How Idris Akilapa Landed a Data Visualization Gig Using Hire Me

Since the platform was founded in 2010, millions of people have used Tableau Public to develop their data visualization skills, find inspiration, and connect with like-minded data enthusiasts from around the world. While we’re thrilled to be celebrating this milestone, we also want to recognize the accomplishments of those in the Tableau Community, like Idris Akilapa.

Idris is a freelance data analyst and a recent graduate of Mechanical Engineering from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Nigeria. He started his Tableau journey in 2020. Engaging with the #DataFam and getting involved with community-led projects has invigorated his passion for working with data.

How long have you been using Tableau?

I discovered Tableau in middle of 2019 but I took the huge step of learning Tableau during the COVID-19 pandemic, in May of 2020 to be precise. My initial mission was to learn for three months and be good at it but here I am, two years and counting, and I’ve totally fallen in love with Tableau.

What role has Tableau Public played in your professional development?

Tableau Public is the platform that elevates me in every aspect of my professional life. It also led to meeting the greatest community ever, which has helped me to improve my skill and meet so many amazing people in the #DataFam. I started freelancing last year and all of my data visualization gigs were Tableau-related which I secured through my Tableau Public portfolio. It’s no exaggeration to say that I wouldn’t be where I am today without Tableau Public.

You recently landed a job using the Hire Me button on your Tableau Public profile. Can you tell us a bit more about that?

The way I felt when I got the gig through Tableau Public without having to go through any of the stress of applying for a job or writing proposals was great. It reassured me that I am doing the right thing with my life. For this project, I was asked to redesign a company’s report because they didn’t know the best way to present the data. I did the initial design in Figma to offer them a prototype and, upon approval, designed the dashboard in Tableau. That was an exciting milestone for me and my career.

Do you have a favorite topic that you like to viz?

I have many topics I would love to viz including music, sports, and Tableau Community Projects such as #DiversityinData. Presently my favorite viz is my 2022 Iron Viz entry which was recently featured as a Viz of the Day.

Do you have a favorite viz or author on Tableau Public?

I have a very long list when naming my favorite authors on Tableau Public and it would be impossible to name them all. So here are simply a few out of many:

We are celebrating 10+ years of Tableau Public. What is your favorite feature of Tableau Public?

Tableau Public is such a great platform for learning and it has opened me to different ways to tell stories with data. My favorite Tableau Public feature is the ability to download a workbook and learn how it was done. I also appreciate connecting with one’s favorite authors via social media and asking questions about their work.

If members of the #DataFam visit Nigeria what do you recommend they do?

I recommend visiting Obudu Mountain Resort. It has an attractive landscape and calming ambiance, with clouds smiling down on its peaks and valleys.

Idris getting ready for a traditional ceremony. He loves wearing native attire.

Who else is leveraging Tableau Public as a data viz portfolio to show their growth? Check out and follow our most recent Featured Authors cohort who have been putting their data skills to work.