<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/"><channel><title><![CDATA[A South African Geek Culture]]></title><description><![CDATA[Stories on what the Geeks from across the country are up to, stay informed.]]></description><link>https://gatsby.ghost.org/</link><image><url>https://gatsby.ghost.org/favicon.png</url><title>A South African Geek Culture</title><link>https://gatsby.ghost.org/</link></image><generator>Ghost 2.9</generator><lastBuildDate>Sun, 06 Oct 2019 17:47:01 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://gatsby.ghost.org/rss/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><ttl>60</ttl><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Kagiso Maloma]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Kagiso Maloma, Founder and CEO at Genius Level
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By profession he's a CGMA (Chartere]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-kagiso-maloma/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d158a86d65286039c978c8f</guid><category><![CDATA[social]]></category><category><![CDATA[kagiso]]></category><category><![CDATA[mzansi]]></category><category><![CDATA[memes]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 28 Jun 2019 04:04:24 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/kagiso-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/kagiso-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Kagiso Maloma"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetkagisomalomafounderandceoatgeniuslevel">Meet Kagiso Maloma, Founder and CEO at Genius Level</h3>
<hr>
<p>By profession he's a CGMA (Chartered Global Management Accountant), and by night a startup tech entrepreneur, with a focus on building large online communities to help connect like-minded individuals.</p>
<p>He founded his company Genius Level back in 2014, the initial business was an online blog which serves as an ideas hub were anyone is allowed to contribute so long the content ads value.</p>
<p>Fast-forward to today, they have expanded and now have brands such as:</p>
<ol>
<li>Atimeme (A complete humor/meme social media app on Playstore, has over 18K app downloads and has been trending at #1 on the Play Store)</li>
</ol>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/kagiso-atimeme.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Kagiso Maloma"/></p>
<p>Download: <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.atimeme&hl=en">https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.atimeme&hl=en</a></p>
<ol start="2">
<li>Mzanzibiz (a black business listing platform available on IOS, Play Store & Web - launching on youth-day this month)</li>
</ol>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/kagiso-mzansibiz.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Kagiso Maloma"/></p>
<p>Checkout: <a href="https://www.mzanzibiz.com/">https://www.mzanzibiz.com/</a></p>
<ol start="3">
<li>Prohangout (a dating site for your professionals, Play store + web) and they also have social media pages with over 1 million worth of followers.</li>
</ol>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/kagiso-prodating.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Kagiso Maloma"/></p>
<p>Checkout: <a href="https://www.prohangout.com/">https://www.prohangout.com/</a></p>
<p>Currently and going forward, their plan is to get more geeks on their team, secure funding to help take their startup to the next level, expand continental outreach in terms of our platforms, add awesome features & improve security on their apps.</p>
<p>They are going big - and hope to add to and change the tech space in SA for the better - and in the process inspiring others by making them see that its possible.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Let Your Ideas Outlive You</p>
<ul>
<li>www.geniuslevels.com</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Kagiso</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/geniuslevelmag">https://www.twitter.com/geniuslevelmag</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kagiso-maloma-acma-cgma-8587b951">https://www.linkedin.com/in/kagiso-maloma-acma-cgma-8587b951</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Zakia Salod]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Zakia Salod, Software Developer at African Teen Geeks
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zakia Salod is a Software De]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-zakia-salod/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d144ab1d65286039c978c87</guid><category><![CDATA[software]]></category><category><![CDATA[dev]]></category><category><![CDATA[machine learning]]></category><category><![CDATA[zakia]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 27 Jun 2019 05:10:57 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/zakia-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/zakia-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Zakia Salod"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetzakiasalodsoftwaredeveloperatafricanteengeeks">Meet Zakia Salod, Software Developer at African Teen Geeks</h3>
<hr>
<p>Zakia Salod is a Software Developer from Durban, Southern Africa. She obtained her BSc Computer Science and Information Technology degree and a BCom Honours in Information Technology (Cum Laude) degree from UKZN Westville campus.</p>
<p>She believes that majority of the world problems can be addressed via Technology, especially the synergistic use of Technology and the vast amounts of data that exists in this era.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/zakia-rec-1.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Zakia Salod"/></p>
<p>Most notably, with this being the era of the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR), programming and the more advanced Technology areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning and Robotics have the capacity to drive important and impactful changes not just in Southern Africa but globally.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/zakia-github.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Zakia Salod"/></p>
<p>Specifically, Zakia is extremely passionate about the use of Technology and it's effect and potential benefit towards the field of Medicine. She believes that the use of Technology in Medicine greatly has a probability of assisting with the eventual saving of patient's lives and this serves as a driving factor in her passion within this area.</p>
<p>Within this field, she is passionate about Machine Learning, Medical Informatics, Medicine and Bioinformatics, in addition to Programming.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Zakia took part for two Hackathons so far. She and her team was awarded first position for the Digital McKinsey Hackathon in Johannesburg in 2017. The grand prize was a trip to the Facebook F8 International Conference in the USA in 2018. Zakia and her team was placed 3rd position for the GirlCode Hackathon in Durban in 2018.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>She is also a member of the Facebook Developer Circle Group in Durban, Southern Africa. She is also a volunteer, mentor and facilitator for the Africa Teen Geeks National NPO in Southern Africa. With this initiative, she assists with teaching, mentoring and empowering disadvantaged children in the KwaZulu-Natal province of Southern Africa, on how to code.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zJvaCFWPMgg" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Zakia is also a natural Art fanatic. In addition, Zakia is a philanthropist and has a deep passion for helping others. This is in keeping with her life-long Goal of serving in the Path of The Almighty.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>And my success cannot come from any source besides God. I have put my trust in Him.</p>
<ul>
<li>(Quraan 11:88)</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Zakia</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/zaks1000">https://www.twitter.com/zaks1000</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/zakia-salod">https://www.linkedin.com/in/zakia-salod</a></li>
<li>Github: <a href="https://www.github.com/ZakiaSalod">https://www.github.com/ZakiaSalod</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Diketso Setho]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Diketso Setho, Co-Founder and Manager at GH Tech Innovation
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diketso Setho is a Sel]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-diketso-setho/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d12e6d5d65286039c978c7d</guid><category><![CDATA[diketso]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[radio]]></category><category><![CDATA[tembisa]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 26 Jun 2019 03:52:26 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/diketso-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/diketso-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Diketso Setho"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetdiketsosethocofounderandmanageratghtechinnovation">Meet Diketso Setho, Co-Founder and Manager at GH Tech Innovation</h3>
<hr>
<p>Diketso Setho is a Self-taught Web developer who grew up in the ghetto streets of Tembisa and always wearing a Sniper cap. He is currently a Co-Founder and Managing Director of Ghetto Heroes Tech Innovation(NPC) bridging a gap between computer programming and the South African young minds(#CodeTembisa).</p>
<p>Help the dream:</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/diketso-site.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Diketso Setho"/></p>
<p>He introduced coding to more than 10 schools by working with different organisation namely Code for change & Africa Kids Code. Also a mentor at an Organisation 'Lebone Rivoningo Developments'.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My online radio is finally ready for download đ <a href="https://t.co/eJCjosqKUK">pic.twitter.com/eJCjosqKUK</a></p>— Diketso_Setho (@diketso_setho) <a href="https://twitter.com/diketso_setho/status/1143227725907451909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<blockquote>
<p>Patience is the mother of all success.</p>
<ul>
<li>Unknown</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Diketso</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/diketso_setho">https://www.twitter.com/diketso_setho</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/diketso-dirkrichard/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/diketso-dirkrichard/</a></li>
<li>Github: <a href="https://www.github.com/Diketsosetho16">https://www.github.com/Diketsosetho16</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Raymond More]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Raymond More, Founder and CEO at Kasiwireless (pty) ltd
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
His company has been runni]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-raymond-more/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d1196ddd65286039c978c70</guid><category><![CDATA[raymond]]></category><category><![CDATA[wifi]]></category><category><![CDATA[networks]]></category><category><![CDATA[soweto]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 25 Jun 2019 04:04:16 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/raymond-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/raymond-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Raymond More"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetraymondmorefounderandceoatkasiwirelessptyltd">Meet Raymond More, Founder and CEO at Kasiwireless (pty) ltd</h3>
<hr>
<p>His company has been running at the Flats in soweto providing Wireless internet and very minimum cost and free to young people and students around Soweto without government support as a struggling business Kasiwireless has given wireless internet solutions in an area newly developed but they forgot the internet connection as a need of survival.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Raymond More a young man from Soweto who wants to see a fully digitised Soweto and his company at the forefront of that change not for the fame but to be the game changer</p>
</blockquote>
<p>He would like to be able to have models like his current one in Jabulani everywhere flourishing and also helping people as we doddle along.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DJSBU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DJSBU</a> support our WiFi installations solutions and online Advertising Platforms for small business and big businesses we help you make your customers aware of you <a href="https://t.co/uvJUcZHyhL">pic.twitter.com/uvJUcZHyhL</a></p>— Le Rayzza (@moreRayzzas) <a href="https://twitter.com/moreRayzzas/status/1142761935995375616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>By the country moving into the fourth industrial revolution 'we all have a part to play and without each and every one of us for filling this part we will only dinge even lower into digression'.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/giphy--2-.gif" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Raymond More"/></p>
<p>With all that said and done. Raymond believes in the next 5 years he will be part of the reason Africa has changed. Not for him but for those who follow and those who will follow them.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Alutha (the struggle continues) as it explains the everyday struggle africans have to endure just to play part in the global village to be a part of the collective to be just normal.</p>
<ul>
<li>Himself</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Raymond</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/Morerayzzas">https://www.twitter.com/Morerayzzas</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/niche-tutoring-bb047965">https://www.linkedin.com/in/niche-tutoring-bb047965</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Zanda Isaacs]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Zanda Isaacs, Founder and CEO at Ting Tang Tea
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Digital Marketing Geek in the e-c]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-zanda-isaacs/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d1036cfd65286039c978c67</guid><category><![CDATA[zanda]]></category><category><![CDATA[e-commerce]]></category><category><![CDATA[health]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 24 Jun 2019 02:57:25 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/zanda-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/zanda-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Zanda Isaacs"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetzandaisaacsfounderandceoattingtangtea">Meet Zanda Isaacs, Founder and CEO at Ting Tang Tea</h3>
<hr>
<p>A Digital Marketing Geek in the e-commerce space, her entrepreneurial endeavours began at the age of 10, selling stickers to her peers. Her pursuits journeyed with her through her schooling career where was was appointed the Head Girl of her high school.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/zanda-site.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Zanda Isaacs"/></p>
<p>This all lead her to her own tea and health company, Ting Tang Tea. Using only a computer an internet connection and her passion for health and tea, in under a year, she was able to build a reputable and sustainable brand.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>You cannot pursue greatness & comfort at the same time</p>
<ul>
<li>Todd Henry</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Zanda</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/zandaisaacs">https://www.twitter.com/zandaisaacs</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/zandaisaacs">https://www.linkedin.com/in/zandaisaacs</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Gomolemo Mohapi]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Gomolemo Mohapi, Student at the Durban University of Technology
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gomolemo Mohapi is]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-gomolemo-mohapi/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d0c7a8dd65286039c978c5a</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[gomolemo]]></category><category><![CDATA[durban]]></category><category><![CDATA[azure]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 21 Jun 2019 07:57:46 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/gomolemo-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/gomolemo-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Gomolemo Mohapi"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetgomolemomohapistudentatthedurbanuniversityoftechnology">Meet Gomolemo Mohapi, Student at the Durban University of Technology</h3>
<hr>
<p>Gomolemo Mohapi is a young, passionate Applications Development student from the Durban University of Technology with a keen interest in Microsoft tools and technologies such as C#, .Net and Microsoft Azure.</p>
<p>When he was a first year student, Gomolemo noticed a trend of students struggling with programming so he decided to develop written walkthrough guides dubbed as #GomosGuides. These guides covered DUT syllabus specific content like no other, providing comprehensive step by step tutorials around ASP.NET, Entity Framework, Android Development, etc. He now releases at least 2 guides per semester.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yesterday, I had the privilege of being invited to this year's Uber Innovation Masterclass where I gave 100 Matriculants a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MLHLocalhost?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MLHLocalhost</a> workshop on developing their first website with HTML/CSS đ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MLHacks?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MLHacks</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSFTStudentPartner?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSFTStudentPartner</a> <a href="https://t.co/GLDOVEcSo2">pic.twitter.com/GLDOVEcSo2</a></p>— Gomolemo Mohapi (@GomoMohapi) <a href="https://twitter.com/GomoMohapi/status/1140291078077276160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Gomolemo is also the only South African who is part of the Microsoft Student Partner program - a community of university students around the world with a deep interest in technology and passion for sharing their knowledge with others. Together with this program, Gomolemo hosts workshops on and off campus educating students about the latest in Azure, Bots and Cognitive Services.</p>
<p>He recently participated in the Community College Initiative program; an exchange program which is administered by the U.S Department of State, where he spent 10 months studying in the United States. He completed this program in May 2018, where he graduated from Northern Virginia Community College in Web Design and Development.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H4MliYIwJlw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>In May 2019, Gomolemo was invited to attend the annual Microsoft Build developer conference where not only did he learn about the latest technological trends to bring back home to South Africa; he teamed up with the Windows Insider Program team to launch #InsiderUp - an initiative that aims to help everybody and anybody learn how to code, no matter where they are in the world or what occupation they have.</p>
<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGeekulcha%2Fvideos%2F328752621100583%2F&show_text=1&width=560" width="560" height="489" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"/>
<p>He is always looking for new and innovative ways to share his knowledge with as many people as he can. Gomolemo would, one day, like to be known as a âcommunity developerâ; someone who not only builds great software but also someone who builds communities by upskilling their members using his âtech superpowerâ.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul</p>
<ul>
<li>William Ernest Henley</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Gomolemo</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/GomoMohapi">https://www.twitter.com/GomoMohapi</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gomomohapi">https://www.linkedin.com/in/gomomohapi</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Doreen Mokoena]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Doreen Mokoena, Internet Governance Coordinator at ZADNA
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Digital Forensics, Crimin]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-doreen-mokoena/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d0b2587d65286039c978c50</guid><category><![CDATA[security]]></category><category><![CDATA[doreen]]></category><category><![CDATA[internet]]></category><category><![CDATA[policy]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 20 Jun 2019 06:33:37 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/doreen-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/doreen-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Doreen Mokoena"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetdoreenmokoenainternetgovernancecoordinatoratzadna">Meet Doreen Mokoena, Internet Governance Coordinator at ZADNA</h3>
<hr>
<p>Digital Forensics, Criminal investigation, Policy and Regulations, Internet Governance, data privacy, and Cybersecurity are her passions. A driving force behind her undying dedication to bring together women in information security from various stakeholders for capacity building in an attempt to bridge the gender divide.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/iStock-465716918-1.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Doreen Mokoena"/></p>
<p>South Africa has a shortage of Digital forensics professionals especially black women, this may be due to the fact that the industry is still harnessing the 'not so newly' field and it seems a bit clinical to some however with awareness and mentoring a staggering penetration will be witnessed that will come with equal opportunities for employment and development.</p>
<p>In five years, she would love to own a Digital forensics firm, she's been blessed with amazing mentors and industry respected roles models, would also like to take the lead and provide similar guidance and mentorship to other women and most importantly translate policies into handbooks for ease of reference as in when needed on the go.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Meet <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SS19Hack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SS19Hack</a> IDEATHON Trainers <a href="https://twitter.com/TshimologongIT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TshimologongIT</a> this Saturday:<br><br>Ms Doreen Mokoena <a href="https://twitter.com/MokoenaDee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MokoenaDee</a> (Internet Governance Coordinator, <a href="https://twitter.com/dotZADNA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dotZADNA</a>): Emerging Threats, Counter Tools and Securing the Elites <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WomenInCyber?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WomenInCyber</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InfoSecurity?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InfoSecurity</a><br><br>JOIN US: <a href="https://t.co/orV7CR3ols">https://t.co/orV7CR3ols</a> <a href="https://t.co/4PrnuLnH44">pic.twitter.com/4PrnuLnH44</a></br></br></br></br></p>— Geekulcha: #gkVacWork Carnarvon, 24 June đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/1113000514264989696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>With the increase in cyberbullying, the handbooks will cater to teenagers who need immediate relief and legal enlightenment in an event of victimization.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.</p>
<ul>
<li>William Ernest Henley</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Doreen</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/mokoenadee">https://www.twitter.com/mokoenadee</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/doreenmokoena">https://www.linkedin.com/in/doreenmokoena</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Dan Nyabadza]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Dan Nyabadza, Head of Research at Digitech Group
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A diligent, hardworking and a wea]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-dan-nyabadza/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d09d291d65286039c978c46</guid><category><![CDATA[machine learning]]></category><category><![CDATA[dev]]></category><category><![CDATA[ai]]></category><category><![CDATA[dan]]></category><category><![CDATA[research]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 19 Jun 2019 06:39:34 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/dan-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/dan-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Dan Nyabadza"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetdannyabadzaheadofresearchatdigitechgroup">Meet Dan Nyabadza, Head of Research at Digitech Group</h3>
<hr>
<p>A diligent, hardworking and a wealth of technological insightful Geek. He has proven over the course of three years in his dedication to his work that talent alone cannot cut it.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CfxV_aM0p8M" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Turned down a fully paid british scholarship to produce a technology that has won several awards and recognition across the continent now on the route to market bagging this recognition is the only thing short on his list and a relevant candidate of stellar performance</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/dan-awards.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Dan Nyabadza"><br>
<em>Source: <a href="https://en.everybodywiki.com/DanNyabadza">https://en.everybodywiki.com/DanNyabadza</a></em></br></img></p>
<ul>
<li>The Pathfinder Smartcane Tech Hour (An online radio show)</li>
<li>Pan African Robotics Challenge (Team South Africa Coach 2018)</li>
<li>Next Einstein Forum's Challenge of the inventions (Continental final top 16 candidates)</li>
<li>Black Management Forum's Inventor of the Year 2018 (top two finalist)</li>
<li>TED-Ed licensee UN Migration Week 2018 Organizing Team (UN Major Groups for Children and Youth Thermatic team PR personnel).</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<blockquote>
<p>Amateurs call it genius, Masters call it practice.</p>
<ul>
<li>Thierry Daniel Henry</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Dan</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/SirDan007">https://www.twitter.com/SirDan007</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-nyabadza/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-nyabadza/</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Abdul Malik Tejan-Sie]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Abdul Malik Tejan-Sie, Founder at Africa School of Technology
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graduated from Durba]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-abdul-malik-tejan-sie/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d0859afd65286039c978c3d</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[developers]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[dev]]></category><category><![CDATA[malik]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 18 Jun 2019 03:47:37 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/malik-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/malik-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Abdul Malik Tejan-Sie"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetabdulmaliktejansiefounderatafricaschooloftechnology">Meet Abdul Malik Tejan-Sie, Founder at Africa School of Technology</h3>
<hr>
<p>Graduated from Durban Computer College with Cum Laude in Information Technology, uploaded his first mobile app on google play store 2014, before furthering his studies in India where he earned his CCNA, CEH, ITIL and Oracle Certification as Java Certified SE developer.</p>
<p>After years of freelancing and consulting companies around Durban, he later established Africa School of Technology.</p>
<p>Schools messenger native mobile app both mobile platforms, cbwf.org.za full-stack bursary application system used by more than 3000 students every year.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Keep working hard to improve. You can't fix mistakes of the past but you can be better in the future. Don't give up: When you make hard decisions, you get to know which values and principles you truly stand for. That alone makes the journey worth it.</p>
<ul>
<li>Himself</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Malik</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/malrozay1">https://www.twitter.com/malrozay1</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdul-malik-tejan-sie-jr-4aa685104">https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdul-malik-tejan-sie-jr-4aa685104</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Kamogelo Charmaine Thebe]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Meet Kamogelo Charmaine Thebe, Junior Software Developer at GirlCodeZA
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
She's a Junior S]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-kamogelo-charmaine-thebe/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d0727f1d65286039c978c35</guid><category><![CDATA[girlswhocode]]></category><category><![CDATA[charmaine]]></category><category><![CDATA[software]]></category><category><![CDATA[github]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 17 Jun 2019 05:56:44 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/charmaine-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/charmaine-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Kamogelo Charmaine Thebe"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="meetkamogelocharmainethebejuniorsoftwaredeveloperatgirlcodeza">Meet Kamogelo Charmaine Thebe, Junior Software Developer at GirlCodeZA</h3>
<hr>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aMMAkiWYdFo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""/>
She's a Junior Software Developer, GirlCode Volunteer and a youtuber(recently created her channel). She studied Computer Systems Engineering at the Vaal University of technology.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I know it's just a few wires but I'm not disconnecting this đ
đ€Łđit looks beautiful <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SummerDevDays?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SummerDevDays</a> <a href="https://t.co/LDwR6mppQn">pic.twitter.com/LDwR6mppQn</a></p>— kamogeloCharmaineđ»đ„ (@kamogelo142) <a href="https://twitter.com/kamogelo142/status/1069255133316464640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>She wants to be an expert at what she does so that she can be able to start an NPO that will get more disadvantaged kids into tech and coding. Kamagelo would also like to have some of her projects published and be used.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My niece learning html and css and commiting. Yeah she has a github account nowđ
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SummerDevDays?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SummerDevDays</a> <a href="https://t.co/O8f1ZtTLRl">pic.twitter.com/O8f1ZtTLRl</a></p>— kamogeloCharmaineđ»đ„ (@kamogelo142) <a href="https://twitter.com/kamogelo142/status/1068856089725288448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<blockquote>
<p>I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.</p>
<ul>
<li>THOMAS EDISON</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Kamogelo</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/kamogelo142">https://www.twitter.com/kamogelo142</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamogelo-charmaine-thebe-671b91142">https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamogelo-charmaine-thebe-671b91142</a></li>
<li>Github: <a href="https://www.github.com/KamogeloCodes">https://www.github.com/KamogeloCodes</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Tshireletso Kgabi]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Tshireletso Kgabi, Cyber Security Engineer at Performanta Group
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First in South Africa a]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-tshireletso-kgabi/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d025024d65286039c978c21</guid><category><![CDATA[infosec]]></category><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[security]]></category><category><![CDATA[tshireletso]]></category><category><![CDATA[womenincyber]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 2019 07:11:36 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/tshireletso-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/tshireletso-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Tshireletso Kgabi"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="tshireletsokgabicybersecurityengineeratperformantagroup">Tshireletso Kgabi, Cyber Security Engineer at Performanta Group</h3>
<hr>
<p>First in South Africa and Africa to be a CyberArk Delivery Engineer. The youngest female Technical security lady in PAM. Experienced Cyber Security Engineer with a demonstrated history of working in the computer and network security industry and bank industry.</p>
<p>Started off as a sales rep in Namibia and soon moved back to South Africa for varsity and became a radio presenter and programmer during her studies in Electrical Engineering: Computer Systems.</p>
<p>Listed as a Hall of Famer on <a href="https://www.eccu.edu/cyber-challenge/hall-of-fame/">EC-Council University Cyber Challenge</a> page.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/hall-of-fame---tshireletso.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Tshireletso Kgabi"/></p>
<p>She has a passion for engineering and incorporating that skill set to build and maintain complex systems into the security industry has been an interesting and fruitful journey for her. Engineers also need to understand cyber security now more than ever as attacks on infrastructure have happened before.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>'We need to understand how to build better and more secure infrastructure to keep hackers out.'</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Her journey in cyber security has seen me acquire skills in networking, security architecture and governance, vulnerability assessment, risk analysis and mitigation.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/cyber-cover.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Tshireletso Kgabi"/></p>
<p><em>Source: crawfordgts.com</em></p>
<p>Her years in Namibia made her realize the skills shortage in South Africa both in engineering and cyber security, more so with the gap between males and females within these industries which made her come back to make a difference in this regard no matter how small.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/tumblr_n24tpcrmeC1s2ypwgo2_500.gif" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Tshireletso Kgabi"/></p>
<p>She's currently doing research for addressing and finding alternative renewable ways of producing electrical energy without emission of pollution by use of IoT and kinetic energy as South Africa is one of the highest air pollution producers.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Intellectuals solve problems. Geniuses prevent them.</p>
<ul>
<li>Albert Einstein</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Tshireletso</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/Tshire_MissTee">https://www.twitter.com/Tshire_MissTee</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tshireletso-kgabi-8ab311123/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/tshireletso-kgabi-8ab311123/</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Sifiso Nkabinde]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Sifiso Nkabinde, 15 Year Old Coder
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
He's a 15 years old software developer from Johannes]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-sifiso-nkabinde/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5d01f36fd65286039c978c18</guid><category><![CDATA[Youth]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[machine learning]]></category><category><![CDATA[dev]]></category><category><![CDATA[sifiso]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 13 Jun 2019 08:19:18 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/sifiso-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/sifiso-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Sifiso Nkabinde"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="sifisonkabinde15yearoldcoder">Sifiso Nkabinde, 15 Year Old Coder</h3>
<hr>
<p>He's a 15 years old software developer from Johannesburg. Sifiso started programming at the of age 10 after an introduction at the Sci-Bono Clubhouse since then, he developed an interest in 3D design, Robotics and Software development. After a couple of months of practice, he created demos such as an Android Weather App as a test of his skill, later a chat application finally a ride-hailing app he named Travel.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The youngest participant at the Hackathon is Sfiso, heâs just 14 years old and he wants to help to predict future crime incidents by using machine learning, AI, and data mining.<br>He says the solution can predict with fair accuracy where the next hijacking.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IgniteHack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IgniteHack</a> <a href="https://t.co/3MviMjKfDO">pic.twitter.com/3MviMjKfDO</a></br></p>— Ayanda Dlodlo (@MinAyandaDlodlo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MinAyandaDlodlo/status/1046189963904200705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>After developing an interest in robotics, he decided to participate in international robotics competitions such as the First Tech Challenge (FTC) which required good design and engineering skills. Because of the great impression he had shown through his various projects, he was awarded a fully packaged scholarship by South African Businessman and Tech Entrepreneur Andile Ngcaba.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>At the age of 14, he attended his first hackathon, the ITWeb Security Summit Hackathon in 2018, where him and his team built a social media filter and held the 3rd spot prize, later in that year, he participated in the TadHack MTN hackathon where his worked on an an Android and web application addresses fraudulent sim swop requests by allowing customers to do self-automated sim-swop.</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p>At TadHack he held the 'Rising Star' Award. Later in that year, he got an introduction to Machine Learning with Azure, at the Microsoft AI Hackathon for social good, his team worked on an application that analyzes images of crops and identifies symptoms of a diseased plant all through machine learning.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Talk about investing in your craft. Young @BruceSifiso got himself a new machine from the prize money that he won at the <a href="https://twitter.com/MTNza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MTNza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TadhackJHB?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TadhackJHB</a>. He says that he was tired with his celeron <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSAIHack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSAIHack</a> <a href="https://t.co/SrplzNhi6G">pic.twitter.com/SrplzNhi6G</a></p>— M I X O đ·đ»đ (@4otune) <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune/status/1073173375844007941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>In the next 5 years, he wishes to continue learning adding to his skills stack, software development and Machine Learning. One of his dreams is to study at MIT and finally start a company addressing the worldâs needs through technology.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>There have to be reasons that you get up in the morning and you want to live. Why do you want to live? What's the point? What inspires you? What do you love about the future? If the future does not include being out there among the stars and being a multi-planet species, I find that incredibly depressing.</p>
<ul>
<li>Elon Musk</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Sifiso</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/_NextElonMusk">https://www.twitter.com/_NextElonMusk</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sifiso-nkabinde-7ba9b0134">https://www.linkedin.com/in/sifiso-nkabinde-7ba9b0134</a></li>
<li>GitHub: <a href="https://www.github.com/TheRealSifiso">https://www.github.com/TheRealSifiso</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Mpho Jan Kubeka]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Mpho Jan Kubeka, Founder at Kubeka Advanced Industries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A 20 year old entrepreneur and d]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-mpho-jan-kubeka/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cffd1c2d65286039c978c10</guid><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[design]]></category><category><![CDATA[Entrepreneurs]]></category><category><![CDATA[mpho]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 12 Jun 2019 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/mpho-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/mpho-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Mpho Jan Kubeka"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="mphojankubekafounderatkubekaadvancedindustries">Mpho Jan Kubeka, Founder at Kubeka Advanced Industries</h3>
<hr>
<p>A 20 year old entrepreneur and data science student at the EXPLORE DATA SCIENCE ACADEMY hailing from Evaton North (Vaal Triangle). He is passionate about Artificial Intelligence, Big Data and their capabilities to deliver real change for average human life.</p>
<p>Over the past 2 years, he has been building startups from various industries. Last year he participated in the MIT Global Startup Labs in Johannesburg (Tshimologong Digital Precinct) where participants were tasked with building a tech startup focused on the mining industry and the water industry.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/Data-Science-vs.-Big-Data-vs.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Mpho Jan Kubeka"/></p>
<p>Him and his team developed an AI smart helmet (to boost safety and productivity for miners) which earned them 1st place.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Technology is not supposed to turn 10 people into overnight billionaires. It should rather take 10 minds to change a billion lives overnight.</p>
<ul>
<li>Himself</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Mpho</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/VisionaryMJK">https://www.twitter.com/VisionaryMJK</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpho-kubeka-6a8508163">https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpho-kubeka-6a8508163</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Sewagodimo Matlapeng]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Sewagodimo Matlapeng, Software Engineer at PRAEKELT.org
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sewagodimo is a software engine]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-sewagodimo-matlapeng/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cfe6f30d65286039c978c04</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[sewagodimo]]></category><category><![CDATA[indonispacemag]]></category><category><![CDATA[womenintech]]></category><category><![CDATA[girlswhocode]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 10 Jun 2019 15:29:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/sewagodimo-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/sewagodimo-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Sewagodimo Matlapeng"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="sewagodimomatlapengsoftwareengineeratpraekeltorg">Sewagodimo Matlapeng, Software Engineer at PRAEKELT.org</h3>
<hr>
<p>Sewagodimo is a software engineer, half marathon runner and tech Youtuber. She started programming at 16 years old, she has since graduated with a Bsc(Hons) in Computer Science and 3D Gaming from UCT.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/sewa-site.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Sewagodimo Matlapeng"/></p>
<p>Own Website: <a href="https://sewagodimo.com/">sewagodimo.com/</a></p>
<p>She now works as a software engineer for PRAEKELT.org, she is also the lead for Developer Circles Cape Town and editor for Indoni Space Digital Magazine (dedicated to celebrating Black Women Developers).</p>
<p>Some of her open source projects include the Open Curriculum (a content sharing platform for teachers) and Buza Answers, (a Q&A site for high school learners).</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/Sewagodimo_M?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sewagodimo_M</a> sharing some tips on the importance of building your profile <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Top15YoungGeeks?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Top15YoungGeeks</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SkillUp?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SkillUp</a> <a href="https://t.co/QeItV1LlO5">pic.twitter.com/QeItV1LlO5</a></p>— M I X O đ·đ»đ (@4otune) <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune/status/1137625254933741568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Sewagodimo has given talks at both national and international conferences such as, DevConfZA, PyConZA, Women in Tech Africa and the Facebook Start Summit. In her spare time she enjoys running and creating tech content for her YouTube channel 'Sunshine in my Code':</p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/sunshineinmycode">https://www.youtube.com/sunshineinmycode</a></p>
<p><strong>Some of her projects</strong></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/sewa-projects.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Sewagodimo Matlapeng"/></p>
<blockquote>
<p>You are not the next Bill Gate or Elon Musk, you are YOU! Don't model your life to replicate the next person, focus on the things you are passionate about. Be YOURSELF.</p>
<ul>
<li>Herself</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Sewagodimo</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/Sewagodimo_M">https://www.twitter.com/Sewagodimo_M</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sewagodimo-matlapeng-b502b9103">https://www.linkedin.com/in/sewagodimo-matlapeng-b502b9103</a></li>
<li>GitHub: <a href="https://www.github.com/sewagodimo">https://www.github.com/sewagodimo</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Ofentswe Lebogo]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South
Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in
the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role
player in the transformation.
