No Experience? No Problem: How to Get Your First Tech Role in Africa
Breaking into the tech industry in Africa, or anywhere else without prior experience can feel like trying to unlock a door with no key. The job descriptions ask for years of experience. The competition seems fierce. And you might wonder: How do I even get started if no one is willing to take a chance on me?
At Blip School, we’ve seen this story many times. The good news? You don’t need to “wait” to be picked. You can prepare, position, and present yourself in a way that opens the door to real opportunities, even with zero traditional experience.
Here’s your step-by-step roadmap to landing your first tech role in Africa—even if you're starting from scratch.
Step 1: Pick a Tech Path That Aligns With Your Interests
Before anything else, you need clarity.
🔹 Do you enjoy visual design and user interaction? Look into UI/UX or Frontend Development.
🔹 Love problem-solving and logic? Explore Backend Development, DevOps, or Data Science.
🔹 Excited by phones and apps? Consider Mobile Development with Flutter, React Native, or Kotlin.
🔹 Enjoy people and process management? Product Management or Technical Writing might be your calling.
Blip School offers career tracks and mentorship that help you match your interests with real-world roles. Your first win? Picking a direction.
Step 2: Learn the Right Skills (Without Burning Out)
This is where most beginners get overwhelmed—by trying to learn everything. You don’t need to master five languages or build a full-stack app in week one. You need a learning plan.
Here’s a lean, focused approach:
| Role | Core Skills | Tools & Tech |
|---|---|---|
| Frontend Dev | HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React | VS Code, Git, Chrome DevTools |
| Backend Dev | Python/Node.js, APIs, Databases | Postman, MongoDB/MySQL |
| UI/UX Design | Figma, Wireframing, Design Principles | Figma, Adobe XD |
| Mobile Dev | Dart + Flutter, or React Native | Android Studio, Expo |
💡 At Blip School, we break down these paths into structured micro-courses and bootcamps tailored for African learners.
Step 3: Build Real Projects to Show What You Know
You might not have job experience—but you can create proof of your skill.
✅ Build a personal portfolio website
✅ Recreate existing apps (e.g., Netflix clone, Instagram UI)
✅ Contribute to open-source or community projects
✅ Offer free help to small local businesses or NGOs in your area
A strong project portfolio beats a long resume every time.
Step 4: Get Certified (Yes, It Helps)
Certifications aren’t everything—but in the early stage, they can boost your credibility, especially when you're self-taught.
Use tools like SimplyCerts—Blip School’s customizable certificate generator—to generate verified, professional-looking certificates after each course or project. It gives hiring managers something to hold onto.
🛠 With SimplyCerts, you can:
- Customize your certificates with your name, course details, and brand colors
- Add a QR code for easy verification
- Showcase them on LinkedIn or your personal site
Step 5: Network Like It’s Your Job
Many roles in Africa are not publicly advertised—they’re filled through referrals or private communities.
Here’s where to start:
- Join tech WhatsApp or Telegram groups in your country or niche
- Attend virtual hackathons, tech meetups, and bootcamps
- Connect with junior developers and alumni of tech communities (like Blip School!)
Tip: Don’t just ask for jobs—ask for advice, feedback, or collaboration. Be active and visible.
Step 6: Apply Smart, Not Hard
When you’re ready to apply, don’t just click “apply” on every random job post. Instead:
- Focus on entry-level or internship opportunities
- Send cold emails or DMs to founders of small startups
- Tailor your resume to match exactly what the job asks for
- Link to your portfolio and certified projects
Blip School’s Career Support Program also offers help with:
- CV writing
- Cover letters
- Mock interviews
- Role-specific job boards
Step 7: Stay Consistent—Even When Rejections Happen
Everyone faces rejection. That’s not a reflection of your future—just your current stage.
Create a system where you're:
- Learning weekly
- Building biweekly
- Applying monthly
- Reflecting often
If you stay consistent, your first tech job might come faster than you think.
Your First Tech Role is Closer Than You Think
You might not have experience, but you have something just as valuable: the willingness to start.
Blip School exists to help you bridge that gap. Whether through:
- Skill-based learning tracks
- Certification tools like SimplyCerts
- Community mentorship and job support
You’re never really starting alone.
Ready to Begin?
🚀 Explore Blip School’s beginner-friendly tech programs
🎓 Get certified instantly with SimplyCerts
💼 And take the first real step toward your tech future