 December 2023, 12h00

The following qualifications, skills and experience are imperative:

Education: Matric or equivalent; IT-related diploma or degree preferred. Certifications in BroadWorks, CCNA, CCNP, CCSP, CCIE (written), JNCIA, JNCIS.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years in ISP and Cisco environments, with customer-facing exposure. VOIP and security experience is a plus.

Skills: Cisco network configuration, WAN/LAN technologies, Linux/Unix, client service methodologies, SLAs, VoIP, session border controller, and hosted contact centre configuration.



APPLY NOW!

Link to apply: https://forms.gle/5go3WcrP3433J7Re9

Closing Date: December 3, 2023, at 12h00

In an era where agility and flexibility are paramount, the concept of a hybrid workplace has emerged as a transformative solution for businesses seeking to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the professional landscape. Going hybrid is an important business decision, involving factors including your industry, seniority of resources, workplace culture, and more. African Ideas, a dedicated Microsoft Business Partner for Digital & App Innovation on Azure, can play a pivotal role in architecting and implementing hybrid workplace solutions for businesses across diverse industries. African Ideas is among an exclusive group of Microsoft Partners, constituting less than 1% globally. It underscores our firm commitment to delivering world-class solutions, maintaining excellence, and fostering innovation. As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, our scope expands to serve a diverse range of businesses seeking to optimize efficiency, elevate customer experiences, and streamline operational workflows.

As a Microsoft Business Partner, African Ideas can harness the power of Microsoft 365, Azure, and Teams to create a cohesive and secure hybrid workplace ecosystem. Microsoft 365 provided the foundation for seamless communication and collaboration, while Azure facilitates the integration of cloud services for enhanced scalability and accessibility. Microsoft Teams emerged as the central hub for virtual collaboration, ensuring that teams could connect and collaborate from anywhere.

Understanding that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work in the dynamic business landscape, African Ideas focuses on customization. African Ideas develops custom solutions that address the unique challenges of each client, taking into consideration industry-specific compliance requirements, security protocols, and employee preferences. Moreover, the solutions will be designed with scalability in mind, ensuring that businesses can easily adapt to future changes and expansions.

African Ideas understands that the success of any workplace transformation lies in the acceptance and proficiency of its users. To address this, we implement comprehensive change management programs and change management strategies. Employees are educated on the applications that are ultimately designed to make their lives easier, and we make a point of offering ongoing support to ensure that our solutions and understood and used – something IT companies typically fail at.

Whether you’re fully on-site, hybrid, or remote, contact us today to talk about our workplace applications on Office 365 - including Timesheets, Employee Management, S&T Claims, Payroll, Invoicing, Staff Check-In, and so much more.

On November 25, 2023, the world will mark the start of a campaign that should be ongoing: 16 days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. South Africa has been grappling with societal challenges for decades, including the shadows of apartheid and the effects of inequality. Gender-based violence has become a stark reality, affecting women, children, and marginalised communities.

The "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence" campaign holds special significance in this context, as it serves as a rallying cry for change in a country with high rates of violence, particularly against women, children, and other marginalised communities. The campaign becomes a critical platform to address and rectify these issues within the unique socio-political landscape of the country. Gender-based violence in South Africa is complex and often intersects with other forms of discrimination such as race and socio-economic status. Women from marginalised communities face compounded challenges, making it crucial for the campaign to address the intersectionality of violence. By recognising and addressing these intersections, the 16 Days initiative in South Africa aims to create solutions that are inclusive and sensitive to the diverse experiences of its population.

The heart of the 16 Days campaign in South Africa lies in community mobilisation. Grassroots organisations, activists, and ordinary citizens come together to organise events, workshops, and awareness campaigns. By engaging communities in open dialogue and education, the campaign aims to challenge harmful norms and empower individuals to be active participants in dismantling the structures that perpetuate gender-based violence

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence serves as a powerful global campaign to raise awareness, inspire action, and advocate for the eradication of gender-based violence. As we unite during this period, it is crucial to recognise the invaluable work carried out by NGOs dedicated to combating gender-based violence in South Africa. Here are three NGO’s that aim to combat gender-based violence in South Africa:

Tears (Tears Foundation)

Sonke Gender Justice

People Opposing Woman Abuse POWA.

By supporting these organisations, individuals can contribute to creating safer communities and fostering a culture of equality.