geekulcha.com/young-geeks [https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks]
Ofentswe Lebogo, Co-Founder and CTO at Datawizzards
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
He was born and raised in Limpopo a]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-ofentswe-lebogo/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cfe2b4ad65286039c978bfb</guid><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[ofentswe]]></category><category><![CDATA[machine learning]]></category><category><![CDATA[datawizzards]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 10 Jun 2019 14:16:20 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/ofentswe-cover.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/ofentswe-cover.png" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Ofentswe Lebogo"/><p>During the Youth Month, Geekulcha name and honor Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa. These are the minds marking their stamp and playing a greater role in the Digital Revolution. These are Geeks who have been identified as being a role player in the transformation.</p>
<p><a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<h3 id="ofentswelebogocofounderandctoatdatawizzards">Ofentswe Lebogo, Co-Founder and CTO at Datawizzards</h3>
<hr>
<p>He was born and raised in Limpopo at a village called Thalane in Bochum, where he completed his primary and high school education, he then went to complete his B.Sc Degree from University of Limpopo - Turfloop Campus in Computer Sciences, Statistics and Applied Mathematics, at the university that's where he gained lot of knowledge in developing Desktop/Mobile software and web applications.</p>
<p>He's a person who researches and codes a lot, and using Massive open online courses to keep up to date and stay relevant with latest technology.</p>
<p>He is the Co-Founder and CTO of Datawizzards where they are building cool Machine Learning products using tensorflow as their primary tool for training models and making predictions. In the next five years he's planning to be building more disruptive machine learning products that will be using Data to drive our society at large.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/06/datawizzards.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Meet Ofentswe Lebogo"/></p>
<p>Project Page: <a href="https://www.datawizzards.io/">www.datawizzards.io</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>'Ofentswe is the only FULL STACK DATA SCIENTIST I know in South Africa. The guy can code in any language, can do backend, front-end, machine learning, deep learning, data engineering and everything else in computing.'</p>
<ul>
<li>Mabu Manaileng.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>He works full-time for Standard Bank as a Data Scientist, solving bank related problems with data and machine learning. He has participated in more than 10 Kaggle competitions.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/lebogoofentswe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lebogoofentswe</a> on your <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Top15YoungGeeks?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Top15YoungGeeks</a>. Well deserved. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/masakhane?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#masakhane</a></p>— Dr. Vukosi Marivate (@vukosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/vukosi/status/1136129147271618565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>He has developed more than 10 production apps, ranging from PHP, Django, Ruby and Android. He works part-time for Datawizzards as a full stack data scientist. Working on wide range of products including DeepHealth.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Team <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Datawizzards?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Datawizzards</a> takes the stage to present their invention: DeepHealth system, a comprehensive data collection system to enable Health Dept store data electronically for patients. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IgniteHack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IgniteHack</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSM2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSM2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/2wxEpxwfPE">pic.twitter.com/2wxEpxwfPE</a></p>— National DPSA (@thedpsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/thedpsa/status/1046400014656983040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<blockquote>
<p>Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it.</p>
<ul>
<li>Steve Jobs</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p><strong>Connect with Ofentswe</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/lebogoofentswe">https://www.twitter.com/lebogoofentswe</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ofentswe-lebogo-51791965">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ofentswe-lebogo-51791965</a></li>
<li>GitHub: <a href="https://www.github.com/ofentswe1">https://www.github.com/ofentswe1</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#AutumnDevDays: Sensor Data IoT Challenge]]></title><description><![CDATA[The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities
taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide
and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. #AutumnDevDays is a 5-day event
of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local
techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.
Physical event (04 May) Information:
* Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria
* Time: 09:00 - 17:00
* Target: Aspiring develop]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/autumndevdays-sensor-data-iot-challenge/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cc844e4d65286039c978bf1</guid><category><![CDATA[iot]]></category><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[makers]]></category><category><![CDATA[sqwidnet]]></category><category><![CDATA[tmgmakerspace]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 30 Apr 2019 13:07:02 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/IMG_5035.JPG" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/IMG_5035.JPG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Sensor Data IoT Challenge"/><p>The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. <strong>#AutumnDevDays</strong> is a 5-day event of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/Capture-aw.PNG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Sensor Data IoT Challenge"/></p>
<p><strong>Physical event (04 May) Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria</li>
<li>Time: 09:00 - 17:00</li>
<li>Target: Aspiring developers, high school learners, designers, government officials/techies, adults, etc.</li>
<li>More Info: <a href="https://dev.geekulcha.com/autumn">dev.geekulcha.com/autumn</a></li>
</ul>
<p>SqwidNet is the licensed Sigfox IoT network operator in South Africa, a standard that enables a multitude of low-cost, long-range, low-power modules and devices to serve IoT data in a secure and cost-efficient manner to application and service providers.</p>
<p><strong>The #IoTSAChallenge By SqwidNET:</strong></p>
<p>SqwidNet has launched the second round of its IoT SA University Challenge. The nationwide technology competition is aimed at getting university students to solve real-world challenges using the Internet of Things (IoT).</p>
<p>Read More and Enter: <a href="https://www.sqwidnet.com/sqwidnet-challenges-university-students-to-embrace-iot/">https://www.sqwidnet.com/sqwidnet-challenges-university-students-to-embrace-iot/</a></p>
<p><em>Work on your idea at #AutumnDevDays</em></p>
<p>Tshimologong Makerspace seeks to promote and enable access to innovation through collaborative making, training, upskilling and experimentation/purposeful play (R&D).</p>
<p>Some of the practical engagements housed in the space include Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies such as 3D printing (e.g. prototyping & customization), IoT (Internet of Things), electronics & robotics; Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR); and design for digital fabrication.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>*<strong>CHALLENGE:</strong> Collect Data from connected things</p>
<p>A MakerCorner will be setup at #AutumnDevDays to help participants build sensor-based solutions, collect Data, visualize and provide action.*</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The SqwidNet Unashield modules are available for your use as well as tools from the Makerspace. Let's get making, create and make sense out of Data.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/1_GLY_MbFeVJWFfWEQRWwLCA.jpeg" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Sensor Data IoT Challenge"/></p>
<p>What will you make? Let it make impact for the masses. At the heart of the 4th Industrial Revolution, are 'Connected Things' and this means a load of Data will be created/generated, there is a need for one to build capacity in the management of this Data.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#AutumnDevDays: GeoData Mapathon With HERE Maps]]></title><description><![CDATA[The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities
taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide
and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. #AutumnDevDays is a 5-day event
of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local
techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.
Physical event (04 May) Information:
* Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria
* Time: 09:00 - 17:00
* Target: Aspiring develop]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/autumndevdays-geodata-mapathon-with-here-maps/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cc6f229d65286039c978be5</guid><category><![CDATA[autumndevdays]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[Open Data]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[makers]]></category><category><![CDATA[geodata]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 29 Apr 2019 13:13:40 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/pexels-photo-1428632.jpeg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/pexels-photo-1428632.jpeg" alt="#AutumnDevDays: GeoData Mapathon With HERE Maps"/><p>The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. <strong>#AutumnDevDays</strong> is a 5-day event of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/Capture-aw.PNG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: GeoData Mapathon With HERE Maps"/></p>
<p><strong>Physical event (04 May) Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria</li>
<li>Time: 09:00 - 17:00</li>
<li>Target: Aspiring developers, high school learners, designers, government officials/techies, adults, etc.</li>
<li>More Info: <a href="https://dev.geekulcha.com/autumn">dev.geekulcha.com/autumn</a></li>
</ul>
<p>Get started, register as a HERE Maps developer <a href="https://her.is/mea">https://her.is/mea</a>. The HERE Developer Platform has a Freemium plan that gives developers 250,000 free transactions per month!</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/android-sdk.PNG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: GeoData Mapathon With HERE Maps"/></p>
<p>HERE Maps got you sorted with your location based applications development needs. The SDKs come with UI toolkits as well.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>*<strong>CHALLENGE:</strong> Mapping communities to enable service</p>
<p>Let's make communities be better known to enable better service and better life for all citizens. Make use of GeoData to map communities and stories.*</p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>Resources to checkout:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Map Creator: <a href="https://mapcreator.here.com/">https://mapcreator.here.com/</a></li>
<li>Blog: <a href="https://github.com/heremaps/">https://github.com/heremaps/</a> (one stop shop for HERE code libraries)</li>
<li>Blog: <a href="https://developer.here.com/blog">https://developer.here.com/blog</a> (a lot of code example for some use cases)</li>
<li>GitHub: <a href="https://github.com/heremaps/">https://github.com/heremaps/</a></li>
</ul>
<p>What will you make at #AutumnDevDays? Let it make impact to advance access and a way of life for all citizens.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Last Chance To Nominate Your Faves]]></title><description><![CDATA[What a year 2018 was a vibrant year in the South African tech space. Lots of
moves were made by local Geeks. It was a year where a first cabinet-approved
Hackathon was hosted in South Africa, Minister Ayanda Dlodlo of the Department
of Public Service and Administration also coded with C# to launch IgniteHack.
Certainly a stamina boost for the local ecosystem to see Government officials
mix-up in a platform to build solutions that matters.
Speaking of solutions that matters...
It's important]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-last-chance-nominate-your-faves/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cc6d35dd65286039c978be0</guid><category><![CDATA[top15younggeeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 29 Apr 2019 11:14:54 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/YouTube-Header--1.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/YouTube-Header--1.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Last Chance To Nominate Your Faves"/><p>What a year 2018 was a vibrant year in the South African tech space. Lots of moves were made by local Geeks. It was a year where a first cabinet-approved Hackathon was hosted in South Africa, Minister Ayanda Dlodlo of the Department of Public Service and Administration also coded with C# to launch IgniteHack.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/DoLYGL8WkAAznrz.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Last Chance To Nominate Your Faves"/></p>
<p>Certainly a stamina boost for the local ecosystem to see Government officials mix-up in a platform to build solutions that matters.</p>
<p><strong>Speaking of solutions that matters...</strong></p>
<p>It's important that we profile the South African Tech ecosystem as it grows on its own pace.</p>
<p><strong>Top 15 Young Geeks from 2018:</strong></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/Top15YoungGeeks.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Last Chance To Nominate Your Faves"/></p>
<p>Inspiring stories from these Geeks, checkout the <a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">2018 Top 15 Young Geeks</a> list.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/D3FPS26XQAIlC5k-1.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Last Chance To Nominate Your Faves"/></p>
<p>Who will make it to the list in 2019? The power is in your hands, <strong>nominate your favourites before 16:00, on Tuesday 30 April.</strong> A Top 25 will also be profiled and the public will be allowed to vote.</p>
<p>NOMINATE: <a href="https://geekulcha.com/young-geeks">geekulcha.com/young-geeks</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#AutumnDevDays: Budget Data Challenge With Vulekamali.gov.za]]></title><description><![CDATA[The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities
taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide
and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. #AutumnDevDays is a 5-day event
of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local
techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.
Physical event (04 May) Information:
* Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria
* Time: 09:00 - 17:00
* Target: Aspiring develop]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/autumndevdays-budget-data-challenge-vulekamaligovza/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cc2f4c7d65286039c978bdc</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 26 Apr 2019 13:38:10 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/budget-cash-coins-33692--2-.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/budget-cash-coins-33692--2-.jpg" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Budget Data Challenge With Vulekamali.gov.za"/><p>The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. <strong>#AutumnDevDays</strong> is a 5-day event of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/Capture-aw.PNG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Budget Data Challenge With Vulekamali.gov.za"/></p>
<p><strong>Physical event (04 May) Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria</li>
<li>Time: 09:00 - 17:00</li>
<li>Target: Aspiring developers, high school learners, designers, government officials/techies, adults, etc.</li>
<li>More Info: <a href="https://dev.geekulcha.com/autumn">dev.geekulcha.com/autumn</a></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Puting Vulekamali Budget Data into Action</strong></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/440366d6521e442dd016aedb1825a3f9ea44e3c5.png" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Budget Data Challenge With Vulekamali.gov.za"/></p>
<p>vulekamali.gov.za is a project by the South African National Treasury and Imali Yethu, a coalition of civil society organisations with the goal of making government budget data and processes accessible to all citizens & interested parties.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/vulekamali.PNG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Budget Data Challenge With Vulekamali.gov.za"/></p>
<blockquote>
<p><em><strong>CHALLENGE:</strong> Make use of Budget Data on the Vulekamali website to build solutions that drives/enables impact in the society</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p>As is well known internationally through ranking in the 2017 Open Budget Index (OBI), South Africa came 1st out of 115 countries, sharing this position with New Zealand.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/DzrfbMfXQAAjUqV.jpg" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Budget Data Challenge With Vulekamali.gov.za"/></p>
<p>National Treasury already publishes extensive budgetary information on its website, however it has been observed over time that the use of this data is not as extensive as it could be.</p>
<p>What local techies, innovators, citizens, entrepreneurs, economists, data scientists, etc. do with the budget data is crirical. AutumnDevDays is yet another platform aiming to building awareness and utilization of the platform.</p>
<p>Checkout <a href="https://create.vulekamali.gov.za">create.vulekamali.gov.za</a> to see some of the projects on the ground.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Budget Data Challenge at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AutumnDevDays?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AutumnDevDays</a> will help you to better understand <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SABudgets?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SABudgets</a>. You can use data available on <a href="https://t.co/m8eUiy1C4b">https://t.co/m8eUiy1C4b</a> to build impactful solutions to issues, gaps and opportunities that you experience everyday. Diarise 4 May and stay tuned for details! <a href="https://t.co/S6ZtT2RFT9">pic.twitter.com/S6ZtT2RFT9</a></p>— vulekamali (@vulekamali) <a href="https://twitter.com/vulekamali/status/1121673917020528640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Help South Africa stay on top: Analyze. Question. Request. Suggest. Build. What will you make with the Data on the Vulekamali portal? Let it have social impact.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#AutumnDevDays: Air Quality Data Challenge]]></title><description><![CDATA[The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities
taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide
and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. #AutumnDevDays is a 5-day event
of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local
techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.
Physical event (04 May) Information:
* Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria
* Time: 09:00 - 17:00
* Target: Aspiring develop]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/autumndevdays-air-quality-data-challenge/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cc199cfd65286039c978bd2</guid><category><![CDATA[airquality]]></category><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[sensors]]></category><category><![CDATA[odsa]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 25 Apr 2019 12:52:32 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/alexander-tsang-1442451-unsplash.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/alexander-tsang-1442451-unsplash.jpg" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Air Quality Data Challenge"/><p>The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. <strong>#AutumnDevDays</strong> is a 5-day event of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/Capture-aw.PNG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Air Quality Data Challenge"/></p>
<p><strong>Physical event (04 May) Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria</li>
<li>Time: 09:00 - 17:00</li>
<li>Target: Aspiring developers, high school learners, designers, government officials/techies, adults, etc.</li>
<li>More Info: <a href="https://dev.geekulcha.com/autumn">dev.geekulcha.com/autumn</a></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Air Quality in South Africa - Is it that bad?</strong></p>
<p>No doubt, the quality of air in various parts of the country are deterioting and we may end up reaching a point of no report. Greenpeace found the South Africa's Mpumalanga province is the worldâs largest air pollution hotspot. Africa Check has something to say about that.</p>
<p>READ: <a href="https://africacheck.org/reports/is-south-africas-mpumalanga-province-the-worlds-largest-air-pollution-hotspot/">https://africacheck.org/reports/is-south-africas-mpumalanga-province-the-worlds-largest-air-pollution-hotspot/</a></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/air-quality-index.PNG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Air Quality Data Challenge"/></p>
<p>The South African Air Quality Information System (SAAQIS), launched by the Department of Environmental Affairs and the South African Weather Service, is a web-based interactive air quality information system, which provides historical and real-time data on the state of air quality to citizens.</p>
<p><a href="https://saaqis.environment.gov.za/">https://saaqis.environment.gov.za/</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p><em><strong>CHALLENGE:</strong> Use data to help fight air pollution. Some areas in South Africa such as Emalahleni, Bojanala are ranked as very unhealthy to live in due to air pollution.</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Participants must make use of air quality data build solutions that drive action. Use resources and tips in the Open Data South Africa toolkit:</p>
<p><a href="https://opendataza.gitbook.io/toolkit/open-data-resources/air-quality-data-resources">https://opendataza.gitbook.io/toolkit/open-data-resources/air-quality-data-resources</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#AutumnDevDays: Youth Opinions Data Challenge]]></title><description><![CDATA[The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities
taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide
and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. #AutumnDevDays is a 5-day event
of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local
techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.
Physical event (04 May) Information:
* Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria
* Time: 09:00 - 17:00
* Target: Aspiring develop]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/autumndevdays-youth-opinions-data-challenge/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cc04da9d65286039c978bca</guid><category><![CDATA[Open Data]]></category><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[vote]]></category><category><![CDATA[odsa]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 24 Apr 2019 12:11:55 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/tim-marshall-135625-unsplash.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/tim-marshall-135625-unsplash.jpg" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Youth Opinions Data Challenge"/><p>The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. <strong>#AutumnDevDays</strong> is a 5-day event of Coding creating an enabling environment (online and physical) for local techies to connect and build capacity on their Data skills.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/Capture-aw.PNG" alt="#AutumnDevDays: Youth Opinions Data Challenge"/></p>
<p><strong>Physical event (04 May) Information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Venue: The Innovation Hub, Pretoria</li>
<li>Time: 09:00 - 17:00</li>
<li>Target: Aspiring developers, high school learners, designers, government officials/techies, adults, etc.</li>
<li>More Info: <a href="https://dev.geekulcha.com/autumn">dev.geekulcha.com/autumn</a></li>
</ul>
<p>The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and Afrobarometer are two organisations that conduct large-scale research surveys to understand how young (and older) people view South Africa, government and political parties. This data is useful for predicting how youth may vote in the upcoming election.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em><strong>CHALLENGE:</strong> Use open survey data to identify which service delivery issues are most important to young people in South Africa, in different provinces for different race/income.</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p>As South Africa elect the 6th Democratic Government, it's important to identify and highlight key issues of need. It's also of great interest to derive a people-guided Integrated Development Plan (IDP) for cities.</p>
<p>Led by Dr Paul Plantinga, the participants will be guided and pointed to Data sources in building up the data-centred solutions.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Africa She Is Beautiful: Let's Secure Her Digital Footprint]]></title><description><![CDATA[It is often called the Dark Content, not because of the prevalence of Load
Shedding but due to its digital emancipation and penetration. Are a continent
play "catch-up"? Perhaps so. So many problems but one thing for sure: We never
lack the leisure to innovation.
