Get To Know Me
Hi there and welcome to my blog! I'm Tadiwa, CEO and Founder of The Virtual Strategist. An online company that specialises in Technical Writing and Remote Work Consultancy.
I am an African woman in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), a mother, and a strong advocate for remote careers. I have created this blog to share some practical insights and hands-on strategies for thriving in the world of remote work. Also commonly referred to as virtual work, working from home, and online work, among many other terms.
With over a decade in STEM, including 5 years (and counting) working online, my journey has been marked with countless 'trials and errors'. I know first-hand the incredible career opportunities the internet brings and the thrill of defining your own professional journey. Yet still, as wonderful a place as the internet is with its infinite possibilities, its enormity makes it just as daunting and difficult to navigate, not to mention the lurking pitfalls and scams that trap many people.
Finding the right career path is often time-consuming and hard to figure out. However, armed with the right tools and knowledge, I believe anyone can carve a fulfilling virtual career that aligns with their passions and strengths. Enabling them to compete successfully on the global stage, no matter their background.
A Focus on Working Remotely
The practice of working from home began about 30 years ago, fueled by the same tech boom that brought us the internet. Initially, it was mostly embraced by tech-driven companies, slowly gaining traction throughout these sectors. Then, in 2020, the global pandemic forced a dramatic shift in work cultures. With government lockdowns in place, remote work exploded as a necessity, not just a preference.
It is now commonplace, and the industry continues to boom. Remote jobs contributed $5.4 trillion to the global economy in 2021 according to Staffing Industry Analysts, and made up 12% of the global labour force in 2023, according to The World Bank. A percentage that was far greater than expected.
Online jobs are a growing source of income for millions of people across the globe, with developed countries currently dominating the demand for remote workers. However, the rate of growth is far greater in developing countries. Statistics from The World Bank show that job postings on the largest digital platforms in Africa grew by 130% in 2023, compared to a 14% growth rate in North America, albeit on much larger platforms.
Due to the nature of the work, growth in any direction is a promising trend for remote workers based anywhere, as most job platforms have opportunities open to the whole world. With over 500 'gig' platforms recorded across the globe in 2023, the opportunities are vast. Of these, the favourite sites include Upwork, LinkedIn, Fiverr, Freelancer, and Toptal.
About This Blog
The internet's potential for career freedom is undeniable, but the path can be tricky. That's why I created this blog. Join me as I share hard-won lessons and practical resources to empower anyone, regardless of education or experience, to thrive with a globally competitive online career. This blog is your one-stop shop for:
Step-by-step guides that fit busy schedules.
Practical solutions for all education levels, career stages, and income brackets.
Valuable insights for women, Africans, and STEM professionals like myself.
Ready to join the adventure? Follow along for tutorials, courses, and a treasure trove of resources. Sign up for my newsletter to stay updated on everything new!
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