Afripreneur
Interview: Medixus is connecting the world’s medical community, starting with Africa – Nicole Kayode
Nicole Kayode, Co-founder at Medixus
Quality patient care relies on smooth communication between healthcare professionals, and access to resources that will further their development. This is a global truth, particularly in developing countries where there is growing demand for improved health services. In this e-Interview, Nicole Kayode speaks with Alaba Ayinuola, on how Medixus is connecting health professionals of all backgrounds and levels of experience through its mobile and web platform for virtual mentors, making CPD resources and peer-to-peer discussions accessible for all. Excerpts.
Alaba: Tell us about Medixus and the role you play?
Nicole: Medixus is a mobile and web based application for healthcare workers across the African continent to collaborate on challenging patient cases. The idea is largely that through knowledge sharing and community, we can empower healthcare workers to make better clinical decisions, provide peer support and ultimately improve patient care.
I am the co-founder of Medixus, having had the idea following personal loss in the Nigerian healthcare system. My role is very broad as we are a small team so everyone does a bit of everything! The primary thing I spend my time thinking about is how to scale the business so we can drive the highest impact possible.
Alaba: What was your startup capital and how were you able to raise it?
Nicole: We started Medixus with no capital! We are still bootstrapped – we run the business out of our own pocket at the moment. Through a combination of savings, and working we make sure that the little money we do have goes as far as possible, and be as impactful as possible. We are looking to begin raising some capital now that we’ve gotten some market validation though and primarily doing this through reaching out to very early stage investors and venture capitalists all over the world, including many on the continent.
Alaba: What are the challenges, competition and how are you overcoming them?
Nicole: One of the challenges with any tech company is product market fit – does the product you have fit the markets needs? This is an ongoing process of learning and iterating! The competition is mainly the traditional communication platforms that medics use at the moment (e.g. Whatsapp and Facebook) though we hope, through our product market fit, to overcome this by building a ‘for purpose’ communication platform which makes their lives a bit easier. Primarily we do this by listening to our users, and iterating the product based on their realities.
Alaba: What is the future for Medixus and what steps are you taking in achieving them?
Nicole: We hope Medixus will scale globally one day, but first be known as a proudly African product. I truly believe that there is potential to drive massive impact through the platform in multiple ways. One of these is by supporting healthcare workers and reducing any potential sense of professional isolation (no woman is an island). Another is through empowering healthcare workers, of all cadres eventually, to make the most informed clinical decisions thus transferring the benefits directly to their patients.
To get there we are really pushing to get the word out about the platform to doctors across the continent, with a focus on Kenya initially, to get them signing up and using the platform. We hope this will give us lots of data and feedback so we can continue to improve and grow the community.
Alaba: How is your business contributing to the development of Africa’s health ecosystem?
Nicole: We know that we have a problem on the continent in terms of our doctor to patient ratio – which is two pronged: not training enough doctors and not retaining the doctors we do have. Among other reasons, medics say that lack of professional support and mentorship is one of the reasons they leave the continent to seek pastures anew. We hope through creating this pan-African medical community we can go some way to reducing this by ensuring that support and mentorship are available in real time, at the touch of a button.
We are also creating a sustainable portal for knowledge sharing – once I have learned that a particular symptom is cause to investigate a certain condition, I will have that knowledge forever. This contributes to the ‘capacity building’ of our healthcare workers that we often hear banded around in discussions about healthcare in Africa, but in such a way that centers the individuality of each healthcare worker on the platform and their unique knowledge needs.
Alaba: What is your view on the development of Africa business ecosystem?
Nicole: This is a very big question! I think this is impossible to answer well at a continent wide level as all the individual countries on the continent are at different stages in the business ecosystem development timeline – some are more advanced in certain sectors than others, some have more mature startup ecosystems than others etc. but broadly speaking, the continent is becoming an increasingly favorable environment to do business.
There are many market opportunities, but also challenges that come with the youthfulness of the ecosystems that trailblazers have to overcome. A greater emphasis on public-private partnerships seems to be flavor of the moment, and as we’ve seen more institutional investment money is flowing into the continent in the form of startup investments.
Alaba: What advice would you give potential entrepreneurs who intend to start a business or invest in Africa?
Nicole: Much the same as the advice I would give to any entrepreneur anywhere!
- Don’t be afraid to take risks.
- Don’t worry if things take much, much longer than you hoped – if you don’t have a huge amount of cash to invest upfront often it will be a longer journey.
