By Kenneth Oboh

Chimdinma is the co-founder and CTO of Unplug VR, where she leads the development of immersive technologies. A computer engineer and business strategist, she focuses on applying AI and VR in practical ways, with an emphasis on ethical and sustainable innovation.

Her work includes creating tools that gamify education and inspire greater participation in STEM, combining technical expertise with a commitment to impact and accessibility. She speaks on EdTech, UnplugVR project and more in this interview.

Your beta test in Nigeria served as an important proof of concept for equitable EdTech. What did you learn from that experience, and how has it shaped UnplugVR’s current direction?

Our recently completed beta test was a vital proof of concept for our mission. The most significant outcome wasn’t external acclaim, but the validation of our goals. We proved that immersive technology, when designed with inclusivity as a core principle, can become a powerful, universal language for learning. Seeing students engage with STEM subjects was the real prize.

This successful test has directly fueled our next phase of development, leading to a technical partnership with Nicholas Idoko and my promotion to CTO to lead this focused engineering effort. We’re now building on that solid foundation.

That’s a powerful foundation. Where does that recognised success leave UnplugVR now?

It places us in a thrilling, albeit daunting, pre-funding phase. We’re armed with more than just a prototype; we have a proven, recognised model that demonstrates tangible impact. Our challenge and opportunity are to translate that acclaimed success into a scalable, sustainable platform. The recognition opens doors and gives us immense credibility, but now we need the partners who see the vast potential we’ve already begun to unlock and want to help us scale it globally from our base here in the North-East.

How does that proof of concept shape your technical priorities as CTO?

It laser-focuses us on what we call “Pioneering Accessibility.” The project proved that for VR to be a truly global tool, we must shatter technical barriers. This isn’t incremental; it’s foundational.

We’re doing innovative work in the rendering pipeline to create techniques that drastically reduce motion sickness and eye strain. This commitment to inclusivity isn’t a side project; it’s our core R&D. That acclaimed success in Nigeria proved it’s possible and our job now is to engineer that into every single experience we build.

Your path to the CTO role is unique. How does that background inform your leadership?

Being a computer engineer is about creative problem-solving. Being a mum… well, that’s about mastering extreme logistics and empathy! (Laughs) That combination is my secret weapon. It forces a ruthless focus on what matters: clarity, safety and genuine engagement. I’m not just building technology; I’m building technology I’d trust for my own children’s education. That’s the filter for every decision we make, from user safety (integrity) to ensuring our experiences are welcoming to all (inclusivity). It’s about building tech with a human purpose.

The North-East isn’t the typical hub for immersive tech. Is that a challenge?

It’s our greatest advantage. There’s a raw, gritty spirit of innovation here. We’re not chasing Silicon Valley trends; we’re building something authentic and grounded. Our mission includes driving regional impact creating high-value tech jobs and showing the incredible talent here that they can be the creators of the future. Building a world-class VR company in Newcastle isn’t a limitation; it’s a statement that innovation can happen anywhere and it’s often stronger for it.

Finally, for investors who hear “metaverse” and hesitate, what’s your message?

Look past the hype and look at our proof. We’re not selling a speculative virtual world. We’re offering a tool for transformative education and connection that works today. We have the data and a pragmatic plan.

We need partners who don’t just see a market opportunity, but who share our vision for a more accessible, connected and inspired global community. We’ve already shown it’s possible. Now, let’s build it together.