Why Rhoda Adeola Chooses Stability Over Nomadism in Tech Recruitment

The Rise of Rhoda Adeola: A Story of Global Opportunity

Meet Rhoda Adeola, a tech recruiter who chose to plant her roots in the UK instead of embracing the digital nomad lifestyle. For some, the allure of living freely in diverse locations while working remotely is compelling. Yet for Adeola, it's about stability without sacrificing career ambition.

From Nigeria to Global Tech

Adeola's journey began in Ibadan, Nigeria, where she studied physics at the University of Ibadan. Despite enjoying the scientific discipline, her passion lay in helping individuals navigate their career paths. During her early days, she volunteered to coach others on resume writing and interview preparation, which led her to a career in Human Resources.

With the global shift toward remote work due to the pandemic, Adeola seized the opportunity to join the Dutch company, Matchr, as she transitioned into tech recruiting. She recalls her excitement earning her first 500 euros while still based in Nigeria, a defining moment that fueled her ambition to break into international markets.

A Navigated Landscape of Layoffs and Learning

2023 brought unforeseen challenges. Amid widespread layoffs in major tech companies like Meta and Amazon, Adeola found her position turned upside down as demand for tech recruiters rapidly plummeted. Rather than viewing this as a setback, she recognized the need to adapt. It became clear that the future of recruitment called for a blend of traditional skills with new analytical approaches. This realization pushed her to sharpen her knowledge of recruiting metrics, transforming her understanding of the industry.

Stability in an Uncertain World

Now, as she balances a thriving career in a UK-based startup focused on workplace safety software, Adeola appreciates the strength that comes from a stable location. While many in the digital nomad community might chase roles in sunny Bali or trendy Berlin, Adeola finds comfort in her UK setting. She believes this mix of remote work flexibility and home stability allows her to excel, not just professionally but personally. The choice exemplifies the evolving landscape of work in Africa and beyond, emphasizing that success doesn't always mean travel; sometimes, it means firmly establishing oneself where opportunities emerge.

Looking Forward: The Future of Work in Africa

As Rhoda Adeola navigates her career, she sheds light on an important aspect of Africa’s growth. The global hiring environment remains skeptical about talents from emerging markets. However, as Adeola champions African professionals, she showcases how adaptation, preparation, and talent can change perceptions. The tech ecosystems in Africa are growing, with trends in Fintech, AI, and digital transformation paving pathways for future opportunities.

Adeola's journey illustrates a pivotal moment in the narrative of work in Africa—one where stability can coexist with innovation, and where tech recruiters will play a vital role in bridging international talent gaps. For those paying attention, this balance is not just a personal narrative but a blueprint for professionals across the continent.