I still remember the moment I saw the email.

I had just wrapped up a long day of coding when it popped up on my screen:
“You’ve been selected as a Section Leader (Mentor) for Code in Place 2025.”

I froze for a second.
Stanford.
Mentor.
Me?

It felt surreal.

But it was real. And it was the beginning of a journey I’ll never forget.

The First Step: Selection

The application itself had been a leap of faith.
I submitted my teaching demo video, unsure if it would stand out among thousands.

video1102930225.mp4

I talked about the Mars weight problem in Python, using simple analogies, clear visuals, and a learner-first tone. I wanted to show not just how to code, but how to think about code.

That video got me in.

Stepping into the Role

The onboarding was smooth. The team was welcoming. The mission was powerful:
“Everyone completes.”

As mentors, we were not there to give answers, but to guide. To help learners believe they could do this. To meet them where they were and walk with them, one challenge at a time.

What I Learned

Teaching is listening.

Explaining well means thinking clearly.

Confidence comes from being seen and supported.

Every 1:1 session was different.
Some students were stuck. Others just needed a nudge.
But all of them taught me something too.

How It Felt to Get Feedback

This was the part that hit hardest.

“Thank you. You helped me see the problem differently.”
“I finally understood the underscore in a for loop.”
“You didn’t just solve the problem — you helped me grow.”

Reading those messages made it all worth it.

In those moments, I realized:
It’s not about the code. It’s about the connection.

Real-Time Learning, Real-World Impact

This wasn’t just a course.
It was a global classroom with over 22,000 students and 2,000 mentors.

And yet, the learning was personal. Real-time. Human.

You hear a question. You pause. You reframe.
And suddenly, a student goes, “Ah, I get it now.”

That’s magic. And it happened every week.

To My Fellow Mentors and Learners

Keep showing up.

You’re not just teaching Python.
You’re shaping how people think.
You’re helping them believe in themselves.

And to the learners, your questions matter. Your effort matters. You are growing more than you know.

Gratitude

To iCodeGuru, thank you for believing in me from the start.
To Stanford, Chris Piech, Mehran Sahami, and the whole Code in Place team thank you for creating this space.

And to every student I worked with: you helped me become a better teacher.

Final Thoughts

25+ sessions.
Countless memories.
One big lesson: Learning and teaching are two sides of the same journey.

I walked in as a coder.
I walked out as a mentor.

And I can’t wait for what’s next.

Thanks to Stanford University’s Code in Place for creating a global learning space built on kindness and community. Grateful to the amazing mentors, students, and the spirit of giving back that made this journey unforgettable. Whether you’re passionate about teaching, coding, or building a better world through tech, this experience is proof that learning has no borders.

#Stanford #CodeInPlace #Mentorship #Python #Teaching #TechForGood #GlobalLearning #CSEducation #LearnToCode #TeachToCode #GrowthMindset #1on1Mentoring #CodingCommunity #Gratitude #PakistanToStanford #FutureOfLearning

Alhamdulillah, it’s an incredible honor for me.

🎓 Introduction

What started in a humble classroom at Government College University, Faisalabad, where I was often asked, “What can you do?” has led me to a role that I never imagined possible, becoming a Section Leader Mentor for Stanford University’s Code in Place 2025.

Code in Place is a global initiative designed by Professors Chris Piech and Mehran Sahami, where thousands of learners from around the world come together to learn Python. And this year, I’ve been given the incredible honor of guiding and mentoring these students, helping them take their very first steps into programming.

💡 The Power of Teaching

One of the biggest lessons I’ve embraced is that teaching is one of the most powerful ways to grow, lead, and give back.

Over the past few months, I’ve faced some challenges behind the scenes. I’ve recorded the same video explanation multiple times:

• Once, I forgot to share my screen.
• Another time, the audio was not clear.
• Sometimes, the background noise wasn’t ideal.

But each time, I kept going because students deserve the best and I wanted to ensure that they not only learned but gained confidence in their abilities.

🌍 Why Code in Place Matters

Code in Place is more than just an online course. It’s about human connection and real-time mentorship. Stanford’s model is built around 1:1 mentorship, where students get direct support from mentors. This is not just an academic experience, it’s a chance to make learning personal and meaningful.

Being able to click the “Teach Now” button and instantly connect with a student who needs help is incredibly rewarding. Helping students debug their code, reviewing their assignments, or simply reassuring them when they feel stuck , these moments are what make this role so special.