There is beauty in Africa and the future of it. Some of the world's greatest
Innovation's have come from Africa. Here is an extract from the former President
Mbeki in Cape Town on 8 May 1996, on the occasion of the passing of the new
C]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/africa-she-is-beautiful-lets-secure-her-digital-footprint/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5cb435dfd65286039c978bb1</guid><category><![CDATA[africa]]></category><category><![CDATA[Africa tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[security]]></category><category><![CDATA[kimberley]]></category><category><![CDATA[joburg]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 15 Apr 2019 09:26:44 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/adult-africa-backlit-434566.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/adult-africa-backlit-434566.jpg" alt="Africa She Is Beautiful: Let's Secure Her Digital Footprint"/><p>It is often called the Dark Content, not because of the prevalence of Load Shedding but due to its digital emancipation and penetration. Are a continent play "catch-up"? Perhaps so. So many problems but one thing for sure: We never lack the leisure to innovation.</p>
<p>There is beauty in Africa and the future of it. Some of the world's greatest Innovation's have come from Africa. Here is an extract from the former President Mbeki in Cape Town on 8 May 1996, on the occasion of the passing of the new Constitution of South Africa.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>The dramatic shapes of the Drakensberg, the soil-coloured waters of the Lekoa, iGqili noThukela, and the sands of the Kgalagadi, have all been panels of the set on the natural stage on which we act out the foolish deeds of the theatre of the day.</em></p>
<p><em>At times, and in fear, I have wondered whether I should concede equal citizenship of our country to the leopard and the lion, the elephant and the springbok, the hyena, the black mamba and the pestilential mosquito.</em></p>
<p><em>A human presence among all of these, a feature on the face of our native land thus defined, I know that none dare challenge me when I say - I am an African!</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Africa she is beautiful and as she leaps into the next phase of the Smart Growing Digital World, she is fragile. She will judge us on our capability and proactiveness in protecting its digital future.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/tier.jpg" alt="Africa She Is Beautiful: Let's Secure Her Digital Footprint"/></p>
<p>Rich in resources that gives us food, energy, entertainment, well-being, knowledge, comfort and most importantly, life. The advent of the 4th Industrial Revolution lies in speed and connectivity of things. It is the Era of Connected Things, dude!</p>
<p><strong>Next World War About Data And The Control Of It</strong></p>
<p>They say Data is the new oil. The effect of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the Protection of Personal Information(PoPI) Act in South Africa shed light onto why each country and each individual have to prepare for the next world of Information and Regulation. Data Governance and Regulation Policies thereof, need decisive forecasting, thinking, implementation</p>
<p>As early as 2019, the connected population in Africa had grown by 20% and this means more clicks. Each and every click matters. Each click contains a load of Data.</p>
<p>"The weakest link in your Infrastructure is Layer 8, AKA the user" - Keitumetsi Tsotetsi.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/OSI-Model.jpg" alt="Africa She Is Beautiful: Let's Secure Her Digital Footprint"/></p>
<p>We have to ask ourselves, are we ready for this shift? Is our house secure? Is our thinking in the right place? Do we have a capable cyber army?</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/ideathon.PNG" alt="Africa She Is Beautiful: Let's Secure Her Digital Footprint"/></p>
<p>The Ground Efforts in Information Security</p>
<p>It's important that we equip the local techies and makers with skills that will help build the capability handling in one's Security Operation Center. Here are some of the ground efforts that Geekulcha is championing:</p>
<p><strong>1. Security Summit Hackathon</strong></p>
<p>In collaboration with ITWeb, Snode and the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, we will be hosting the 3rd annual annual Security Summit Hackathon (#SS19Hack) on the sidelines of the summit.</p>
<p>Themed "Protecting the Digital Citizen", this year's Hackathon will take place in Sandton and Kimberley.</p>
<p><strong>2. Security for Teenagers</strong></p>
<p>Since 2017, Geekulcha has integrated Information Security as part of the micro-level working experience programme for school learners - the Geekulcha Vacation Work (gkVacWork) programme.</p>
<p>future.geekulcha.com</p>
<p><strong>3. Consumers and Developers</strong></p>
<p>Information Security Kimberley was created to bring Application Developers and Users together and equip safe development and usage of these applications.</p>
<p><strong>4. Seasonal Dev Days</strong></p>
<p>Having started with SummerDevDays and having local techies build security focused skills and solutions, WinterDevDays is stricly dedicated to <em>Securing the African Digital Footprint</em>.</p>
<p>dev.geekulcha.com</p>
<p><strong>5. SafeHack Against Digital Zombies</strong></p>
<p>Young local techies must develop/build with security in mind. #SecureByDesign is the message that SafeHack champions and is open to even first year students who have low-level programming skills.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/06-06-2017-10Commandements-01-1500x750.jpg" alt="Africa She Is Beautiful: Let's Secure Her Digital Footprint"/></p>
<p><strong>10 Commandments of Online Rules of Engagement</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Thou shalt not use public WiFi without a VPN. (You can try our Freedome VPN for free.)</li>
<li>Thou shalt not click âEnable Macros.â</li>
<li>Thou shalt not open attachments which were unexpected or from a stranger.</li>
<li>Thou shalt not share personal, identifiable information on social media platforms.</li>
<li>Thou shalt use a unique, uncrackable password for all important accounts and â ideally â store them in a password manager.</li>
<li>Honor your privacy settings by checking them regularly.</li>
<li>Thou shalt not keep the default password on anything, especially routers.</li>
<li>Thou shalt not do online banking without security software that includes anti-phishing and banking protection features.</li>
<li>Remember two-step verification and use it whenever possible.</li>
<li>Thou shalt not leave your devices unlocked.</li>
</ol>
<p><em>Source: <a href="https://blog.f-secure.com/10-things-we-can-all-do-to-make-a-safer-internet/">https://blog.f-secure.com/10-things-we-can-all-do-to-make-a-safer-internet/</a></em></p>
<p>There is a lot of work to do, play a part and let's protect our digital shores in African and main human dignity.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Tech Debate Gives Voice To The Future]]></title><description><![CDATA[It's the next breed of Leaders, they will be digitally equipped as that will be
a key skill for survival in the civilization. Geekulcha in collaboration The
Innovation Hub and the City of Tshwane hosted the holiday Vacation Work
programme, March 2019 edition of the programme was in Soweto and Tshwane.
future.geekulcha.com/debate
From 18 to 23 March, young minds sacrificed their holidays sleep by spending the
holidays with the Geeks learning how to code, work on real-life projects and how
to bu]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-tech-debate-gives-voice-to-the-future/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5ca30300d65286039c978ba3</guid><category><![CDATA[gkVacWork]]></category><category><![CDATA[Debate]]></category><category><![CDATA[digital]]></category><category><![CDATA[knowledge]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2019 10:55:27 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/IMG_5726.JPG" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/IMG_5726.JPG" alt="#gkVacWork Tech Debate Gives Voice To The Future"/><p>It's the next breed of Leaders, they will be digitally equipped as that will be a key skill for survival in the civilization. Geekulcha in collaboration The Innovation Hub and the City of Tshwane hosted the holiday Vacation Work programme, March 2019 edition of the programme was in Soweto and Tshwane.</p>
<p>future.geekulcha.com/debate</p>
<p>From 18 to 23 March, young minds sacrificed their holidays sleep by spending the holidays with the Geeks learning how to code, work on real-life projects and how to build own startups. On the finale of the programme, the two cities (Joburg and Tshwane) battled it out on digital knowledge during the VacWork Tech Debate.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/rochelle.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Tech Debate Gives Voice To The Future"/></p>
<p>The Debate was Moderated by <a href="https://twitter.com/Rochie_Saiint">Rochelle Makhubela</a> who is part of the Geekulcha Student Society at the Tshwane University of Technology.</p>
<hr>
<h1 id="foursessionsfourtopics"><strong>Four Sessions, Four Topics</strong></h1>
<p>The Tech Debate is setup with 4 sessions on 4 different topics, some aligned with the VacWork theme - <em>Digitizing the Evolution: Geography, History, Arts and Space</em>.</p>
<p><strong>Session 1: Mapenane Secondary School (A) VS Visionaries (O)</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>This House Believes That the 4th Industrial shifts are not accommodating the people in the rural and township areas.</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/session-1-debate.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Tech Debate Gives Voice To The Future"/></p>
<p>The Affirmative side (Mapenane Secondary School) opened the debate by arguing that the 4th Industrial Revolution is characterized by speed and as such, the shifts are not accommodating the people in the rural and township areas.</p>
<p>Opposing side (Visionaries) painted a picture of how easily supermarkets can be transformed in rural areas for a 'connected shopping'.</p>
<p><strong>Session 2: Abel Motshoane Secondary School (A) VS Sketch Inc. (O)</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>This House Believes That it's important that South Africa send inhabitants to space in 10 years time.</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/session-2-debate-1.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Tech Debate Gives Voice To The Future"/></p>
<p>"I hear you talking but how will this help the ordinary people?", team Sketch Inc. asked as they opposed the motion. They argued that a rocket ship costs about R500 Million to accommodate only 3 people - they don't see it as a benefit.</p>
<p>The Affirmative side (Abel Motshoane Secondary School) cited job creation and the fact that the Department of Science and Technology already has a budget for space programmes, it's important grow talent and study other forms of line in space.</p>
<p><strong>Session 3: Still Loading VS Independents</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>This House Believes That a comprehensive monitoring of social media is an effective way to address Cyber Bullying.</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/session-3-debate.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Tech Debate Gives Voice To The Future"/></p>
<p>Affirmative side (Still Loading) stated their case and defined the topic, highlighting that Hatred and Jealously are key things on top of Cyber Bullying.</p>
<p>To oppose, the Opposing side (Independents) brought forward Bills and efforts in place that are set addressing the problem. "Where does it stop?... the problem is not about being online but with bullying itself."</p>
<p><strong>Session 4: Space Aliens VS HL Setlalentoa</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>This House Believes That Open Publication is a great solution to preserve history.</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/session-4-debate.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Tech Debate Gives Voice To The Future"/></p>
<p>The Space Aliens defended their case on why Open Publication is a great solution to preserve history. "Why call it history if are setting it up for a failure?", Palesa of team Space Aliens asked.</p>
<hr>
<h1 id="thewinners"><strong>The Winners</strong></h1>
<p>At the end, it was team Sketch Inc. consisting of the young minds from Bukho Bami that won the tech debate.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://tshimologong.joburg/make/maker-space/">Tshimologong Makerspace</a> sponsored the lazer-cut trophy for the winning team of the Tech Debate.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/04/D2XNGC5XcAE1-mt--1-.jpeg" alt="#gkVacWork Tech Debate Gives Voice To The Future"/></p>
<p>The trophy is literally lit as filled with Tech and is remote controlled. Changes colours.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the Tech Debate:</strong></p>
<iframe src="https://web.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.facebook.com%2FGeekulcha%2Fvideos%2F2311744245736956%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"/><!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Youth VacWork Set To Digitize The Evolution: History, Arts And Space]]></title><description><![CDATA[In 2014, Geekulcha created a programme that is free and open to 6 to 20 year
olds bringing them to a real or simulated working environment to learn how to
code and build tech startups. The Geekulcha Vacation Work (gkVacWork) has since
extended to five provinces in South Africa. Over 1 000 scholars have take part
and normally spans for about a week for the youngsters to build innovative
solutions.
Gauteng edition of the programme is powered by The Innovation Hub and the City
of Tshwane an ICT ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/youth-vacwork-set-to-digitize-the-evolution-history-arts-and-space/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5c88c94cd65286039c978b87</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[school]]></category><category><![CDATA[kidz]]></category><category><![CDATA[vacwork]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 13 Mar 2019 09:20:21 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/03/40423969175_834cecc215_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/03/40423969175_834cecc215_o.jpg" alt="Youth VacWork Set To Digitize The Evolution: History, Arts And Space"/><p>In 2014, Geekulcha created a programme that is free and open to 6 to 20 year olds bringing them to a real or simulated working environment to learn how to code and build tech startups. The Geekulcha Vacation Work (gkVacWork) has since extended to five provinces in South Africa. Over 1 000 scholars have take part and normally spans for about a week for the youngsters to build innovative solutions.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/03/vsupport.jpg" alt="Youth VacWork Set To Digitize The Evolution: History, Arts And Space"/></p>
<p>Gauteng edition of the programme is powered by The Innovation Hub and the City of Tshwane an ICT complimentary programme to the Youth Fab Lab for Innovation and Entrepreneur Programme by the two organizations. This is supported by the mLab South Africa and Ikusasa Technology Solutions.</p>
<p>Upcoming edition of the VacWork will take place in Soweto and Tshwane:</p>
<ul>
<li>Date: 18 - 23 March 2019</li>
<li>Time: 09:00 - 16:00 everyday (for a working experience)</li>
<li>Venues: Ekasi Labs Soweto and Code Tribe SA Academy Tshwane</li>
<li>Info Page: future.geekulcha.com/gauteng</li>
</ul>
<p>The VacWork programme is based on the Geekulcha Skills Redistribution model with university students being able to volunteer as mentors/trainers for the younger ones during the holidays.</p>
<p><strong>A portfolio for the Job Market</strong></p>
<p>Young professionals like Reabetswe âRioâ Bodiba came through the VacWork and did not go university route, worked his way up to become a Product Manager at Old Mutual. About 8 startups were created through the experience gained from the programme.</p>
<p>Tiyani Nghonyama, programme creator and COO of Geekulcha says, âalthough the youngsters receive Certificates of Participation, for the first time, they will be able to create their online portfolios as evidence of work done during the programmeâ. A Career Day is also hosted as part of the programme.</p>
<p><strong>The Theme - Building Optical Tech Excitation</strong></p>
<p>Emergence of optical technologies has always been exciting and can only help us imagine the possibilities of how our world will be tomorrow. Looking at hololens (holographic tech), digital lazers, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and even Mixed Reality, what can be build to have life as we know it?</p>
<p>With every VacWork edition, a theme is set to help youngsters innovative to a sector and in line with the 4th Industrial Revolution and build better societies in the Smart Growing World. This March, the youngsters are challenged to Digitize the Evolution with any of these aspects:</p>
<p><strong>1. History:</strong> South African has a lot of history, in this modern world - we need to digitize and make it more interactive and alive with modern technologies. A history session will be done by the Filmmaker and Director of the Kalushi Movie and Maphungubwe documentary.</p>
<p><strong>2. Art:</strong> Things will come alive, the youngsters are challenged to imagine and build/make smart artifacts, markets and galleries of tomorrow.</p>
<p><strong>3. Space:</strong> It is a popular belief that space has the answers, we need to build and ignite a Space Heritage in South Africa. Youngsters will embark on a journey for space mining and farming.</p>
<p>Fresh Minds must be channeled to build âSecure By Designâ - an Information Security session will be given to the scholars. On the final day, they must also show consideration and implementation of security for their tech products or services.</p>
<p>Tech Debate: In efforts to encourage reading and engagement in the South African Digital Transformation - a Tech Debate is hosted on the final day of the programme. This also seeks to give or present a voice of the Future past the 4th Industrial Revolution. Consisting of 8 teams (4 Soweto and 4 Tshwane), Johannesburg vs Pretoria will battle for a Knowledge Trophy.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/03/41272818852_0a7b513cdc_o.jpg" alt="Youth VacWork Set To Digitize The Evolution: History, Arts And Space"/></p>
<p>Last day of VacWork, the two cities will come together to battle it out in Innovation and Knowledge. Top 3 teams/projects will be give prizes. There are also spot spot prizes that includes âBest Female Starâ and âUltimateâ of the VacWork. From The Innovation Hub side, Ms Olebogeng Thebyane (Fab Lab) always seek to see/build a pipeline for youth startups for incubation.</p>
<p>Programme in Photos: flickr.com/geekulcha/albums</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Startup Grind Pretoria: The Art Of Branding]]></title><description><![CDATA[Startup Grind [https://www.startupgrind.com/] is the largest independent startup
community, actively educating, inspiring, and connecting more than 1,500,000
entrepreneurs in over 500 chapters. We nurture startup ecosystems in 125
countries through events, media, and partnerships with organizations like Google
for Startups.
The cornerstone of our global community are monthly events featuring successful
local founders, innovators, educators and investors who share lessons learned on
the road to ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/startup-grind-pretoria-the-art-of-branding/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5c3f1965d65286039c978b6e</guid><category><![CDATA[startups]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[branding]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeksconnect]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 16 Jan 2019 13:00:25 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/startupgrindpretoria.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/startupgrindpretoria.jpg" alt="Startup Grind Pretoria: The Art Of Branding"/><p><a href="https://www.startupgrind.com/">Startup Grind</a> is the largest independent startup community, actively educating, inspiring, and connecting more than 1,500,000 entrepreneurs in over 500 chapters. We nurture startup ecosystems in 125 countries through events, media, and partnerships with organizations like Google for Startups.</p>
<p>The cornerstone of our global community are monthly events featuring successful local founders, innovators, educators and investors who share lessons learned on the road to building great companies. Founded in Silicon Valley, Startup Grind has helped millions of entrepreneurs build their businesses, connect with strategic partners, and secure funding.</p>
<p><a href="https://startupgrind.com/pretoria"><strong>Startup Grind Pretoria:</strong></a> A monthly events series that highlights the success and failure of startups in Pretoria. No membership needed, and open to anyone from skilled entrepreneur, through to those that are in corporate and wanting to know more.</p>
<p>Chapter Director: <a href="https://twitter.com/hott2sauce">Monde Zuma</a></p>
<p>With PayFast as the main local sponsor, the latest edition of Startup Grind Pretoria took place 15 January with a focus on "Personal Branding vs Business Branding". Startup Grind Pretoria started off in a usual fashion where the Director (host) introduced everyone to Startup Grind, highlighted all local chapters and partners afforded an opportunity to speaker to the audience.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/Dw9qDP8XgAIStwr.jpg" alt="Startup Grind Pretoria: The Art Of Branding"/></p>
<p>The invited subject matter experts, guest speakers, <a href="https://twitter.com/Raksha_TheBeat">Raksha Mahabeer</a> and Sandhya Singh are founders of company called <a href="http://summertime.co.za/">SummerTime</a>.</p>
<p>To an awe moment, the ladies briefly explained what Branding is and as to what is the difference between Personal Branding and Business Branding. Raksha articulated: "For me it is the unique space that you capture in a clientâs mind".</p>
<p>When asked if it's important to have Branding, Sandhya said "...it's like waking on this planet without a name."</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">What is Branding: The art of becoming lovable, likable and trustable.<br><br>âFor me it is the unique space that you capture in a clientâs mindâ - <a href="https://twitter.com/Raksha_TheBeat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Raksha_TheBeat</a> <br><br>Itâs about what people say about you when you are not in the room. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/startpta?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#startpta</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StartUpGrindPTA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StartUpGrindPTA</a> <a href="https://t.co/7cToHVOmTi">pic.twitter.com/7cToHVOmTi</a></br></br></br></br></p>— Geekulcha đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/1085224309348548609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>How do you build your Personal Brand: Being Intentional. Donât let be a consequence of your actions. See yourself as a brand. Know thy self. People donât buy what you do but why you do it.</p>
<p><strong>Is it advisable to seperate your face from the Business Branding?</strong></p>
<p>Raksha iterated that this decision need to be made at a very early stage of your business as it is part of the Business Strategy.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">WATCH: Relationship between Personal and Business branding. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/startpta?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#startpta</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StartUpGrindPTA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StartUpGrindPTA</a> <a href="https://t.co/wGifh1N1kk">pic.twitter.com/wGifh1N1kk</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/1085233433054494722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Key takeaways from Startup Grind Pretoria:</p>
<ol>
<li>Be intentional with your Branding</li>
<li>Whatâs the point of doing everything else if you canât a unique space in the market?</li>
<li>Consistency is key, do not change your business every 2 years - you will confuse your customers</li>
<li>Everything you do, must resonate with your value system.</li>
<li>You are the master of yourself (in Personal Branding)</li>
</ol>
<p>Be sure not to miss the next Startup Grind Pretoria event which will take place 12 February 2019.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[VOTE: Geekulcha Nominated For 3 International Awards - WSIS Prizes 2019]]></title><description><![CDATA[WSIS Prizes is a unique international contest developed in response to requests
from the WSIS stakeholders to create an effective mechanism to evaluate and
recognize individuals, governments, civil society, local, regional and
international agencies, research institutions and private-sector companies for
outstanding success in implementing development oriented strategies that
leverage the power of ICTs as an enabler of the development.
The WSIS Prizes contest is an integral part of the WSIS s]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-nominated-for-3-international-awards-wsis-prizes-2019/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5c3edaeed65286039c978b69</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[geekulcha]]></category><category><![CDATA[Africa tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[Information technology]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 16 Jan 2019 07:54:17 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/ws2.PNG" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/ws2.PNG" alt="VOTE: Geekulcha Nominated For 3 International Awards - WSIS Prizes 2019"/><p>WSIS Prizes is a unique international contest developed in response to requests from the WSIS stakeholders to create an effective mechanism to evaluate and recognize individuals, governments, civil society, local, regional and international agencies, research institutions and private-sector companies for outstanding success in implementing development oriented strategies that leverage the power of ICTs as an enabler of the development.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/wp_g.png" alt="VOTE: Geekulcha Nominated For 3 International Awards - WSIS Prizes 2019"/></p>
<p>The WSIS Prizes contest is an integral part of the WSIS stocktaking process; set up in 2004 to assist WSIS implementation and follow-up. The contest was held for the first time in 2012, and rapidly gained attention and popularity within the ICT for Development (ICT4D) community.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="https://www.itu.int/net4/wsis/stocktaking/Prizes/2019/">https://www.itu.int/net4/wsis/stocktaking/Prizes/2019/</a></p>
<p>Geekulcha is amongst projects/initiatives for the 2019 awards in the these Action Line categories:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p>Category 2 â AL C2. Information and communication infrastructure</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Category 3 â AL C3. Access to information and knowledge</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Category 4 â AL C4. Capacity building</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Here is how you can vote for Geekulcha:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>
<pre><code> Go to the link: https://www.itu.int/net4/wsis/stocktaking/Prizes/2019/Vote
</code></pre>
</li>
<li>
<pre><code> Register as a new user
</code></pre>
</li>
<li>
<pre><code> Log in to your account
</code></pre>
</li>
<li>
<pre><code> Go to the âVoting Formâ
</code></pre>
</li>
<li>
<pre><code> Vote in each of 18 category (only then your vote is valid!).
</code></pre>
</li>
<li>
<pre><code> NB: Search and vote for Geekulcha in these categories C2 (listed as "Geek Culture"), C3 and C4.
</code></pre>
</li>
</ol>
<p>As a platform committed to growing the Geek Culture in Africa, we believe that this international recognition will help unlock new possibilities to power a Geek Culture of Sustainable Innovation in South Africa.</p>
<p>Checkout the Geek Culture:</p>
<ul>
<li>In photos: <a href="https://flickr.com/geekulcha/albums">https://flickr.com/geekulcha/albums</a></li>
<li>Videos: <a href="https://youtube.com/geekulcha">https://youtube.com/geekulcha</a></li>
<li>World Bank: <a href="http://www.infodev.org/articles/south-africa-start-geekulcha-grows-tech-and-geek-culture-colleges">http://www.infodev.org/articles/south-africa-start-geekulcha-grows-tech-and-geek-culture-colleges</a></li>
<li>Creative Superpowers Book: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Superpowers-Equip-Yourself-Creativity-ebook/dp/B0771X4LHC">https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Superpowers-Equip-Yourself-Creativity-ebook/dp/B0771X4LHC</a></li>
</ul>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Vote for your best <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ict?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ict</a> projects that should be awarded the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WSIS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WSIS</a> Prizes 2019! <a href="https://t.co/SY0axsgtZo">https://t.co/SY0axsgtZo</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/competition?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#competition</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ict4sdg?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ict4sdg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnitedNations?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnitedNations</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ITU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ITU</a> <a href="https://t.co/yA2f53eK89">pic.twitter.com/yA2f53eK89</a></p>— World Summit on the Information Society WSIS (@WSISprocess) <a href="https://twitter.com/WSISprocess/status/1083745187225059329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/><!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork: Building On The Value of Mentorship]]></title><description><![CDATA[It was a cold and dry morning of a late winter Monday, the Geeks were exhausted
after having survived 42 hours of Code at the 2014th Geekulcha Annual Hackathon.
