I'm Mathenge Waweru, Co-founder, and Product Lead at Shukran. As a university student, my ambition was to become a software developer and establish my impactful company. Initially, I joined clubs like Enactus to learn entrepreneurship but realized I needed more guidance. So, I put my independent business plans on hold and joined Impact Africa Network's Fellowship program to become a better founder.
First Steps into Innovation
My early days at Impact Africa Network in early 2021 were marked by remote work, adapting to a new way of working. The transition to working from home was challenging, but it instilled discipline in me as my responsibilities grew. I started as a product development fellow, leading the Blockchain Lab, focused on exploring blockchain technology's potential. Building a department from scratch, initially as the sole team member, was thrilling and daunting. Among my early accomplishments was organizing a successful online learning session on the Introduction to Blockchain, attracting over 80 eager participants. It was a lesson in leveraging digital tools effectively.
Evolution and Growth
My journey took an exciting turn as I transitioned from leading the Blockchain Lab to co-founding Shukran. While the Impact Block Lab was primarily a community, we realized that people were more interested in cryptocurrencies than the technology itself. Simultaneously, Mark approached me about building a project. We explored various ideas and settled on creating Shukran, a tipping platform for restaurant diners to appreciate service workers. Transitioning from learning sessions to building a product required a shift in mindset and skills. Shukran remains an ongoing project with its unique set of challenges, but each obstacle overcome brings us closer to success. It's been a lesson in adaptability and the diverse roles required in a startup journey.
Unforgettable Moments and Emotions
One of the most memorable moments during my early days at Impact Africa Network was when Cohort 5 had a meeting with Mark Karake, the Founder and CEO. His vision of using venture building to drive societal change left a lasting impact on me. His selfless and
noble intentions for the company, beyond its initial purpose, made me realize I was in the right place. It was a moment that reaffirmed my commitment to the journey.
Personal and Professional Growth.
Impact on communities became evident when we organized the Impact Blockathon, with over 20 blockchain developers forming teams to build impact-driven blockchain products. Witnessing one participant's appreciation for our work reminded me that what we were doing truly mattered. Additionally, during our market research for Shukran, I met Fenny, a service worker who used her tips to support her family's education. Her story reinforced the significance of our mission and the potential impact on individuals like Fenny. A significant turning point for me was organizing a hackathon towards the end of the Impact Block Lab. Attracting participants without sponsors for prizes presented a challenge. However, with determination and collaboration, we secured prizes, marketed the event, and delivered a successful hackathon. This experience demonstrated the power of coordination, vision, and execution. It was a defining moment in my journey towards becoming an innovation leader.
Leaving a Legacy
As I prepare to continue my journey, I'm proud of the impact I've made, but I know there's more to achieve. My message is simple: seize the moment and take action. Your past prepares you for the present, and what you do now defines your future. Challenges today become your proudest moments tomorrow. Embrace your obstacles as opportunities and leave a legacy of action and impact. That's what truly matters in life.
