“Building the Next Generation of Digital Talent” — An Exclusive Interview with Joshua Aaron

Interviewee: Joshua Aaron, Founder & CEO, TeeJaaron Multibiz Concept and Creator of TeeJayCloud

Joshua, you’ve become widely recognised for your contribution to Nigeria’s tech talent development. How did this journey into mentorship begin?

It started from a simple observation — that many bright graduates lacked the hands-on experience needed to thrive in the tech industry. After years of building TeeJayCloud, I realised we could use the same platform that powers businesses to train people. So, in 2023, we launched the TeeJaaron Industrial Placement and Mentorship Programme, designed to bridge the classroom-to-industry gap through real-world project experience.

 What makes your mentorship model different from other digital training initiatives?

We don’t just teach — we integrate learners into live projects. Participants work on real software deployments, data analysis, and automation workflows used by actual clients. This gives them confidence and practical relevance. So far, over 1,500 students from 20 universities have passed through our programme, and more than 500 have secured tech roles in companies across Nigeria and beyond. That’s impact you can measure.

 That’s impressive. Can you share some of the measurable outcomes or partnerships that have resulted from this programme?

Absolutely. We’ve built partnerships with institutions that now embed TeeJayCloud into their IT curricula, giving students early exposure to business technology. Two universities have adopted it fully for practical CRM and data analytics courses. We’ve also seen several mentees launch startups, join product teams in companies like FinXpire and TruQ Logistics, and even mentor others — creating a ripple effect of talent growth.

You were recently featured on OGTV’s Splash programme, which reached millions of viewers. How did that platform help amplify your message?

That appearance was pivotal. It gave us national visibility and helped start a bigger conversation on bridging education and employability through technology. After the broadcast — which got over 8,000 YouTube views and 3,000 likes — several schools reached out to partner with us. It showed that when innovation is purpose-driven, it resonates widely.

You’ve also received several recognitions for your leadership. Which of them best captures your vision for impact?

The LEAP Africa Social Innovators Award (SIPA 2022) meant a lot — it recognised how technology can drive social change. I was also honoured under the Commonwealth Youth Awards 2022, which highlighted my commitment to digital inclusion. For me, these awards represent the future — where leadership is measured not just by innovation, but by the number of lives transformed through it.

 Finally, what’s next for your mentorship and digital empowerment efforts?

We’re expanding the TeeJaaron Mentorship Programme across West Africa, creating a stronger talent pipeline for tech employers and startups. My goal is to see African youth not just as consumers of technology, but as creators and problem-solvers shaping the continent’s digital future.

Editor’s Note:

Joshua Aaron’s story is one of vision, innovation, and tangible impact. Through TeeJaaron’s mentorship and workforce initiatives, he is transforming Nigeria’s digital talent landscape — one young innovator at a time.