Tell us about yourself.
My name is Ayinde Yakubu, and I am the Practice Leader, Technology Delivery working on the Real-Time Rail (RTR) program at Interac. RTR at Interac supports instant, data-rich payment systems. My educational background is in Computer Science and Economics. Prior to Interac, I have been a software developer, architect, and tech lead in the financial, education and security sectors. I love cycling, I’m an endurance cyclist and have ridden from Toronto to Niagara Falls and Fort Erie several times in the past. I also speak 4 languages.
What does a typical day look like at Interac for you?
My focus is on delivering Interac mandate as the exchange solution provider of the RTR. As the technology delivery lead, my focus is on ensuring that we deliver on all our commitments to our stakeholders. As part of my role, I oversee the technical delivery of the RTR platform, ensuring its security through the establishment of an appropriate development environment and platform. I collaborate with skilled individuals, ensuring we have the right people with the necessary expertise to fulfill our commitments at the highest level of quality.
What is your favourite part of your job?
My favourite part of the job is witnessing all the hard work come together during each of our internal demo days when all the various components and resources deliver like a well-oiled machine. This is not always the case; it can be an iterative process where we must figure out what went wrong and ensure that we learn from it.
What comes to mind when you think about your journey at Interac?
From the hiring process to the onboarding, I’ve had excellent support from so many groups and individuals such as the excellent HR Talent Acquisition team. They were instrumental in building our internal RTR team. I’ve had to take on major responsibilities very early in the process and this has helped widen my horizon and outlook. I interface directly with our partners and vendors and represent Interac to them.
Describe your journey as a Black professional in Toronto navigating the FinTech space.
You have to work hard to prove yourself. Know that there will be skeptics but trust in yourself. One of my strategies is to always be open to learning. I don’t assume I know everything I need to know, I’m always in learning mode. At Interac, we have great resources such as LinkedIn Learning that I take advantage of. I also encourage you to expand your social network and get a mentor. They’ll be able to help open doors to opportunities you may not even be aware exist.
What makes Interac a unique place to work?
The ability to make decisions while not being second guessed by management is amazing. I directly influence the direction of our RTR product delivery and bring technology leadership to bear on the program. We have a supportive environment where I am trusted as the leader to make the best decisions for our product and team.
What does inclusion mean to you?
Give everyone an equal opportunity even when you don’t know how to pronounce their names. It means creating safe spaces where no one is afraid to voice their opinions on work matters. It means your contribution is valued and appreciated.
What advice would you give to Black youth looking to start their career?
That it’s okay to be a nerd, be smarter than everyone around you and go the opposite direction of popular opinion. Not everyone can be a musician or athlete but there is always room for smart people in technology. Be ready to set your own goals, work hard, and network with others. You will need to be in learning mode for all of your career – always be open to new ideas and knowledge. It’s hard work but the result is a rewarding and fulfilling career.
Interac is committed to supporting small businesses across Canada. Is there a Black-owned business in Canada you are proud to support and would like to share?
Folak African Foods in Brampton is the go to one stop shop for authentic quality African food and supplies.
