DEVELOPER SQUAD LEAD: ENGINERING AND DEVELOPMENT TEAM LEAD (2024-2025)

ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT TEAM LEAD

1. Who Are You?

My name is Opeoluwa. I’m a native mobile developer who’s friendly, reserved, yet bold when it comes to taking initiative. As the Engineering and Development Team Lead for Cowrywise Ilorin Ambassadors, I help organize and host classes for developers and engineers. My focus is on building an environment where people can learn, share ideas, and grow together. I make sure they have the right tools and guidance to succeed through practical experiences that build skill and confidence.

2. What Has Your Leadership Journey Been Like?

Leadership has meant a lot to me in this role. It has taught me patience, continuous learning, and how to work with people. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about control but about guiding the process, being intentional with your input even if you can’t control the outcome. It has also shown me the value of connection, openness to help, and learning from mistakes. These lessons have made me a more collaborative, approachable, and growth-minded leader.

3. What Are Your Goals and Vision?

When I joined the Ambassadors’ community, my goals were to connect with people, support newcomers to tech, understand the field better, and position myself for growth. Looking back, I’m getting closer to achieving these goals. I’ve built connections, contributed to the community, and improved personally and professionally. It has also increased my visibility, not just as a developer but as part of a growing network of changemakers.

4. How Has the Cowrywise App Impacted You?

The Cowrywise app changed how I think about saving and investing. It was my first experience with locked savings. At first, I didn’t fully understand it, I thought I could withdraw anytime. But being unable to access my money until maturity taught me discipline and commitment. It helped me achieve my goals instead of spending impulsively. I’ve since started investing in mutual funds and plan to explore stocks too. Overall, the app has helped me build a stronger saving culture and be more intentional about money.

5. What’s Your Experience in the Community?

The best part of being a Cowrywise Ambassador is the exposure and opportunities it brings. You get to learn, do, and contribute more than in most communities. What stands out for me is the personal connection, you’re not just another face. You actually talk, build real relationships, and make friends. That sense of belonging makes the community unique and valuable.

6. How Do You Handle Challenges and Problem-Solving?

One challenge I’m still working on is keeping the engineering and development team more active. Many members want to learn but aren’t always consistent. To fix this, I schedule classes, plan events, and create structured opportunities for participation. This approach encourages contributions and keeps learning steady. It’s still a process, but I’ve seen real progress as engagement grows.

7. How Have You Grown and Developed in This Role?

This role has helped me grow professionally and personally by teaching responsibility and accountability. I’ve learned that if I don’t take action, nothing happens. Leadership is the same, if I don’t engage people, I can’t expect results. Progress doesn’t just occur; you must set the tone and lead by example. This mindset now shapes how I lead and how I grow personally.

8. How Do You Encourage Collaboration?

For teamwork and creativity, I plan structured activities and classes focused on specific tech areas. I also end each session with a challenge to make learning practical and fun. It reinforces lessons and promotes teamwork, creativity, and hands-on skill building. This keeps the team engaged, productive, and collaborative.

9. What Inspires You as a Leader?

What drives me most is seeing people grow. I love watching others reach goals, improve, and develop passion for their work. Knowing that I can contribute, even in small ways, to someone’s journey keeps me going. Leadership, to me, is helping others build and succeed, and that’s what inspires me even during tough times.

10. What Advice Would You Give to New Ambassadors?

My advice to new ambassadors is simple: show up and stay consistent. Make yourself available, even when it’s not easy, because consistency pays off. You might have other commitments, but the effort to participate will reward you with knowledge, fun experiences, and valuable connections. Those lessons and relationships will boost both your personal growth and career. So show up, stay committed, and the results will follow.

Interviewed by Temidayo Olabanji

Interested in opportunities like this? Become a Cowrywise Ambassador today.