Lois Ugbe’s story isn’t just about business—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and staying true to one’s values. She didn’t start with a passion for tech. She started with a need—financial independence, a way to prove to herself that she was capable despite setbacks. From growing up in an academic household to breaking into tech without prior experience, Lois has built a name for herself in a competitive industry.
Through her company, Aviv Technologies, she’s providing businesses with tailored web solutions, and with Aviv Academy, she’s equipping people with skills to break into tech and actually make money from it. But success didn’t come easy—she faced rejection, had to make tough ethical decisions, and even turned down lucrative deals that didn’t align with her values.
In this candid conversation, Lois Ugbe shares how she transformed challenges into opportunities, the role faith played in her business journey, and the importance of constantly upgrading oneself.
Your story is inspiring. Tell us about your background and what shaped you.
I grew up in a home where education was everything. My dad is a professor, and my mom is a secondary school principal. There was a clear expectation—excel academically, get a degree, and secure a stable job. I embraced that mindset and aimed high. I wanted to graduate with first-class honors and make my parents proud. But when I didn’t, it felt like my world had crumbled. I started questioning everything—my capabilities, my worth, my future. It was a defining moment that forced me to rethink my path.
What made you choose tech? Was it always the plan?
Honestly? It was about survival. I needed money. I didn’t get into tech because I had some grand vision. I was broke, and I needed a way out. During university, I took an Educational Technology course, and while many struggled with it, I found it straightforward. That was my first sign that maybe I could do something in tech. But what truly pushed me was a friend’s advice: ‘You don’t need passion, just consistency and focus.’ That gave me the confidence to start learning.
How did your parents react when you made the switch?
At first, they supported me and even paid for my training, but I think part of it was because I was going through a tough breakup at the time. I think they just wanted me to focus on something new and not dwell on my personal struggles. But as they started seeing results—when I built my first few websites and made my first income—they fully got behind me. That support meant everything.
How did you come up with the name Aviv Technologies?
I’m spiritual, and I was praying for a name when i found the word ‘Wellspring,’ but it was already taken. So, I searched for its Hebrew meaning and found ‘Aviv,’ which means ‘fresh, spring-like, and full of new possibilities.’ That stuck deeply with me because it represented what I wanted to create—a company that helps businesses and individuals grow, refresh, and unlock their full potential.
Starting a business isn’t easy. How did Aviv Technologies begin?
I started with nothing—no money, no clients, just an idea. I shared it with three friends, and one of them flat-out told me they didn’t believe in it. That hurt, but I realized early that not everyone will understand your vision.
The biggest challenge was funding. I didn’t even have enough to buy a domain, so I reached out to a friend. We pooled our NYSC stipends—₦33,000 each—to buy a domain and hosting. That’s why I always tell people to leverage their network. Sometimes, the resources you need are already around you—you just have to ask.
How did you land your first client?
Through my brother! He casually mentioned to someone, ‘Have you met my sister? She does this.’ And just like that, I got my first gig. That’s why I always say, make sure people know what you do. Sometimes, opportunities come from the most unexpected places.
What inspired Aviv Academy?
I started by running masterclasses, but I quickly realized that model wasn’t sustainable. A friend warned me, ‘You’re going to burn out.’ At first, I ignored it, but I soon felt exhausted. I had to pivot. That’s when I launched Aviv Academy, a structured online course.
In the first week, we made ₦200,000. That was a turning point. But it wasn’t just about making money—I wanted to equip people with skills they could actually monetize. Many people learn web design, but they don’t know how to sell their services. I make sure my students don’t just gain a skill; they learn how to market themselves and close deals.
Have you ever faced challenges as a young female founder in tech?
Oh, definitely. There have been moments when people assumed I didn’t know what I was doing because I’m a woman. Some clients have spoken down to me, questioning whether I was truly the owner of my company. I’ve had to prove myself over and over.
I’ve learned to be assertive, own my space, and let my results speak for me. I want more young women to see that they belong in tech too. The industry needs us.
Lois isn’t alone in this journey. Other female founders like Odun Eweniyi have also navigated similar challenges in scaling their businesses. Read HERE.
Have you ever turned down a client for ethical reasons?
Yes, several times. A client from Germany wanted me to build a website selling fake currencies. He even had his partner call me to try and convince me, but I refused. Another wanted me to develop a platform for internet fraudsters. Again, I said no.
Not every deal is worth taking. If I can’t sleep at night because of a project, it’s not for me.
How have you upgraded yourself over the years?
I’ve learned that personal branding matters. The way you present yourself can open or close doors. I changed how I dressed, how I spoke, and how I positioned myself online. That shift attracted better opportunities.
I also invest in continuous learning. One book that changed my mindset is The Entrepreneur’s Playbook. It taught me that success isn’t about reinventing the wheel, but about improving existing solutions. I also listen to Online Marketing Podcast by Amy Porterfield. It’s practical, insightful, and keeps me ahead of trends.
What’s something about entrepreneurship no one prepares you for?
The tough days. No one tells you about the nights you cry yourself to sleep, wondering if you made the right choice. Books and motivational talks glamorize entrepreneurship, but the reality is different.
One of my biggest lessons was separating personal and business finances. Flourish Africa, a program by Africa’s richest woman, required me to open a business account to receive a grant. That changed everything—clients took me more seriously, I could track my finances better, and applying for opportunities became easier.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I want to be known for transformation. I want people to say, ‘I met Lois Ugbe, and my life changed. She gave me hope and showed me what was possible.’ That’s my goal.”
Lois Ugbe’s journey is far from over, but one thing is certain—she is breaking barriers and paving the way for more young people in tech. Follow Lois Ugbe on LinkedIn.
