Sarah Phiri-Molema, Deaftronics (Pty) Ltd (Botswana):
Meet Sarah Phiri-Molema, founder of Deaftronics (Botswana) and the incredible third place winner of the Aurora Tech Award. Deaftronics developed the first rechargeable hearing aid battery, called Solar Ear. The company aims to empower the hearing impaired, by creating employment opportunities and helping them better integrate into the deaf community. Here’s what she had to say to the Aurora Tech team.
Overcoming difficulties as a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated tech world
Our technology ecosystem is fragmented, it's male-dominated. I went into a meeting with my male workmates, who do not have a technology background.Everyone was so surprised to see me talking about our solar charger and how it works. I ended up testing their hearing and demonstrating how the product works. I gave them samples of the solar-powered hearing aids. After receiving their samples, their attitude changed towards me.
Our first prototype didn’t work. The strength [to overcome this] came from the children from Ramotswa School for the deaf, who got so excited by even having a prototype which was not working. They were so engaged, they gave so much input; I realized that I had so much support from so many people. It gave me the strength and inspiration to keep going.
Changing society for people with hearing impairments: A few years ago, I wanted to open a bank account, but when I visited the bank no one was ready to assist me because there was no one who could understand sign language. After having encountered these challenges, I advocated to train bank tellers in sign language. We partnered with one of the biggest banks in Botswana, and trained bank tellers throughout the country in sign language.
Changes and improvements in technology have affected my work in a very positive way. For example, during COVID-19, we could share ideas and preventive measures through video calling. I am able to assist most customers when they experience challenges with their products through video calling. I also train people in sign language through platforms like Facebook, Skype, Whatsapp, Instagram and Twitter.
I have always looked up to my mother. She has given me so much support and unconditional love. She has encouraged me to pursue my career, despite the challenges I face as a hearing impaired woman. She is there for me when I need emotional support.
What steps should be taken to help more women succeed in entrepreneurship?
I think governments should implement a quota system, where they set funds for female-led startups.The private sector and governments must focus on training and networking as part of empowerment programs. Female led businesses should be promoted in the media to shed light on their positive contribution to the economy; this will enable more venture capitalists to have keen interest. Women-led startups should have access to capital and non-financial resources. Organizations should raise awareness on gender bias and advocate for equal opportunities.
