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In an engaging and thought-provoking media parley, Ursula Fear, <a href="https://www.salesforce.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salesforce</a>’s Senior Talent Program Manager, in South Africa, outlined the company’s transformative vision for addressing the talent and skills gap in Nigeria’s tech and CRM sectors. With a candid and localised approach, Fear shared insights into creating sustainable talent pipelines that empower individuals and fuel business growth in Nigeria’s dynamic landscape. 
Fear detailed Salesforce’s partnership-driven model as the cornerstone of its talent strategy.&nbsp; 
“We use Workforce Development Partners like <a href="https://tech.alxafrica.com/jhb_salesforce" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ALX</a>, which focuses on building ethical leaders through innovative educational methods,” she said. Drawing attention to ALX’s integration with institutions, Fear highlighted their shared mission to produce leaders equipped to navigate Africa’s challenges. 
Another notable collaboration is with the Maharishi Invincibility Institute, Africa’s first free university, which integrates transcendental meditation into its curriculum.&nbsp; “In Africa, teaching someone tech skills isn’t enough. You need to address their mental well-being because the stresses they face are immense,” Fear explained. 
She described initiatives like biomastery, a holistic education approach combining technical training with personal development.&nbsp; “It’s like teaching a child math while ensuring they’re not hungry. This methodology is vital for creating professionals who can thrive,” she emphasised. 
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 Ursula Fear, Salesforce’s Senior Talent Program Manager, in South Africa
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Salesforce’s <a href="https://trailhead.salesforce.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trailhead</a> platform is a critical piece of this puzzle, offering free and accessible tech training to individuals worldwide.&nbsp; 
“Trailhead levels the playing field,” Fear noted. “It’s not about certifications alone but about equipping people with skills that lead to real opportunities in the Salesforce ecosystem, which is expected to create millions of jobs globally by 2028.” 
Fear highlighted that Salesforce is attempting to create over 11.6 million AI-powered jobs by 2028.&nbsp; 
Read also: <a href="https://technext24.com/2024/05/23/salesforce-new-ai-capabilities-einstein/">Salesforce unveils new marketing, data and AI capabilities in Einstein 1</a> 
<h4 id="tailoring-solutions-for-nigeria" class="wp-block-heading">Tailoring solutions for Nigeria</h4> 
She also emphasised the importance of tailoring programs to Nigeria’s unique business environment.&nbsp; 
“What worked five years ago won’t work today,” she said. “You need fresh ingredients to create new types of success. That’s why localisation and adaptability are at the heart of what we do.” 
Fear connected the dots between Salesforce’s initiatives and measurable business outcomes for Nigerian companies.&nbsp; “A skilled workforce is not just an enabler; it’s a growth driver. By developing talent locally, we’re helping organisations innovate, scale, and compete globally,” she stated. 
She shared examples of how Salesforce’s programs have been implemented in collaboration with Nigerian institutions, bringing in expertise through virtual and in-person sessions.&nbsp;“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. These initiatives are making a tangible difference in how businesses operate and grow,” she added. 
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Fear insisted that Salesforce initiatives “are for real” and the power is in the hands of the community, not the company.&nbsp; 
“They are not telling us how to do it. They only give us the framework. They only support us.”&nbsp; 
She insisted that there is consideration for the marginalised like women, people in rural areas and others.&nbsp; “Nobody has to be left behind.”&nbsp; 
She added that she’s looking forward to the stories of the people who are assumed will not make it, who make it and become leaders in their communities.&nbsp; 
<h4 id="salesforce-is-empowering-the-future-through-west-africa-dreamin" class="wp-block-heading">Salesforce is empowering the future through West Africa Dreamin</h4> 
The discussion concluded with a nod to the <a href="https://www.westafricadreamin.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">West Africa Dreamin</a> conference, a landmark event organised by the Salesforce community to foster innovation and collaboration. Scheduled for November 16, 2024, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, the conference brought together thought leaders, developers, and business professionals from across the globe. 
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 Ursula Fear, Salesforce’s Senior Talent Program Manager, in South Africa
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“West Africa Dreamin’ is more than a conference; it’s a movement,” Fear said. She highlighted its potential to inspire the next generation of Nigerian Salesforce professionals through keynote sessions, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. 
Fear’s vision and Salesforce’s initiatives underscore a larger narrative of empowerment, collaboration, and resilience. As she aptly put it, “Africa’s future is bright. With the right partnerships and a focus on well-being, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous tomorrow.” 
Dangsenpenan Nokshuwan, Lead Organiser, of West Africa at Dreamin, says: 
“West Africa Dreamin’ is more than just a conference; it’s a movement. We’re committed to fostering a vibrant Salesforce community in West Africa, where innovation thrives and professionals can reach their full potential. By connecting, empowering, and inspiring, we’re paving the way for a brighter future.”

Salesforce’s partnership-driven model is revolutionising talent development in Nigeria

Technext.ng

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