The birds were singing and flying in what would be assumed as a cordinated flow
to possibly caution the Geeks in Tshwane to Code with to tidiness. Cloud
Computing had not gone fully mainstream by then
It was then when the Geekulcha Vacation Work programme was formed. Four
enthusiastic young minds were to Spend Holidays with the Geeks, b]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-building-on-the-value-of-mentorship/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5c3dd957d65286039c978b60</guid><category><![CDATA[gkVacWork]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[mentors]]></category><category><![CDATA[mpumalanga]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[gauteng]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 15 Jan 2019 13:50:34 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/vacwork-mentos.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/vacwork-mentos.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork: Building On The Value of Mentorship"/><p>It was a cold and dry morning of a late winter Monday, the Geeks were exhausted after having survived 42 hours of Code at the 2014th Geekulcha Annual Hackathon. The birds were singing and flying in what would be assumed as a cordinated flow to possibly caution the Geeks in Tshwane to Code with to tidiness. Cloud Computing had not gone fully mainstream by then</p>
<p>It was then when the Geekulcha Vacation Work programme was formed. Four enthusiastic young minds were to <em>Spend Holidays with the Geeks</em>, being mentored and taught how to Code during their school holidays.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/CeTKCQhWQAA01Ba.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork: Building On The Value of Mentorship"/></p>
<p>The main focus of the gkVacWork programme is on skills development and fostering entrepreneurship and innovation that will make young minds to be active leaders of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry in the future.</p>
<p><strong>Embracing the value of Skills Redistribution and Mentorship</strong></p>
<p>As South Africa embraces the 4th Industrial Revolution, we believe that the Geek Culture must be guided. The champions in the various fields must be able to help shape and build capacity for us to thrive.</p>
<p>For growth, one needs people who can help him/her find their place, build leisure, evaluate, caution and help you channel and reach the end goal. Geekulcha has always championed the need to show and build the value of mentorship from a very early age.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">50% of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> April Mentors were female. This is a Skills Redistribution programme also emphasizing the value of Mentorship. <a href="https://twitter.com/raeketsetsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@raeketsetsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_In_U?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geek_In_U</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CinaWood?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CinaWood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Seeko_ElectroDJ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Seeko_ElectroDJ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NellMorake?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NellMorake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HorbachBonnie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HorbachBonnie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GirlCode_za?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GirlCode_za</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SheSouthAfrica?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SheSouthAfrica</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STEM?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STEM</a> <a href="https://t.co/2wzcdDlTJS">pic.twitter.com/2wzcdDlTJS</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/983654476258082816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">And then the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> schoolers (electronics team) decided to do this for their mentor, Solly Cossa. <a href="https://t.co/hGsqrISPVk">pic.twitter.com/hGsqrISPVk</a></p>— Geekulcha đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/751439573524381696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>Getting inolved and hands-on</strong></p>
<p>During their holidays, universiy students may volunter as mentors at the Vacation Work programme for high scholars in the different provinces. A time to give back while also learning through the process.</p>
<p>On the last day, scholars get to choose and motivate on a Best Mentor to be given a prize.</p>
<p>Register Interest: <a href="mailto:future@geekulcha.com">future@geekulcha.com</a></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">You can mentor young minds through the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> programme during school holidays, apply here: <a href="https://t.co/gtNu7elRO6">https://t.co/gtNu7elRO6</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mentorship?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mentorship</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/code?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#code</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://t.co/UlBFmejlUy">pic.twitter.com/UlBFmejlUy</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/967809511426752512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Check out VacWork programme in photos:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157689650828600" title="#gkVacWork April 2018 Finale"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/885/26448215567_da494affef_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="#gkVacWork: Building On The Value of Mentorship"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks: Nominations Open For 2019]]></title><description><![CDATA[Geek is the new cool! Geek is the new sexy! These are the things you would hear
on the digital streets. Geeks have changed the world as we know it, there is no
joy they enjoy than making cool tech that matters.
The year 2018 saw the South African Geek Culture getting a boost with Minister
Ayanda Dlodlo LIVE Coding in front over 200 Geeks and also spent time assessing
Midnight pitches at the Public Service Hackathon. Minister Stella
Ndabeni-Abrahams, known as the "4IR Commander-In-Chief" address]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-nominations-open-for-2019/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5c32499bd65286039c978b40</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[top15younggeeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[minister stella ndabeni-abrahams]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category><category><![CDATA[minister ayanda dlodlo]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 06 Jan 2019 19:20:50 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/28128244497_2a7caf6636_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/28128244497_2a7caf6636_o.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Nominations Open For 2019"/><p>Geek is the new cool! Geek is the new sexy! These are the things you would hear on the digital streets. Geeks have changed the world as we know it, there is no joy they enjoy than making cool tech that matters.</p>
<p>The year 2018 saw the South African Geek Culture getting a boost with Minister Ayanda Dlodlo LIVE Coding in front over 200 Geeks and also spent time assessing Midnight pitches at the Public Service Hackathon. Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, known as the "4IR Commander-In-Chief" addressed the Festive Coding event - SummerDevDays.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The honorable minister <a href="https://twitter.com/MinAyandaDlodlo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MinAyandaDlodlo</a> is going where angels fear to tread by doing a live coding session @ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IgniteHack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IgniteHack</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/respect?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#respect</a> <a href="https://t.co/y9Oyax17QC">pic.twitter.com/y9Oyax17QC</a></p>— Project codeX (@project_codeX) <a href="https://twitter.com/project_codeX/status/1045726221160652805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Government is looking into Hackathons for digital solutions and this is where South African Geeks play. Question is, who are these Geeks who are solution developers?</p>
<p><strong>Top 15 Young Geeks</strong> is an initiative created by Geekulcha to identify and expose Geeks who are playing a role to transform the South African digital ecosystem. South Africa is living up to the 4IR era, this needs champions - the South African Geeks have a critical role to play.</p>
<p>Every year during Youth Month (June), Geekulcha announces the Top 15 Young Geeks for the year for these reasons:</p>
<ul>
<li>Make their work known; get their apps into the hands of users; help channel funding opportunities</li>
<li>Show the capacity of the South African Tech ecosystem for work or collaborative opportunities</li>
<li>Celebrating #GeekExcellence to build up the momentum onto the Geeks</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>2019 NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN:</strong> geekulcha.com/young-geeks</p>
<p>The public may nominate Geeks who deserve the recognition, one may also nominate him/herself. Nominations will be open till 30 April 2019. A selection process will take place during May. The Top 15 Young Geeks will be announced <strong>03 June 2019</strong>.</p>
<p>Tiyani Nghonyama, COO of Geekulcha says "The South African tech ecosystem is at a fragile state, the skills capacity is a worry and we need to stay focused towards an upskilling pipeline. We need to create a competitive state within the ecosystem and strive for quality. We also hope to see more females on the list this year."</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/Top15YoungGeeks.PNG" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks: Nominations Open For 2019"/></p>
<p>The 2018 Top Young Geeks included change makers in Machine Learning, agri-tech, emerging tech and a whole lot more.</p>
<p>Geekulcha also calls on Corporate SA to support more skills development platforms and to also look into funding viable solutions. The ongoing work with the Department of Public Service and Administration and the Centre for Public Service Innovation is set on the realization and implementation of the solutions from the Public Service Hackathon - IgniteHack.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#SummerDevDays: Local Coders Gather To Code The 4IR]]></title><description><![CDATA[As the South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities
taking place on the ground, we need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide
and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. Summer Developer Days
(#SummerDevDays) is a 2-day of coding where one learns from the community and
gets rewarded on the effort.
Hosted by the UNISA School of Computing and Geekulcha, the aim was to create an
enabling environment for local techies to connect and build capacity on their
skills]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/summerdevdays-local-coders-gather-to-code-the-4ir/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5c04f70ad65286039c978b2b</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[summer]]></category><category><![CDATA[minister stella ndabeni-abrahams]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 06 Dec 2018 09:15:40 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/12/IMG_2665.JPG" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/12/IMG_2665.JPG" alt="#SummerDevDays: Local Coders Gather To Code The 4IR"/><p>As the South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities taking place on the ground, we need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. Summer Developer Days (#SummerDevDays) is a 2-day of coding where one learns from the community and gets rewarded on the effort.</p>
<p>Hosted by the UNISA School of Computing and Geekulcha, the aim was to create an enabling environment for local techies to connect and build capacity on their skills. On 01 - 02 December at UNISA Muckleneuk campus, the event was attended by 136 aspiring developers, high school learners, designers, government officials, etc. with some coming all the way from Kwazulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. MCâd by Ms Thulisile Dlamini of Ikusasa Technology Solutions.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">GEEK-GUIDE đ€: Summer Dev Days.<br><br>A handful of techies will gather at UNISA for a Festival of Coding and will be joined by the Deputy Minister of <a href="https://twitter.com/DtpsZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DtpsZA</a>, HE. <a href="https://twitter.com/Stellarated?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Stellarated</a>.<br><br>Register here: <a href="https://t.co/rZ8Hdov4eB">https://t.co/rZ8Hdov4eB</a><br><br>PLEASE SHARE & RT To FELLOW GEEKS đżđŠ.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SummerDevDays?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SummerDevDays</a> <a href="https://t.co/bjSTKmAXCD">pic.twitter.com/bjSTKmAXCD</a></br></br></br></br></br></br></p>— South African Programmers (@SaProgrammers) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaProgrammers/status/1064587917669085184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>On his opening address, Professor Ernest Mnkandla of UNISA highlighted their annual programmes and hackathons to drive Open Source and enable socially-relevant innovation. âWe love Open Source because it gives one freedom in the world to create anythingâ, he said.</p>
<p><strong>Minister Stella Ndabeni Abrahams: âWe cannot build a capable 4IR without codersâ</strong></p>
<p>SummerDevDays 2018 was themed âLiving 4IRâ, as such the â4IR Commander-in-Chiefâ, Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams of Communications and Telecommunications and Postal Services attended the event to give a keynote address and spend some time with the young Geeks as they code for the 4th Industrial Revolution.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/DtpsZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DtpsZA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CommsZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CommsZA</a> Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/Stellarated?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Stellarated</a> commences her address by indicating that during the 2018 Budget Vote speech, she mentioned that to ensure that our communities participate meaningfully & effectively in 4IR, we have to ensure that we build a capable 4IR army <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SummerDevDays?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SummerDevDays</a> <a href="https://t.co/bZQ9hWcRc8">pic.twitter.com/bZQ9hWcRc8</a></p>— Nthabi M-Dlamini (@Nthabeleng_07) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nthabeleng_07/status/1068786143070732288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>Deputy Speaker Mlibo Qoboshiyane: âWe need to see smart villagesâ</strong></p>
<p>The Deputy Speaker of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, Hon. Mlibo Qomoshiyane was also amongst the distinguished guests and addressed the event. âThis revolution (4IR) is like a volcanic eruptionâ, said the Deputy Speaker. He echoed and urged the techies to build better societies and that it was his wish to see smart villages in our lifetime.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Deputy Speaker of <a href="https://twitter.com/eclegislature?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eclegislature</a>, Hon. Mlibo Qoboshiyane <a href="https://twitter.com/MliboQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MliboQ</a> addressing <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SummerDevDays?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SummerDevDays</a>: âIf we canât allow young people to move in, we shall parish togetherâ<a href="https://twitter.com/Stellarated?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Stellarated</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/qdelwa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@qdelwa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MinAyandaDlodlo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MinAyandaDlodlo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mcleansibanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mcleansibanda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Neli_Ngqulana?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Neli_Ngqulana</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NYDARSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NYDARSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SZondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SZondi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ButiManamela?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ButiManamela</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://t.co/00gZK83xl8">pic.twitter.com/00gZK83xl8</a></p>— Geekulcha đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/1070215987461525504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>To set the tone and drive momentum around hackathons such as the ITWeb Security Summit, a panel discussion on Dark Social and Dark Patterns was hosted and facilitated by the acting Executive Director of the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI), Ms Qinisile Delwa and joined by Dr Jabu Mtsweni - CSIR, Ms Nomso Kana - SUN 'n SHIELD, Ms Doreen Mokoena - ZADNA and Ms Nelisa Ngqulana - PR Trends ZA.</p>
<p>The Weekend of Code: To motivate the coders, the 15-year old Machine Learning Coder, Sifiso Nkabinde motivated the developers. Mr Ivan Regasek, the CEO of ITWeb also gave a talk on history of programme and highlighted that âJavascript is the English of Programming (Coding)â.</p>
<p>CEO of Lepsta, Sithembiso Khumalo took the participants through Version Control (Git) and a number of GitHub accounts were created during the weekend. Participants committed their code accordingly as this was part of the judging criteria.</p>
<p><strong>Got Code Blues? - âWe have Code Clinics for that!â</strong></p>
<p>Participants got a helping hand with their code throughout the weekend with various Code Clinic stations being set up at the venue as such:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>IoT/Electronics:</strong> RS Components with PiTops, participants learned and coded with C# through Raspberry Pis and Arduinos.</li>
<li><strong>Web Development</strong>: Ikusasa Technology Solutions helped first time coders with web development skills.</li>
<li><strong>Maker Corner:</strong> Brain Hack Developers - all things electronics, they had participants covered</li>
<li><strong>Robotics (lego):</strong> Tech Savvy Kids made and played around with robots coded with Node RAD</li>
<li><strong>Space Tech:</strong> Reacoda, data collection to build up space heritage</li>
</ul>
<p>At the end of the event, about 30 code projects with 24 having being presented - participants would had learned a new language/tool or having improved on their craft, highlighted:</p>
<p>TB Test Machine Learning solution to help with efficient diagnosis of tuberculosis<br>
Honeypot server to deceive cybercriminals as an Information Security protector<br>
Data mining with an IoT underground lights system</br></br></p>
<p>Cash Prizes were given to the accordingly: Beginner (Tshimo, 13); Intermediate (TBTest, high scholars) and Advanced (Cedrick Mkhabela).</p>
<p>Team TBTest won Best Coders of weekend - got the trophy by Ikusasa Tecnology Solutions.</p>
<p>Lepsta sponsored cool speakers for prizes: Kamogelo Thebe won Best Female Star and Clean Code with GKSS VUT having won Best Use of Git.</p>
<p>RS Components sponsored 2 toolbox with (with Arduino, Rapsberry Pi including modules and tools): Best of Electronics</p>
<p>Following the resounding success of the SummerDevDays event, we will be making this event as a seasonal event and in different provinces: <em>AutomDevDays (Open Data - Free State or Eastern Cape), WinterDevDays (Cyber Security - Western Cape), SpringDevDays (Public Service focused - Gauteng) and SummerDevDays (Living4IR - Gauteng).</em></p>
<p>âThese skills being built up through the Dev Days will be utilized in various hackathons to help with innovation development and ignite new tech startups. We hope to see more coders emerge in 2019 editionsâ, says Geekulcha COO, Tiyani Nghonyama.</p>
<p><a href="http://flickr.com/geekulcha/albums">Checkout all the photos</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#SummerDevDays To Build Quality Coding Capacity]]></title><description><![CDATA[Throughout the years, the UNISA School of Computing (Pro Bono) has collaborated
with Geekulcha, driving community developer days in growing tech skills and
socially-relevant innovation challenges such as the Random Hacks of
Kindness(RHOK) Pretoria hackathon.
The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities
taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide
and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. Summer Developer Days (
#SummerDevDay]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/summerdevdays-to-build-quality-coding-capacity/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5be2d18ed65286039c978b1f</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[Open Data]]></category><category><![CDATA[open]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[Getting Started]]></category><category><![CDATA[unisa]]></category><category><![CDATA[open source]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 07 Nov 2018 11:54:14 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/11/cover.JPEG" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/11/cover.JPEG" alt="#SummerDevDays To Build Quality Coding Capacity"/><p>Throughout the years, the UNISA School of Computing (Pro Bono) has collaborated with Geekulcha, driving community developer days in growing tech skills and socially-relevant innovation challenges such as the Random Hacks of Kindness(RHOK) Pretoria hackathon.</p>
<p>The South African tech ecosystem grows at own pace with various activities taking place on the ground. We need to assess, monitor, nurture, account, guide and forecast the grow of the digital ecosystem. Summer Developer Days (<strong>#SummerDevDays</strong>) is a 2-day of coding where one learns from the community and gets rewarded on the effort.</p>
<p>Creating an enabling environment for local techies to connect and build capacity on their skills. Summer Dev Days is led by UNISA School of Computing and Geekulcha in partnership with Ikusasa Technology Solutions, Red Bull Basement and ITWeb as a build up to the Security Summit 2019 Hackathon (SS19Hack).</p>
<p>Supported by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) and the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI) post the National Public Service Hackathon.</p>
<p>Target: Aspiring developers, high school learners, designers, government officials/techies, adults, etc.</p>
<p>Event Information</p>
<ul>
<li>Venue: Kgorong Building, UNISA Muckleneuk Campus, Pretoria</li>
<li>Date: 01 - 02 December 2018</li>
<li>Time: 08:30 - 17:00 daily</li>
<li>Registration: <a href="http://dev.geekulcha.com">dev.geekulcha.com</a></li>
</ul>
<p>To help the participants, there will be Code Clinics setup with specialists to remedy code pains that the coders would be having. The Code Clinics will focus on web and mobile applications, Internet of Things, Blockchain, Secure Coding (InfoSecurity) and others.</p>
<p>Geekulchaâs COO Tiyani Nghonyama says âthere has been a lot of talk of the 4th Industrial Revolution in 2018, as such we need to build capacity and get local techies to code for the 4IR with quality. We are also setting up a Government table for officials to also Code the Talk in 4IR.â</p>
<p>The event is open for both beginners and advanced developers and there will be prizes for different awards including honouring the Geekulcha 2018 Top 15 Young Geeks. Participants are required to make use of Open Source tools and software.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Kicks Off In Prieska]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Youth VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a simulated and
co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools.
Youngsters spend their Holidays With The Geeks, the Northern Cape crew and
community get to redistribute theirskills/knowledge with the young ones.
> What a wow, we have just reached 78 learners at this year's #gkVackWork
[https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVackWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw] & we're
still growing. #gkVackWork
[https://twi]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-kicks-off-in-prieska/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b438e15c07eeb676dd1fce1</guid><category><![CDATA[gkVacWork]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[stem]]></category><category><![CDATA[green]]></category><category><![CDATA[startups]]></category><category><![CDATA[design]]></category><category><![CDATA[apps]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 09 Jul 2018 16:53:19 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/07/vw-day-1.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/07/vw-day-1.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Kicks Off In Prieska"/><p>The Youth VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a simulated and co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools. Youngsters spend their Holidays With The Geeks, the Northern Cape crew and community get to redistribute theirskills/knowledge with the young ones.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">What a wow, we have just reached 78 learners at this year's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVackWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVackWork</a> & we're still growing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVackWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVackWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/09to13July?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#09to13July</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCYouthInnovation?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NCYouthInnovation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Code?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Code</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Startups?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Startups</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GreenTech?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GreenTech</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/dedat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dedat</a> <a href="https://t.co/deHF3dgSpl">pic.twitter.com/deHF3dgSpl</a></p>— NCDev Ecosystemđ»đ: #gkVacWork Prieska (@NCDevEco) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCDevEco/status/1016241414542413824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Assigned to mentors, the youngsters come up with projects based on the VacWork editionâs theme. They get to experience a real working environment and processes of the job market by reporting to work from 09:00 till 16:00 and send daily feedback, 09 - 13 July 2018. This edition is taking place at the Empilisweni Youth Centre in Prieska.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Group "CEO's" have been carefully selected, to lead their team's. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVackWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVackWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/09to13July?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#09to13July</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCYouthInnovation?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NCYouthInnovation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Code?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Code</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Startups?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Startups</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GreenTech?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GreenTech</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/dedat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dedat</a> <a href="https://t.co/8tgdeTU5jA">pic.twitter.com/8tgdeTU5jA</a></p>— NCDev Ecosystemđ»đ: #gkVacWork Prieska (@NCDevEco) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCDevEco/status/1016242105050517504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Theme: <em><strong>Northern Cape Green Pipeline: Innovation, Economy and Technology</strong></em>â is set as a theme for the July 2018 programme.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We themed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> Prieska on Green Economy, Technology and Innovation. Here some things that weâll be happening:<br><br>- Hands-on Green focused applications development <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/apps?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#apps</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/websites?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#websites</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iot?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iot</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/design?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#design</a> <br>- <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CareerTuesday?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CareerTuesday</a>: Career Alignment and Development <br>- Tech Debate: Security <a href="https://t.co/IL5TiZLwmT">pic.twitter.com/IL5TiZLwmT</a></br></br></br></br></p>— Tiyani: #gkVacWork Prieska, 09 - 13 July (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/1015466358442811392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The youngsters braced the coldness to come gain working experience at the programme. With over 50 youngsters taking part, they are challenged to build solutions that will ensure sustainability of the province while building the economic of the province.</p>
<p>Each group is treated as a tech startup with as they build their products or services. A business case of the solution will be presented during the final presentations on the 13th.</p>
<p>A Tech Debate will take place on the last day of the VacWork, with 8 teams completing for a trophy. This is aimed at building Digital Excitation and interest onto the youngsters.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Prieska To Build A Green Pipeline]]></title><description><![CDATA[We live in the buble of the 4th Industrial Revolution, everything is changing,
as slowly as it may be - our world is getting smarter and smarter. We have to
ask ourselves on readiness of this shift. Digital skills are a necessity for
what we are gearing ourselves into.
In 2014, Geekulcha established a hands-on skills redistribution programme - the
VacWork to get young people coding and build tech startups. Since then, over 850
scholars took about and 6 startups resulted.
> #gkVacWork [https://]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-prieska-to-build-a-green-pipeline/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b3b7baac07eeb676dd1fccd</guid><category><![CDATA[gkVacWork]]></category><category><![CDATA[stem]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[iot]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[apps]]></category><category><![CDATA[ai]]></category><category><![CDATA[kimberley]]></category><category><![CDATA[Getting Started]]></category><category><![CDATA[Students]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 03 Jul 2018 14:31:46 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/07/ncvacwork2.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/07/ncvacwork2.png" alt="#gkVacWork Prieska To Build A Green Pipeline"/><p>We live in the buble of the 4th Industrial Revolution, everything is changing, as slowly as it may be - our world is getting smarter and smarter. We have to ask ourselves on readiness of this shift. Digital skills are a necessity for what we are gearing ourselves into.</p>
<p>In 2014, Geekulcha established a hands-on <strong>skills redistribution programme</strong> - the VacWork to get young people coding and build tech startups. Since then, over 850 scholars took about and 6 startups resulted.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> July 2018, Prieska <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthernCapeSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NorthernCapeSA</a>: A hands-on ICT and Business skills development programme for the Northern Cape youth. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GreenTech?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GreenTech</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Code?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Code</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Apps?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Apps</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Innovation?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Innovation</a> <a href="https://t.co/CgNce43zcO">https://t.co/CgNce43zcO</a></p>— NCDev Ecosystemđ»đ: #gkVacWork Prieska (@NCDevEco) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCDevEco/status/1005819394340114432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The VacWork programme has since extended to the Northern Cape hosted by the <a href="http://www.northern-cape.gov.za/dedat/">Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT)</a> and the <a href="https://www.ncdev.co.za/">NCDev Ecosystem</a>. This edition takes place in July every year.</p>
<h3 id="youthictandbusinessvacworkjuly2018prieska">Youth ICT and Business VacWork July 2018 Prieska</h3>
<p>Taking place at the Empilisweni Youth Service Center (YSC), in Prieska - young and unempoloyed youth will build digital skills and solutions in line with Green Technologies for the sustainability of the province. The youngsters will be mentored by members from DEDAT, Sol Plaatje University and the NCDev Ecosystem.</p>
<h4 id="websitevacworkncdevcoza">Website: <a href="https://vacwork.ncdev.co.za/">vacwork.ncdev.co.za</a></h4>
<p>Solutions to be developed will comprise of mobile apps, websites, electronics systems and graphics design. Whatever the youngsters build, the solutions have to make business sense. It's important to get them thinking and building green-focused solutions to ensure a sustainable green economic growth.</p>
<p>On the last day, the youngsters will present their solutions and take part in a tech debate for trophy.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Mzwakhe Besho]]></title><description><![CDATA[A well preserved young man, prides himself in doing his work to his utmost
abilities. He always push himself to the ultimate limit when it comes to school
work.