- Don’t believe the hype of an ‘overnight success’ story – nothing happens overnight, almost always there was years of ground work behind that success.
- Do validate your market; is there a genuine need for your product? Don’t be afraid to tweak your original product based on what the market tells you!
My advice to those investing in Africa is a bit simple: don’t be scared of our continent. Most entrepreneurs here fail because of lack of capital, not because the idea wasn’t needed or well executed. We need more investors who are willing to invest in early stage businesses, who are willing to back the founders and take a risk early on rather than only talking about it.
Alaba: How does it feel to be an African entrepreneur?
Nicole: I feel very proud to be an African entrepreneur! I think entrepreneurial spirit runs in the cultural make up of many of us – particularly we Nigerians where hustle is practically a birthright! I am also aware though of my role as an African in diaspora, and what that means for our business – it is important also to bring on board the perspectives, advice and deep local know-how of those who have grown up on the continent. I feel a sense of pride at being able to contribute to the betterment of our continent and contribute to changing, or at least widening, the Western narrative around Africa which is centered on dooms and glooms.
We are a continent with problems, just like any other region of the world, the West included – but we are also a continent of innovation, energy, pride and beauty.
Alaba: How do you relax and what books do you read?
Nicole: I am very into yoga, and actually qualified as a yoga teacher this time last year – I find it helps you find a sense of calm and acceptance when things get tricky on and off the mat. That really helps to relax me and is probably the only form of ‘exercise’ I do!
I read a range of books, as I have gotten older I make a concerted effort to read fiction written by African authors but I also read a lot of non-fiction books about science, neuroscience & psychology since I am slightly obsessed with understanding why things are the way they are. I’m also trying to read more about the history of our continent as written by African authors – one I’m working through at the moment is called The History of the Yorubas written by a Nigerian Reverend called Samuel Johnson.
Short Bio:
Nicole is a Nigerian-British entrepreneur with a background in medical research and a passion for using technology to improve healthcare across the continent. Having worked in start-ups most of her professional life in business and product development roles, she decided to combine her interest for technology, business and healthcare in Africa by launching Medixus.
Kindly Visit: medixus.co
Bukola Babajide is a highly accomplished business transformation consultant and the visionary Founder of Female Techpreneur. With over 17 years of experience in the Tech industry, Bukola has a proven track record of delivering exceptional results in digital transformation and business Consulting. As strategist and start-up advisor, Bukola specialise in guiding founders and professionals through every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. With expertise in ideation, go-to-market strategy, and execution. In this Interview with Alaba Ayinuola of Business Africa Online (BAO), Bukola shares her entrepreneurship journey and how she is passionately turning tech ideas into successful ventures.
Alaba: To start with, could you share your entrepreneurship journey?
Bukola: My journey began with my mum who although trained as a teacher had her hands in business, little knowledge of entrepreneurship, but with a relentless drive to succeed. I’ve always valued quality and understood the cost of achieving it. Through trial and error, I learned that entrepreneurship is a path to overcoming adversity. While not every venture succeeded, each failure provided invaluable lessons that propelled me forward. The idea of launching a Tech community for women emerged from a desire to bridge a gap in the industry.
Alaba: As the founder of female techpreneur, could you please tell us more about this community and its impact so far?
Bukola: The Female Techpreneur community is set up to support women into Tech either professionally or as an entrepreneur. We also help founders thrive by providing access to programmes and initiatives to create access to resources, investors and peer to peer networking.
Alaba: What challenges have you encountered working with this female tech community, and how have you addressed them?
Bukola: Working with the female tech community has been incredibly rewarding, but we’ve encountered some challenges along the way. One major challenge has been addressing the gender disparities and biases that still exist within the tech industry. Women often face barriers to access funding, opportunities for advancement, and equal representation in leadership positions.
To address these challenges, we’ve implemented several strategies:
- Creating a Supportive Environment: We’ve worked to create a supportive and inclusive environment where women feel empowered to share their ideas, experiences, and challenges without fear of judgment or discrimination. This includes fostering open dialogue, providing mentorship and support networks, and offering resources tailored to the needs of women in tech.
- Promoting Visibility and Representation: We’ve made a concerted effort to amplify the voices and visibility of women in tech through various channels, including events, workshops, and online platforms. By showcasing success stories and highlighting the achievements of women in the industry, we aim to inspire and empower others to pursue careers in tech.
