End of Year Review — 2023
In January, I faced work challenges following a disappointing performance review from the previous year. This led to a one-on-one meeting with the technical lead to address my concerns. Initially considering resignation, I recognized the need for improved feedback channels and shifted my focus to enhancing communication, responsibility, and leadership skills.
Later that month, I finalized my global talent visa application to the UK, highlighting my work achievements. Despite feeling like an imposter given the 50% to 60% success rates, I proceeded with the application, covering the initial costs of £1,250 (agency fee) and £456 (tech nation fee). Driven by the desire to relocate for fulfilling work, I submitted the application on the 31st, eagerly awaiting the outcome within the next 1–2 months.
In early February, just six days into the month, as I closed my work laptop around 8:36 PM, I questioned who could be sending emails at this late hour. Despite my initial reluctance, I reached for my phone and discovered a push notification: ‘Application Update.’ Only five days since my last check, my mind raced as I opened it to read,
“TechNation has confirmed that you meet the criteria for Exceptional Promise, and …. “ Excitedly, I texted and called my friends; it marked the beginning of a new chapter for me. While continuing my work, I now needed to secure more funds approx for the Visa (£167), NHS fee (£1872), agency balance (£1250), flight, and Tuberculosis test. Payment became challenging due to the increased exchange rate, prompting me to sell off my stocks via Bamboo and dip into my savings. I applied for the visa in the same month and received it within a week, so I was all set for my upcoming journey.
In May, I moved to the UK, facing challenges with the airport and accommodation. Opting for Bournemouth, where a friend lives, was crucial for support. I settled in a £250/week lodge and now focus on my role with the parent company. However, with no cooking allowed in the lodge, I must manage meals and weekly rent. Thankfully, my friend provides consistent food support as I navigate the job market for self-sufficiency.By the end of June, I had applied to over 150+ jobs and progressed to advanced stages with some companies. The exhaustive job interviews drained my energy, involving algorithm challenges or building demo apps. Some companies even had a 6-stage interview process. Eventually, I accepted an offer from Tillo. The congratulatory call was the most interesting part of the interview process. I signed the offer with excitement, having been drawn to the welcoming atmosphere and amazing people I encountered during the on-site visits.
In July, resigned from my parent company that month. During our farewell call, the team shared their moments with me. Listening to the recordings, I felt joy realizing how much everyone contributed to my growth. The CEO sent me a text wishing me well, and it moved me to tears as I transitioned from certainty to uncertainty.
On my first day in the new role, the team warmly welcomed me. Despite a muscle pull on my third on-site visit due to rushing for the train during my commute, I decided to push through. The pain became unbearable as I reached the office, and I broke down in tears. I called a colleague, who met me at the train station and took me to the NHS. The VP of Engineering and another senior colleague supported me throughout the day, assisting with scans and x-rays.
After receiving medication, the VP of Engineering generously volunteered to drive me home, a journey of over 3 hours. It took about two weeks to recover, prompting me to prioritize fitness to prevent future incidents.
For the remainder of the year, I mentored through the mentorship club and became a certified mentor. I wrote additional articles via freecodecamp, earning a spot as a top contributor for 2023. I co-hosted APIConf Lagos and you can follow the handle for updates on the planned Q2 conference for 2024. At work, we had our final end-of-year Christmas celebration, a team bonding event sponsored by my managers. Additionally, we rolled out features for clients across three continents. I made new friends and am pleased to have positively impacted them.