Mzwakhe has fully dedicated himself to try his best to ensure that he helps his
fellow peers to achieve. He at times like to treat the ladies with extra special
attention because he believes that we need more female achievers in our country.
> Appreciate the past, utilize the present and don't be afraid to create the
future.
Dear Sou]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-mzwakhe-besho/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12dcf3c07eeb676dd1fcc5</guid><category><![CDATA[iot]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 18:20:07 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/mzwakhe2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/mzwakhe2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Mzwakhe Besho"/><p>A well preserved young man, prides himself in doing his work to his utmost abilities. He always push himself to the ultimate limit when it comes to school work.</p>
<p>Mzwakhe has fully dedicated himself to try his best to ensure that he helps his fellow peers to achieve. He at times like to treat the ladies with extra special attention because he believes that we need more female achievers in our country.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Appreciate the past, utilize the present and don't be afraid to create the future.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: We always say to ourselves if its not broke why fix it. Business people always say there is no need to reinvent the wheel, forgetting all skyscrappers were once slap of stones, Google was once just scrap of codes. Create the future.</p>
<p>Connect with Mzwakhe:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/beshomzwakhe">@beshomzwakhe</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mzwakhe-besho-26763970">Mzwakhe Besho</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Phathutshedzo Khabubu]]></title><description><![CDATA[Phathutshedzo Khabubu, a co-founder of the startups called Open Kasi and The
Plug Social Platform, most importantly he is a developer by passion but the most
interesting part of that he has learnt how to build software through platforms
like youtube, Microsoft Virtual Academy and applied his skills through programs
that Geekulcha offers.
> My greatest glory is not in never failing but in every time I raise.
* Confucius
Dear South African Geeks: Right now we have more power at our finger tip]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-phathutshedzo-khabubu/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12d905c07eeb676dd1fcc0</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[apps]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 18:03:17 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/phathu2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/phathu2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Phathutshedzo Khabubu"/><p>Phathutshedzo Khabubu, a co-founder of the startups called Open Kasi and The Plug Social Platform, most importantly he is a developer by passion but the most interesting part of that he has learnt how to build software through platforms like youtube, Microsoft Virtual Academy and applied his skills through programs that Geekulcha offers.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>My greatest glory is not in never failing but in every time I raise.</p>
<ul>
<li>Confucius</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>Right now we have more power at our finger tips than any other generation that has come before us think about that only because of technolgy, but technology is only a tool just like a mic is for a singer's voice. We have more power than any generation at our finger tips now here is a question "What will you do with it"?</em></p>
<p>Connect with Phathu:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/khabubu_phathu">@khabubu_phathu</a></li>
<li>GitHub: <a href="https://www.github.com/khabubu">khabubu</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Henry Chen]]></title><description><![CDATA[Henry took his first step by attending Hackathon while in Grade 10 in the
Northern Cape. Once you made the first step, everything will be clear for you.
He always pushed his limit, to reach another level as a Geek through
technologies such as AI, IoT, Robot, and software, to apply them in real life.
> So proud of Henry, coming all the way from Kimberley killing at #GKHack17
[https://twitter.com/hashtag/GKHack17?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw]. We have
been mentoring him since 2015 through #NCDev]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-henry-chen/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12d28bc07eeb676dd1fcbb</guid><category><![CDATA[ai]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[kimberley]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 17:36:41 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/henry2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/henry2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Henry Chen"/><p>Henry took his first step by attending Hackathon while in Grade 10 in the Northern Cape. Once you made the first step, everything will be clear for you.</p>
<p>He always pushed his limit, to reach another level as a Geek through technologies such as AI, IoT, Robot, and software, to apply them in real life.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">So proud of Henry, coming all the way from Kimberley killing at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GKHack17?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GKHack17</a>. We have been mentoring him since 2015 through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCDevHack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NCDevHack</a>. <a href="https://t.co/gYLji0YGsc">pic.twitter.com/gYLji0YGsc</a></p>— Geekulcha: #Top15YoungGeeks đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/914422405317185536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<blockquote>
<p>Do not pray for an easy life, pray for the strength to endure a difficult one.</p>
<ul>
<li>Bruce Lee</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: *First, everything has a beginning and it's very hard to make the first step. It takes lots of courage to do it. Like my first step which is attending Hackathon in Grade 10 as my first time. Once you made the first step, everything will be clear for you.</p>
<p>Second, sometime you might get something that is opposite than what you planned for. Then start to think why is this so mean and nasty? You may be prepared a solution towards specific problem but didn't get a reward for that in a competition. You might think this is not worth to do it...Let me tell you from my experience, the only solution is to keep going. In this solution, you are going to rebuild yourself over and over. This solution will beat you to your kneel. Everyone is trying to hit hard in this solution. The thing is, it isn't about how hard you can hit. It's about how hard can you get hit, and keep moving forward. How much can you take and keep moving forward. Because that's what the winner is doing.</p>
<p>I use to keep moving forward using that solution and got benefit from it. I pushed my limit, to reach another level as a Geek. Such as AI, IoT, Robot, and software, to apply them in real life...*</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Frannest Toll]]></title><description><![CDATA[Frannest Toll is a 20 year old Information Technology student at the Cape
Peninsula University of Technology. He also a Network marketer as well as a
cryptocurrency investor.
He's implementing a program where he wants to get the youth of my area into
programming. He always had a passion for the Information Technology industry and
believes that he'll become one of the leaders in this industry.
He will persue his doctorate of Information Technology.
> If you can't take a little bloody nose, may]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-frannest-toll/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12ced0c07eeb676dd1fcb7</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[Students]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 17:13:30 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/frannest2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/frannest2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Frannest Toll"/><p>Frannest Toll is a 20 year old Information Technology student at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He also a Network marketer as well as a cryptocurrency investor.</p>
<p>He's implementing a program where he wants to get the youth of my area into programming. He always had a passion for the Information Technology industry and believes that he'll become one of the leaders in this industry.</p>
<p>He will persue his doctorate of Information Technology.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>If you can't take a little bloody nose, maybe you oughtta go back home and crawl under your bed. It's not safe out here. It's wondrous, with treasures to satiate desires both subtle and gross; but it's not for the timid.</p>
<ul>
<li>Q, Star Trek: The Next Generation</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: *I think if we come together at annual event to discuss how we can innovate, disrupt and transform our industry to better serve an increasingly digital African population while still protecting our most vulnerable, this will be a game changer for the South African ICT industry.</p>
<p>The size of the African market could, if leveraged properly, change the sector into one that put African needs ahead of other economies. This could be hastened if we produced our own technology and took it to other parts of the world.*</p>
<p>Connect with Frannest:</p>
<ul>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/frannest-toll-40835815a">Frannest Toll</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Moses Mhlwana]]></title><description><![CDATA[Born on the 1st of January 1999 and raised by his grandmother till the age of 6,
Moses moved to Gauteng to live with his uncle in 2006, that's the year he was
introduced to a PC. He then gained love and found the art and beauty of a it.
Did his high school grades at Bokgoni technical secondary school, located in the
city of Tshwane.
Motivated by the movie 'the social network' to gain interest in the world of
ICT. Then a company by the name of introduced me to the world of artificial
intelligenc]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-moses-mhlwana/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12c9edc07eeb676dd1fcb2</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[gkVacWork]]></category><category><![CDATA[education]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 16:59:48 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/moses2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/moses2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Moses Mhlwana"/><p>Born on the 1st of January 1999 and raised by his grandmother till the age of 6, Moses moved to Gauteng to live with his uncle in 2006, that's the year he was introduced to a PC. He then gained love and found the art and beauty of a it. Did his high school grades at Bokgoni technical secondary school, located in the city of Tshwane.</p>
<p>Motivated by the movie 'the social network' to gain interest in the world of ICT. Then a company by the name of introduced me to the world of artificial intelligence, little did they know how much love he has for ICT, in followed every event they host, though was always the youngest with his best friend Njabulo Sibiya. won a couple of vacworks and hackathons.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CaJCEwZg-_o" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>He strived harder where there's hunger and right now am facing the hunger of learning more and engaging more in the core of ICT, be someone that kids can look up to and say 'He didn't wait any longer, he found a way of building up his career on his own, and I want to do the same.'</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Being a geek is a great thing. I think we're all geeks. Being a geek means you're passionate about something and that defines your uniqueness. I would rather be passionate about something than be apathetic about everything.</p>
<ul>
<li>Masi Oka</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>Tt becomes a better environment when we meet and hack-a-hon of ideas together. This world has come to a tech only point, every problem needs a geek tobcome up with a tech solution. Let's work together and promote Africa to a developed content.</em></p>
<p>Connect with Moses:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/mosco_mhl">@mosco_mhl</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Mukondli Dumela]]></title><description><![CDATA[Mukondli Dumela is also known as Sneidon. The Software Development and
Multimedia graduate from the University of Pretoria student came up with the
idea of creating the dictionary after he found it difficult to get Xitsonga
words on Google and other search engines while doing a research project.
> For Xitsonga speakers & others who want to learn:
There are only 3 Mobile apps for learning the Xitsonga language, culture, and
history (AFAWK). Download here ->
- Xitsonga Dictionary; Xitsonga For ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-mukondli-dumela/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12c2c7c07eeb676dd1fcad</guid><category><![CDATA[apps]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[xitsonga]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 16:29:32 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/sneidon2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/sneidon2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Mukondli Dumela"/><p>Mukondli Dumela is also known as Sneidon. The Software Development and Multimedia graduate from the University of Pretoria student came up with the idea of creating the dictionary after he found it difficult to get Xitsonga words on Google and other search engines while doing a research project.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">For Xitsonga speakers & others who want to learn:<br><br>There are only 3 Mobile apps for learning the Xitsonga language, culture, and history (AFAWK). Download here -><br><br>- Xitsonga Dictionary; Xitsonga For Kids, by <a href="https://t.co/HHVZAE7rWP">https://t.co/HHVZAE7rWP</a><br>- DigitalTsonga Mobile, <a href="https://t.co/k3Gx7SdUDp">https://t.co/k3Gx7SdUDp</a> <a href="https://t.co/61fAC7IN5c">pic.twitter.com/61fAC7IN5c</a></br></br></br></br></br></p>— DigitalTsongaâą (@DigitalTsonga) <a href="https://twitter.com/DigitalTsonga/status/986543781083303936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Dumela was born and raised in Nyavani, a rural village in Malamulele, Limpopo, and has a multimedia degree.</p>
<p>"I would like to thank Geekulcha and everyone who nominated me for the Top 25 shortlist of the Top 15 Young Geeks for 2018. This nomination and recognition by Geekulcha is a great honour and means way more than I can articulate", said Mukondli.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Humility is one of the most important qualities which you must have, because if you make people realize that you are not a threat to them, then people will embrace you.</p>
<ul>
<li>Mark Suster</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>South Africa is a young democracy and we the youth have a unique responsibility to modernise and industrialise our country. Always remember mistakes are inevitable when working on innovative and new ideas so go easy on yourself. I wish you the best in your quest for a better South Africa.</em></p>
<p>Connect with Mukondli:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/Sneidon">@Sneidon</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/Sneidon">Sneidon</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.github.com/Sneidon">Sneidon</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Pertunia Tladi]]></title><description><![CDATA[Pertunia grew up in Polokwane, Limpopo and graduated with a Bcom(IT) degree from
the University of the Free State in Bloemdivein.Currently a Technical Engineer
at SQS Group.
> IT brains get together for hackathon to build skills: https://t.co/mhGZtX9xqV
pic.twitter.com/D1w73Lr0ER [https://t.co/D1w73Lr0ER]
â Sowetan LIVE (@SowetanLIVE) May 23, 2018
[https://twitter.com/SowetanLIVE/status/999285574442856448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw]
During her 3 years in the software development space her primary fo]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-pertunia-tladi/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12baa6c07eeb676dd1fca7</guid><category><![CDATA[infosec]]></category><category><![CDATA[security]]></category><category><![CDATA[women in cyber]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 15:59:42 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/pertunia2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/pertunia2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Pertunia Tladi"/><p>Pertunia grew up in Polokwane, Limpopo and graduated with a Bcom(IT) degree from the University of the Free State in Bloemdivein.Currently a Technical Engineer at SQS Group.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">IT brains get together for hackathon to build skills: <a href="https://t.co/mhGZtX9xqV">https://t.co/mhGZtX9xqV</a> <a href="https://t.co/D1w73Lr0ER">pic.twitter.com/D1w73Lr0ER</a></p>— Sowetan LIVE (@SowetanLIVE) <a href="https://twitter.com/SowetanLIVE/status/999285574442856448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>During her 3 years in the software development space her primary focus was on leveraging skills gained in order to develop sustainable solutions within her communities.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Humility is one of the most important qualities which you must have, because if you make people realize that you are not a threat to them, then people will embrace you.</p>
<ul>
<li>Nelson Mandela</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>With a burning entrepreneurial spirit, her greatest passion is using technology to solve socio-economic problems such as lack of education.</p>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>great ideas donât miraculously come to people in a moment of inspiration, they evolve over a lifetime of hard work and personal sacrifice. Innovation is a sloppy process and when it comes to a great idea there is no exact formula. Lastly, leverage skills to develop innovative and sustainable solutions within your own community.</em></p>
<p>Connect with Pertunia:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/patchutladi">@patchutladi</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/pertunia-tladi-5709b865">Pertunia Tladi</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Tyler Maclachlan]]></title><description><![CDATA[Tyler is one of the winners of the AB InBev Hack the World Johannesburg
competition. He is hard working and has the ability to think on his feet and
turn anything he touches into something innovative. In short he, is Lunar Web
Development (Pty) Ltd's programming God!
> Put your heart, mind, and soul into even your smallest acts. This is the secret
of success
* Swami Sivananda
Dear South African Geeks: Work hard and never stop learning. Your greatest
obstacle will always be your own self-dou]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-tyler-maclachlan/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12a895c07eeb676dd1fca1</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[coffee]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 14:32:52 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/tyler2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/tyler2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Tyler Maclachlan"/><p>Tyler is one of the winners of the AB InBev Hack the World Johannesburg competition. He is hard working and has the ability to think on his feet and turn anything he touches into something innovative. In short he, is Lunar Web Development (Pty) Ltd's programming God!</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Put your heart, mind, and soul into even your smallest acts. This is the secret of success</p>
<ul>
<li>Swami Sivananda</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>Work hard and never stop learning. Your greatest obstacle will always be your own self-doubt; so take a look in the mirror each day and tell yourself that you can do it, then go out and do the impossible because thatâs what us Geeks do: Make the impossible possible and bring imagination to real life.</em></p>
<p>Connect with Tyler:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/vdekjeza">@vdekjeza</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-m">Tyler Maclachlan</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Sandiso Ncube]]></title><description><![CDATA[An Entrepreneur & Business Analyst with experience across Business Analysis,
Technology Solution Consulting, Project Management, Small Business Advisory,
Training & Development and Commercial Property Maintenance. He is passionate
about people, technology, finance & entrepreneurship.
> No problem can withstand the consistent power of thought.
* Voltaire
Dear South African Geeks: We are the generation that is going to build Africa's
hightech Unicorns. Get up, get going, the world awaits.
Co]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-sandiso-ncube/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12749cc07eeb676dd1fc9e</guid><category><![CDATA[Business]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 10:48:02 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/sandiso2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/sandiso2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Sandiso Ncube"/><p>An Entrepreneur & Business Analyst with experience across Business Analysis, Technology Solution Consulting, Project Management, Small Business Advisory, Training & Development and Commercial Property Maintenance. He is passionate about people, technology, finance & entrepreneurship.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>No problem can withstand the consistent power of thought.</p>
<ul>
<li>Voltaire</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>We are the generation that is going to build Africa's hightech Unicorns. Get up, get going, the world awaits.</em></p>
<p>Connect with Sandiso:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/SandisoNcube">@SandisoNcube</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandisoncube">Sandiso Ncube</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Gift Nxumalo]]></title><description><![CDATA[Before joining PricewaterhouseCoopers in May 2017, Gift worked as a SAPS junior
commissioner for two years where he specialized in crime prevention and
investigation.
Gift did actuarial research for ASABA where he derived donor equity fund models
for financial inclusion in southern Africa. He helped to promote awareness and
involvement in initiatives for financial inclusion that are relevant to the
actuarial profession such as data analytics for SAMF and IMO mentoring.
Gift lectured Advanced M]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-gift-nxumalo/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12711ac07eeb676dd1fc97</guid><category><![CDATA[data science]]></category><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[infosec]]></category><category><![CDATA[mathematics]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 10:39:05 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/gift2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/gift2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Gift Nxumalo"/><p>Before joining PricewaterhouseCoopers in May 2017, Gift worked as a SAPS junior commissioner for two years where he specialized in crime prevention and investigation.</p>
<p>Gift did actuarial research for ASABA where he derived donor equity fund models for financial inclusion in southern Africa. He helped to promote awareness and involvement in initiatives for financial inclusion that are relevant to the actuarial profession such as data analytics for SAMF and IMO mentoring.</p>
<p>Gift lectured Advanced Mathematics and Statistics at Turning Point Tutors for 2 years prior from joining PwC.</p>
<p>Gift also specialises in information security, robotic process automation, security architecture, vulnerability assessments and penetration testing. He has won various hackathon including the PwC information security hackathon, The CSIR data science challenge, The Telkom heckathon,The Marabele Business Club challenge , African Institute of Mathematical Sciences summer school programming challenge.</p>
<p>He went to Jinan University in China working on supercomputing models. He is currently partaking in BrainBar European most innovative festival, contributing to Brandlive radio, a vociferous Radio 702 interviewee. Currently doing academic research while studying Agricultural Engineering in Budapest.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>It seems impossible until it is done</p>
<ul>
<li>Nelson Mandela</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: I love my country profusely and I am always hacking new solutions to better our communities. From the dusty streets of a remote rural area to the world of new possibilities, join me as we push boundaries and inspire a generation of hackers. I am hacking seamless agricultural solutions to access quality food and eradicate poverty, I am hacking solutions to get back the land and use secure added-on object model to code super intelligent AI.</p>
<p>Connect with Gift:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/Bubble_Bounty">@Bubble_Bounty</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gift-nxumalo-622191106">Gift Nxumalo</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Kim Mukenge]]></title><description><![CDATA[Arnaud Mukenge Kim Chulu Amina is an entrepreneur in technology & a lecturer in
User Experience & Graphic Design. Founder of Kimard Studio, in 2014, which
focuses on consulting in Gamification, User Experience design and build internal
game products for education as well as entertainment.
Arnaud was born in the DRC, completed his Cum Laude degree in South Africa in
Multimedia, specializing in Gamification for educational content. He has won a
few competitions including the Nasa Space Apps Chall]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-kim-mukenge/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b12678fc07eeb676dd1fc8b</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[design]]></category><category><![CDATA[games]]></category><category><![CDATA[graphics]]></category><category><![CDATA[ux]]></category><category><![CDATA[ui]]></category><category><![CDATA[unity3d]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 10:04:29 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/kim2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/kim2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Kim Mukenge"/><p>Arnaud Mukenge Kim Chulu Amina is an entrepreneur in technology & a lecturer in User Experience & Graphic Design. Founder of Kimard Studio, in 2014, which focuses on consulting in Gamification, User Experience design and build internal game products for education as well as entertainment.</p>
<p>Arnaud was born in the DRC, completed his Cum Laude degree in South Africa in Multimedia, specializing in Gamification for educational content. He has won a few competitions including the Nasa Space Apps Challenge in the people's choice challenge for South Africa twice, and the Gamification for social good in Ethiopia in 2015 which certified him by GIZ in gamification.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Check out Armel Demo on <a href="https://t.co/wTn0I6QB1t">https://t.co/wTn0I6QB1t</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gamedev?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gamedev</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indiedev?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indiedev</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pcgamer?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pcgamer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/videogame?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#videogame</a> <a href="https://t.co/mVMKZgqWnd">pic.twitter.com/mVMKZgqWnd</a></p>— Kimard đź Armel (@kimardamina) <a href="https://twitter.com/kimardamina/status/884389733874487297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>He is currently living in South Africa and running Kimard Studio and sharing knowledge at Pearson Institute as a lecturer.</p>
<p>Also enjoys discussing about technology and the possibilities of always not having boundaries when developing an idea.</p>
<p>He runs the Unity 3D Africa User Group allowing communication between unity and their community in Africa.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I came, I saw, I conquered.</p>
<ul>
<li>Julius Caesar</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>While the world keeps evolving because technology is driving it, be the engineer that contributes to creating the next technology which drives the world. Be the head of the train.</em></p>
<p>Connect with Kim:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/kimardamina">@kimardamina</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="arnaud-chulu-kim-amina-2a90473a/de">Arnaud Chulu Kim Amina</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Gary Odendaal]]></title><description><![CDATA[Thinker of Deep Thoughts at Lunar Web Development (Pty) Ltd - Coffee addict,
beer and wine connoisseur, gamer and lover of all things Tech. Gary grew up in
East London and started his career out as a Data Capturer. He quickly worked his
way in to a position as a Data Analyst and relocated to Johannesburg in 2012.
He then continued to work with SQL as an integrity analyst and report writer
until 2015.
In 2016, he took a break and went to work in Dubai but my passion for I.T
brought him back. In]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-gary-odendaal/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b125db0c07eeb676dd1fc83</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category><category><![CDATA[Gary]]></category><category><![CDATA[sql]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 09:23:49 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/gary2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/gary2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Gary Odendaal"/><p>Thinker of Deep Thoughts at Lunar Web Development (Pty) Ltd - Coffee addict, beer and wine connoisseur, gamer and lover of all things Tech. Gary grew up in East London and started his career out as a Data Capturer. He quickly worked his way in to a position as a Data Analyst and relocated to Johannesburg in 2012.</p>
<p>He then continued to work with SQL as an integrity analyst and report writer until 2015.</p>
<p>In 2016, he took a break and went to work in Dubai but my passion for I.T brought him back. In 2017, he was one of the winners of the AB InBev HackTheWorld Competition and from that win Lunar Web Development was born.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.</p>
<ul>
<li>Winston Churchill</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>What Tyler Maclachlan had to say about Gary</p>
<p>"...Gary is also an <code>SQL wizard</code> and no matter what you want from a database, Gary will make sure you get it and it's presentable and easy to view."</p>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>You are never too young or too old to make a change in the world. You may fail often, but always have the courage to ask for help, try again and learn from what you have tried. The world is advancing at a rapid pace and you get to be part of a great and innovative shift in technology. Embrace it and run with it!</em></p>
<p>Connect with Gary:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/Gary_Odendaal88">@Gary_Odendaal88</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/godendaal">godendaal</a></li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Josiah Thobejane]]></title><description><![CDATA[Josiah Thobejane is a 19-year old young man whose main interest is technology.
As of 2018 he is a second year Software Development student at Rosebank College.
> Front Seat Gang!! đđ
The Taxi Math app is now available on Google Play!!, check it out here:
https://t.co/aX6hJI0T3Q
Save yourself that 15 minutes stress, confusion and all the "I should have
waited for another taxi" đđđ€#TaxiMathapp
[https://twitter.com/hashtag/TaxiMathapp?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw]
#SAFTUstrike
[https://tw]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-josiah-thobejane/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b125365c07eeb676dd1fc7b</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[android]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[Josiah]]></category><category><![CDATA[Thobejane]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 08:56:22 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/josiah2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/josiah2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Josiah Thobejane"/><p>Josiah Thobejane is a 19-year old young man whose main interest is technology. As of 2018 he is a second year Software Development student at Rosebank College.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Front Seat Gang!! đđ<br><br>The Taxi Math app is now available on Google Play!!, check it out here: <a href="https://t.co/aX6hJI0T3Q">https://t.co/aX6hJI0T3Q</a><br><br>Save yourself that 15 minutes stress, confusion and all the "I should have waited for another taxi" đđđ€<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TaxiMathapp?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TaxiMathapp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAFTUstrike?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAFTUstrike</a> <a href="https://t.co/QPoeZVi6Ka">pic.twitter.com/QPoeZVi6Ka</a></br></br></br></br></p>— Taxi Math App (@TaxiMath) <a href="https://twitter.com/TaxiMath/status/989170528278761472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>He has created dozens of apps since Grade 11 including a Messenger app launched in 2017, a Music platform well-known as Audiostreamify co-founded with his friend, Donald Pakkies, and his most well known app, Taxi Math App.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>When something is important to you, you do it even the odds are no in your favour.</p>
<ul>
<li>Elon Musk</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Connect with Josiah"</p>
<ul>
<li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/thisMabu">JosiahThobejane</a></li>
<li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/JosiahThobejane">josiahthobejane</a></li>
<li>GitHub: <a href="https://www.github.com/JosiahThobejane">JosiahThobejane</a></li>
</ul>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I wanted to make a mini music player, I did this instead. It kinda sucks but I did it, which makes it cool even though it only playes .Wav files.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShowYourCodeFriday?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShowYourCodeFriday</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LearningCSharp?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LearningCSharp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaProgrammers?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaProgrammers</a><a href="https://twitter.com/SaProgrammers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SaProgrammers</a> <a href="https://t.co/aDw0Ig6GXl">pic.twitter.com/aDw0Ig6GXl</a></p>— Josiah Thobejane (@JosiahThobejane) <a href="https://twitter.com/JosiahThobejane/status/1002641917774106624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Hlulani Baloyi]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hlulani Baloyi is a Digital analyst(Full stack developer),working for a
consulting firm. She graduated from the Tshwane University of Technology in 2014
with a Diploma in Information and Communication Technology (majoring on
Technical applications).