🇵🇰 From Faisalabad to the World

As someone from Pakistan, I’ve faced many challenges along the way. From an unstable internet connection to a lack of mentorship in tech, I’ve had to overcome many obstacles. But now, being part of a global learning community, I’m more committed than ever to serving others through knowledge and helping bridge the gap in tech education.

There are times when I still struggle:

• The IDE doesn’t always cooperate.
• I review questions multiple times to make sure I explain them clearly.
• Sometimes I doubt myself when I feel like I could do better.

But these challenges are part of growth, and I’ve learned to embrace them.

🤝 Gratitude to My Mentors

None of this would be possible without the support of those who believed in me:

• Chris Piech and Mehran Sahami for creating this incredible, inclusive program.
• Zafar Shahid, PhD, and Rizwan Ghaffar for their ongoing guidance.
• The iCodeGuru community, which has been a constant source of inspiration.
• Friends like Muhammad Mubashir, Muskaan, Ayesha Aslam, Shahzil Imran, and Ahmad Jajja, for organizing sessions that connect learners with global opportunities.
• UsMaN Khalil and Noman Mazhar, whose constructive feedback has kept me growing.
• Amal Academy, which helped shape my professional and leadership journey.

Their support and mentorship have made all the difference, and I am incredibly grateful for each one of them.

🐍 Python with Purpose

To me, Python is not just a programming language — it’s a way of thinking. It helps us solve problems, be creative, and learn to think logically. But more importantly, it builds confidence.

Every time I help a student understand a concept or solve a coding challenge, I see their confidence grow. That’s the real value of this mentorship: helping others feel empowered in their learning journey.

🚀 Closing Thoughts

Whether you are just starting your coding journey or are already teaching others, know this: knowledge shared is never knowledge lost. We all have something to offer, no matter where we come from or what challenges we face.

I’m truly honored to be part of Code in Place 2025. This journey is about more than just coding. It’s about creating a community, building confidence, and making a global impact.

Let’s continue to code, lead, and create a better future together!

🌟 Special Thanks to Everyone Who Made This Possible:

• Chris Piech & Mehran Sahami for creating such an inclusive and thoughtful program.
• iCodeGuru for always guiding us.
• Zafar Shahid, PhD, and Rizwan Ghaffar for their mentorship.
• Muhammad Mubashir, Muskaan, Ayesha Aslam, Shahzil Imran, and Ahmad Jajja for connecting learners to global opportunities.
• UsMaN Khalil and Noman Mazhar for their continuous feedback and encouragement.
• Amal Academy for shaping my professional journey.

Let’s code, lead, and create a better future together!

#CodeInPlace #Stanford #Python #Teaching #GlobalLearning #Mentorship #iCodeGuru #TechForGood #PakistaniInTech #UmairAzmat #Alhamdulillah

The Aspire Leaders Program, founded at Harvard University, is a prestigious global initiative that brings together aspiring leaders from across the world. This year, over 25,000 applicants from 195+ countries joined the program, and I was honored to be among the 5,979 finalists who successfully completed it.

This experience was more than just a leadership program; it was a transformational journey that enhanced my self-awareness, communication, and leadership skills. Below, I share my key takeaways from each module.

Module 1: Foundations of Leadership

The first module focused on understanding leadership from a personal and professional perspective.

Key Takeaways

• Self-awareness as a Leadership Foundation
• The Big Five Personality Test provided deep insights into my strengths, particularly in extraversion, openness, and agreeableness.
• Career Development and Personal Branding
• I refined my resume, LinkedIn profile, and self-introduction, ensuring a strong professional identity.
• Defining My Leadership Path
• Through self-reflection and discussions, I gained clarity on my long-term aspirations in technology, AI, management, and mentorship.

This module reinforced that leadership is not about titles but about mindset, initiative, and impact.

Module 2: Leadership in Action

The second module expanded on the foundational lessons by introducing practical applications of leadership in different contexts.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership Through Self-Awareness and Contextual Intelligence
• Before leading others, it is essential to understand oneself and the environment.
• Trust and Collaboration as Drivers of Change
• Effective leadership is built on trust, teamwork, and collective effort.
• Digital Transformation and AI as Leadership Tools
• Technology is not just about innovation but also about impacting lives and driving change.
• Developing a Community Impact Project
• I worked on a community project proposal focused on leveraging technology to improve education access in underserved areas.