To contact each NGO, find the details below,

Sonke Gender Justice – 021 423 7088

TEARS Foundation – 010 590 5920

POWA – 011 591 6803

EVENT HIGHLIGHT: AFRICAN IDEAS ATTENDS THE MICT SETA AGM

Late last month, the CEO of African Ideas and the Director of Digital Innovation and Strategic Projects attended the MICT SETA (Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority) Annual General Meeting (AGM). MICT SETA invited all its partners in the Western Cape to attend and reflect on the achievements of MICT SETA and (more importantly) the companies who have worked to train countless unemployed youth in vital in-demand ICT skills.

African Ideas is exceptionally proud of its contribution to this programme, having trained 20+ learners through programmes partially funded by MICT SETA. By investing heavily in training the youth in meaningful skills, African Ideas is doing its part to build the leadership of tomorrow.

MICT SETA remains a vital part of youth upliftment in South Africa, and we at African Ideas are looking forward to continuing to work together to bring a better future to all youth in South Africa.

🌍 Revolutionising Trade in the Western Cape: African Ideas' Journey with Wesgro 🚀

Exciting news from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town! If you've visited recently, you might have seen the vibrant WESGRO pop-up, a testament to an innovative journey we at African Ideas are proud to be a part of.

🌍 Bridging Global Markets: In 2021, we embarked on a mission with WESGRO - the dynamic force driving tourism, trade, and investment in Cape Town and the Western Cape. Our goal? To revolutionise how local exporters connect with the world.

🔗 The Cape Trade Portal: More than just a website, this portal is a digital marketplace where international buyers meet the best of Western Cape's exporters. What makes it stand out? It's the first of its kind in South Africa, boasting features that redefine online trade:

* Exporters can independently manage their profiles and products.
* Advanced search functionality considers factors like HS Codes, BEE Level, and Company Size.
* Specialized filters for key exports like wine, capturing the essence of the Western Cape.

🍇 The Wine Filter – A Toast to Innovation: As one of the region's largest exports, wine deserved special attention. Our tailored filters ensure that wine connoisseurs and buyers navigate with ease, connecting them to premium Western Cape vintages.

🛒 Need an E-Commerce Solution? The Cape Trade Portal is just the beginning. If you're looking to create an e-commerce platform that stands out, let's talk. We're here to bring your digital vision to life.

Join us in celebrating this milestone in regional commerce and digital innovation. Here's to opening more doors for Western Cape businesses and beyond!

HAPPY DIWALI!!

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a time when we come together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It's a festival that holds profound significance in the hearts of millions.

As we light up our homes with diyas (oil lamps) and colorful decorations, we are symbolically dispelling the darkness that surrounds us, both externally and internally. Diwali is a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope, and that the light of positivity and wisdom can guide us through.

This Diwali, let's not only illuminate our homes but also our hearts and minds. Let's resolve to conquer the darkness within and replace it with the brilliance of compassion, kindness, and knowledge.



May this Diwali bring happiness, prosperity, and good health to you and your loved ones.

OCTOBER HIGHLIGHT: THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN’S SOCIAL MEDIA TRAINING

Social media has revolutionised the way businesses operate in the digital age. For Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), the benefits are even greater. SMMEs are the backbone of the global economy, contributing significantly to job creation and economic growth. To remain competitive and thrive in the digital landscape, SMMEs must leverage the power of social media platforms, with Meta (formerly known as Facebook) being a key player.

Our Social Media Manager, Sango Tena, attended social media training for small companies provided by the City of Cape Town, where the training was solely focused on Meta. The main takeaways of the session were focused on how SMMEs can grow their audience and what to specifically focus on in social media.

Social media, including platforms like Meta, offers SMMEs the opportunity to enhance their visibility. A well-crafted social media presence can help SMMEs reach a global audience and increase brand recognition. With billions of active users on Meta and its affiliated platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp, SMMEs can connect with potential customers they might never have reached through traditional advertising methods. Traditional marketing methods can be expensive and are often out of reach for many SMMEs with limited budgets. Social media, however, provides a cost-effective way to market products and services. Meta has been expanding its e-commerce features, simplifying sales for SMMEs by integrating online marketplaces on social media.

In the digital era, the importance of social media for SMMEs cannot be overstated. Meta, with its vast user base and array of features, offers an ideal platform for SMMEs to establish and grow their online presence. Leveraging Meta's reach, affordability, and engagement tools can be a game-changer for SMMEs looking to compete in the global market. By embracing the power of social media, SMMEs can foster business growth, increase brand awareness, and connect with customers in ways that were once unimaginable.

