A different path to tech

A couple of weeks’ work experience while she was at school was all it took for Muumbe Hapenga to realise an IT career was her goal.

- Edited by LAURETTE ZIEMER

And now, aged only 19, Muumbe, from Manchester, is in her second year of a technology degree apprenticeship with tech behemoth PwC, studying software engineering.

What do you do on a day-to-day basis?

I talk to tech teams to find out what new and exciting projects they're working on. Then I explain their work in simple terms so companies can get rewarded for their innovation through Research and Development tax credits. Basically, I get to explore cutting-edge technology and turn it into something everyone can understand.

Having completed a digital business services T Level, which was designed with employers, I joined the business confident. I have the skills that businesses actually need, thanks to a mix of classroom learning and real-world experience.

What do you love about it?

I'm always learning something new about companies we use every day, and I feel like I get the inside scoop on how innovation really happens.

What are the challenges?