EQUALS Her Digital Skills e-Mentoring 2024

Interview with Nabisubi Lillian Prossy

As part of the Spring e-mentoring cycle of the EQUALS Her Digital Skills programme, we had the privilege of speaking with Nabisubi Lillian Prossy, a third-year Software Engineering student at Makerere University in Uganda. Here’s what she had to share about her experience:

Please can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

My name is Nabisubi Lillian Prossy, and I am a third-year Software Engineering student at Makerere University. Beyond academics, I am a voracious reader who loves immersing myself in cinematic experiences and savoring various music genres.

What motivated you to participate in the Her Digital Skills e-mentoring programme?

I was drawn to the programme because I saw it as an opportunity to gain valuable insights from experienced professionals in the field. The idea of receiving mentorship was particularly appealing to me.

Did you learn or improve any soft skills during the e-mentoring programme? What are they?Yes, absolutely! During the 8 weeks of the programme, I improved my soft skills, including communication and time management. Writing weekly letters to my mentor allowed me to refine my communication skills and express my thoughts effectively.

What did you enjoy most during the e-mentoring programme?

The opportunity to explore various topics each week and engage in meaningful discussions with my mentor was what I enjoyed the most.

How has the Her Digital Skills e-mentoring programme contributed to your personal and/or professional development?

The programme has significantly enriched my personal and professional journey. I’ve acquired valuable knowledge and skills that will undoubtedly benefit me in my future endeavors. I also hope to share what I’ve learned with my friends and family so they can benefit as well.

Can you tell us about your mentor and the impact they had on your experience? 

My mentor was Ferdous Quasem, a professional from Verizon. The mentorship program ran from January to March 2024. Each week brought a unique topic for discussion.

"When facing challenges with others in the workplace, it is important to address them constructively. Differences of opinion are natural, and learning to understand various perspectives can help in finding common ground."

Ferdous also encouraged me to build my confidence and approach problems with an open mind. He showed me how to apply soft skills like leadership, punctuality, and teamwork in real-world situations, helping me prepare for the professional world. "He really helped me think about how to collaborate better with people, which I struggled with before. It’s about learning to adjust and work together as a team, no matter the challenges."

Reflecting on this guidance, I realized how much it prepared me mentally and emotionally for future opportunities, helping me grow both personally and professionally. Through his mentorship, Ferdous gave me tools to succeed and navigate the complexities of workplace dynamics effectively.

Would you encourage other girls and women to take part in the Her Digital Skills e-mentoring programme?

Absolutely! I would gladly encourage other girls and women to participate. It is an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded individuals who share similar aspirations.

Would you like to add anything?Yes, I’d like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers and mentors of the e-mentoring programme for their dedication and support throughout the 8-week journey.

The EQUALS Her Digital Skills e-Mentoring programme continues to create opportunities for women to learn, grow, and bridge the gender digital divide.

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