What Roger Milla Teaches us about Overcoming Ageism and Self-Doubt in Pursuit of Excellence

When we talk about technology, it’s easy to focus on code, hardware, and algorithms. But behind every innovation is a story—a journey, a struggle, a spark of inspiration. For Africa, these stories are often overlooked or under‑represented in the global tech space. Yet they hold the power to shift narratives, break stereotypes, and inspire a new generation of creators.

At our company, we believe that technology is not just about machines—it’s about people. It’s about how communities adapt, how cultures influence innovation, and how history shapes the way we solve problems. By centering human stories in our work, we build tools and solutions that resonate more deeply, both in Africa and beyond.

“Have you ever wondered what it means to restart your career after a break? Or you’re eager to figure out how to reach your full potential? Maybe you’re wondering the many ways to enhance your attention to detail? Or what it means to leave a legacy?” Dr. Paulin Kantue

Roger Milla: A Lesson in Defying Limits

In the world of sports, age often feels like a ticking clock. Yet in 1990, 38‑year‑old Cameroonian footballer Roger Milla shattered that illusion. Having already retired from international play at 36, a personal plea from President Paul Biya brought him back for the FIFA World Cup in Italy. Skeptics doubted he still had it—but Milla answered them with four goals from the bench, carried Cameroon to the quarter‑finals, and danced his now‑famous Makossa celebration on the world stage. Four years later, at 42, he scored again—setting the record as the oldest World Cup goalscorer ever. In doing so, Milla proved that experience, determination, and passion can outshine the raw energy of youth.

“Can I really learn that new framework at my age?” “Have I fallen too far behind on the latest cloud services?"

Confronting Ageism in Tech

The tech industry mirrors sports in one crucial respect: ageism. Far too many senior engineers, product managers, and executives hear whispers of “retirement” once they hit their late thirties. Hiring practices often favor the “recent graduate,” and stereotypes about older workers’ ability to learn new tools can cut careers short. Yet, just as Milla’s seasoned instincts made him a match‑winner on the pitch, so too can experienced technologists bring an invaluable edge:

• Historical perspective on why certain architectures emerged, helping avoid past pitfalls.

• Mentorship—guiding junior colleagues through complex problems.

• Domain expertise—knowing which solutions work in real‑world conditions, not just in theory.

  
  

Overcoming Self‑Doubt and External Skepticism

Milla’s story wasn’t free of doubt. Coaches questioned whether he could still run with the best, and Milla himself had to believe in his own fitness and skill. Likewise, senior tech professionals often wrestle with imposter syndrome:

The antidote is the same as for Milla: perseverance and continuous learning. By carving out time for upskilling—whether through structured courses, peer‑to‑peer mentoring, or hackathons—seasoned professionals can stay at the cutting edge.

Key Takeaways for Tech Teams

1. Believe in Yourself: Like Milla, have the confidence to seize opportunities, even when others doubt you.

2. Perseverance Pays Off: Consistent effort and a growth mindset turn setbacks into comebacks.

3. Experience Matters: A veteran’s insight can accelerate product design, strengthen security, and improve scalability.

   
   

Shaping the Future Through Storytelling

Stories influence how we build, how we fund, and how we think. They guide investment, education, and public policy. That’s why, at our company, we don’t just ship features—we document the “why” and “how”—the pivots, the lessons learned, the human triumphs and setbacks. By sharing the journeys of pioneers like Roger Milla alongside emerging African technologists, we create a richer, more inclusive narrative of innovation—one where every voice has a place, and every experience fuels the next breakthrough.

Join the Movement

Whether you’re a developer, a designer, a data scientist, or a product leader, there’s a role for you in shaping Africa’s tech future. Share your story: How have you overcome doubt? What lessons has your experience taught you? Let’s celebrate our collective heritage and build solutions that honor the journeys behind every line of code.