- Advocating for Change: We’ve actively advocated for policies and initiatives that promote gender diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. This includes advocating for equal pay, addressing unconscious bias in hiring and promotion processes, and supporting initiatives to increase the representation of women in leadership roles.
- Providing Access to Resources and Opportunities: We’ve worked to provide women in tech with access to resources, opportunities, and networks that can help them succeed in their careers. This includes offering mentorship programs, funding opportunities, training programs, and networking events specifically tailored to the needs of women entrepreneurs and professionals.
Overall, while there are certainly challenges to overcome, we remain committed to creating a more inclusive and equitable tech community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
Alaba: Research shows that women-led startups often struggle to secure funding. Have you found this to be the case? What strategies do you recommend using to successfully secure funding?
Bukola: To successfully secure funding, consider these strategies:
- Develop a Solid Business Plan: Clearly outline your business model, target market, revenue streams, and growth projections. Investors want to see a well-thought-out plan that demonstrates potential for success.
- Identify the Right Investors: Research and target investors who have a track record of funding startups in your industry or niche. Consider angel investors, venture capitalists, crowdfunding platforms, or government grants, depending on your needs and stage of development.
- Create a Compelling Pitch: Craft a concise and compelling pitch that highlights your unique value proposition, market opportunity, traction, and team expertise. Practice delivering your pitch confidently, focusing on storytelling and engaging visuals.
- Build Relationships: Networking is key. Attend industry events, join startup accelerators or incubators, and leverage your existing connections to build relationships with potential investors. Establishing rapport and trust can significantly increase your chances of securing funding.
- Show Traction: Demonstrate progress and traction, whether it’s early customer acquisitions, revenue growth, product milestones, or partnerships. Tangible results validate your business concept and reduce perceived risk for investors.
- Be Transparent and Coachable: Be transparent about your challenges and setbacks, and demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt. Investors appreciate founders who are open to feedback and can effectively utilize resources to overcome obstacles.
- Negotiate Wisely: When negotiating terms, prioritize a fair valuation and terms that align with your long-term goals. Consider seeking advice from experienced mentors or advisors to ensure you’re making informed decisions.
- Follow Up: After pitching to investors, follow up promptly and professionally. Provide any additional information they request and maintain regular communication to keep them updated on your progress.
By employing these strategies and staying persistent, you can increase your chances of successfully securing funding for your startup. Join our upcoming Investment Readiness Program for expert guidance. Register now for more details or to collaborate with us.
Alaba: You recently launched the female techpreneur founders lounge Lagos. What was the experience like and could you share updates on the next edition?
Bukola: Our recent event launch exceeded expectations, boasting seamless support organization, captivating content, and invaluable networking opportunities. Featuring a diverse lineup of speakers and fostering inclusivity, it left attendees inspired and connected. Our next one is scheduled for May 30th 2024.
Link to register: Founders Lounge
For collaboration or partnership opportunities, please contact us at: hello@femaletechpreneur.com
Alaba: How are you positioning female techpreneur to become the go-to platform for women-led tech startups?
Bukola: To position the Female Techpreneur as the go-to platform for women-led tech startups, we’re prioritising inclusivity by offering tailored programs, such as workshops and networking events, specifically addressing the needs of women entrepreneurs. For instance, we’ve launched mentorship programs pairing experienced professionals with women founders to provide guidance and support. Additionally, we’re actively showcasing success stories of women-led startups within our community to inspire others and challenge stereotypes. Through these efforts, we’re creating an ecosystem where women can access resources, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive in the tech industry.
Alaba: You are clearly a leader of learning. How do you balance investing in yourself with investing in the relationships you have with other people?
Bukola: Balancing self-investment with nurturing relationships is crucial for personal growth and meaningful connections. By prioritizing self-investment, such as learning new skills, pursuing passions, and maintaining physical and mental well-being, we enhance our capacity to contribute positively to our relationships. Conversely, investing in relationships through quality time, active listening, and support fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens mutual trust and understanding. Striking this balance involves setting boundaries, effective time management, and communicating openly with others about our needs and commitments. Ultimately, by investing in both ourselves and our relationships, we create a harmonious and fulfilling life.
Alaba: What is your advice to females in or aspiring to go into tech?
