Ose Kaye
Product Designer · Lagos
From uncertain about my future to leading product design at a top African tech company. The Trade Fair, mentorship, and persistence changed everything. Now I'm building tools that millions use.
The Journey
When I first attended the Wissen-Haus Career Trade Fair, I was lost. I was in my final year of secondary school and had no idea what career path to take. I loved design and art, but I didn't think it was a "real" career in Nigeria. I thought I had to study engineering or medicine to be successful.
The Trade Fair changed everything for me. I was introduced to UX/UI design and product design. It felt like someone had unlocked a door to a world I didn't know existed. For the first time, I could see a career path that combined my passion for creativity with technology and impact.
But knowing what I wanted to do wasn't enough. I had to develop the skills. With mentorship from working designers, I learned design fundamentals, prototyping tools, and how to think about user problems. I participated in design challenges and built a portfolio.
The real breakthrough came when a mentor connected me with a tech startup looking for junior designers. That first internship led to a full-time position. Within three years, I was leading the design team. Today, the products we're building are used by millions of people across Africa.
When people ask what made the difference, I always point back to Wissen-Haus. It wasn't just the skills or the mentors—it was the belief that I could do it. I was surrounded by people who believed in me when I didn't believe in myself.
Key Moments
- ✓ Discovered UX/UI design at the Trade Fair
- ✓ Built first design portfolio with mentor guidance
- ✓ Won design competition (confidence boost)
- ✓ Landed first internship through network
- ✓ Promoted to lead designer within 3 years
- ✓ Now mentoring other young designers
Advice to Others
"Your background doesn't determine your future. Your willingness to learn, seek mentorship, and persist through challenges does. The opportunities are out there—you just need to know where to look and who to ask for help."
Giving back to the community.
Mentoring
Mentors 15+ junior designers annually, many from underserved backgrounds. Helps them build portfolios and navigate their first jobs in tech.
Teaching
Runs monthly design workshops for Wissen-Haus members. Topics include "Design Thinking," "Building Your First Portfolio," and "Landing Your First Design Job."
Inspiration
Speaks at Trade Fair graduation ceremonies and community events, sharing her story to inspire young people that careers in creative tech are possible in Nigeria.
Ready for your own journey?
Just like Ose, you can discover your path, develop your skills, and build the career you want. Start with Wissen-Haus today.