Dr Mark Nasila

In conversation with Dr Mark Nasila - AI Specialist, Keynote Speaker, Aulthor

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-nasila/

 

My review on Mark’s book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHHf2IN_zuk

 

Link to the book: https://exclusivebooks.co.za/products/9781776443321

 

The main points from our conversation:

 

Simplify Complex Ideas – If you can’t explain a technical concept in simple terms, your audience won’t engage. Test your content on non-technical listeners (like family) to ensure clarity.

 

Storytelling is Key – Move beyond dry facts. Use relatable examples, demonstrations, and quantifiable results to make your message compelling and memorable.

 

Write with Purpose – Don’t write for the sake of it. Identify a gap (e.g., Africa’s AI identity) and craft content that fills it, ensuring relevance and impact.

 

Overcome Procrastination – Start by outlining your "building blocks" and focus on the necessity of your message. Preparation and structure help combat blank-page anxiety.

 

Publishing is a Process – A book isn’t about you—it’s for your readers. Work with publishers who align with your vision, stay adaptable (e.g., updating for trends like ChatGPT), and accept that refinement is part of the journey.

 

Confidence Comes with Practice – Even experts face self-doubt. Keep writing, seek feedback, and view each effort as a step toward mastery.

 

About our conversation:

 

One of the most critical skills for any writer or speaker in technology is the ability to break down complex ideas into digestible insights. Dr. Mark Nasila, the author of African Artificial Intelligence: Discovering Africa's AI Identity, emphasises that true expertise lies in clarity.

 

Storytelling: The Bridge Between Tech and Audience

Many technologists struggle with dry, overly academic communication. Nasila highlights that storytelling is the missing link. Whether writing an article or delivering a keynote, he uses real-world examples and quantifiable results to make his points relatable.

 

"Examples that have worked out gather trust more than just writing a conceptual piece," he explains. This technique not only engages listeners but also reinforces credibility—a lesson for aspiring African tech voices aiming to influence policymakers, business leaders, and the broader public.

 

Writing with Purpose: Filling the Gaps

Nasila didn’t write African Artificial Intelligence just to add another title to the AI discourse. He saw a gap—most AI literature ignored Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities. His book reframes AI as a tool for African progress, discussing sovereign AI, localised solutions, and the risks of being left behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

 

For aspiring authors, his advice is clear: "There must be a purpose." Before writing, ask: Does this address an unmet need? If the answer is yes, the content will resonate.

 

Overcoming Procrastination and Self-Doubt

Even seasoned professionals struggle with confidence and procrastination. Nasila admits that writing requires discipline—structuring ideas into "building blocks" before diving in helps combat the paralysis of a blank page.

 

He also acknowledges that fear of judgment is natural, but it shouldn’t hold anyone back. "Your voice matters," he says. The key is to start, refine, and persist.

 

The Publishing Journey: Adaptability and Resilience

Publishing a book isn’t a linear process. Nasila’s manuscript had to be restructured when ChatGPT disrupted the AI landscape. His publisher supported these changes, but the experience taught him that relevance requires flexibility.

 

His biggest realisation? "The book was not about me—it was for the people who would read it." This mindset shift—from self-expression to audience impact—is crucial for anyone looking to publish.

 

Conclusion: Amplifying Africa’s Tech Narrative

Dr. Nasila’s journey underscores that Africa’s tech narrative must be owned by Africans. Whether through writing, speaking, or thought leadership, the continent’s professionals have a duty to demystify technology and advocate for local solutions.

 

As Johan Steyn, host of The Africa Tech Authors & Speakers Forum, puts it: "Your voice matters. Let’s amplify it—for our continent, our communities, and the generations to come."

 

The lesson is clear: Start writing, start speaking, and most importantly—keep refining. The future of African tech depends on it.