In Africa, technology is increasing, and people are developing innovative ideas in urban and rural areas. Farida Bedwei is one of these innovators who is making a significant impact in the field of fin-tech in Ghana and beyond. She is a software engineer and co-founder of Logiciel, who has shown that with determination, creativity, and resilience, it is possible to shape the future of technology while positively impacting society.
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Early Life and Education
Farida Nana Efua Bedwei was born in Lagos, Nigeria on April 6, 1979. Her family moved worldwide because her father worked for the United Nations Development Programme. When she was one year old, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, but she showed an early interest in computers. When she was nine, her family settled in Ghana, and she went from being homeschooled to attending school.
Farida’s parents noticed her love for computers, and when she was 15, they enrolled her in a one-year computer course at St. Michael Information Technology Centre. This sparked her interest in technology, which led her to complete a one-year degree in Computer Science from the University of Hertfordshire in the United Kingdom and earn a certificate in Project Management from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
Career
Farida began her career as a software developer at Soft Company Ltd, now known as Softtribe. She later worked at Rancard Solutions Ltd, where she became a Senior Software Architect. During her time there, she led several projects, including developing a content management system for the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice. She also worked on PayBureau, an enterprise web-based payroll application for KPMG Accra.
In 2010, Farida moved to G-Life Microfinance, where she concentrated on developing and implementing new products and services. Her entrepreneurial drive led her to establish Logiciel Ltd in 2011, where she is now co-founder and chief technology officer. Under her leadership, Logiciel developed gKudi, a web-based banking software suite for micro-finance institutions across Ghana.
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Innovation Beyond Tech
arida is a software engineer who is also creative in other ways. In 2015, she wrote a mini-autobiography called “Definition of a Miracle,” which talks about her journey and inspires many. She also created a comic character named Karmzah, who has cerebral palsy, to show that people with disabilities can be strong and resilient.
Achievements and Recognition
Farida Bedwei has received several awards for her exceptional contributions to the financial sector. In 2018, she received a Special Award from President Abdel Fattah El SISI, while in 2013, she was recognized as the Most Influential Woman in Business and Government in the Financial Sector. Her other accolades include a Special Award from President John Mahama in 2012 and the Legacy and Legacy Ideas Award in 2011.
Farida Nana Efua Bedwei is an inspiring figure who has significantly impacted technology and finance. Despite facing challenges, she has emerged as a trailblazer, empowering others through her achievements and advocacy. She is dedicated to driving change and inclusivity and inspires those in Ghana and beyond who are interested in the future of fintech.