BLACC Voices at Amplitude: Celebrating Black History Month

From February 1 to March 1, Black History Month is a time for reflection, celebration, and recognition of the profound contributions of the Black community. From pioneering leaders in civil rights and social justice to innovators in science, technology, and the arts, Black history is deeply woven into the fabric of our nation’s past, present, and future.

Black Americans continue to drive progress breaking barriers, leading movements, and shaping industries. As we honor this legacy, we also look to the future—amplifying Black voices, fostering opportunity, and building lasting impact in fields like technology, business, and beyond.

In celebration of Black History Month at Amplitude, we had the privilege of speaking with fellow Ampliteers who are part of our BLACC (Black Leaders at Amplitude Creating Change) employee resource group:

• Ilankir Matungulu, Senior Product Manager
• Joy Udom, Associate General Counsel, Commercial International

Can you tell us about your background and what led you to your current role at Amplitude?

Ilankir Matungulu: I was born in Kinshasa, DR Congo, and spent roughly half of my childhood in Maryland. I studied computer engineering in college and then worked at a multinational corporation first as an engineer, then as a project manager, building software for power plants across North America, EMEA, and Asia. My focus was on creating data acquisition software that provided plant engineering and plant managers with clear insights into equipment performance, as well as the key metrics they were responsible for so that they could make the right decisions to improve day-to-day plant operations.

After several years, I decided to pursue an MBA, and I was looking for Product Management opportunities, and that’s when I came across Amplitude. Given that my career revolved around making data more accessible for better decision-making, I applied for an internship role and got the offer. Now, I’m a senior product manager on the Core Analytics team.

Joy Udom: I am Nigerian, and I relocated to the United Kingdom over two decades ago. I studied law and qualified to practice law both in Nigeria and the UK. My law practice eventually led me to work in-house for several multinationals. I enjoy being an in-house lawyer because I enjoy the intersection between providing legal advice and pragmatically solving real business problems. I naturally gravitated toward the technology sector because the industry is dynamic, fast-moving, relatable, and relevant. I currently work as an Associate General Counsel here at Amplitude. My core responsibility is to provide legal support to our EMEA and APAC Go-to-Market teams. I enjoy speaking to Amplitude customers daily, driving operational efficiency internally, and challenging myself to keep abreast of new product launches.

What does Black History Month mean to you, both personally and professionally?

Ilankir Matungulu: Black History Month is a reminder of how far the US has come with respect to inequalities, but also a reminder that there is still more work to do.

I see it as a time for leaders and innovators to receive flowers for all that they have contributed to shaping the world we live in and to shed light on past contributions that are often not acknowledged.

Joy Udom: Black History Month is a time when we actively raise awareness and remember the historical and present struggles of inequalities in our society. It is a time to reflect on and acknowledge the progress we have made in this struggle and then to refresh our resolve to keep building a society with equal opportunity for all persons.

Can you share a Black leader, historical figure, or mentor who has inspired your journey?

Ilankir Matungulu: I am fortunate to stand on the shoulders of many giants who made the path easier for me, but the two names I want to mention are Patrice Lumumba and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Lumumba was one of the leaders of the independence movement in my native DRC, and MLK was a very influential civil rights leader in the US. I would not have had the opportunities I’ve had without their sacrifices.

Joy Udom: So many black leaders have inspired and continue to inspire me. One person who stands out is Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a renowned author and activist who has used the power of her writing and stories to advocate for equality and to amplify the voices of the marginalized. Her

How has your cultural background shaped your career and experience at Amplitude?

Ilankir Matungulu: Having grown up across Congo, the US, and Cameroon with classmates from all over the world, I’ve always been comfortable around people from places different than mine and with wide-ranging experiences. In many ways, Amplitude’s global team composition feels like a natural extension of my multicultural upbringing. This has made it easy for me to relate to and connect with the people I work alongside. I’m also multilingual, and that has come in handy on a few customer calls, too.

Joy Udom: I grew up in a family and community where humility is at the heart of how we relate to each other. I was raised to never settle and to always push boundaries. From an early age, I was given responsibilities that I had to own. One of the things that attracted me to Amplitude was the HOG (Humility, Ownership, Growth mindset) culture because it aligns very closely with the values I was raised with. I really enjoy working with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds and yet similar values.

What advice would you give to young Black professionals entering the tech industry?

Ilankir Matungulu: Don’t underestimate the importance of building strong networks, and seek out both formal and informal mentorship opportunities. Professional organizations and conferences have provided me with unique opportunities to connect with peers, share experiences, and learn from those who have successfully navigated similar paths. I have been part of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Toastmasters International, and Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT). These organizations have been instrumental in my personal and professional development.

Joy Udom: Don’t be afraid to be your authentic self; build connections both within your company and the wider tech industry. Also, do not second guess yourself; go for roles, projects, and opportunities you believe in because after you ride on the courage of your success, many others will follow you.