Sililo Lubona Sililo
Bachelor in Economics and Finance
University of Lusaka
Hackaton Companies:
B360 education partnerships
Swiss Business Protection (SBP)
Roche Global Citizenship (RGC)
Trainings – What I Have Learned
The foundation established during the Career Starter Week (CSW), ICT Training, and the Preparation Week played an important role in my development and achievements throughout the course. With the ICT Training, I became familiar with Microsoft Excel and managed to improve my data handling abilities that were extremely helpful when we took part in our hackathons and will certainly help me in the future. Additionally, the PowerPoint training changed my approach to making slides and helped me to make professional and interesting presentations about my projects. The work equipment such as laptop and headsets ensured efficient virtual cooperation without any noises.
Team Effort Experience with Career Bridge Fellow Colleagues
One of the most enriching experiences during my time at the Career Bridge was working with other Career Bridge participants such as James, Charity, and Nikiwe. Having a background in Economics and Finance, it was interesting for us to work together with people from Information Technology and Computer Science. We were able to blend our skills effortlessly and made sure that working as a team was easy, enjoyable, and efficient.
Highlights and Challenges in the Hackathons
Each of the Hackathons had its own learning curve:
1st Hackathon (B360): The problem statement was clear for us to have an excellent starting point to collaborate well, implement our preparedness and strive hard to earn.
2nd Hackathon (Swiss Business Protection): The problem statement was challenging, but through our active engagement during check-ins and continuous discussions in the team, we managed to do our best and deliver the work successfully.
3rd Hackathon (Roche): This was undoubtedly our highlight project. Roche provided complete information, allowing our team to quickly align and perform efficiently.
Future Plans
With the successful attainment of a degree in Economics and Finance, it is my intention to increase my engagement as an educator in matters of economic growth and development. I intend to do so while sharing my knowledge and simplifying the understanding of economic theories through social media. On the other hand, I also hope to venture into lifestyle entrepreneurship through the establishment of a boutique which is something that I have always wanted to do. The skills, confidence, and discipline gained through the Career Bridge shall be the foundation of my future endeavors.
Personal Message ANd Acknowledgments
I extend my deepest gratitude to B360 education partnerships, the University of Lusaka, and all partner organizations for making this transformative experience possible.
Special thanks to Sabina Balmer, Sherin Wirth, Nico Smit, and Thomas Weber for their tireless coordination and guidance. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Owen Muteke at UNILUS for his dedicated mentorship and constant support. Thank you to Thomas Isenschmid and Rita Becker for guiding our team through the first Hackathon, Karen Müller for her mentorship during the second Hackathon, and all experts who shared their knowledge with us. Finally, thank you to my wonderful colleagues for their friendship and teamwork. This journey has been unforgettable, and I am truly grateful for belief in our potential.