Afolabi Oyebiyi on learning how to code what he cannot see

Afolabi Oyebiyi, a software engineer at Nigerian software consulting firm Cyclone, has spoken about the challenges of learning to code in a world that often assumes sight is a prerequisite. His story is one of overcoming obstacles and pushing for change, as he navigates a field that is not always designed with accessibility in mind.

The Struggle to Code

Afolabi's relationship with the digital world changed in 2005 when his sight began to deteriorate. Before then, he was already learning how systems behave when they are not designed for you. He has spoken about the accumulation of small, technical details like screen readers that make computers speak, textbooks that don’t, and coding tools that assume everyone has sight.

Inside the Story

Afolabi's journey to becoming a software engineer began with his desire to bring about change for people with disabilities. He was inspired by his older brother, a software engineer who introduced him to computers and sparked his interest in coding. Afolabi wanted to build assistive technology that alleviates the accessibility concerns he faced, and coding skills were essential for that.

• He was the first visually impaired student at the Lagos branch of the National Institute of Information Technology (NIIT)
• Screen readers, braille, and online platforms were some of the tools he encountered in rehabilitation centres
• He has been working as a backend engineer in industry, pushing back against accessibility being treated as optional

Why This Matters

As a blind person in a field that is not always designed with accessibility in mind, Afolabi's work is crucial in pushing for change. He has spoken about the struggle between capability and accessibility, and the need for tools to be designed with everyone in mind. His work as a software engineer is not just about writing code, but also about solving problems and advocating for accessibility.

The Takeaway

Afolabi's story is a testament to the power of determination and passion. Despite the obstacles he has faced, he continues to push for change and advocate for accessibility in the tech industry. His work is an inspiration to anyone who faces challenges in pursuing their goals, and serves as a reminder of the importance of designing technology that is inclusive and accessible to everyone.