Humans of Ycenter — III
An Interview with Mohd. Faraz — a backend engineer at Ycenter.
What got you into this field?
Before enrolling in my undergraduate program, I had little exposure to computers due to financial constraints during my childhood. It wasn’t until I began my undergraduate studies that I had my first personal computer.
My parents had to borrow money to afford both the computer and my college admission.
During my formative years, my approach to studying was solely focused on achieving high academic scores. I had a natural aptitude for academics, which eventually played a significant role in shaping my career path. I excelled in my studies and developed a habit of memorizing information thoroughly.
Necessity played a vital role in determining my career path. While I could have pursued various job options such as marketing or business management, I chose a career in programming to create something significant. Unable to pursue a master’s degree, I joined a small company as a PHP Developer to meet financial requirements at home. This decision proved instrumental in accelerating my journey in the tech world.
During my time as a PHP Developer, I honed my skills and gained valuable experience. This job served as a stepping stone, and I eventually found myself working as a technical lead at Ycenter. This career choice has not only fulfilled my financial responsibilities but has also allowed me to continue building and contributing to the tech industry. Each day presents new challenges that I eagerly tackle, using my skills to solve problems and make a positive impact. With the knowledge I’ve gained, I take pride in knowing that I can contribute to building a better digital future for people and create meaningful solutions for a wide range of challenges.
My college was not conducive to effective learning, and I struggled to grasp concepts initially. It felt like I was back in the familiar routine of studying just like I did up to the 12th grade. However, after completing my first semester in college, I gained access to the internet, which transformed my learning experience. The internet became my primary source of knowledge, and I used it extensively to enhance my understanding of the tech world. I learned from blogs and YouTube videos, with my favorite learning website being W3Schools, which helped me clarify coding concepts in web development. The internet was my gateway to a new world, allowing me to build something meaningful in this ever-evolving tech landscape.
Do you have a role model? Why did you pick them?
In the tech industry, role models often play a crucial role in guiding one’s career. However, my journey took a different route; I didn’t have a specific role model. Instead, I discovered my inspiration through unconventional sources — the internet and tech movies.
Growing up with limited access to computers due to financial constraints, my thirst for knowledge led me to explore the vast world of the internet. Online resources, including blogs, YouTube tutorials, and platforms like W3Schools, became my virtual mentors. Through self-directed learning, I absorbed coding concepts and developed my skills.
Beyond the web, tech movies like “The Social Network” and “The Imitation Game” provided an unexpected source of motivation. These films portrayed tech pioneers who reshaped the world through innovation, inspiring me to follow a similar path.
My choice of a tech career wasn’t driven by emulating a role model; it stemmed from genuine fascination. The digital realm offered boundless possibilities, motivating me to create, learn, and adapt.
What are a few things in your personal life that you bring to work?
My personal life has significantly shaped my professional journey in ways that continue to inspire and drive my work.
1. The Late Introduction to Technology
My entry into the digital world didn’t happen until I turned 18, owing to the limitations of technology during my childhood. This experience instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of technology and the ability to start anew at any age. It reinforced the value of determination in bridging knowledge gaps and adapting to new challenges, which I carry into my professional life.
2. The Habit of Continuous Learning
Studying technology through the internet became a personal habit I’ve nurtured. This love for learning has a significant impact on my professional endeavors. It fuels my constant pursuit of knowledge to enhance my skills and remain current in the fast-evolving tech landscape. The thirst for knowledge, I believe, is the driving force behind personal and professional growth.
3. Influence of Tech Movies
Tech-themed movies hold a special place in my personal life, offering inspiration through narratives that blend technology and humanity to create a better world. These stories motivate me to view my work as more than just a job; it’s a means to contribute positively to society. They serve as a reminder of the transformative impact technology can have on improving lives.
4. Passion for Education and Manufacturing
Growing up, I missed opportunities for education and skill development outside the realm of academics. This fuels my determination to build solutions that bridge educational gaps for children, preparing them for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.
