Dona Musoke has risen from being an intern to a Senior Infrastructure Network Operations Center (INOC) Engineer at Roke Telkom. She shares her ICT journey and encourages young girls not to give in to self-doubt or listen to stereotypes that some professions are only meant for males.
We had a chat with her about what the International Day of Women in ICT means to her.
Question: Who is Dona?
Answer: I am Dona Musoke, currently a Senior Infrastructure Network Operations Center Engineer at Roke Telkom. I was born in Nairobi Kenya, to the late George Sekinobe Musoke and Mary Musoke in Nairobi, Kenya. I attended Gayaza High School for my O’level, joined Makerere College School for A’level and then joined Uganda Martyrs University Nkozi where I attained a bachelor’s of Science in Information technology degree.
Joining Roke Telkom as an intern straight from university, gave me the opportunity to train and develop my skills in networks. This led to a job as a Network OPERATIONS Center (NOC) Engineer, where I continued to learn and expand my expertise. I have grown in my career currently working as a Senior Network Infrastructure Engineer and also a team lead.
Question: How did you end up in the engineering profession, and ICT in particular?
Answer: I was drawn to technology at an early age. I would watch as my brothers played with their toy gadgets. Fast forward a few years, and the gadgets had evolved into computers. It was only a matter of time before I took that direction. My course at the university allowed me to feed this curiosity. Joining Roke Telkom as an intern gave me an opportunity to grow and apply my knowledge in a real-time setting.
Question: What is the significance of The International Day of Women in ICT to you as one of them?
Answer: It is of great significance because it highlights the accomplishments and contributions of women in technology, while encouraging and empowering young girls and women to pursue careers in ICT. Technology is fast proving to be a vital part of our lives and it is important for more girls to get into the industry and take advantage of the different opportunities it brings. The stereotype that some professions are strictly male tailored is fast being proved wrong.
Question: As a woman in ICT, how do you stay up to date with the changing trends in the ICT sector? What do you do to stay on top of your game?
Ans: Two major things; First, I invest as much as I can in professional development. I constantly seek out opportunities for professional development, such as online courses. There’s a new development in the technology world every day, and learning is endless. I try to soak in as much information and knowledge as possible. Secondly, I network with other friends and colleagues in the industry to share knowledge and learn from their experiences.
Question: How do you balance life outside work and competition in a field perceived as “male dominated”?
Answer: To balance life outside of work, I prioritize self-care and also make time for activities that bring me joy and help me recharge, such as spending time with loved ones-a good support system is important, and exploring new places. I also try to focus on my strengths rather than comparing myself to others and not being too hard on myself if things don’t always go as planned.
Question: What is your view on the existing ICT landscape in Uganda compared to the global ICT industry?
Answer: While Uganda is not yet at the level of the world technology giants like Asia, America and the rest we have shown some significant growth. With government’s initiatives, such as the National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure project, aimed to enhance communications infrastructure and connectivity and entities like Raxio data center-Uganda’s first carrier grade data center. These have facilitated advancements in ICT in Uganda. By focusing on continued infrastructure development and innovation we will get there eventually
Question: What has been your biggest achievement in your ICT career?
Answer: My biggest achievement has been my professional growth at Roke Telkom. I started as an intern and through dedication and hard work, I have advanced to a senior network infrastructure engineer and also a team lead. Witnessing the growth of both the team and the company as a result of our collective efforts is an accomplishment that I am proud of.
Question: In a lay man’s language, explain to us how internet gets to our homes?
Answer: For starters an internet service provider (ISP) connects to a larger network called the Internet backbone (The internet backbone is a network of high-speed fiber cables that transmit data across long distances.) A customer then signs up with the Internet Service Provider (ISP)for example Roke Telkom. The ISP has a network of cables, wires, or even wireless signals that spread out across your area/region. The ISP stretches or gets this connection to your house and there’s a connection point in your home where the internet gets into your home. Inside your home, there’s a little box (router) that is connected to the ISP device which gets the internet through to your devices like phones and computers, TVs.
Question: How has Roke Telkom shaped your career?
Answer: Working at Roke Telkom has been instrumental in shaping my career. I have had the opportunity to work with some of the best minds in the industry while also learning from them. Joining as an intern, I was welcomed into an inclusive environment that encourages open communication and collaboration. This culture allowed me to develop critical skills and establish professional relationships. As I have grown within the company, I have been presented opportunities to take on new challenges and responsibilities, which has helped me grow both as an individual and in my career.
Question: Any advice you would give to any young women aspiring to join the ICT Sector?
Ans: My advice would be to believe in yourself and your abilities. Do not let self-doubt hold you back from pursuing your goals, embrace learning by seeking out opportunities to expand your knowledge, and most importantly don’t let gender stereotypes discourage you from pursuing a career in ICT.
Question: Any last words?
Answer: Together, let’s continue to encourage and support women in ICT. By empowering women in the field of tech, we can build a more inclusive future for everyone. Happy International Girls in ICT Day!
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