Joined Geekulcha and soon realized that there is a gap between males and females
in the ICT sector. She started doing research and came across Girl Rising.
She is now the ambassador for this global initiative and helps teach women how
to code and h]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-hlulani-baloyi/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b124754c07eeb676dd1fc71</guid><category><![CDATA[raeketsetsa]]></category><category><![CDATA[digital]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[hlulani]]></category><category><![CDATA[ruth]]></category><category><![CDATA[females]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 07:57:10 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/ruth2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/ruth2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Hlulani Baloyi"/><p>Hlulani Baloyi is a Digital analyst(Full stack developer),working for a consulting firm. She graduated from the Tshwane University of Technology in 2014 with a Diploma in Information and Communication Technology (majoring on Technical applications).</p>
<p>Joined Geekulcha and soon realized that there is a gap between males and females in the ICT sector. She started doing research and came across Girl Rising.</p>
<p>She is now the ambassador for this global initiative and helps teach women how to code and helps tackle the gender gap. In 2014 she became an Intel Ambassador for their #SheWillConnect initiative which is designed to help women allover becoming computer literate.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QPsxc5MDFc0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Under the same umbrella she then co-founded an women in Tech organization called Raeketsetsa(we are doing it ourselves) which focuses on sustaining young women who are already in the tech-space.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>If your mind is in it, you can achieve it.</p>
<ul>
<li>Unknown (Kinda took ownership)</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>We have the right kinds of solutions to revolutionalize and transform the tech narrative in our country, may we dare to fearlessly do it like "Pro's" acknowledging that we are part of a bigger picture and our piece in the puzzle matters.</em></p>
<p>Connect with Hlulani:</p>
<p>Website: <a href="http://www.hlulani.africa">www.hlulani.africa</a><br>
Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/HlullyR">@HlullyR</a><br>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/hlulani-baloyi-1b391785">Hlulani Baloyi</a></br></br></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Mabu Manaileng]]></title><description><![CDATA[Mabu Manaileng was born and raised at a village called Ga-Masemola in the
Sekhukhune district of Limpopo. He obtained his M.Sc. in computer science
focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI) from University of Limpopo â Turfloop
Campus.
Mabu is a full time geek who is either coding, reading books or watching MOOCs.
He enjoys reading non-fiction, biographies and history - citing Sapiens by Yuval
Noah Harari as one of his favourite reads.
> DataWizards wow at ITWeb Security Summit hackathon #SS18H]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-mabu-manaileng/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5b123390c07eeb676dd1fc66</guid><category><![CDATA[ai]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[data science]]></category><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[Mabu Manaileng]]></category><category><![CDATA[big data]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jun 2018 06:40:07 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/mabu2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/06/mabu2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Mabu Manaileng"/><p>Mabu Manaileng was born and raised at a village called Ga-Masemola in the Sekhukhune district of Limpopo. He obtained his M.Sc. in computer science focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI) from University of Limpopo â Turfloop Campus.</p>
<p>Mabu is a full time geek who is either coding, reading books or watching MOOCs.<br>
He enjoys reading non-fiction, biographies and history - citing Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari as one of his favourite reads.</br></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">DataWizards wow at ITWeb Security Summit hackathon <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SS18Hack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SS18Hack</a><a href="https://t.co/dfdPLYKW6L">https://t.co/dfdPLYKW6L</a></p>— Geekulcha: #Top15YoungGeeks đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/999960862474588160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Mabu touched a computer for the first time when he got to university and has been fascinated since. 'In my first year, I literally slept in the lab. I just couldn't believe that anything could be as fascinating as a PC'.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I could either watch it happen or be a part of it.</p>
<ul>
<li>Elon Musk</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>He has since been pursuing research in AI and machine learning as he seeks to unlock its potential in changing Africa, the world and everything else.</p>
<p>Here is the motivation for Mabu as being part of the list:</p>
<ul>
<li>Mabu is part of the Data Wizards that has been doing Data Science at a greater level at hackathons</li>
<li>He is a Geek of note in the South African tech ecosystem and commmunicates his tech projects very well</li>
</ul>
<p>"I cannot begin to express how honoured I am to be recognised by an organisation I so immensely respect and look up to. I am more than grateful", said Mabu.</p>
<p>Dear South African Geeks: <em>We find ourselves in a very special and opportune moment of the AI revolution. We should not overlook the opportunities presented by this age of big data and machine learning. Our responsibility is to consume as much knowledge possible and then apply ourselves and our smarts to the many problems facing our country and continent. No problem is off limits for ML. Remember this: the goal is not to sound or appear like you know things but rather to learn and apply your knowledge to practical problems.</em></p>
<p>Connect with Mabu:</p>
<p>Twitter: <a href="https://www.twitter.com/thisMabu">@thisMabu</a><br>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/manailengmj">manailengmj</a><br>
GitHub: <a href="https://www.github.com/mabu-dev">mabu-dev</a></br></br></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha On Open Data]]></title><description><![CDATA[They say "Data is the new oil" in this smart growing world. Data is truly an
important aspect of life helping us to plan, decide, inform and unlock new
opportunities. The possibilities are endless as far data data is concerned and
the most important thing is to have the know-how.
Since 2015, Geekulcha had joined efforts with various organizations such as
OpenUp (previously Code4SA), The Innovation Hub, Northern Cape Dept. of Economic
Development and others. Events and challenges like the Respon]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-on-open-data/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5aeeab62c07eeb676dd1fc5f</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[Open Data]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 06 May 2018 07:56:18 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/05/DAiLIQJXcAAmb20.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/05/DAiLIQJXcAAmb20.jpg" alt="Geekulcha On Open Data"/><p>They say "Data is the new oil" in this smart growing world. Data is truly an important aspect of life helping us to plan, decide, inform and unlock new opportunities. The possibilities are endless as far data data is concerned and the most important thing is to have the know-how.</p>
<p>Since 2015, Geekulcha had joined efforts with various organizations such as OpenUp (previously Code4SA), The Innovation Hub, Northern Cape Dept. of Economic Development and others. Events and challenges like the Responsive Cities Challenge, Open Dataquests and more have been hosted in building Data interest around the country.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KnowTheGeeks?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KnowTheGeeks</a> - Geekulcha collaborates with the University of Mpumalanga in HIV/AIDS consciousness programmes through Open Data <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/data?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#data</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tech?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tech</a> <a href="https://t.co/0K7MrkvjQE">pic.twitter.com/0K7MrkvjQE</a></p>— Geekulcha đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/893892908960690177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Geekulcha places Data Literacy on top of everything in the South African Open Data movement. One of the measures taken was to integrate Open Data as part of Geekulcha-driven hackathons such as GKHack17/8, RHoK Pretoria and NCDevHack. An initiative called Open Data for Innovation and Smart Citizenship (ODISC) was created to help accelerate data skills capacity in the Geeks ecosystem.</p>
<p>For 2018, Geekulcha has been working with the South African Open Data project to help drive sector-focused hackathons such as the Air Quality Hackathon hosted at the TUT Soshanguve campus.</p>
<p>Geekulcha's stand on Open Data: geekulcha.com/odisc</p>
<p>These are the key activities that have been happening:</p>
<ul>
<li>Open Data for township economic acceleration and sustainability at GKHack18</li>
<li>International Open Data Day Kathu and Kimberley</li>
<li>Open Contracting Innovation Challenge South Africa</li>
</ul>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">In 2017, I decided to integrate Open Data element into all <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> Hackathons. Open Kasi startup by <a href="https://twitter.com/khabubu_phathu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@khabubu_phathu</a> and co is one of results of the cause from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GKHack17?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GKHack17</a>. Providing accounting tools and experience educational tools for township businesses. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ODISC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ODISC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://t.co/gztl5SxWPA">pic.twitter.com/gztl5SxWPA</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/951724466563960832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Data is indeed an important aspect of life, tech developers/innovators need to evolve in this 4th Industrial Revolution and turn data into new innovation and inform better. This is a collaborative effort and everyone must commit to the drive achieving an ethical and intelligent data-centric state.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Shaping Tomorrow's Geek Culture]]></title><description><![CDATA[Geekulcha, a platform for over 9 600 ICT young Geeks across the country is build
on the basis of creating an active and vibrant tech army to connect, learn,
share and put skills to real use. Since 2013, the Geek Culture in South Africa
through various tech activities driving Innovation and Creativity. Geekulcha has
since won awards in its role for this purpose in South Africa.
As the world grow smarter and smarter, there is a need to create a future we
want to see. A pipeline is important nurtu]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-shaping-tomorrows-geek-culture/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5ae626afc07eeb676dd1fc56</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[geekulcha]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[gkVacWork]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 29 Apr 2018 20:41:43 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/04/cover-topgeeks.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/04/cover-topgeeks.png" alt="#gkVacWork Shaping Tomorrow's Geek Culture"/><p>Geekulcha, a platform for over 9 600 ICT young Geeks across the country is build on the basis of creating an active and vibrant tech army to connect, learn, share and put skills to real use. Since 2013, the Geek Culture in South Africa through various tech activities driving Innovation and Creativity. Geekulcha has since won awards in its role for this purpose in South Africa.</p>
<p>As the world grow smarter and smarter, there is a need to create a future we want to see. A pipeline is important nurture the Geek Culture that will further build and and lead tomorrow's world for the betterment of civilization.</p>
<p><strong>The Future GeekStars Initiative</strong></p>
<p>In preparation for the future, Geekulcha created the Future GeekStars initiative in 2014 to prepare and groom the Geeks of the future. The initiative consits of the Geekulcha Vacation Work (gkVacWork) programme, community outreach and mentorship for young people.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthernCapeSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NorthernCapeSA</a> will take place 09 - 13 July in Prieska. Igniting STEM and Digital skills capacity of tomorrow's Geek Culture. <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NCDevEco?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCDevEco</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/jjza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jjza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/iamkeenanG6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamkeenanG6</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HorbachBonnie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HorbachBonnie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/weideJUR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@weideJUR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JustJoZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JustJoZA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Stellarated?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Stellarated</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CrestonCam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CrestonCam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosbarker16?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlosbarker16</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SZondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SZondi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ITWeb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ITWeb</a> <a href="https://t.co/03AHHJ8RSs">pic.twitter.com/03AHHJ8RSs</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/990178420343693313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The gkVacWork in particular, is a hands-on programme for young people to learn how to code and build tech startups. Quality is key on the programme and at most, youngsters have a week to build an app, website, graphics design, electronics system and must have a business case for their solution. Free and open to youngsters beween the ages of 9 to 20 years old.</p>
<p>Always great to see the projects/solutions that come out of the VacWork programme built within a short space of time.</p>
<p>It takes a village to raise a Geek, therefore the VacWork programme allows university students to volunteer as mentors for the period.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">50% of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> April Mentors were female. This is a Skills Redistribution programme also emphasizing the value of Mentorship. <a href="https://twitter.com/raeketsetsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@raeketsetsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_In_U?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geek_In_U</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CinaWood?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CinaWood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Seeko_ElectroDJ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Seeko_ElectroDJ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NellMorake?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NellMorake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HorbachBonnie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HorbachBonnie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GirlCode_za?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GirlCode_za</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SheSouthAfrica?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SheSouthAfrica</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STEM?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STEM</a> <a href="https://t.co/2wzcdDlTJS">pic.twitter.com/2wzcdDlTJS</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/983654476258082816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Tech Debate: Why #DataMustFall]]></title><description><![CDATA[As part of the programme, a Tech Debate was hosted to stimulate and engage the
youngsters in conte, blockchain for the electoral voting system, PoPI act
violation in the 4th Industrial Revolution and others.
There were 4 debate sessions, each with it's own debate topic to discuss current
digital affairs in the country.
* S1A vs S1O: This house believes that people should pay TV licences for
content on mobile phones
* S2A vs S2O: This house believes that the 4th Industrial Revoluti]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-tech-debate-why-datamustfall/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5adc566dc07eeb676dd1fc4b</guid><category><![CDATA[Debate]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[digital]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 22 Apr 2018 09:59:13 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/04/DaP0EOIW0AAoOjl.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/04/DaP0EOIW0AAoOjl.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Tech Debate: Why #DataMustFall"/><p>As part of the programme, a Tech Debate was hosted to stimulate and engage the youngsters in conte, blockchain for the electoral voting system, PoPI act violation in the 4th Industrial Revolution and others.</p>
<p>There were 4 debate sessions, each with it's own debate topic to discuss current digital affairs in the country.</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>S1A vs S1O: This house believes that people should pay TV licences for content on mobile phones</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>S2A vs S2O: This house believes that the 4th Industrial Revolution tech emergence will lead to the violation of the PoPI act</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>S3A vs S3O: This house believes that cheaper data prices will help create more digital jobs in South Africa</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>S4A vs S4O: This house believes that Blockchain is the future of the electoral voting system in South Africa</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Youngsters from N.M. Tsuene High School won the Tech Debate on the Affirmative side: This House Believes That cheaper data prices will help create more digital jobs the digital transformation process.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Congratulations to N.M. Tsuene High School from Ga-Rankuwa learners for winning the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> Tech Debate, AFFIRMATIVE under the topic: "This House Believes That cheaper data prices will help create more digital jobs in South Africa." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DataMustFall?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DataMustFall</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jobs?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jobs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jobseekers?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jobseekers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HireGeeks?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HireGeeks</a> <a href="https://t.co/kz4BlT5erF">pic.twitter.com/kz4BlT5erF</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/982898327145582592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The gave a sterling argument on the trend that of digital platforms enabling more jobs and accelerating startups.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tech Debate , topic "Should people pay their TV license for content mobile?" Pretoria VS Johannesburg. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TiyaniTee</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mbodification?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mbodification</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/thebiz_clinic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thebiz_clinic</a> <a href="https://t.co/ISCA5DfM1t">pic.twitter.com/ISCA5DfM1t</a></p>— Bukho Bami (@BukhoBami) <a href="https://twitter.com/BukhoBami/status/982598590081183744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The Tech Debate in Photos: <a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHsmfGAuur">https://flic.kr/s/aHsmfGAuur</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Innovate For The Digital Age]]></title><description><![CDATA[During the April holidays, the Geekulcha Vacation Work (gkVacWork) programme
hosted 107 youngsters from different parts of Gauteng for the ICT and Business
development programme. The 17th edition of the programme took place at the
Codetribe Academy in Tshwane, at The Business Clinic in Johannesburg and
bi-weekly at St. Andrews School Ekurhuleni (Bedfordview).
The VacWork programme is powered by The Innovation Hub and City of Tshwane in
line with the FabLab Youth Innovation schoolâs programme. â]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-innovate-for-the-digital-age/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5adc5163c07eeb676dd1fc43</guid><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[gkVacWork]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[design]]></category><category><![CDATA[developers]]></category><category><![CDATA[kids]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 22 Apr 2018 09:28:44 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/04/Beyond-The-Galaxy-1.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/04/Beyond-The-Galaxy-1.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Innovate For The Digital Age"/><p>During the April holidays, the Geekulcha Vacation Work (gkVacWork) programme hosted 107 youngsters from different parts of Gauteng for the ICT and Business development programme. The 17th edition of the programme took place at the Codetribe Academy in Tshwane, at The Business Clinic in Johannesburg and bi-weekly at St. Andrews School Ekurhuleni (Bedfordview).</p>
<p>The VacWork programme is powered by <strong>The Innovation Hub</strong> and <strong>City of Tshwane</strong> in line with the FabLab Youth Innovation schoolâs programme. âThe collaboration with various organizations helps us align more efforts and is critical to creating a shared future for digital scene of the countryâ, says Tiyani Nghonyama, programmeâs Strategic Lead.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">These young innovators from <a href="https://twitter.com/CityTshwane?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CityTshwane</a> successfully built a hardware solution to alert municipality officials when sewages are about fill up due to a blockages or mulfunction. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/reacoda?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#reacoda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/City_Ekurhuleni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@City_Ekurhuleni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CityofJoburgZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CityofJoburgZA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/arduino?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arduino</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MITAppInventor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MITAppInventor</a> <a href="https://t.co/a2FlF6EaG6">pic.twitter.com/a2FlF6EaG6</a></p>— #reacoda đđ»đ± (@reacoda_code) <a href="https://twitter.com/reacoda_code/status/982643872370176001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>April edition of the VacWork was also in partnership with <strong>The Business Clinic, mLab Southern Africa, Geek_In_U, Bukho Bami</strong> and supported by <strong>Brainstorm Magazine</strong> and <strong>Standard Bank</strong>.</p>
<p>As young as 9 years old, the youngsters spent holidays with the Geeks being mentored/trained by university students who volunteered for the programme. Up 16 students, of whom 8 were female, redistributed their skills to the young ones developing mobile apps, websites, electronics and business cases at the end.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Look at my babies shining đđđŸđ theyâve combined what they learned at the Agri Teen Symposium with what youâre teaching them! <br><br>Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> this proves that we can go further together! When public benefit organizations collaborate, the impact is far greater! Amandla <a href="https://t.co/avGiTDKFhJ">https://t.co/avGiTDKFhJ</a></br></br></p>— Ayanda-Allie Paine (@AyandaAllieP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AyandaAllieP/status/982467605956038656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>A theme is always assigned to the programme and the April theme is Digital Age: Community Enablement and Safety. In light with this yearâs ITWeb Security Summit Hackathon #SS18Hack, the programme also took focus on building Information Security skills onto the Future GeekStars (VacWork participants).</p>
<h3 id="herearethe3winningsolutions">Here are the 3 winning solutions:</h3>
<p><strong>1st Place: Beyond The Galaxy</strong><br>
They highlight that Manhole covers are not entirely effective as sewage can seep through. They have come up with a sewage monitoring solution to provide ease and better.</br></p>
<p><strong>2nd Place: Group Protection</strong><br>
Waterproof bags that allow children to go to school even when it is raining</br></p>
<p><strong>3rd Place: Konnekt Access</strong><br>
Helping learners with study materials, motivation and guidance for success</br></p>
<p>Spot prizes were given to the best mentor, best female star, best presenter and an ultimate GeekStar. All received miscellaneous items from The Innovation Hub, Standard Bank and Geekulcha.</p>
<p>Checkout the VacWork in photos: <a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHsm9E3xRj">https://flic.kr/s/aHsm9E3xRj</a></p>
<p>As part of the programme, a Tech Debate was hosted to stimulate and engage the youngsters in conte, blockchain for the electoral voting system, PoPI act violation in the 4th Industrial Revolution and others.</p>
<p>Youngsters from N.M. Tsuene High School won the Tech Debate on the Affirmative side: This House Believes That cheaper data prices will help create more digital jobs the digital transformation process. Debate topics included things on TV licenses for mobile.</p>
<p>The Tech Debate in Photos: <a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHsmfGAuur">https://flic.kr/s/aHsmfGAuur</a></p>
<p>Next editions of the VacWork will take place in Limpopo and the Northern Cape to build more digital skills onto young people.</p>
<p>Applications on: <a href="https://future.geekulcha.com">future.geekulcha.com</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork April Set To Start In Gauteng]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a simulated
and co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT
tools. Youngsters spend their Holidays With The Geeks. The Geekulcha crew and
community get to redistribute their skills/knowledge with their young ones.
Assigned to mentors, the youngsters come up with projects based on the VacWork
editionâs theme. Powered by The Innovation Hub
[http://www.theinnovationhub.com/], the ypungsters will get to]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-april-set-to-start-in-gauteng/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5abe5cb25c6a8820d40332ec</guid><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[Business]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[future]]></category><category><![CDATA[africa]]></category><category><![CDATA[Jobs]]></category><category><![CDATA[Entrepreneurs]]></category><category><![CDATA[Girls in Tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[ICT]]></category><category><![CDATA[gkVacWork]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 30 Mar 2018 16:20:44 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/03/info.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/03/info.png" alt="#gkVacWork April Set To Start In Gauteng"/><p>The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a simulated and co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools. Youngsters spend their Holidays With The Geeks. The Geekulcha crew and community get to redistribute their skills/knowledge with their young ones.</p>
<p>Assigned to mentors, the youngsters come up with projects based on the VacWork editionâs theme. Powered by <a href="http://www.theinnovationhub.com/">The Innovation Hub</a>, the ypungsters will get to experience a real working environment and processes of the job market by reporting to work from <strong>09:00 till 16:00, 03 - 07 April 2018</strong>.</p>
<p>Up to 125 youngsters in Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni are taking part in this edition of the VacWork.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">[SUGGEST A TOPIC: future@geekulcha.com] As part of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> programme, a tech debate is hosted to stimulate and engage young people in the Digital Transformation. The debate will take place 07 April and you can suggest a topic for the debate. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CountryDuty?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CountryDuty</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DigitalPipeline?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DigitalPipeline</a> <a href="https://t.co/CyZXGgJIb7">pic.twitter.com/CyZXGgJIb7</a></p>— #gkVacWork 03-07 Apr đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/978898659491352577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>The Theme:</strong> Digital Age - Community Enablement and Safety is set as a theme for the April 2018 programme.</p>
<p>This is in collaboration with The Innovation Hub, the <a href="http://www.tshwane.gov.za/Pages/default.aspx">City of Tshwane</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/thebiz_clinic">The Business Clinic</a>, <a href="https://www.mlab.co.za">mLab Southern Africa</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/geek_in_u">Geek_In_U</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/BukhoBami">Bukho Bami</a> and the Geekulcha Student Society (TUT).</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/03/vac_partners.PNG" alt="#gkVacWork April Set To Start In Gauteng"/></p>
<p>The programme is also supported by the ITWeb's <a href="https://www.brainstormmag.co.za">Brainstom Magazine</a> and <a href="https://www.standardbank.co.za">Standard Bank</a>.</p>
<p>More 20 university students have applied as volunteers for the programme and will be helping the youngsters build their projects. "The VacWork is a skills redistribution programme where Geekulcha community members get to transfer skills to the younger ones", says Tiyani Nghonyama, the programme's strategic lead.</p>
<p>More Info: <a href="http://future.geekulcha.com/">future.geekulcha.com</a></p>
<p>Throughout the programme, the youngsters will be building mobile apps, web applications, electronics systems and graphic solutions. ALl these have to make business-sense when they present on the 7th.</p>
<p>A Tech Debate is also hosted on the final day to engage and spark more interest onto young people in the Digital Transformation process. There will be 3 rounds, 7 sessions and 7 tech topics for the debate. A trophy will be crowned to the debate kings.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">5 mobile applications in the bag...presentations coming along...we're ready for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> April will be taking place <a href="https://twitter.com/CityTshwane?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CityTshwane</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/CityofJoburgZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CityofJoburgZA</a> !! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Geek_in_U?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Geek_in_U</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iblameGK?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iblameGK</a> <a href="https://t.co/QUbsCMvp7s">pic.twitter.com/QUbsCMvp7s</a></p>— GeekInU (@Geek_In_U) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geek_In_U/status/978356401406906368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>This is the battle of the cities, all the youngsters will present their solutions on the 7th at The Innovation Hub. Top 3 teams and spot prizes will given to the winners.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors]]></title><description><![CDATA[Geekulcha is where the young, skilled, creative and ambitious tech minds meet to
connect with each other, share knowledge, collaborate on projects, network with
industry leaders, obtain training to further improve and enhance their skills
and to put that newly acquired skill to work. The platform has over 9 400
students across Africa.
