Gabriel Kevin Maja is a Data Scientist in the Insurance Domain within the Sand Enterprise AI Division. In this blog, Gabriel shares some highlights on his journey at Sand, his love for data science, soccer, and how he manages to find a sense of equilibrium through it all.
What’s your role at Sand, and what led you to this position?
I am a Data Scientist at Sand, part of the Insurance Domain within Sand’s Enterprise AI Division. I’m a product of the (previously known as) ExploreAI Academy. My background is actually in civil engineering, but I didn’t find what I’m looking for in that field. So I’d say what led me to my position is a pursuit of passion in my career, which I believe is very important! What I enjoy most about this position is the blend of creativity and analytical thinking it requires. Every problem is unique, and solving them all involves using both sides of the brain, which keeps things interesting. On top of that, I get to work with tools I love, like SQL, Python, and PowerBI, which makes the process even more enjoyable.
What piece of advice would you give a newcomer at Sand?
Whether a student or employee, give it your best shot and try by all means to stand out somehow. That is initially how I got hired by the company after completing the course. I gave the course my all, always showed up for everything, and was quite outspoken and proactive to get noticed by staff members.
How does working at Sand allow you to make an impact in your field?
At Sand, I have the opportunity to create impactful projects that help clients make critical business decisions. Additionally, I occasionally give career advice to students, which allows me to contribute to the next generation. Recently, I had the privilege of participating in the ALX Speaker Series, sharing insights with a broader audience.
Tell us about your life outside of work. How do you keep yourself busy? Do you have a passion in life?
Having experienced both onsite and remote work, I can say that remote work at Sand has greatly improved my work-life balance, allowing me to spend more time with family, take care of essential errands when needed, and enjoy the flexibility of changing my work environment, such as working from a coffee shop (which I love). Outside of work, I keep myself busy with soccer, my favourite stress reliever. I’m an avid fan of Manchester City and Barcelona, always excited to watch them dominate European football. Additionally, I create content on LinkedIn, posting weekly about Data Science, and I’m planning to expand into video content soon! Maybe I’ll have a passion for skydiving too, who knows — it’s on my bucket list!
What’s a core memory from your life that still resonates with you today?
The moment I realised my now-wife was the one for me. That moment continues to anchor and guide me in our marriage, even to this day!
How has Sand’s mission inspired you personally?
It’s rare to find a company with the vision to transform an entire continent. Building the ecosystem to employ millions of Africans – now that’s real investment! Their unique approach of training people and creating job opportunities afterward aligns with me on a personal level.
Discover your potential with a career at Sand
If you’d like the opportunity to define and create your very own career at Sand, just like Gabe, go on and visit our careers website and apply to any of the currently open roles, or join our talent community to receive updates on career opportunities and events from Sand.