Getting To Know You: Riaz Moola, Founder and CEO, HyperionDev and CoGrammar

HyperionDev is a trailblazer in tech education, dedicated to overcoming significant challenges in the field across Africa and globally.

Addressing issues like high dropout rates from online programming courses and the absence of personalized feedback, HyperionDev offers a unique approach with human-led code reviews that ensure quality and industry-standard practices are followed.

In partnership with renowned universities such as The University of Edinburgh and Imperial College, HyperionDev provides flexible coding bootcamps in software engineering, data science, web development, and cybersecurity, tailored to fit anyone’s schedule – whether online or on campus.

They offer immersive programs that take participants from beginner to job-ready, with dedicated career services including mock interviews, CV assistance, and expert interview tips. They are committed to making education accessible, allowing people to pursue a tech career from anywhere, with a learning structure designed to meet their life and goals.

What was the inspiration behind HyperionDev?

As a South African citizen born just two years after apartheid officially ended, I witnessed firsthand the vast educational disparities that existed in my country. During my studies in computer science and maths, I saw the alarmingly high dropout rates in computer science degrees within South African universities – with an average failure rate of 88%. This not only signalled a critical flaw in the education system, but also highlighted a significant barrier to meeting the country’s burgeoning tech demands.

I wanted to bridge this gap. So, the initial idea for HyperionDev was born from a simple but impactful vision: an online course specifically designed for individuals with limited internet access – a harsh reality for many in South Africa – to still have the opportunity to become programmers. To achieve this, I developed a rudimentary coding course that taught the basics of AI using small files, in stark contrast to the large video files prominent in many other online courses.

The reception was overwhelmingly positive. People were eager for affordable and accessible programming courses, and soon universities across South Africa began to take notice. HyperionDev’s significance rapidly grew, eventually becoming Africa’s largest online coding bootcamp. Today, we are proud to have expanding our reach to over 40 countries worldwide, staying true to our mission of making high-quality tech education accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances.

Who do you admire?

I admire the students who have had the courage to start a coding bootcamp, often with no prior knowledge. It’s inspiring to see these students take a leap into a field that is challenging and dynamic, like technology. It’s not just about learning a new skill; it’s about embracing a new way of thinking. The courses are comprehensive and designed to equip participants for successful careers in the tech industry. Our recent impact report demonstrates that over 85% of our graduates move into tech roles or become self-employed in the tech industry, and often, these skills translate into real-world solutions. Interestingly, almost 47% of our graduates are aged 25-34, showing just how appealing our programmes are to young adults looking to advance or switch up their careers – a truly admirable move. Whether they’re developing applications that simplify everyday tasks, creating platforms to connect people, or tackling large issues like healthcare and education, their contributions are making a tangible difference, and that is something to be admired.

Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?

Looking back, if we had started this journey just a little bit earlier, I wonder if we might have been able to impact more lives by now. Nevertheless, we are on track, focused on the future, and excited about the lives changed, careers launched, and the global impact of our graduates. The stories of personal growth and new opportunities are the moments that reassure us we’re making a real difference.

What defines your way of doing business?

Resilience is at the core of my approach to business. Throughout the journey of building HyperionDev, we’ve encountered obstacles and setbacks. It was the resilience that allowed me to persevere and find innovative solutions to those challenges. This resilience is something that I strive to embody in all our operations. Equally important is creativity. In the competitive landscape of tech education, it’s essential to think outside the box and come up with unique, impactful solutions. From our early days, creativity was a necessity, especially in our marketing efforts. We had to stand out by offering something truly distinctive. This creative mindset continues to drive our success today. Finally, having a clear vision has always been vital. From the outset, I knew where I wanted to take HyperionDev and worked diligently to turn that into a reality. Setting ambitious goals for myself and the team is a constant practice. I believe that having compelling vision and inspiring others to share in that vision is what defines our way of doing business.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

My first piece of advice to anyone starting out is to prioritise your personal growth and development above getting caught up in the technology of the day. While staying current with the latest advancements is important, what truly sets you apart is your continuous commitment to evolving as an individual. This focus will equip you with the resilience and adaptability necessary to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the tech industry.

It’s also crucial to recognise that the need for continuous evolution is a constant. Therefore, aim to make a lasting impact on society and the environment. Your work should go beyond immediate successes and contribute meaningfully to broader systemic improvements.

Lastly, embrace the unpredictability of life. The ability to adapt, evolve and grow in the face of unforeseen challenges will serve you will. Accept that setbacks are part of the journey and use them as opportunities to learn and improve.