Tech Policy Careers for Social Science Graduates - with Judith Mwaya Policy Analyst at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
Description
📻 In this podcast:
Judith talks about her work as a policy analyst at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. The interview also shed light on what inspired Judith to pursue a career in tech policy; the skills needed to excel as a policy analyst; and her insights on the importance of tech policy in relation to international development. Judith gave some of her best advice on how to venture into tech as a social science graduate as well as her best career advice to her younger self.
☁️About Judith:
Judith Gideon Mwaya is a policy analyst within the Tech for Development Unit at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. Her work revolves around the intersection of technology and public policy. Prior to joining TBI, she worked as a policy and practice coordinator at Innovation for Poverty Action. She holds an MSc from the London School of Economics. Judith is originally from Tanzania and currently working in Accra, Ghana. She is fluent in Kiswahili and English. In her Spare time, Judith enjoys travelling and learning about new cultures.
Here is a skip time for you:
[00:48 ] Can you give us a brief introduction about yourself?
[01:46 ] Can you tell us a bit more about your current role as a Policy Analyst at the TBI? What do you do on a daily basis?
[04:45 ] What are some key skills needed for a policy analyst? (hard skills/ soft skills/ knowledge?)
[09:28 ] What exciting projects are you working on right now?
[12:54 ] As an African tech policy expert, what opportunities does tech present for the developmental progress of the Continent? What policy-related advice would you give African tech startups?
[15:55 ] What inspired you to pursue a career in the intersection between tech/public policy/and international development?
[19:53 ] Given the lack of tech focus in the University, what advice would you give young professionals who are interested in kick start their careers in similar roles?
[23:41 ] What is the best piece of career advice you would give your younger self?
[28:38 ] Any final thoughts?