Ibrahim Pelumi Lasisi Wins Crest Africa Award for AI-Powered WhatsApp Job Platform

Recognition highlights WorqNow, a messaging-based tool designed to simplify job access across African markets

Sheffield-based full-stack engineer Ibrahim Pelumi Lasisi has been named Systems and Automation Innovator of the Year at the Crest Africa Awards for developing WorqNow, an AI-powered job automation platform built on WhatsApp.

The recognition acknowledges Lasisi’s work in leveraging messaging infrastructure to address employment access challenges across Africa. His platform, WorqNow, integrates job listings from multiple sources and delivers them directly to users through WhatsApp, reducing reliance on traditional job-search platforms.

Built using the WhatsApp Cloud API, the system enables users to receive curated job recommendations, generate CVs, and automate parts of the application process without downloading additional applications or creating new accounts.

Speaking on the approach behind the platform, Lasisi said the decision to build within an existing messaging ecosystem was driven by accessibility considerations. He noted that meeting users on widely adopted platforms lowers barriers to entry, particularly in regions with limited broadband access.

WorqNow applies natural language processing to tailor job recommendations, positioning itself as a lightweight alternative to conventional employment platforms that often require higher data usage and multiple sign-ups.

Lasisi’s work reflects a broader trend of integrating artificial intelligence with widely used communication tools to expand access to digital services. The award organisers highlighted the platform’s focus on employment accessibility, especially among users who depend on mobile messaging for daily economic activities.

PS: Details of the award timeline indicate it was formally recognised retrospectively, with the honour attributed to contributions recorded as of July 15, 2025.