The organization saw a need to drive a Geek Culture of Sustainable Innovation
and to achieve this mandate, a Geekulcha Council of Advisors was established
consist]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-launches-a-council-of-advisors/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a900d015c6a8820d40332ce</guid><category><![CDATA[Jayshree Naidoo]]></category><category><![CDATA[Vukosi Marivate]]></category><category><![CDATA[Keitumetsi Tsotetsi]]></category><category><![CDATA[Lee Annamalai]]></category><category><![CDATA[Vincent Hoffman]]></category><category><![CDATA[Faith Tembe]]></category><category><![CDATA[Mike Barker]]></category><category><![CDATA[Sphamandla Ngwenya]]></category><category><![CDATA[Rahab Matabane]]></category><category><![CDATA[Ali Rodolo]]></category><category><![CDATA[Charity Chirowamhangu]]></category><category><![CDATA[Atenkosi âAtiâ Ngubevana]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 23 Feb 2018 13:02:01 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/DV7YwZOXcAAVZq-.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/DV7YwZOXcAAVZq-.jpg" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/><p>Geekulcha is where the young, skilled, creative and ambitious tech minds meet to connect with each other, share knowledge, collaborate on projects, network with industry leaders, obtain training to further improve and enhance their skills and to put that newly acquired skill to work. The platform has over 9 400 students across Africa.</p>
<p>The organization saw a need to drive a Geek Culture of Sustainable Innovation and to achieve this mandate, a Geekulcha Council of Advisors was established consisting of a variety of industry leaders.</p>
<p>Through an application process and/or by invitation, a 12-member council of advisors has been called upon to help drive a foresight tech industry leadership in South Africa.</p>
<p>The following are the members on the council:</p>
<p><strong>Jayshree Naidoo</strong><br>
<em>CEO, Yiedi</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/jayshree.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>She has developed several frameworks and models for Innovation and Incubation and has created several structured acceleration programmes for Start-ups and Growth Entrepreneurs as well as Leadership Programmes for Corporates.</p>
<p><strong>Atenkosi âAtiâ Ngubevana</strong><br>
<em>Founder, GeekInU</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/ati.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>She is the founder of Geek_in_U, which is a Non-Profit Organisation that teaches pre-adolescent children how to code and build robots. She is a current Wits Business School MBA student and aims to share her business skills to young, upcoming techpreneurs.</p>
<p><strong>Keitumetsi Tsotetsi</strong><br>
<em>Manager: Cyber Security, PwC/Geekulcha</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/keitumetsi.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>She is a cyber security manager and specialises in security risk, strategy, governance and compliance. Her expertise include cyber maturity assessments, role based security awareness programmes, ISMS implementation, policy/standard development, programme assurance and privacy.</p>
<p><strong>Lee Annamalai</strong><br>
<em>Manager: SMART Systems Group, CSIR</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/lee.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>He has assumed leadership and innovation management roles in the Electricity Distribution Restructuring of South Africa, Feasibility of projects in the National Space Programme, New applications and Commercial Solutions development in Earth Observation using Space Technologies, strategic equity partner at Aurecon and co-founded Optronics Africa.</p>
<p><strong>Vincent Hoffman</strong><br>
<em>Director, Inquisition</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/vincent.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>Vincent is the co-founder of Inquisition, SiGNL and The GoodWork Society. Inquisition is an employee experience design firm, which designs better ways for people to learn and create together.</p>
<p><strong>Vukosi Marivate</strong><br>
<em>Data Scientist, CSIR</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/vukosi.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>Dr Vukosi Marivate leads a Data Science research team at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research(South Africa). He works to uncover insights from data and use them to inform and make an impact on society.</p>
<p><strong>Faith Tembe</strong><br>
<em>ED Manager, Standard Bank</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/faith.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>Faith Tembe is a vibrant young professional with a passion for purpose driven work. She is currently an Entrepreneur Development Manager at Standard Bank focusing on providing support to ICT SMMEs. She has an Honours Degree in Industrial Psychology and currently doing a Masters of Management in Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation.</p>
<p><strong>Mike Barker</strong><br>
<em>Engineer, SAEE</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/mike.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>In the last 10 years he has worked extensively on sustainable building, including LEED Gold and Silver Projects in Nairobi and Johannesburg. He has trained overseas in the fine art of Energy Modelling and is a committee member of the International Building Performance Simulation Association.</p>
<p><strong>Sphamandla Ngwenya</strong><br>
<em>Software Engineer, DigiHelp</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/sphamandla.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>As an individual with great research skills, Siphamandla is always up to date with latest developments in the ICT industry and this has helped him develop new skills set. Siphamandla is always ready to give his skills back to the community whenever possible and to train aspiring software developers.</p>
<p><strong>Rahab Matebane</strong><br>
<em>CEO, Mapitsi Holdings</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/rahab.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>She is a philanthropist at heart and is also the Founder of a foundation that is involved in the mentorship of young girls. The Mapitsi foundation has adopted a school called Thagaetala Secondary school, located in Ga-Mphahlele, for which the conduct an annual career and sports day for the past 14 years.</p>
<p><strong>Ali Rodolo</strong><br>
<em>MD, Kakanyo Business Solutions</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/ali.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>Has over 20 years experience in Software Development, Information Management, Project Management and Business Process Intelligence. He has worked extensively in Financial Services (Banking, Insurance, BankAssurance), Telecoms and all spheres of Government.</p>
<p><strong>Charity Chirowamhangu</strong><br>
<em>IT Security Manager, Banking Sector</em></br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/02/charity.png" alt="Geekulcha Launches A Council of Advisors"/></p>
<p>She has a passion for information security and, over the years, has gained significant knowledge and experience in both the technical (operational) and management areas of Cyber security. Previous roles have included working in Dubai and India.</p>
<p>Council members will have quarterly meetings to assess and set strategies for the quarter of the Geek Culture drive in South Africa. There are 4 commissions set in place to drive focus for the ICT and SME to ensure an inclusive and sustainable growth.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Meet the new Geekulcha Council of Advisors, the 12 member council of industry leaders/personnel will work on setting path and help grow the Geek Culture in South Africa.<br><br>Get to know them here: <a href="https://t.co/YDeSzfIkHg">https://t.co/YDeSzfIkHg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GKCouncil?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GKCouncil</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/jayshnaidoo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jayshnaidoo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vincenthofmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vincenthofmann</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vukosi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vukosi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SANS10400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SANS10400</a> <a href="https://t.co/lzOwzkxSxD">pic.twitter.com/lzOwzkxSxD</a></br></br></p>— Geekulcha đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/963455739166646273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>This is a 12-months span of the council and were selected on various factors including gender balance (6 males and 6 females), generational mix and industry experience. Creator of the programme, Tiyani Nghonyama says, âthis is an exciting time in the ICT ecosystem and we have to make sure that we build a fertile and an inclusive ecosystem.â</p>
<p>Information Page: geekulcha.com/council</p>
<p>One of the council members, Vincent Hoffmanâs intention to join the council was to âTo help sustain the community by helping to ensure that its outputs are fit for the market and that itâs people have an opportunity to draw on my network for access to new opportunities to learn. â</p>
<p>As Geekulcha hosts a variety of tech activities around the country, we need to ensure that an inclusive and sustainable socio-economic drive is realized. The 4th Industrial Revolution vision requires a mass Digital Literacy for the Smart Growing, no one must be left behind.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Rendani Mmbodi: Digital Education Shift]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hello everyone, my name is Rendani Mmbodi and I am Junior System Developer at
Geekulcha, aspiring to be a great System Developer and I love coding, and want
to own NGO company to support learners who want to take fields of ICT, I love
learning and reading about AI and IoT.
Online Learning, There are so many free online learning platform to use
nowadays, I use Youtube, Stackoverflow and NPM js to learn many various
programming language and to solve a bugs.
I acquired experience on teaching youn]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/rendani-mmbodi-digital-education-shift/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a68953e5c6a8820d40332c5</guid><category><![CDATA[digital]]></category><category><![CDATA[education]]></category><category><![CDATA[ai]]></category><category><![CDATA[vr]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2018 14:33:45 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/img_4498_36731000220_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/img_4498_36731000220_o.jpg" alt="Rendani Mmbodi: Digital Education Shift"/><p><em>Hello everyone, my name is Rendani Mmbodi and I am Junior System Developer at Geekulcha, aspiring to be a great System Developer and I love coding, and want to own NGO company to support learners who want to take fields of ICT, I love learning and reading about AI and IoT.</em></p>
<p>Online Learning, There are so many free online learning platform to use nowadays, I use Youtube, Stackoverflow and NPM js to learn many various programming language and to solve a bugs.</p>
<p>I acquired experience on teaching young how to code, Margaret Fuller once said "If you have knowledge, let others light their candles in it."</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> transferring our knowledge to learners <a href="https://t.co/Rl9fOtEabu">pic.twitter.com/Rl9fOtEabu</a></p>— mbodification (@mbodification) <a href="https://twitter.com/mbodification/status/935946007686402050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>On the 27th November 2017 to 1st December, I was at Mpumalanga province at a small township called Mashishini where I was mentoring young kids from different background how to code, mostly focused on building website. It was a great massive experience sharing knowledge with young skilled minds.</p>
<p>Here are 5 platforms where one can learn IT skills for free</p>
<p><code>Codecademy</code> <code>GA Dash</code> <code>Javascript.com</code> <code>WordPress.tv</code> <code>HTML5 Dog</code></p>
<blockquote>
<p>How AI is changing education, Artificial intelligence can automate basic activities in education, like grading. While AI may not ever be able to truly replace human grading, itâs getting pretty close. Itâs now possible for teachers to automate grading for nearly all kinds of multiple choice and fill-in-the-blank testing and automated grading of student writing may not be far behind.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/AI.jpg" alt="Rendani Mmbodi: Digital Education Shift"/></p>
<p>Today, essay-grading software is still in its infancy and not quite up to par, yet it can (and will) improve over the coming years, allowing teachers to focus more on in-class activities and student interaction than grading.</p>
<p>Example is that âProfessor Botâ to you...</p>
<p>-Professor Bot messaged students about assignments and due dates in Professor Ashok Goelâs artificial intelligence class at the Georgia Institute of Technology.<br>
I'm interested in building AI TAS that enhance student engagement, retention, performance, and learning.</br></p>
<p>Three must-have apps to help students learn better</p>
<p>ExploreLearning Gizmos: -Mathematics Grades 9-12.<br>
Mathway: - Stuck on a math problem? Mathway might be able to help.<br>
CampusBooks: - The CampusBooks app helps you get the lowest price when youâre buying or renting textbooks (either online or at a bookstore).</br></br></p>
<p>Message of encouragement to other developersâ</p>
<p>As Developers we must always remember that the best programmers are not marginally better than merely good ones. They are an order-of-magnitude better, measured by whatever standard: conceptual creativity, speed, ingenuity of design, or problem-solving ability.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/hiregeeks.jpg" alt="Rendani Mmbodi: Digital Education Shift"/></p>
<p>Great developers know that 90% of games lose money; 10 percent make a lot of money. And there's a consistency around the competitive advantages you create, so if you can actually learn how to do the art, the design, and the programming, you would be consistently very profitable. Be a Great developers.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nkosana Ndlela: AI And Mixed Reality Things in 2018]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hello everyone, my name is Nkosana Ndlela and I am Junior Systems Developer
aspiring to be the best Programmer of my field.
My story began 2014 when I went for registration at my former university for
someone who was new at the place I didnât understand build numbers, offices
which did extent my registration of one day task turning into week, I knew this
was a problem most institutions faces. As the world is moving to 4th industrial
revolution, well others are saying we are already in the 4th i]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/nkosana-ndlela-ai-and-mixed-reality-things-in-2018/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a54dbbd5c6a8820d403329b</guid><category><![CDATA[vr]]></category><category><![CDATA[Getting Started]]></category><category><![CDATA[chatbots]]></category><category><![CDATA[ai]]></category><category><![CDATA[mixed reality]]></category><category><![CDATA[reality]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2018 14:03:27 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/nkosana.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/nkosana.png" alt="Nkosana Ndlela: AI And Mixed Reality Things in 2018"/><p><em>Hello everyone, my name is Nkosana Ndlela and I am Junior Systems Developer aspiring to be the best Programmer of my field.</em></p>
<p>My story began 2014 when I went for registration at my former university for someone who was new at the place I didnât understand build numbers, offices which did extent my registration of one day task turning into week, I knew this was a problem most institutions faces. As the world is moving to 4th industrial revolution, well others are saying we are already in the 4th industrial revolution, let me share some thoughts.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nkosana setting up his tools for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCDevHack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NCDevHack</a> <a href="https://t.co/URSchlQykc">pic.twitter.com/URSchlQykc</a></p>— Geekulcha đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/906440813344944128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>We are living in an era where we teach Robot/Bot to behave like humans thatâs where TUT_INFO_BOT was born, designing Artificial Intelligence which can interact with users having institution information, such as sport update, open labs, exams schedule and buildings numbers. This entire project boils down to one content Machine Learning and AI the project is design using IBM (international business machines) Watson with services such as text-to-speech, speech-to-text, visual recognition, and some hardware components such as microphone, which is plug-in Raspberry pi.</p>
<p>The Bot allows students to query questions related to the institution and give feedback in form of a voice. Using services such as visual recognition enables the TUT_INFO_BOT to classify what is seeing or what is around it with results of 0.7-0.8 percent positivity which is good because Watson is being pre-trained all this is machine learning classification which is also available in some phone like Apple.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/DPKUb6mWkAAiAp3.jpg" alt="Nkosana Ndlela: AI And Mixed Reality Things in 2018"/></p>
<p>Technology is changing/moving/speeding on a faster pace new words keep popping-up VR and AR each time, actually the new topic which has cause massive disruption is MR. All this Tech worlds have one common letter, letter R(Reality), which mean Technology is coming more Reality, interactive. Let crack down some of this Tech words before swallowing the whole fish.</p>
<p>Virtual -> not physically existing as such but made by software to appear to do so.</p>
<p>Virtual Reality is one of the coolest Tech developed by allowing one to escape/shut down the real world, by using VRBox person enters a simulated environment or place hope for. Recently, Virtual Reality has even been used to help sick children escape their hospital environments and bring them to happier surroundings that is how powerful VR is.</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/23764345348/in/album-72157687828421383/" title="IMG_5723"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4500/23764345348_c935c54825.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Nkosana Ndlela: AI And Mixed Reality Things in 2018"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<p>Augmented -> having been made greater in size or value.</p>
<p>Augmented Reality operate vice versa than VR by not closing the Real world, but allow one to add objects on top of the Real World it can be in form of 2D or 3D layered content that opens up whole new world.</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/32016897571/in/album-72157674990600154/" title="IMG_3177"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/644/32016897571_c76e4b3732.jpg" width="500" height="374" alt="Nkosana Ndlela: AI And Mixed Reality Things in 2018"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<p>Both VR and AR are unconnectedly and operate in different devices still they perform magic, image combining the two Tech in one single device, that is the future MR (Mixed Reality)? This statement is debatable.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>MR is the mixture of both VR and AR, which makes it to be more powerful, MR device include several Technologies such as sensors, advance optics and better displaying pixels.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Catch up on all the exciting news from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CES2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CES2018</a>, learn more about Cortana and the Harman Kardon Invoke speaker, and how to get started with Mixed Reality Viewer: <a href="https://t.co/fiFoSBG93w">https://t.co/fiFoSBG93w</a> <a href="https://t.co/XGRsU6LBNZ">pic.twitter.com/XGRsU6LBNZ</a></p>— Windows (@Windows) <a href="https://twitter.com/Windows/status/951899100483596295?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>MR is the trending topic for those in Tech Space and for those who are new to Tech as for people like me who are into games its dream coming true cause MR works by scanning your physical environment and create 3D map for your surrounding so it will know exactly where and how to place digital content in realistically while allowing you to interact with it using gesture/gear purely magic.</p>
<p>The question is will MR run in our machine or we need to upgrade adding extra peripheries to machines? The answer is precisely Yes, while some feature of Windows 10 are already design to accommodate MR. Paint 3D is one of the newest Tech available in windows 10. The future of Tech is ever evolving.</p>
<p>As Geekulcha Markers, crew we are busy working on SkateHacks project where we turn normal skateboard to super cool Machine with adds such as VR (virtual reality) using VRBox, aim of VR is for expanding user horizon without limitations since VR can bring whole new world skaters are longing for by creating simulated environment and skate all the way.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> makes Tech fun - this is a Hack-a-Skate project build in the Kalahari by high scholars. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SkateHacks?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SkateHacks</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STEM?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STEM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://t.co/bHUeyOCM78">pic.twitter.com/bHUeyOCM78</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/892779023167827968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The scale of AI is growing repeatedly each and every sec which shows that most people start to embrace the power of AI overall what bring smile to my face is most Bigger Companies now do provide us with Data others even for free which shows they support and empower innovators and innovation</p>
<p>Here are some cool platforms for kick-starting/join AI movement</p>
<p><code>Microsoft Azure Machine Learning</code> <code>Google Cloud Prediction API</code> <code>TensorFlow</code> <code>Infosys Nia</code> <code>Wipro HOLMES</code> <code>API.AI</code> <code>Premonition</code> <code>Rainbird</code> <code>Wit</code> <code>IBM Watson</code></p>
<p>As Developers, we need to keep up with the momentum, with new platforms and skills not needed only in market but worldwide Big Up to all the Dev like Kwesta words: "Spiritâ.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Thato Banda: Appy 2018 to all Developers]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hello fellow developers, my name is Thato Banda. I am a Junior Mobile
Applications Developer at Geekulcha, student in Information Technology(Technical
Applications) at the Tshwane University of Technology. An aspiring Applications
developer.
Being a Mobile Apps Developer is one of the greeniest job titles in the 4th
Industrial Revolution with more organizations looking into embracing mobility
for enterprise solutions.
In 2017, I learned these lessons about mobile apps development:
Design pa]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/thato-banda-appy-2018-to-all-developers/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a5dc6fa5c6a8820d40332b6</guid><category><![CDATA[apps]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[design]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2018 12:57:51 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/thato.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/thato.png" alt="Thato Banda: Appy 2018 to all Developers"/><p><em>Hello fellow developers, my name is Thato Banda. I am a Junior Mobile Applications Developer at Geekulcha, student in Information Technology(Technical Applications) at the Tshwane University of Technology. An aspiring Applications developer.</em></p>
<p>Being a Mobile Apps Developer is one of the greeniest job titles in the 4th Industrial Revolution with more organizations looking into embracing mobility for enterprise solutions.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/apps-mobile-smartphone.jpg" alt="Thato Banda: Appy 2018 to all Developers"/></p>
<p>In 2017, I learned these lessons about mobile apps development:</p>
<p><strong>Design patterns</strong><br>
I had to understand the key role design patterns plays in developing a well-designed application. Design choices may affect the quality of your application so as a developer the design decision you take, will have a significant impact on the application's end-product.</br></p>
<p>Three most common Design Patterns used: MVC (Model View Controller), MVP (Model View Presenter) and MVV (Model-View-View Model)<br>
Mobile Applications Platforms</br></p>
<p><strong>Native Apps</strong><br>
I have only developed apps for this type of framework. Here, apps are developed for a single mobile operating system exclusively, App built for systems like iOS, Android, Windows phone, Symbian, Blackberry cannot be used on a platform other than their own.</br></p>
<p><strong>Hybrid Apps</strong><br>
Apps that are built for all platforms together with Angular, React Native, Ionic etc.</br></p>
<p><strong>Databases (Firebase)</strong><br>
The basic idea behind creating database is to store data systematically and fetch data when required, the most common one I have worked with in 2017 is, Firebase. It is a database backend for all applications platforms which is mostly favoured because of its features like speed, storage, analytics, authentication, real-time database etc.</br></p>
<p><strong>Material Design</strong><br>
It is a comprehensive guide for visual, motion, and interaction design across platforms and devices. It provides elements such us themes, widgets and new APIâs for custom animations and shadows. Since I have started working with it I have realized that it gives you a space for creativity and innovation in your application.</br></p>
<p>The prestigious MTN App of the Year Awards challenge has played a fundamental role in elevating local developers and unearthing exciting new innovations in the South African app development market.</p>
<p>These were the Top 3 apps in South Africa as by the MTN App Awards 2017, where Geekulcha sponsored the Best Breakthrough category winner:</p>
<p><a href="http://heyjudeapp.com/za/">Hey Jude</a>: Best South African App, a real human assistant app that lives on your smartphone</p>
<p><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.zulzi&hl=en">Zulzi</a>: Best Breakthrough, An on-demand delivery platform for anything around the consumerâs area.</p>
<p><a href="https://getshyft.co.za/">Shyft</a>: the overall winner of this yearâs MTN Business App of the Year, an app that was created for Standard Bank with the aim of completely transforming customer experience<a href="https://getshyft.co.za/">Shyft</a>: the overall winner of this yearâs MTN Business App of the Year, an app that was created for Standard Bank with the aim of completely transforming customer experience</p>
<p>As app developers we need to be data-centric. We need to build apps that are centred around a database. An application that is based on a structured, consistent information such as you find in a database, JSON or XML file. We can find such applications running in small desktop database systems like Microsoft Access or FileMaker all the way to huge systems running on database management systems like Oracle or MySQL. If data is stored in a database, the app becomes more efficient and faster to use because you retrieve data only by a single query.</p>
<p>Growing dependency over smartphones has increased opportunities to develop mobile apps for various applications to users. Mobile Apps in 2018 will include more of cloud technologies. Cloud computing has finally found its place within mobile apps.</p>
<p>In 2018 I see developers being busy with developing with the following:</p>
<p>Developing apps that have AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality). Apps that will revolutionize the gaming and entertaining industry.</p>
<p>More of Googleâs accelerated mobile pages apps that enable an isolated search index for mobile app pages, which aids the mobile apps to load faster and minimize bounce rate in vast number.</p>
<p>Instant apps which does not require the use to download it first, but can just try it on play store and only download if they feel the need to do so.<br>
Lazy loading apps that will speed up the performance of mobile apps when app is syndicated through the web.</br></p>
<p>Mobile apps have taken over the world, they are now used for everywhere to make peopleâs lives easier. In 2019 South Africa will be having their National elections.</p>
<p>We have apps that are used to make the election period more efficient such:</p>
<p>Voter App: you can get election results, check your registration details, find your voting station, apply for a special vote, share key election moments, get answers to frequent questions and keep up to date via social media.</p>
<p>IXSA - a game app which introduces first-time voters to the electoral process in a fun, interactive and innovative way.</p>
<p>With the rise of implementing the concept of IOT, not only is this future inevitably coming but growing faster than you might think in Iot.When coming to app development I see more things getting connected, more of IOT apps that bring about change and saves a lot of time for the people. IOT has opened a gateway of opportunities that can make a difference in our routine. While there is a lot to be tapped on it with app development, it remains on top of the list when we count the mobile development trends.<br>
According to my observations, the rise of AI and bots is slowly making its way into important apps that are going to add quality to mobile app development. For example, we already have Facebook that offers contextual content to end users, Ask Siri which tells you what you need to know. When these two are combined they will provide users with a more intelligent capability in mobile apps appeasing users a peace of mind knowing that they do not need to download too many apps for a specific task thus they are going to save some space.</br></p>
<p>It is very much important to choose the right development tools for building your mobile app. Here are the 5 tools mobile developers can use in 2018:</p>
<p>Xamarin<br>
A tool mostly used to build native apps that allows you to do performance testing store deployment and monitoring.</br></p>
<p>Appcerator<br>
It allows developers to create apps with fewer lines of coding. It mainly helps the development process when the application reacts with the web service.</br></p>
<p>Adobe PhoneGap<br>
PhoneGap takes your code and converts it into a cross platform app using its cloud based API's.It is an open source for building cross platform app which integrates with Git to simplify your build and deployment pipeline.</br></p>
<p>Sencha Ext Js<br>
Ext JS is a popular JavaScript framework from Sencha that allows developers to develop cross platform apps offering many UI widgets such as menus, list, panels so developers do not have to rebuild their own.</br></p>
<p>Ionic<br>
An HTML5 framework that is widely used to develop hybrid apps using web technologies like CSS, HTML5 and SASS. It offers great tools and services to build highly interactive apps. It comes with several default CSS components and other JavaScript components.</br></p>
<p>My message to other developers is, when developing an app make sure you choose an ideal mobile app development solution to create a high-quality mobile app for your needs and users. One last thing they must do is to connect the app with the value it will provide to users. They always must bear in mind that your mobile app does not have to be "out of this world " to fulfil its purpose. It must be clear to users because ultimately you want your target audience to download it.</p>
<p>In Conclusion,2018 will be a year of rapid business growth for us developers, designers and business organizations with billions of dollars and billions of mobile app downloads at stake. The future for mobile apps certainly looks bright and challenging with enticing and innovative possibilities.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Phathutshedzo Khabubu: A Geek Of Note To Lookout For]]></title><description><![CDATA[I am Phathutshedzo "Phathu" Khabubu and I love expressing myself through
computers. Computers have been my way of speaking to the world, my route to
discovery. They (Computers) led me to discover a tool of expression which is a
startup I founded; Colourful Black Pty Ltd that owns The Plug Social Platform
and additional startup I co-founded with my brother, called Open Kasi.
