Celebrating Adaobi Ikem: Our March Community Champion!

Today, we applaud resilience and unwavering commitment as we spotlight Adaobi Ikem.

She has shown her reliability towards community activities, and her contributions go beyond mere participation.

If “giving back” to the community had a face, it would be Adaobi’s. She served as one of the Person of contact (POC) for the ongoing DCTP program in the community. As a POC to the Backend students, she goes the extra mile. From mentoring new members to offering technical assistance and leading initiatives, her efforts are invaluable.

In getting to know Adaobi better, we had the privilege of delving into her tech journey, state of mind, and how she has grown so far in a quick interview.

• Please tell us about yourself and your background?

My name is Ikem Adaobi. I am a Backend developer, a proud mother of two wonderful children, and a graduate with a degree in Biochemistry from MOUAU. Additionally, I am an alumna of AltschoolAfrica and a Person of Contact for Backend students in the ongoing DevCareer tech program. (DCTP)

• How did you first discover community, and what made you stick around?

I came across DevCareer when I started in tech in 2022, specifically during the three-month Devcareer-Progate boot camp. Fortunately, I got accepted into the program, which became my gateway to learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for the first time. That initial experience made me want to stay connected with the community.

• What are you currently working on or passionate about outside of the community?

My main focus currently lies in my role as a backend developer. Beyond that, I am deeply passionate about continual learning and skill development and fulfilling my roles as a devoted mother and wife. Additionally, I find great joy in educating children. Recently, I’ve embarked on teaching my six-year-old son Scratch, as he has always shown a strong interest in computers.

• What are your biggest dreams for the future, and how does the community support you in pursuing them?

My greatest aspiration is to become a top-notch professional in my field and to achieve financial stability. The community played a crucial role in my journey, especially during my early days through the Progate scholarship, for which I am sincerely grateful.

• What are your most significant achievements or milestones within and outside the community?

One of my most notable accomplishments was being admitted to AltSchool and graduating with a remarkable cumulative score of 99%.

Additionally, it is a significant milestone to have secured an internship position with my current company during the program in January 2023, which eventually led to my being hired as a full-time staff in September of the same year.

Furthermore, serving as a point of contact for DCTP-backend students has been another significant milestone for me. It has been a rewarding journey of continuous learning and skill enhancement and supporting and guiding fellow learners.

• Could you highlight a memorable moment or experience you’ve had in the community?

One standout moment for me in the community was being accepted into the Progate 3-month boot camp. It was an exceptional experience that significantly enriched my journey. Additionally, I have had memorable experiences navigating challenges to find the best solutions for my students, ensuring their uninterrupted learning. It’s been quite an adventure.

These moments have shaped my growth as a member of the community but also reinforced my dedication to supporting others in their learning endeavours.

• In your opinion, how has the community positively impacted its members?

The community has positively impacted its members through its deliberate efforts to cultivate a supportive environment. Devcareer serves as a cornerstone for its members, offering mentorship programs and classes that enhance their learning and provide a sense of belonging and encouragement. By fostering such an atmosphere, the community empowers its members to thrive, grow, and achieve their goals with confidence and support.

• What would you like to see more of in the community in the future?

I am impressed by the community’s current accomplishments and don’t see any significant areas for improvement. However, enhancing networking opportunities could further enrich our community experience. More networking events or platforms would facilitate meaningful connections among members, fostering collaboration and growth.

• Is there a specific project or event you’ve been particularly proud of?

I take great pride in my person of contact (POC) role in overseeing the completion of the community’s first tech program. Despite juggling busy schedules, I remained committed to seeing the project through to its conclusion. This experience not only tested my dedication but also highlighted my ability to manage time effectively and contribute to the success of a significant initiative within the community.

• What advice would you give to someone new to the community who wants to get involved?

I advise someone new to the community and looking to get involved to set clear goals. Having a specific intent will guide your efforts and help you stay focused. Explore the various activities offered within the community and actively participate in them. Engage with other members, attend events, and don’t hesitate to ask questions when you encounter challenges. Building connections and seeking guidance from fellow members can significantly enhance your experience and facilitate your growth within the community.

• If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could choose any superpower, I would opt for the ability to accelerate karma. By speeding up the consequences of actions, both positive and negative, I could bring about justice and balance in the world more swiftly. This power would promote fairness and accountability and ultimately contribute to a more harmonious and just society.

• Is there anyone in the community you’d like to express gratitude or appreciation towards?

Yes, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Olaitan Adedokun, known as Alvicci , the DCTP backend mentor. His support and guidance have been invaluable. I also want to thank my fellow POCs, and the Devcareer teams for their relentless dedication in shaping our community into what it is today. Your hard work and commitment are commendable; you all embody the spirit of excellence. Thank you for being the real Gees!

• Who or what inspires you the most, both within and outside of the community?

Queen Arit Amana. Since day one, she has served as my mentor, guiding me with wisdom, insight, and unwavering support. Her leadership, resilience, and dedication to empowering others inspire me to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in everything I do.

• Is there anything else you’d like to share with the community?

No, I just want to express my gratitude for being welcomed into the community. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of it.

We are grateful for your outstanding service and unwavering dedication to the community. Adaobi, you’re a role model, and we’re privileged to have you as a part of our community.