Additionally, observing my father’s manufacturing business, which has excelled in manually producing embroidered machines for 35 years, yet struggled with scaling and managing the supply chain, has spurred me to work on solutions empowering small manufacturers. I aim to simplify processes and expand their businesses.
In conclusion, my personal experiences, from a delayed introduction to technology to a habit of continuous learning and a fervent passion for education and manufacturing, all contribute to my professional ethos. These experiences remind me of the value of resilience, the importance of curiosity, and the potential of technology to transform lives. They motivate me not only to excel in my career but also to make a positive impact in the world through technology and education.
What are the top 2 problems you think you can solve with code?
In the world of technology, I firmly believe that code is a powerful tool for addressing critical issues and driving positive change. Two problems I am particularly passionate about solving with code are:
1. Bridging Educational Gaps
My personal journey, as discussed in the articles, involved overcoming limitations in access to technology and education. This experience has fueled my determination to create solutions that bridge educational gaps. With code, I envision developing educational platforms and applications that provide accessible, high-quality learning resources for underserved communities.
These platforms would adapt to individual learning styles, making education more engaging and effective. By leveraging technology, we can ensure that no child is left behind and that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world.
2. Empowering Small Manufacturers
My observations of my father’s manufacturing business, which faced challenges in scaling and managing the supply chain, have inspired me to seek solutions that empower small manufacturers. Through code-driven innovations, I envision creating software systems that streamline manufacturing processes, from production to client sales and solutions. These solutions would simplify operations, enhance efficiency, and enable small manufacturers to compete on a larger scale. By doing so, I aim to revitalize local manufacturing sectors and empower individuals like my father to continue pursuing their craft while thriving as successful business owners.
In conclusion, I believe that code is a catalyst for solving pressing issues and driving positive change. By focusing on bridging educational gaps and empowering small manufacturers, I hope to leverage my coding skills to make a meaningful impact on individuals and communities, creating a better and more equitable future for all.
How did Ycenter help you so far in your career and where do you go from here?
Ycenter has played a pivotal role in my personal and professional development, providing me with invaluable insights and experiences that have shaped my career trajectory.
1. Human-Centered Solutions
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned at Ycenter is the importance of building human-centered solutions. Ycenter has instilled in me the understanding that real impact is achieved when we prioritize the needs and experiences of individuals. This philosophy has influenced my approach to problem-solving, inspiring me to develop solutions that are not just technically sound but also deeply resonate with people.
2. Communication Skills
Ycenter has been instrumental in helping me improve my communication skills. Growing up, I faced challenges in this area due to limited interaction with peers. Ycenter’s collaborative environment has allowed me to work closely with a diverse team, fostering effective communication.
3. A Broader Worldview
Ycenter has broadened my perspective on the world and how we can contribute to making it better. It has encouraged me to think critically about the solutions we develop and the impact they have on society. This broader worldview has fueled my passion for creating meaningful and sustainable change.
4. Agriculture and Experiential Learning
Working on the AGRA project for multiple African governments through Ycenter has underscored the significance of agriculture in addressing global challenges.
Together with my team, we developed the AGRA portal, aimed at improving agricultural processes through policy management. Currently, we are in the testing stage, with the potential to make a substantial impact in the agricultural sector.
Ycenter’s emphasis on Experiential Learning as a transformative tool aligns with my passion for bridging educational disparities.
Future Aspirations
From here, I aspire to continue my journey of personal and professional growth. Ycenter has provided me with a strong foundation, and I plan to build upon this by further honing my skills, expanding my impact in human-centered solutions, and contributing to the fields of agriculture and education.
My goal is to make a lasting difference by creating solutions that address pressing global challenges while remaining dedicated to the principles I’ve learned at Ycenter — the power of people-centric innovation, effective communication, and a broader perspective on building a better world.
