Before I signed up for Refactory I was feeling mentally stuck in a rut, I knew I needed a challenge so I decided to learn a new skill. I couldn’t have picked a better choice. Learning software development was like diving into a different universe for me because nothing could have been further away from my comfort zone. Being in my forties and not having a background in anything tech related I was as green as they come. The first few days were hilarious as I struggled to follow instructions but I soon found my pace.
After 5 months, I completed the programme and acquired a certificate in software development. I was immensely proud of myself for sticking with it and delivering on my projects as required. As much as I had thrown myself into learning and enjoyed the journey, I knew that the life of very long nights of writing code, debugging, and learning new cool stuff would be difficult to fit into my existing work schedule so I went back to my regular job.
However, I wasn’t done with Refactory or with learning. I soon signed up to learn Product Management. I have been able to use the knowledge I acquired has been very useful in my job in the construction industry as I use it to manage projects. I am also using it to build my own new business as opposed to going in blind which would have been the case had I not learned what I know now.
My learning journey with Refactory has benefitted more than just me as I was able to teach my daughter whatever I had learned in the software development programme. This has sparked a hunger in her to pursue a career in tech and she uses her free time during the holidays to build on her learning.
Getting into this programme stretched me mentally in all the ways I needed to be and opened my mind to a world of possibilities for me and the young people in my life as I have become a self-appointed spreader of the Refactory gospel. I will forever be thankful for the experience.