This module emphasized that leadership is about taking initiative, inspiring action, and driving meaningful impact.

Completion and Certification

Successfully completing the Aspire Leaders Program was a significant milestone. This experience equipped me with critical thinking, leadership strategies, and a global network of changemakers.

What I Gained

• Stronger professional and personal branding
• Valuable mentorship from Harvard faculty and global experts
• Enhanced skills in communication, collaboration, and innovation
• A clear roadmap for my career in technology, AI, and leadership

Final Recognition and Reflection

Receiving the final acknowledgment from the Aspire Institute was a moment of pride and reflection. This program was not just about learning — it was about applying knowledge to create real-world change.

Looking Ahead

The journey does not end here. I am committed to continuous learning, innovation, and making an impact in the fields of technology, AI, and leadership.

I am grateful to the Aspire Institute, Harvard faculty, and my fellow participants for this incredible experience. This program has shaped my perspective on leadership and strengthened my ability to drive meaningful change.

Conclusion

The Aspire Leaders Program was a transformative experience that enhanced my leadership abilities and expanded my vision for the future. I look forward to applying these insights in my professional journey and continuing to contribute to positive change.

If you are passionate about leadership, technology, and impact-driven initiatives, let’s connect and collaborate.

👋 I’m Umair Azmat — a Software Engineer, MERN Stack & Generative AI Developer, Tech Trainer, and Hackathon Enthusiast.

📌 Follow me for insights on coding, AI, leadership, and problem-solving.

♻️ If this post resonates with you, share it to inspire others to prepare for future challenges!

#AspireLeadersProgram #Leadership #AI #DigitalTransformation #GrowthMindset #Harvard #AspireInstitute

I still remember the moment I discovered the potential of AI. It wasn’t just about fancy algorithms or futuristic robots, it was about solving real-world problems and shaping the future. And now, with Generative AI taking the lead in 2025, the possibilities are endless.

Generative AI is everywhere, automating workflows, enhancing creativity, and redefining industries. It’s no longer a distant reality. It’s the trend of today and the foundation of tomorrow. Staying ahead in this AI-driven revolution is no longer a choice; it’s a necessity.

This is where the NextGen AI Hackathon comes in.

📅 Date: February 1, 2025
💰 Prize: 500,000 PKR
🎯 Focus: Generative AI innovation

If you’re passionate about creating something impactful, this is your chance to shine.

But there’s more happening in Pakistan.

Muhammad Irfan has launched the Tech Emergency, a groundbreaking initiative to address our nation’s challenges with technology. This movement is rallying innovators, developers, and problem-solvers to contribute their skills for a better future.

And then there’s Hisham Sarwar, whose relentless motivation inspires tech enthusiasts to dream big, innovate boldly, and leave their mark.

These initiatives are more than just events — they’re milestones in shaping Pakistan’s tech landscape.

So, here’s my question to you: Are you ready to be part of this transformation?

Whether it’s through hackathons, community contributions, or learning cutting-edge skills like Generative AI, the time to act is now.

Join the hackathon. Contribute to the Tech Emergency. And be part of Pakistan’s tech revolution.

P.S. I’m Umair Azmat, a software developer, MERN stack & Generative AI tech trainer from Lahore, Pakistan.

I believe in pushing boundaries, building innovative solutions, and helping others unlock their potential.

📌 Follow me for insights on AI, Web Development, and problem-solving.
♻️ Share this post to inspire others to take the leap into the future.

Reflecting on a transformative year of professional achievements, groundbreaking projects, and personal growth in the tech industry.

As 2024 comes to an end, I take a moment to reflect on a year that has been filled with transformative experiences, professional milestones, and personal development. This recap highlights the key achievements that shaped both my career and personal growth, showcasing the innovations and collaborations that defined 2024.

1. Professional Milestones

In 2024, I strengthened my role as a Software Engineer and Tech Leader, embracing new opportunities to innovate and inspire. Key professional highlights include:

Trainer & Moderator at iCodeGuru: I had the privilege of mentoring aspiring tech professionals, helping them build foundational skills for success. My experience as a trainer also kept me connected to the latest industry trends, enhancing my own understanding of essential concepts.

