Making Technology Work: Makeda Waterman’s Advice for Black Entrepreneurs

In an exclusive interview with Black Business Magazine, Makeda Waterman, Technology and Technical Communications Professional, shares how AI, automation, cybersecurity, and clear communication can help businesses work smarter and navigate an increasingly digital environment.

Interview By SK Uddin

Makeda Waterman makes AI, governance, cyber security, and operational information into clear content. She helps teams make faster decisions, improve compliance, and smoother adoption.

With 8 years of technology experience, Makeda quickly learned unfamiliar software, AI, IT, and cyber security environments. She’s worked with Scotiabank, the Government of Alberta, ATCO and other reputable companies.

Your work brings together AI, automation, cybersecurity, and technical communication. What inspired your entrepreneurial journey, and how did you develop a career focused on making complex technology accessible to organizations and people?

I felt excited to help companies make technology easy for anyone to understand. I was limited as an employee and knew there was a more softer way to live life. Plus, do what I’m passionate about.

I started as a consultant in 2018 for a Government contract which led to supporting Scotiabank, Intuit, KPMG, ATCO, etc.

AI tools are becoming more accessible to small businesses. What practical ways can Black entrepreneurs use AI and automation to save time, improve customer service, or grow their operations without losing the personal touch that makes their businesses unique?

I recommend having (1) AI expert on your team to manage the back end of your technology. The expert can make changes best for the team and maximize customer retention.

Google AI and Microsoft Copilot are a first step to reducing research, graphic design and content creation costs.

Cybersecurity can feel overwhelming for small-business owners. What are the most important digital-security practices Black entrepreneurs should put in place to protect their customer information, business data, and online reputation?

1. A Disaster Recover Plan can prevent bankruptcy and loss of digital services to customers.

2. Cyber Security training on a regular basis to educate your team.

3. Sharing loopholes in Security breaches as examples to your employees can prevent costly problems.

As a technical writer and content professional, how can Black founders communicate complex products, services, or expertise in a way that customers understand, trust, and are motivated to act on?

Learn your customer’s pain points and create solutions that they understand and can afford.

Be personable and know that your audience might be more diverse than you think.

What advice would you give Black professionals, freelancers, and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to build technology-focused businesses while creating long-term impact and opportunity within their communities?

Do what feels right. Align yourself with brands that share your values. Learn how to sell and market your greatest assets to share with your clients. Embrace rejection; you can learn how to level up when someone says ‘No’.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Black Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products, services, organizations, or individuals mentioned. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and due diligence before making any business, financial, or personal decisions.