Africa Tech Talks EP #39 (S02) Carmen Mateia: From a WhatsApp Group to Tackling Angola's 'Undermployment' Crisis
Nov 12, 2025
Carmen Mateia, a social entrepreneur and activist from Benguela, Angola, shares her inspiring journey from a simple WhatsApp group to tackling Angola's 'undermployment' crisis with her initiative, Na Fila do Pão. She reveals the critical distinction between unemployment and undermployment, emphasizing the latter's impact on youth. Carmen also discusses creating support hubs through Fábrica de Sabão, which empowers startups and job seekers. Additionally, she highlights the role of art in activism, fostering community engagement and identity.
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WhatsApp Group Became A Movement
- Carmen started Na Fila do Pão as a simple WhatsApp group in 2023 to share job, scholarship and internship leads.
- Her own awkward first job application taught her how small actions open real career doors.
Underemployment Is The Bigger Crisis
- The real problem for Angolan youth is underemployment, not simple unemployment, because many work without rights or benefits.
- Angolans often have skills but lack job-market navigation, negotiation and formal protections.
Old Soap Factory Turned Into A Hub
- At Fábrica de Sabão Carmen helped convert an old soap factory into co-working and incubation space for entrepreneurs and jobseekers.
- The hub offers free internet, equipment and short-term space for interviews, recordings and workshops.