Hackathon Wins and AI Projects: Participating in and winning several prestigious international hackathons allowed me to apply my expertise in Generative AI and Large Language Models. Projects such as IELTS Bands Master, Rescure, and Study Savvy were born out of these events, providing innovative solutions in the fields of education, healthcare, and personal learning.

Powersoft19: Over the course of a year at Powersoft19, I further honed my software development and AI skills, gaining valuable insights into both product development and advanced technology applications.

2. Key Projects and Innovations

2024 was marked by the development of impactful projects that blended technical expertise with real-world application. Noteworthy projects included:

IELTS Bands Master: An AI-powered tool for evaluating IELTS Writing Task 2, offering personalized feedback on grammar, vocabulary, and coherence. This project aims to help students improve their writing efficiency and accuracy.

Rescure: An AI-based first-aid assistant that analyzes accident scenes and provides real-time, tailored guidance. By leveraging computer vision and AI, Rescure aims to revolutionize emergency response and improve outcomes.

Study Savvy: An AI-powered study planner designed to generate personalized learning schedules for students. This project demonstrated the potential of Generative AI to enhance productivity and learning outcomes.

Earth Green Pulse: An environmental project focused on visualizing CO₂ emissions through interactive maps and graphs. This initiative highlighted the urgent need for global action against climate change, using data visualization to inspire awareness.

Bottle Buddies: A community project centered on environmental sustainability. We transformed plastic waste into bird water stations, recycling over 50 products and promoting eco-consciousness among local students.

3. Certifications and Skills Development

In 2024, I made it a priority to expand my knowledge through certifications and specialized training, including:

Code Matrix (University of California, Berkeley): A certification in Problem Solving, enhancing my ability to approach complex challenges in software development.

Pak Angels Gen AI Cohort 2: A specialized program that focused on Streamlit and Python, helping me build AI-powered applications with greater efficiency.

Google Soft Skills Program: I completed training in key areas like Communication, Time Management, and Teamwork — skills that have strengthened my leadership abilities.

4. Hackathon Achievements

Hackathons were a cornerstone of my professional growth in 2024. Some notable hackathons I participated in include:

Galactic Problem Solver: As part of the winning team in the NASA Space Apps Challenge, we worked on innovative solutions to challenges in space exploration.

GPT4o: Code & Conquer Hackathon: A competition where I applied my skills in Generative AI to develop impactful solutions.

Generative AI Hackathon with IBM Watsonx: I collaborated with a talented team to develop AI-driven solutions using IBM Watsonx, further refining my skills in AI application development.

These experiences not only sharpened my technical expertise but also allowed me to collaborate with innovators from around the world.

5. Personal Growth and Reflection

Beyond my professional achievements, 2024 was also a year of significant personal development. Highlights of this journey include:

Amal Academy Career Prep Fellowship: This fellowship helped me grow as a leader, developing essential skills in project management, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

PAFLA Membership: Being part of the Pakistan Freelancers Association allowed me to connect with fellow freelancers and industry professionals, keeping me grounded in the ever-evolving tech world.

Mentorship and Community Involvement: I made it a priority to mentor the next generation of developers, engaging with students and professionals to share knowledge and foster collaboration.

6. Volunteer Work and Community Impact

A fulfilling aspect of 2024 was the opportunity to give back to my community through impactful projects:

Bottle Buddies: Leading this project allowed me to work with local students, educating them on sustainability and recycling. Over 50 plastic products were transformed into bird water stations, contributing to Lahore’s environmental sustainability efforts.

Edhi Foundation Fundraising: As part of my Amal Academy fellowship, I successfully led a fundraising campaign for the Edhi Foundation, demonstrating the power of community-driven efforts to create positive social change.

7. Looking Forward to 2025

As 2024 concludes, I am excited about the future. The experiences of this year have set a solid foundation, and I am ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities in 2025. My goal remains the same: to continue innovating, learning, and creating projects that have a meaningful impact.

Final Thoughts

2024 has been about more than just achievements. It has been a year of personal and professional growth, filled with challenges, lessons, and the support of a vibrant community. As I look ahead to 2025, I remain committed to my journey of learning, leadership, and innovation.

• Umair Azmat
• Umair Azmat

https://www.linkedin.com/in/umairazmat/

#2024Recap #PersonalGrowth #Hackathons #AIInnovation #CommunityImpact #Sustainability #Leadership

The Problem

Koko loves to eat bananas. There are n piles of bananas, the ith pile has piles[i] bananas. The guards have gone and will come back in h hours.

