Latifa Mkwawa has always been a problem solver. For over a decade, she worked at the intersection of business operations, project management, and strategic planning. But one problem loomed larger than the rest: a digital skills gap so wide it was locking out an entire generation of African professionals from global opportunities.
Her answer? Apextra Virtual Academy (A.V.A.), a bold venture that is changing the game for African youth and professionals by providing accessible, job-ready digital education.
“I spent years leading cross-functional teams, optimizing business workflows, and implementing digital transformation strategies,” Latifa explains. But it wasn’t until her role as Operations and Procurement Lead at IMA World Health that she saw firsthand how automation and virtual tools could revolutionize work. That realization set her on a path toward something bigger—something designed to empower others.
“My interest in management and operations originated from my early experiences… where I witnessed firsthand how well-structured systems drive organizational success,” she says.
A Startup Born from Necessity
Apextra Virtual Academy wasn’t just an idea—it was a mission. Latifa started by self-funding A.V.A. through her virtual business management firm, Apextra Virtual Solutions. Revenue from her consulting work went directly into creating digital learning content, setting up the platform, and even serving as the first course instructor.
A.V.A. was built to bridge a massive skills gap that leaves many African graduates jobless despite having degrees. “Many institutions still prioritize traditional learning models, leaving graduates unprepared for digital jobs,” Latifa says. The academy zeroes in on the missing link: practical, job-ready skills that align with global market demands.
But A.V.A. isn’t just another online learning platform. It’s a carefully crafted ecosystem designed to address the specific challenges faced by Tanzanian learners. “A.V.A.’s mission is to bridge the skills, employment, and digital inclusion gap in Tanzania and East Africa by equipping youth and professionals with practical, job-ready skills that align with global market demands,” she states.
This isn’t just about teaching someone how to use a spreadsheet; it’s about equipping them with the tools they need to compete on a global stage. A.V.A. is laser-focused on providing “affordable, accessible, and high-quality digital education,” targeting everyone from university graduates and job seekers to entrepreneurs and underrepresented groups, particularly women.
Tanzania’s Digital Paradox
Tanzania, like much of Africa, is experiencing an employment paradox: thousands of young professionals enter the job market every year, but the opportunities available to them are scarce. The problem isn’t just a lack of jobs—it’s a mismatch between education and the skills employers actually need.
The challenges are real. Latifa points to “limited access to quality digital education,” “high youth unemployment rates,” “limited exposure to global job opportunities,” “affordability and accessibility” of existing programs, and “low digital literacy and confidence” as key hurdles that Tanzanian learners face. These aren’t abstract concepts; they are the realities that prevent talented individuals from reaching their full potential. And A.V.A. is designed to dismantle these barriers, one student at a time.
A.V.A. addresses this with courses tailored for university graduates, job seekers, career changers, and entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses. The focus? Remote work skills, digital literacy, and management expertise that can open doors to high-paying global jobs.
“Many Tanzanians lack the necessary training and connections to access remote and freelancing opportunities,” Latifa explains. That’s why A.V.A. doesn’t just train—it connects. Through career mentorship, job placement support, and networking opportunities, students are not only educated but positioned for success.
The platform. is building a community, a support system, a launchpad for success. “We don’t just train; we ensure our graduates secure jobs or start businesses, making A.V.A. a career accelerator rather than merely an upskilling platform,” Mkwawa emphasizes.
What Makes A.V.A. Different?
In a world dominated by massive open online courses (MOOCs), A.V.A. takes a different approach. “We don’t just throw content at learners and hope they figure it out,” says Latifa. Instead, the academy offers:
- Industry-aligned training: Courses designed based on real-world market demand.
- Personalized learning & support: Live coaching, mentorship, and an engaged learning community.
- Affordability & accessibility: Programs tailored for African learners, factoring in infrastructure and financial constraints.
- Job placement & entrepreneurship support: A.V.A. is a career accelerator, not just an upskilling platform.
She understands the intricacies of the Tanzanian market, the needs of its learners, and the demands of the global economy. “Unlike many global online learning platforms, A.V.A. offers budget-friendly personalized programs tailored not only for African learners but also for those from other countries, considering infrastructure and financial constraints,” she explains.
Beyond Education: A Digital Revolution
Latifa’s work extends beyond A.V.A. She continues to consult with businesses on digital transformation through Apextra Virtual Solutions and is passionate about mentoring young women in career advancement and financial independence. She dedicates her time to “Personalized Mentorship and Women’s Empowerment Initiatives.” Her passion for empowering others is palpable.
She is particularly excited about emerging technologies like AI-driven education, blockchain-based credentialing, and the booming remote work ecosystem. “AI in Education: AI-driven personalization in learning can enhance student engagement and career path recommendations,” she says.
“The Growth of the Remote Work Ecosystem: More global companies are hiring talent remotely, increasing opportunities for skilled African professionals. Blockchain in Credentialing: Digital certifications that use blockchain can enhance trust and verification in skills-based hiring.” She believes that these technologies have the power to revolutionize education and create new opportunities for African professionals.
The Future of African Talent
Looking ahead, Latifa sees a major shift in Africa’s workforce. “Over the next 5-10 years, we’ll see more investment in EdTech, increased outsourcing of work to African digital professionals starting with Tanzania, and a stronger focus on entrepreneurship and innovation-led economies.”
“I envision Africa becoming a global leader in talent development, with more African youth securing high-paying digital jobs worldwide,” she predicts. I’m passionate about expanding my expertise in impact-driven business models, investment and fundraising, and AI integration in education. Additionally, I’m keen on developing skills in behavioral psychology and leadership coaching, as these play a critical role in organizational success,” Latifa adds.
Her role? Ensuring A.V.A. remains a key player in this transformation.
“My role will be to position A.V.A. as a key player in shaping the digital skills and talent revolution in Africa, ensuring that thousands of youth gain access to life-changing career opportunities through our programs.”
“We’re not just teaching skills—we’re unlocking potential and creating access to life-changing career opportunities.”
The digital revolution in Africa isn’t coming—it’s already here. And with leaders like Latifa Mkwawa at the forefront, the continent’s workforce is finally getting a seat at the global table.