Bukola: For females already in or aspiring to enter the tech field, my advice is straightforward:
Own your passion and potential fully. Tech thrives on curiosity, resilience, and constant growth, so don’t let stereotypes or biases deter you. Seek out mentors, allies, and supportive communities to guide and uplift you. Take charge of your skill development through education, online resources, and hands-on projects. Remember, diversity in tech isn’t just beneficial—it’s necessary for innovation. Trust in your abilities, stay authentic, and never doubt the value you bring. Your voice matters, your perspective is vital, and your contributions are significant. Embrace the journey and forge your own path fearlessly.
African Hidden Champions (AHC) will host an exclusive Soirée on April 24, 2024, in Johannesburg to convene and celebrate entrepreneurial spirit with top African founders taking on the global stage. The event will also feature a private concert with award-winning South African artist, Ami Faku.
African Hidden Champions, a co-partnership of Africa Foresight Group, Germany’s development finance institution DEG – Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft and the African Development Bank, was founded in 2020 and now has more than 25 dynamic African firms in its network. It works to support companies to move to global expansion through visibility, technical assistance, innovation, talent, and investment support. This event, dubbed “Proudly Local, Boldly Global,” is also supported by British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution (DFI) and impact investor.
The evening will feature opening addresses by Kuseni Dlamini, Chairman of Aspen Pharmacare and AHC Ambassador; Anne Keppler, Regional Director for Southern Africa at DEG; and Chris Chijiutomi, Managing Director and Head of Africa at BII. It will include a fireside chat with AHC Company founder, Dare Okoudjou, founder and CEO of Onafriq.
“Investing in Africa’s businesses goes beyond just capital; it’s about believing in our potential to lead on the global stage. This Soirée is our testament to the world: Africa is not just rising; it is ready to lead,” said Yasmin Kumi, AHC Co-Founder and CEO of Africa Foresight Group, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving long-term goals on the continent.
In addition to engaging in discussions and networking opportunities, attendees will be treated to a private concert by Faku, showcasing the continent’s vibrant spirit and cultural richness.
“Intentional investments and empowerment of African companies create value far surpassing what individuals can achieve alone. This Soirée is a celebration of what we can accomplish together and a look forward to the boundless possibilities ahead to be proudly local and boldly global,” said Thomas Viot, Chief Investment Officer at the African Development Bank Group.
Chris Chijiutomi, Managing Director and Head of Africa at BII, said: “As Africa’s first DFI, we have been supporting private sector growth and innovation across the continent for over 75 years. This celebration reflects our commitment to empower local businesses that are critical to drive forward a prosperous and sustainable economic future for Africa. This includes increasing our focus on black-owned and led businesses and funds across our portfolio.”
AHC embodies the entrepreneurial mindset of African homegrown businesses believing in their global potential, which is underlined throughout the initiative’s work, spanning visibility, support services and events. Once a year, new member companies sign the AHC declaration to commit to the same spirit. Together, the 25+ member companies generate revenues surpassing $8.3 billion, provide employment to a 78,000-strong workforce, and extend their reach across 14 African nations.
Omar Ngom is a Senegalese entrepreneur, founder of Sama Chef, the first school that trains chefs in Senegal. Located in the residential district of Mermoz, Sama Chef is an institution that marks a turning point in the training of Senegalese chefs.
Head chef of the restaurant “Séku bi, Il Pappagallo Dakar”, Omar stands out for his innovative approach. He collaborates with renowned international chefs, which allows him to offer unique masterclasses, transcending culinary boundaries. This revolutionary method elevates Senegalese cuisine by fusing it with international influences.
With several years of experience acquired in Italy, Germany, Switzerland and France, including as chef of the famous Italian restaurant “Il Pappagallo Hotel Sekubi”, Omar Ngom took the initiative to create this school of excellence in his native Senegal. His motivation stems from the observation of a growing demand for chefs in the restaurant sector in Senegal.
Sama Chef’s mission is to create an international school of professional training in the culinary and catering sector: the ultimate goal is to create an elite group of chefs, kitchen assistants, waiters, and waiters who are in turn able to pass on the know-how they have acquired.
A shortcoming that he decided to fill by providing a solution in order to prepare Senegal to be established in the gastronomic pantheon. Omar Ngom’s prowess quickly attracted the attention of renowned media outlets such as Le Monde newspaper, Reporter Gourmet, Italian TV channel and other media outlets. By opening this school of excellence, he has not only blazed a new trail for culinary education in Senegal, but he has also erected a pillar for the influence of Senegalese cuisine on a global scale.
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