Koko can decide her bananas-per-hour eating speed of k. Each hour, she chooses some pile of bananas and eats k bananas from that pile. If the pile has less than k bananas, she eats all of them instead and will not eat any more bananas during this hour.

Koko likes to eat slowly but still wants to finish eating all the bananas before the guards return.

Return the minimum integer k such that she can eat all the bananas within h hours.

Example 1:

Input: piles = [3,6,7,11], h = 8
Output: 4

Example 2:

Input: piles = [30,11,23,4,20], h = 5
Output: 30

Example 3:

Input: piles = [30,11,23,4,20], h = 6
Output: 23

Constraints:

• 1 <= piles.length <= 104
• piles.length <= h <= 109
• 1 <= piles[i] <= 109

Solution:

import math

class Solution:
    def minEatingSpeed(self, piles, h):
        # Set the initial search range for the eating speed
        left, right = 1, max(piles)

        # Perform binary search to find the minimum speed
        while left <= right:
            # Calculate the midpoint speed to test
            mid = (left + right) // 2
            
            # Calculate the total hours needed to finish at speed 'mid'
            total_hours = sum(math.ceil(pile / mid) for pile in piles)

            # If total hours are within the allowed hours, try a smaller speed
            if total_hours <= h:
                right = mid - 1  # Search for a smaller speed
            else:
                left = mid + 1  # Increase speed since current speed is too slow

        # Return the minimum speed found that allows Koko to finish in 'h' hours
        return left

Method:

Binary Search: Search between 1 and max(piles) to find the minimum speed kkk.

Total Hours Calculation: For each speed, compute the total hours needed using math.ceil(pile/k).

Complexity:

Time Complexity: 𝑂(𝑛log(max(piles)))
Space Complexity: 𝑂(1)

Explanation:

Imports:

import math: Imports the math module to use mathematical functions like ceil()

Class Definition:

class Solution: Defines a class named Solution that contains the method minEatingSpeed.

Method Definition:

def minEatingSpeed(self, piles, h): Defines the method that takes two parameters:

piles: A list of integers representing the number of bananas in each pile.

h: An integer representing the total hours available for eating.

Binary Search Setup:

left, right = 1, max(piles): Initializes the search range for the eating speed, starting from 1 (minimum possible speed) to max(piles) (maximum bananas in a pile).

Binary Search Loop:

while left <= right: Continues the loop until the search range is exhausted.

mid = (left + right) // 2: Calculates the midpoint speed to test.

Total Hours Calculation:

total_hours = sum(math.ceil(pile / mid) for pile in piles): Computes the total hours required to eat all bananas at the current speed mid using a generator expression. The math.ceil() function rounds up the division result to account for partial piles.

Adjusting the Search Range:

if total_hours <= h:

If the total hours needed is less than or equal to h, it means the speed is feasible, so it tries for a smaller speed by adjusting right to mid - 1.

else: If total_hours exceeds h, it increases the speed by adjusting left to mid + 1.

Return Result:

return left: After the loop, the variable left will contain the minimum speed required to eat all the bananas within h hours, which is returned as the result.

Connect with me on:

Medium: https://medium.com/@umairazmatt
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/umairazmat/
GitHub: https://github.com/umairazmat
Email: hello@umairazmat.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umairazmatt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/umairazmatt
LeetCode: https://leetcode.com/u/umairazmat/
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Website: https://umairazmat.com/

I want to take you on a little journey today. A journey that began with a simple yet powerful idea: Just Start. It’s funny how something so small can push you toward something much bigger, isn’t it?

For me, that “something bigger” was the decision to finally dive into the world of freelancing on Fiverr.

Let’s rewind a bit. A few months ago, I was standing at a crossroads, staring at the different paths my career could take. I’ve always been passionate about coding — building things from scratch, solving complex problems, and creating something tangible out of mere lines of code.

But there was this nagging thought at the back of my mind: Why not share these skills with a wider audience? Why not help others build their dreams?

That’s when I remembered the AMAL Principle: Just Start. No more waiting for the perfect moment or the stars to align. It was time to take action.

Who Am I?