MICROSOFT SOLUTION PARTNER STATUS:
HIGHLIGHT ON POWER PLATFORM SPECIALIST, DEVLIN SOOFUL

As we have spotlighted previously, African Ideas is among the first companies worldwide to adopt Microsoft's latest certification model. Today, we would like to highlight one of our team members, Devlin Sooful, who has been instrumental in building our Business Automation capacity.

Devlin holds a Bachelor of Social Science from the University of Cape Town, majoring in Political Science, Philosophy, and Economics. He is not only a Power Platform specialist at African Ideas but also a co-director and co-founder of GrabAGrad, a graduate-led innovation and consulting firm.

In addition to his role at African Ideas, Devlin is currently employed as a Power Platform Developer at Western Cape Government.

Earlier this year, Devlin became certified as a Power Platform Functional Consultant Associate, Power Platform Developer Associate, and most recently as a Microsoft Power Platform Solution Architect. With his expertise in Application Development and Design, Devlin has significantly contributed to our team's capabilities.

We are proud of Devlin and the other staff members who have undergone this training and have been empowered to take their expertise to the next level.

Well done Devlin!

African Ideas Celebrates Becoming a Microsoft Solutions Partner for Digital & App Innovation Azure! 🎉

We are elated to share that African Ideas has successfully earned the distinguished title of Microsoft Solutions Partner for Digital & App Innovation Azure. This isn't just an accolade; it's a testament to our commitment towards pioneering digital transformation on the African continent.

This achievement ranks us as part of an elite set of Microsoft Partners (less than 1% globally) and demonstrates African Ideas commitment to world-class delivery, excellence, and innovation. As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, our horizons broaden to encompass a vast array of businesses aiming to amplify efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and streamline operational workflows. Through this affiliation, we can tap into the rich repository of Microsoft Dynamics 365 solutions, encapsulating pivotal tools like Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), vital for businesses to thrive in today's fast-paced world.

Our partnership with Microsoft unlocks a world where data-driven decision-making converges with smart automation, reinforcing our mission to offer bespoke solutions to clients across all industries. Entering this space also immerses us in a vibrant ecosystem of experts and innovators, ensuring we're always at the forefront of tech knowledge. With doors now open to enhanced training, vast resources, and the latest industry trends, our team is geared to thrive and innovate. Furthermore, the collaboration with Microsoft presents opportunities for joint marketing efforts, co-selling initiatives, and collaborative innovation, which broaden partners' influence and reach in the marketplace.

In summary, as a Microsoft Solutions Partner in Digital & App Innovation Azure, African Ideas is not just equipped to deliver holistic, custom-built solutions. We are also poised to forge ahead, nurturing growth and shaping success stories in an ever-adaptive digital world. Join us in this exhilarating journey towards a brighter, technologically advanced future!

Explore the fresh look of African Ideas! Visit our updated website to discover our range of services, meet our team, explore our community endeavors, and much more

We are hiring! We are looking for a Senior Data Engineer to join our team.

The successful candidate will be based at a public sector client where they will work on developing technologies and applications for the healthcare sector.

Closing Date: Friday, 15 September 2023
Salary: R70 000 - R75 000
Location: Fully Remote Role (Candidate must be based in South Africa)
Contract Duration: All roles run until the end of March 2024 with the opportunity for renewal

Necessary experience
* At least 6 years of experience working as a developer

A degree is advantageous but not required if you have 7 years of experience.

Experience with the following technology stacks:
* Azure
* Microsoft SQL Server
* Python
* Apache Spark
* DataBricks
* Mongo DB
* Oracle
* Couchbase

Apply via this link: https://forms.gle/qFemK2iy3LcG9ckZA

You can also apply using the links in our bio.

Please share with your networks.

🎉 Happy National Women's Day! 🎉

Did you know that in South Africa, only 23% of tech jobs are held by women? That's a mere 56,000 out of 236,000 ICT roles in the country!

Globally, the stats are just as concerning. UNESCO reports that the average percentage of women in STEM is 30%, but in Sub-Saharan Africa, it dips even lower to 28%.

For women in tech, the climb up the career ladder is fraught with unique challenges: bias, double standards, and a culture that often sidelines their voices. But change is possible, and we at African Ideas are committed to being part of that transformation. 🚀

At African Ideas, we're committed to change. As a women-led company, we believe in creating innovative solutions driven by diversity. We believe in creating spaces where women feel safe, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Together, we can drive our country forward with innovative and holistic solutions that reflect true equity and inclusivity.

