Understanding the World of Data and Finding Your Role

Fadumo Hassan Mohamed opened the workshop by explaining how data has become one of the most valuable resources in the world. She described how data powers healthcare, business, finance, education, and governance, making it a critical skill for the future. Participants were surprised to learn how much data influences decisions they encounter daily.

The session introduced attendees to different roles within the data field, such as data analysts, data scientists, data engineers, and business intelligence specialists. Fadumo explained how each role contributes to transforming raw information into insights that guide important decisions. She used real-world examples to show how data solves problems and drives innovation.

Fadumo then shared practical steps for beginners interested in entering the data field. She highlighted tools like Excel, SQL, and Python as excellent starting points and explained how each tool fits into the data workflow. Participants received a clear roadmap on how to begin learning data skills, even with no prior experience.

The workshop also focused on building a data portfolio — a key requirement for securing opportunities in the field. Fadumo encouraged participants to work on simple projects, analyze real datasets, and document their progress. She explained how showcasing projects can significantly increase confidence and career prospects.

By the end of the session, participants felt empowered to explore their place in the data world. They left with renewed motivation, practical knowledge, and a clear understanding that data offers limitless opportunities for Somali women aspiring to join the global tech ecosystem.