I’m Umair Azmat, a software engineer by trade, but more than that, I’m a problem-solver at heart. My journey into the world of technology began with a degree in Software Engineering, where I immersed myself in the art of coding. From the #front-end intricacies of #ReactJS and #NextJs to the #back-end logic of #Nodejs and #ExpressJs, I’ve spent years mastering the #full stack.

But my learning didn’t stop there. I dove into WordPress development, enabling me to build dynamic websites for clients with varying needs. Along the way, I also discovered a passion for teaching, and I’ve had the privilege of training over 400 students in the tech field.

Now, I’m expanding my horizons even further, delving into the worlds of Python, AI, and Machine Learning. But at the core of everything I do is a simple philosophy: “understand what the client needs, and deliver results that exceed their expectations.”

Why Freelance?

For me, freelancing is about more than just building websites or writing code. It’s about creating something meaningful — something that has a real impact on someone’s business or life. It’s about being a trusted partner in someone else’s success story. That’s why I decided to take my skills to Fiverr, a platform that allows me to connect with clients from all over the world and help bring their visions to life.

Check Out My Gig

So here it is, the culmination of months of planning, coding, and a whole lot of learning: my first Fiverr gig!

If you’re looking for a full-stack developer who can build a MERN stack website tailored to your needs, I’m your guy. Whether it’s a sleek front-end using React and NextJs, or a robust back-end with Nodejs and MongoDB, I’ve got you covered.

View My Gig: Build a MERN Stack Website

https://www.fiverr.com/umair_azmat/build-a-mern-stack-website-with-react-nextjs-nodejs-expressjs-and-mongodb

Fiverr Profile: Umair Azmat on Fiverr

https://www.fiverr.com/umair_azmat

Looking Ahead

Starting this Fiverr journey has been an exciting adventure, and it’s only the beginning. I’m looking forward to the projects, the challenges, and most importantly, the success stories that lie ahead. So, here’s to new beginnings, to just starting, and to all the amazing things we’re going to build together.

Joining my first international hackathon was thrilling! Thanks to the @iCodeGuru community and @Zafar Shahid, PhD, for inspiring me to take this step. Here’s a snapshot of my experience:

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭:
FigFinder — Group Travel Calendar App

𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦:
↳ Wilson Phiri: Computer Scientist
↳ Anas ⚡️: Software Engineer
↳ Ankita Sharma: AI/ML Lead
↳ Unnath Chittimalla: Developer
↳ Pranavi M: Developer
↳ Umair Azmat: Software Engineer

𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐏𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐬:
⇢ Overview: Simplifies group travel planning with shared calendars.
⇢ Tech Stack: Streamlit, LangChain, Vercel, AI/ML API, IBM Granite.
⇢ AI Scheduling: Finds the best travel dates for everyone.
⇢ Collaborative: Builds itineraries together.
⇢ Amal Impact: The principles of teamwork, taking the first step, and showing gratitude were key.

𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤:
“Good job, team FigFinder. Your product can help many travelers. Great presentation!” — @Paulo Almeida

𝐏.𝐒: To anyone considering joining a hackathon — just start, take that first step! Embrace the journey, show gratitude, and work together. The experience is worth it!

I’m Umair Azmat. I am an expert software engineer specializing in the MERN stack, ReactJS, Next.js, WordPress, and WooCommerce. I also excel in AI/ML and data science solutions. With a proven track record of success, I’m here to help you achieve your goals. Let’s work together!

𝓛𝓮𝓽’𝓼 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓷𝓮𝓬𝓽!

• UmairAzmat | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree
• Umair Azmat on LinkedIn: #hackathon #icodeguru #international #amalacademy #tech #ai #ml #software...

#hackathon #icodeguru #international #amalacademy #tech #AI #ML #software #teamwork #journey #growth #motivation #learning #travelsolutions #grouptravel #appdevelopment #MERN #ReactJS #Nextjs #WordPress #WooCommerce #softwareengineer

Reflecting on our last fellowship session, “Taking Flight 🕊,” I am filled with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. Our journey together has been nothing short of transformative.

A Memorable Day at Liberty

We started our day bright and early, meeting at Liberty Bundu Khan at 9 AM on a Sunday. It was a testament to our dedication and eagerness to connect. After a hearty breakfast, we moved to the park at Liberty, where the real magic began.

