The global demand for AI professionals continues to rise, but Africa has yet to capitalise on its potential to produce world-class talents fully. Despite a youthful and vibrant population, the continent is often limited to low-level AI tasks such as data annotation and labelling.
JADA, a data and analytics talent hub focused on staff augmentation, aims to change this narrative. Founded in 2024 by Massimiliano Spalazzi, former CEO of Jumia Nigeria, and Olumide Soyombo, co-founder of Bluechip Technologies and Voltron Capital, JADA has raised $1 million in funding. Investors include Soyombo, Spalazzi, and others who believe in JADA’s mission to develop Africa’s AI workforce.
“We are betting big on an AI workforce out of Africa—one that can build for the world, starting here,” says Soyombo, a founding partner at JADA.
Read also: AfriTECH 4.0: Blockchain and AI key to Africa’s digital future, says NITDA DG
A unique pitch for clients
JADA offers a compelling pitch to its clients: access to a broader talent pool in regions often overlooked for recruitment while avoiding the complexities of local labour laws. To achieve this, JADA focuses on selecting and training experienced data professionals with at least two years of expertise in data analytics, machine learning, and generative AI.
The startup’s launch is crucial, as the global AI industry faces a severe talent shortage. According to Google’s Data & AI Trend Report 2024, 54 percent of digital leaders report a lack of skilled professionals in these areas.
Under the leadership of CEO Piero Trivellato and VP of Operations Azeez Busari, JADA plans to train over 100 professionals annually. Each cohort undergoes a rigorous four-month training program, during which trainees receive stipends. Although the exact amount remains undisclosed, the program is designed to equip participants with the skills needed to thrive in data and AI roles.
“We are building an academy that is designed to select and develop world-class talent,” said Trivellato, who has over a decade of experience in C-suite data and AI roles and management consulting at McKinsey & Co. “Our goal is to fill the data and AI talent gap by identifying and upskilling professionals who can be the right arm for businesses pursuing data and AI transformation.”
Operating out of Lagos, JADA has already begun selecting its first cohort of trainees. The company prioritises experienced data analysts and scientists to ensure clients receive immediate value. Soyombo says, “Most clients complain that inexperienced candidates lack the skills to complete the work. The way to scale is to find people who can deliver projects that generate significant cash flow, which you can then invest back into a pipeline.”
The candidate selection process is ultra-selective, leveraging an AI-powered algorithm to evaluate profiles. Applicants undergo a series of technical and non-technical assessments, participate in case studies and live presentations, and complete a culture-fit interview and comprehensive background check.
Read also: Africa Tech Festival 2024: South Africa unveils AI institute to lead digital transformation
How JADA’s business model is geared for global impact
JADA’s revenue model revolves around commissioned projects for businesses, primarily serving clients in Europe and the Middle East. By targeting these regions, JADA positions itself as a competitive alternative to global software outsourcing companies specialising in AI and data talent.
Co-founder Spalazzi highlights JADA’s competitive advantages: “We have a cost advantage, a language advantage, a geographical advantage, and a talent advantage.”
While JADA’s initial focus is on cohorts from Nigeria, the company plans to expand geographically based on client needs. Trivellato explains, “Our geographical expansion will follow the footprint of the clients. We will ensure that we get to the language they ask for.”
JADA is poised to redefine Africa’s role in the global AI landscape, transforming the continent from a hub of low-level tasks to a breeding ground for world-class talent.