Join us in celebrating diversity this Women's Day and every day! 🎉💻👩‍💻

African Ideas is hiring in several positions!

We are looking for:
◼️Junior Talent Acquisition Specialist
◼️Senior Data Engineer
◼️Senior Operations and Software Developer
◼️Junior Frontend Developer

Do you know of anyone who would be a good fit?

Please note the following:

📌 A cover letter and 3 contactable references must be provided
📍 All applicants must reside in Cape Town

Apply using the following links:

◼️Junior Talent Acquisition Specialist: https://forms.gle/oxmjRhq28Aj7U8UP7
◼️Senior Data Engineer: https://forms.gle/vUxJf2y5ZbVyQ7gW7
◼️Senior Operations and Software Developer: https://forms.gle/XBk67Bw5tNB6jHGd6
◼️Junior Frontend Developer: https://forms.gle/3JCY4Jd9WRyrDiXZ6

Please share with your networks.

Microsoft Training Update!

African Ideas celebrates the successful completion of its latest Microsoft Training program! Our team has achieved significant milestones, with several members becoming certified Solution Architects. Building upon our previous accomplishments as a Microsoft Silver Partner, this training enhances our expertise in the Microsoft Power Platform.

Through our strong partnership with Microsoft, we successfully facilitated an impactful initiative, delivering comprehensive training and certification to empower a group of 9 exceptionally talented individuals. This program, which placed utmost importance on enhancing youth employment opportunities and bridging critical skills gaps, encompassed an extensive range of courses, including C #, Power Platform App Maker, Functional Consultant, Developer, and Solution Architect. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the participants for their outstanding achievements and dedication to personal growth.

Microsoft SA Microsoft Africa Microsoft Partner Network South Africa

African Ideas Celebrates Mandela Day

As we commemorate Mandela Day, let's reflect on the profound lessons bestowed upon us by Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela's life, his sacrifices and his shouldering of duty, inspires us to continue to find meaningful ways to uplift our society.

Nelson Mandela asked that 67 minutes be taken out of your day to do work in your community. While we hope that many observe this, we hope even more that everyone takes a small moment out of their day, every day, to commit to making a change that echoes his legacy.

On Sunday evening, a large fire broke out in Blowly informal settlement in Khayelitsha. This devastating fire has left two dead and 25 people homeless. This settlement is the home of many who were affected by the larger 2018 Khayelitsha fire, who now have to face the reality of rebuilding their lives and dwelling once again.

Several Baobab staff, including Sikho Gqiba and his family, are being forced to go through this situation for a second time. At the time of writing, no government assistance is being offered to those affected by this fire. Therefore, The Baobab, in partnership with GrabAGrad, African Ideas, and the Partnership for a Digital Africa, is organising a charity drive to aid all those who are affected.

Currently the items that are most needed include canned food items and blankets, though cash or building materials are the highest priority. DM us for our banking details to make a monetary donation.

For non-cash donations, please drop it off at our offices at 441 Main Road, Observatory (you can also drop off cash/pay by card here). The charity drive will end on Friday 14 July, when we will drop off everything we have collected to community leaders in Khayelitsha.

Read more about the fires here:

https://www.groundup.org.za/article/two-dead-in-khayelitsha-shack-fire/

Thank you in advance for your generosity.

Our team at African Ideas would like to wish a heartfelt Eid Mubarak to all staff and clients observing this holy period, expected to begin tonight.

May you and your family be blessed over these three days.

African Ideas is renowned for its successful graduate program, which emphasizes practical learning and rapid skills development. The program welcomes graduates from diverse backgrounds, including Information Technology, Computer Science, Human Resources, Marketing, Design, Public Relations, and more.

Dedicated to empowering graduates, African Ideas has formed partnerships to provide opportunities for new graduates each year. The program offers mentorship from experienced professionals and engages graduates in ongoing projects undertaken by African Ideas. Graduates play an integral role in almost all of the organization's projects, showcasing their abilities and contributing to their professional growth.

A unique aspect of African Ideas' graduate program is its innovative Cooperative model. Graduates who complete the internship become part of the Cooperative and continue to be valued members even after the program concludes. Recognizing their acquired skills, African Ideas regularly reaches out to these graduates for part-time contract work, ensuring their continuous development and exposure to practical experiences.