Connecting and Creating

We engaged in exciting activities, such as building the Amal Tree with our fingerprints and colors. It was a beautiful, collaborative effort that symbolized our unity and growth. The pottery session that followed was equally engaging, and I participated with enthusiasm, adding my touch to the collective creation.

Inspiring Words and Lasting Memories

The highlight of the day was the speeches by Mam Urooj and Mam Kamal. Mam Urooj reminded us of the importance of hard work and taking care of our health. Her words were a powerful reminder to stay committed and balanced in our pursuits. Mam Kamal shared a heartfelt poem, capturing the essence of our journey at Amal Academy.

Creating Memories

We ended the day by taking group pictures, sharing smiles, and making videos. These moments captured our camaraderie and the bonds we’ve built. Finally, we departed to our homes, carrying with us the memories of a wonderful day.

The Importance of Emotional Upliftment

Talking and connecting without the pressure of work was refreshing. It underscored the importance of emotional upliftment. Engaging in activities just for our well-being helps recharge our spirits and strengthens our bonds. These moments are crucial for maintaining a positive outlook and mental health.

Staying Connected with My Amal Family

I plan to keep in touch with my Amal Family through regular meet-ups, virtual hangouts, and active participation in our group chats. These connections are invaluable, and I am committed to nurturing them.

Applying Fellowship Learnings in Future Life

The lessons from this fellowship will guide me in my future endeavors. From Mam Urooj, I learned the importance of personalization and effective communication. This will help me build strong relationships in my personal and professional life. From Mam Kamal, I learned to maintain a positive attitude and smile, no matter the stress or workload. This resilience will be my strength in challenging times.

Future Impact

For instance, in my career, I will focus on clear communication and understanding my team members, just as I did with my Amal Family. I will also adopt a positive attitude, inspired by Mam Kamal, to uplift those around me.

Conclusion

Our last session, “Taking Flight 🕊,” was a beautiful reminder of the power of connection and the importance of emotional upliftment. The lessons I have learned from this fellowship will continue to shape my future. Thank you, Amal Family, for this incredible journey.

When I was filling out the application form for the Amal Career Prep Fellowship, I had many questions in my mind:

Will I be able to continue it with my full-time job as a software engineer?

Will I be able to do justice to my fellowship along with my work and tough schedule?

Can I avail this opportunity and see it through to the end?

However, there was one thing I was sure of; I knew that I wanted and needed to do this fellowship. So, I didn’t let go of my wish and joined Amal Academy.

During the first two weeks, my experience was filled with excitement and doubt. In the first week, when I entered the session room and heard the announcement, I was surprised to learn that I was the PW1 winner.

I received an Amal diary with the four Amal principles: “Amal,” “Khudi,” “Kam, kam, kam,” and “Aik or aik giara.” My excitement doubled. But alongside this excitement, I had to manage my full-time job and the demands of the fellowship, which often felt overwhelming.

Despite the challenges, I pushed through. Every time I completed an online session or project work, I felt a positive energy running through me. Reflecting on this journey, which is nearing its end, I realize how much I have grown. Over the three months with Amal, I learned the importance of having a growth mindset, accepting constructive feedback, and showing gratitude.

One of the most significant changes I experienced was in decision-making. I used to overthink and overplan, but through Amal, I learned about SMART goals and how to set and achieve them. I now have a five-year plan, a one-year plan, and a three-month plan. I am proud to say that I am about to launch my website, devlotech.com, a tech startup. Additionally, the mega project ‘Bottle Buddies’ changed my perspective on civic responsibility. Instead of just criticizing politicians, I started taking action myself, working twice on improving the environmental conditions in Lahore and Pakistan.

My journey at Amal Academy has been transformative. It not only helped me reflect on my past experiences but also equipped me with the tools to navigate my future. The lessons I learned about growth mindset, gratitude, and setting SMART goals are invaluable. As I prepare to graduate from the fellowship, I am filled with optimism and confidence in my ability to achieve my dreams.

By following the SOS method, I was able to reflect deeply on my experiences, identify the obstacles I faced, and outline the solutions that helped me grow. This project has not only allowed me to share my journey creatively but also to inspire others to embrace their own paths of self-discovery and growth.

A special thank you goes to Mam Urooj, our Program Manager, for her guidance and support throughout the fellowship. I am also grateful to Mam Kamal, our Program Associate, for her dedication and assistance. Finally, I want to thank my amazing Batch 311 at GCU Lahore for making this journey even more special.