> Open Kasi is a startup we co-founded at the Geekulcha Hackathon 2017, as a tool
for small, medium and micro enterprise t]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/phathutshedzo-khabubu-a-geek-of-note-to-lookout-for/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a58b94d5c6a8820d40332aa</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[hackathon]]></category><category><![CDATA[digital]]></category><category><![CDATA[developers]]></category><category><![CDATA[kasi]]></category><category><![CDATA[open]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 12 Jan 2018 15:47:08 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/37043682481_70240f9913_z.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/37043682481_70240f9913_z.jpg" alt="Phathutshedzo Khabubu: A Geek Of Note To Lookout For"/><p><em>I am Phathutshedzo "Phathu" Khabubu and I love expressing myself through computers. Computers have been my way of speaking to the world, my route to discovery. They (Computers) led me to discover a tool of expression which is a startup I founded; Colourful Black Pty Ltd that owns The Plug Social Platform and additional startup I co-founded with my brother, called Open Kasi.</em></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Open Kasi is a startup we co-founded at the Geekulcha Hackathon 2017, as a tool for small, medium and micro enterprise that allows them to do their accounting processes without requiring technical accounting knowledge.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Our value-proposition is based on this: "Imagine we treated businesses like lego blocks, where you put money together on what we use, therefore Open Kasi offers you a collection of addons like Quotations, Invoices and Budgets that you can add to your business so that you use what you pay and pay what you use. Interesting right?" and that idea was discovered at a hackathon. See, "Hackathons are to us "Geeks" what church is to christians."</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">In 2017, I decided to integrate Open Data element into all <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> Hackathons. Open Kasi startup by <a href="https://twitter.com/khabubu_phathu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@khabubu_phathu</a> and co is one of results of the cause from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GKHack17?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GKHack17</a>. Providing accounting tools and experience educational tools for township businesses. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ODISC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ODISC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://t.co/gztl5SxWPA">pic.twitter.com/gztl5SxWPA</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/951724466563960832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Hackathons are a place of sanctuary to most of us, to me they have been a place not only to display my skills but to also inspire other people to grow together, and is at this point where Hackathons are the reasons why we as developers build platforms and ideas we have because we want to share it with someone, we want those same<br>
ideas to be seen by an investor or a person of interest and more specifically Hackathons have the best food.</br></p>
<p>Tiyani Nghonyama (Geekulcha COO) had this to say about Phatthu: <em>"Phathu is one of the one of the most dedicated young developers I've ever met in South Africa. Always up for a challenge and to help other developers. It was no wonder why we won the Ultimate GeekStar prize at the annual RHOK Pretoria Hackathon."</em></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/36790327980_982af90f22_z.jpg" alt="Phathutshedzo Khabubu: A Geek Of Note To Lookout For"/></p>
<p>In additions Hackathons have helped me embrace the spirit of togetherness that we have made public a tool to build intelligent applications like Siri to the<br>
general public for free. So that we can grow the ecosystem of a smart environment here in Africa too.</br></p>
<p>In conclusion, it is important to know that Hackathons are not just for "techy" people but the are for everyone, who wants to build on their passion and ideas. So<br>
If you ever feel like it go to Hackathons, hopefully you will find me.</br></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#GeeksConnect: Arlene Mulder on Building We Think Code]]></title><description><![CDATA[Born in Pretoria, Arlene Mulder always loved doing things that many people says
they can't be done. She has a coding background having learned pascal back in
the day and had also acquired experience in the banking sector. Arlene joined us
LIVE on the #GeeksConnect show on BrandLive.co.za [http://BrandLive.co.za] for
an interview on Digital Education and We Think Code.
* Date: 11 January 2018
* Time: 10:34 - 10:52
About We Think Code [https://www.wethinkcode.co.za/]...
> Johannesburg based t]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geeksconnect-arlene-mulder-on-building-we-think-code/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a5785ad5c6a8820d403329f</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[radio]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeksconnect]]></category><category><![CDATA[education]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 2018 17:35:16 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/me4olymip2vdj2udlksx.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/me4olymip2vdj2udlksx.jpg" alt="#GeeksConnect: Arlene Mulder on Building We Think Code"/><p><em>Born in Pretoria, Arlene Mulder always loved doing things that many people says they can't be done. She has a coding background having learned pascal back in the day and had also acquired experience in the banking sector. Arlene joined us LIVE on the #GeeksConnect show on <a href="http://BrandLive.co.za">BrandLive.co.za</a> for an interview on Digital Education and We Think Code.</em></p>
<ul>
<li>Date: 11 January 2018</li>
<li>Time: 10:34 - 10:52</li>
</ul>
<p>About <a href="https://www.wethinkcode.co.za/">We Think Code</a>...</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Johannesburg based tech institution. A Peer-to-peer learning environment with no teachers and no tuition. They source and develop Africa's top Software Engineers.</p>
<p>"We are all about finding top talent, no matter where you are from or what you have done before. Study completely for free, no prior coding experience required and Matric is optional."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>So far, We Think Code has received over 95 000 applications of young talent seeking placement at the academy. Certainly, this shows that there is so much hunger to learn in South Africa and We Think Code has been playing part in grooming young talent for the market. Here are the numbers since 2016:</p>
<p><code>In Johannesburg</code></p>
<ul>
<li>2016: 120 students</li>
<li>2017: 200 students</li>
<li>2018: 200 students</li>
</ul>
<p><code>In Cape Town</code><br>
2018: 120 students to be taken in.</br></p>
<p>Arlene co-founded We Think Code together with Camille Agon who is passionate about education and unlocking potential. "If I had superpowers, it would be to code", Arlene said.</p>
<p>When asked about her 3 favorite apps, she opted to these 3 local apps</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p><a href="http://www.snapscan.co.za/">SnapScan</a> - she described it as a world class technology, bringing convience and ease in payment and helps her while in Cape Town.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/za/app/mysos-sa/id871270275?mt=8">My SOS</a> - A "one-stop-shop" for access to the closest and most appropriate emergency services in South Africa</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/za/app/pick-n-pay-super-animals-2/id1216175183?mt=8">Pick n Pay Super Animals app</a> - Keep track of your South African Super Animals cards, unlock new badges and earn new rewards as your collection grows.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>Arlene believes that We Think Code is democratizing the South African education system and opening up for talent to learn how to learn. While she notes that young developers are scared of competitiveness of We Think Code students at Hackathons, she says this was not the goal. Also echoed that they look forward to collaborating with Geekulcha in 2017.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Coding is innovative. Coding is creative - <a href="https://twitter.com/ArleneMulder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArleneMulder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/wethinkcode?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wethinkcode</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GeeksConnect?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GeeksConnect</a> <a href="https://t.co/w56tfZyGaD">https://t.co/w56tfZyGaD</a></p>— M I X O đ·đ»đ (@4otune) <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune/status/951376434974593024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Her message to the young Geeks coders was "If you love to solve problems and design the world, you can do anything with code and We Think Code is a place for you". We thank her for being on the show and was a first guest of 2018.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">For more info regarding <a href="https://twitter.com/wethinkcode?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wethinkcode</a> visit <a href="https://t.co/RjiI2Cuw1f">https://t.co/RjiI2Cuw1f</a><br>FB: Twitter: Insta: <a href="https://twitter.com/wethinkcode?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wethinkcode</a><a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TiyaniTee</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@4otune</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a></br></p>— BrandLive (@brandliveradio) <a href="https://twitter.com/brandliveradio/status/951375633443115008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/><!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Charles Maruma: Automated Comms and HR Evolution]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hi everyone my name is Charles Maruma. I am a Junior Systems Developer at
Geekulcha, Computer Systems Engineering student at the Tshwane University of
Technology. Iâm passionate about Electronics systems and system development, I
work immensely on Electronics systems, smart Tech and Machine Learning
solutions. Iâm aspiring to become one of the top Computer Engineers in the
country.
A Chatbot is a computer program designed to simulate conversation with human
users, especially over the Internet. ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/charles-maruma-automated-comms-and-hr-evolution/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a54cd665c6a8820d4033294</guid><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[digital]]></category><category><![CDATA[chatbots]]></category><category><![CDATA[hr]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 09 Jan 2018 15:05:12 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/charles-maruma.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/charles-maruma.jpg" alt="Charles Maruma: Automated Comms and HR Evolution"/><p><em>Hi everyone my name is Charles Maruma. I am a Junior Systems Developer at Geekulcha, Computer Systems Engineering student at the Tshwane University of Technology. Iâm passionate about Electronics systems and system development, I work immensely on Electronics systems, smart Tech and Machine Learning solutions. Iâm aspiring to become one of the top Computer Engineers in the country.</em></p>
<p>A Chatbot is a computer program designed to simulate conversation with human users, especially over the Internet. In simple words I would say a Chatbot is an artificial intelligence system that interact with users via messaging, text, or speech. In 2017, these are some of the top chatbots 3 top: <a href="https://github.com/gunthercox/ChatterBot">ChatterBot</a>, <a href="https://www.duolingo.com/">Duolingo</a>, <a href="https://gymbot.io/">GymBot</a>, etc.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The rise of the chatbots in 2017 is on account of increasing usage of messaging apps by the users. Other than the social networking sites. With messaging apps on the rise, Chatbots are all the hype now.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Social media networks are enabling developers connect, to keep themselves updated, share and discover about the market trends. Social media allows companies and their clients to communicate directly and frequently, forming strong relationships and even allowing them to collaborate on projects.</p>
<p><strong>Why HR must be data-centric...</strong></p>
<p>Because the intention behind this is to integrate HR with business technologies at the highest levels within the company. This is what human resources has wanted for decades.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/data_centric_business_large.png" alt="Charles Maruma: Automated Comms and HR Evolution"/></p>
<p>The skills and successes that enabled HR to achieve this milestone, though, are quite different from what it will take to maintain this status and continue the advancement of the profession. Participating in running a business will require HR to become proficient and comfortable in taking a âdata-centricâ approach in making decisions and giving recommendations.</p>
<p>How Chatbots help HR in terms of talent acquisition</p>
<p>HR do time-consuming responsibilities and one of these is recruiting the right talent. With so many candidates vying for a position, recruiters need to interview hundreds to thousands of candidates to identify the most suitable staff.</p>
<p>And here comes the recruitment AI Chatbot... Ready to transform HR and candidate experience, Chatbots are a form of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that are now increasingly being used to make the hiring process easier.</p>
<p>You can get started developing chatbots with these 5 tools/platforms to help you build chatbots: <a href="https://chatfuel.com/">Chatfuel</a>, <a href="https://dialogflow.com/">Api.ai</a>, <a href="https://smooch.io/platform/">Smooch</a>, <a href="https://smooch.io/platform/">Facebook Messenger Platform</a> and <a href="https://www.chattypeople.com/">ChattyPeople</a>. With the help of these tools, Chatbot development is just a walk in the park.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/chatbots_blog-1024x573.png" alt="Charles Maruma: Automated Comms and HR Evolution"/></p>
<p>Technology is changing every second and 2018 will be no different. No matter what I will be working on in 2018, these are exciting times and an exciting industry to be working in! I wish to gain presentation skills and business skills. I would like to encourage other developers to keep in touch with the technology trends, because development is responding to growing user expectations and technology trends.</p>
<p>The things I would like to work on in 2018</p>
<ul>
<li>Face Recognition</li>
<li>Speech Recognition</li>
<li>Raspberry Pi</li>
<li>Android development</li>
</ul>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Lloyd Mafoo: IoT Social Innovation ko Kasi]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hello everyone, my name is Lloyd Mafoo and I am a junior Systems Developer, a
final year student in Computer Systems Engineering at Tshwane University of
Technology, I develop Internet of Things (IoT) and Robotics solution for social
good.
I came up with a solution to develop a monitoring system for my final year
project at TUT the concept came about because of the township I live at which is
Mamelodi. The solution I came up with is called Kasi Rader Environment
Monitoring System.
Kasi Rader En]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/lloyd-mafoo-iot-social-innovation-ko-kasi/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a54bffd5c6a8820d403328c</guid><category><![CDATA[iot]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[kasi]]></category><category><![CDATA[social]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 09 Jan 2018 14:00:25 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/37568722156_9c4d3a7d50_z.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/37568722156_9c4d3a7d50_z.jpg" alt="Lloyd Mafoo: IoT Social Innovation ko Kasi"/><p><em>Hello everyone, my name is Lloyd Mafoo and I am a junior Systems Developer, a final year student in Computer Systems Engineering at Tshwane University of Technology, I develop Internet of Things (IoT) and Robotics solution for social good.</em></p>
<p>I came up with a solution to develop a monitoring system for my final year project at TUT the concept came about because of the township I live at which is Mamelodi. The solution I came up with is called Kasi Rader Environment Monitoring System.<br>
Kasi Rader Environment Monitoring systems is developed to help citizens in townships as a source of information since air pollution is a challenge that threatens basic human health.</br></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/Lloyd-Mafoo.png" alt="Lloyd Mafoo: IoT Social Innovation ko Kasi"/></p>
<p>The system will inform the public about the air quality and raise the awareness to members of the community by doing so people will know the type of environment they live in and what are the causes of illnesses that affect them such as: headaches, allergies and asthma, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, kidney damage and cancer.</p>
<p>Being a systems developer means you must identify problems and come up with ideas that will help solve those problems, for me the problem was seeing that the township I live at faces real problems on air pollution and itâs difficult to walk around during late hours, the atmosphere is occupied by smoke and makes it difficult to breath fresh air.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>As a young developer, IoT to me means that life will be made more easier knowing that computers will be there to help us, as a developer having the concept of IoT is an advantage to achieve greater things that will bring change to the society. The problem is, people have limited time, attention and accuracy, which means we are not very good at capturing data about things in the real world.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KnowTheGeeks?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KnowTheGeeks</a> - Geekulcha takes in 20+ interns every year who work on a variety of projects. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Apps?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Apps</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/web?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#web</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/design?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#design</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/electronics?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#electronics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IoT?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IoT</a> <a href="https://t.co/65vj2S4TnI">pic.twitter.com/65vj2S4TnI</a></p>— Geekulcha đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/893769087020666880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Having machines and people connected we would be able to track and count everything and greatly reduce waste, loss and cost. We would know when things needed replacing, repairing and predict the future.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/iot-759.jpg" alt="Lloyd Mafoo: IoT Social Innovation ko Kasi"/></p>
<p>My imagination of the next Africa is being the leading continent around the tech industry, at the moment the biggest tech trend in Africa, and the one that is making the biggest impact on the everyday lives of people is the rise of smartphones and feature phones.</p>
<p>As systems developer I wish to see more systems developed here being on the market for everyone to make use of. More and more learners around African countries are eager to go to the field of ICT with the knowledge and skills gained we can be a greater continent that innovate/create solution that will bring change to our life.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/IMG_1094.JPG" alt="Lloyd Mafoo: IoT Social Innovation ko Kasi"/></p>
<p>Experience teaching high scholars last year how to code was very exciting for me knowing that I was giving back to the community also empowering youth with creative skills to enhance their knowledge and help them come up with great solution that will bring change to the community using the power of technology. Highlight was working with high scholars on the SkateHack projects, putting tech on a skateboard.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/vacwork-mier.png" alt="Lloyd Mafoo: IoT Social Innovation ko Kasi"/></p>
<p><strong>10 tools/platforms one can use to get started</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.ibm.com/internet-of-things">IBM Watson IoT</a> - using predictive analysis on IoT data. IBM Watson has a set of APIs that help make this simple for developers. You can recongize objects in images, understand conversation sentiment</p>
<p><a href="https://thingspeak.com/">ThingSpeak</a> - an IoT open source platform with MATLAB analytics mostly used for data visualization<a href="http://">ThingSpeak</a> - an IoT open source platform with MATLAB analytics mostly used for data visualization</p>
<p>[Node-Red](<a href="https://ubidots.com/">https://ubidots.com/</a> - a programming tool for wiring together hardware devices, APIs and online services in new and interesting ways.</p>
<p>Ubidots - accelerates Internet of Things innovation for makers, developers and the enterprise.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.twilio.com/wireless">Twilio Progammable Wireless</a> - brand new service for adding cellular connectivity to IoT projects, includes the ability to monitor devices on the fly and control them from anywhere</p>
<p><a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/internet-of-things/azure-iot-suite">Microsoft Azure IoT suite</a> - For processing the massive amount of information generated by sensors Azure IoT suite comes with Azure Stream Analytics to process massive amounts of information in real-time</p>
<p><a href="https://ifttt.com/collections/iot">IFTTT</a> â makes use of different services like Phillips Hue, Nest, and Wemo, makes it easy to connect and control those devices</p>
<p>[Google Cloud Platform](<a href="https://cloud.google.com/iot/docs/concepts/overview">https://cloud.google.com/iot/docs/concepts/overview</a> - With the ability to handle the vast amount of data using Cloud IoT Core, Google stands out from the rest. You get advanced analytics owing to Googleâs Big Query and Cloud Data Studio</p>
<p><a href="https://www.ptc.com/en/products/iot/thingworx-platform">ThingWorx IoT Platform</a> - IoT platform which is designed for enterprise application development. It offers features like Integrated machine learning for automating complex big data analytics</p>
<p><a href="https://www.carriots.com/">Carriots</a> - build and host internet of things applications, ease of integration with other applications. It also widely used for Machine to Machine development.</p>
<p>In conclusion, IoT is a great way to bring social Innovation. Information is power and what matters is what you do with that information. Developing solution that monitor the environment we live in as a good example. Getting the information in your hand you will be able to know what protective measures to take.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Charmaine Phoswa: Being A Graphics Designer In The Industrial Revolution]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hello everyone, my name is Charmaine Phoswa and I am a Junior Multimedia and
Digital Developer at Geekulcha. Aspiring to be a âgrand multimedia designerâ and
play a part as the world evolves into the 4th Industrial Revolution.
I am living in the most exciting times of graphic and web design, and one of the
fastest-growing occupations in visual arts. Being a multimedia designer means, I
get to find creative ways of communicating a concept or information usually in
an interactive form by skillful]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/charmaine-phoswa-being-a-graphics-designer-in-the-industrial-revolution/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a54ba315c6a8820d4033285</guid><category><![CDATA[design]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[future]]></category><category><![CDATA[digital]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 09 Jan 2018 13:10:09 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/37794542321_797bd88096_z.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/37794542321_797bd88096_z.jpg" alt="Charmaine Phoswa: Being A Graphics Designer In The Industrial Revolution"/><p><em>Hello everyone, my name is Charmaine Phoswa and I am a Junior Multimedia and Digital Developer at Geekulcha. Aspiring to be a âgrand multimedia designerâ and play a part as the world evolves into the 4th Industrial Revolution.</em></p>
<p>I am living in the most exciting times of graphic and web design, and one of the fastest-growing occupations in visual arts. Being a multimedia designer means, I get to find creative ways of communicating a concept or information usually in an interactive form by skillfully manipulating, touch up here and there and synthesizing different media sources.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/multimedia-1.jpg" alt="Charmaine Phoswa: Being A Graphics Designer In The Industrial Revolution"/></p>
<p>I've worked on the Geekulcha profile, digitally telling the Geekulcha story through Data and Interactive graphics. In this project I was in-charge of the graphical end of the profile. I got to use old and new tools to make the story come to life. Through the journey it has taught me to be sharp when visually communicating concepts, sparked my creative flair and have an innovative approach to all my designs.</p>
<p>"A picture is worth a thousand words", thatâs when the picture is greatly designed and best told graphically rather than using words. In most cases my clients prefer insight of the data I handle. Meaning Iâll use that data to see the problem or potential solution and visually display differently.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/data-viz-768x265.png" alt="Charmaine Phoswa: Being A Graphics Designer In The Industrial Revolution"/></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Data visualization is highly useful for almost every step of the data science workflow, it has turned into an irreplaceable standard for today's business intelligence (BI).</p>
</blockquote>
<p>A good information designer has additional skills that lend themselves toward understanding and presenting data like:</p>
<ul>
<li>Working directly with analysts to find additional data points</li>
<li>Notice discrepancies or other issues with the dataset</li>
</ul>
<p>Top 10 tools for young and upcoming designers</p>
<p><a href="http://www.adobe.com/africa/creativecloud.html">Adobe Creative Cloud</a> - Creative Cloud gives you the entire collection of everything you need to create, collaborate and get inspired</p>
<p><a href="https://unity3d.com/unity/whats-new/unity-2017.3.0">Unity 2017.3 </a> - 2017.3 completes the 2017 cycle introducing new features and improvements across the board for both artists and developers<br>
Apple Final Cut Pro X</br></p>
<p><a href="https://www.canva.com/">Canva</a> - Canva is a popular tool for quickly creating social media images and infographics.</p>
<p><a href="https://getbootstrap.com/">Bootstrap</a> - Bootstrap has revolutionised development and thereâs no doubt the ubiquitous framework will continue to shape how we build stuff on the web.</p>
<p><a href="https://codepen.io/">CodePen</a> - A new tool lets you build websites directly inside CodePen.<br>
Sketch - Sketch is all round winner for web design community that offers hundreds of plugins to make a designers work flow easier.</br></p>
<p><a href="https://www.figma.com/">Figma</a> - Figma is an interface design tool that enables multiple designers to collaborate in real-time.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.picmonkey.com/">PicMonkey</a> - PicMonkey describes itself as a photo editor, design maker, and idea realizer. You have access to everything related to photo editing, collage-making, and graphic design.</p>
<p><a href="https://affinity.serif.com/en-gb/">Affinity Designer </a>- Affinity Designer is a proprietary vector graphics editor.</p>
<p>Being a designer has increased my thirst for learning, it has given me the desire to be a contributor to the digital evolution. Iâve come to realize that everything I do is experiential, from a video, logo sign to infographics to a web page. Everything I do needs to take my viewers to another dimension. My future as a designer is to excel creatively and maybe one day own a multimedia and digital empire.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha Amongst Top 25 Most Innovative Companies of 2017]]></title><description><![CDATA[Geekulcha - a home of the Geeks in Africa, has been driving a localized Geek
Culture revolution since 2013. Having built a community of over 9 400 young
techies around the continent, Geekulcha has made its footprint in the industry.
In 2016, the organization was award the ICT Achievers Award for Local
Industrialization category and then in 2017, Geekulcha was awarded Black
Business Quarterly Award in The Innovation Hub's New and Innovative Business
category.
> Fast Company South Africa magazi]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-amongst-top-25-most-innovative-companies-of-2017/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a4e65745c6a8820d403327e</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[Awards]]></category><category><![CDATA[stem]]></category><category><![CDATA[Africa tech]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jan 2018 22:28:54 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/Geekulcha-Motto.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2018/01/Geekulcha-Motto.jpg" alt="Geekulcha Amongst Top 25 Most Innovative Companies of 2017"/><p>Geekulcha - a home of the Geeks in Africa, has been driving a localized Geek Culture revolution since 2013. Having built a community of over 9 400 young techies around the continent, Geekulcha has made its footprint in the industry.</p>
<p>In 2016, the organization was award the ICT Achievers Award for <em><strong>Local Industrialization</strong></em> category and then in 2017, Geekulcha was awarded Black Business Quarterly Award in The Innovation Hub's <em><strong>New and Innovative Business</strong></em> category.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Fast Company South Africa magazine is one of the most prestigious magazines in the country and featured 25 Most Innovative Companies of 2017 in South Africa. Geekulcha made the list. Other companies included the Standard Bank Incubator, MTN South Africa, Amazon, PayFast and others.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nice seeing <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> selected as one of the 25 <a href="https://twitter.com/FastCompanySA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FastCompanySA</a> Most Innovative Companies in SA alongside the likes of <a href="https://twitter.com/AccentureSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AccentureSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StandardBankZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StandardBankZA</a> Incubator, <a href="https://twitter.com/Res_Circle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Res_Circle</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/thegrowthacad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thegrowthacad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SqwidNet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SqwidNet</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Siemens?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Siemens</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PayFast?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PayFast</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/pwc_za?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pwc_za</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MTNza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MTNza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/getsmarter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@getsmarter</a> <a href="https://t.co/o7PKjVQcwv">pic.twitter.com/o7PKjVQcwv</a></p>— M I X O đ·đ»đ (@4otune) <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune/status/948927199842918400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Geekulcha is honored by the featured amongst the giants of organizations and being recognized for the work being done on the ground by the Geekulcha Crew, Community, Partners, Structures and Ambassadors.</p>
<p>We thank everyone for the support in building the Geek Culture in the land and shaping a digital future for the content.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha 2017: The Year In Open Data]]></title><description><![CDATA[The South African tech ecosystem continues to make strides, itâs important that
it remains healthy and grow the capacity. âData is the new oilâ, they say. South
African is said to be trailing behind in Open Data. Regardless of the standing,
it's thrilling that there are efforts in place to groom the skills and talent in
Data Science.
Here is the international ranking of the Open Data Index:
Geekulcha also took efforts to drive Data Literacy in the country with a variety
of programmes set out]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-2017-the-year-in-open-data/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a3e28d75c6a8820d4033270</guid><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[geekulcha]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[data science]]></category><category><![CDATA[science]]></category><category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 23 Dec 2017 10:31:03 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/gkhack17-1.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/gkhack17-1.png" alt="Geekulcha 2017: The Year In Open Data"/><p>The South African tech ecosystem continues to make strides, itâs important that it remains healthy and grow the capacity. âData is the new oilâ, they say. South African is said to be trailing behind in Open Data. Regardless of the standing, it's thrilling that there are efforts in place to groom the skills and talent in Data Science.</p>
<p>Here is the international ranking of the Open Data Index:</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/18194976_1325281667509338_5129704347192092556_n.jpg" alt="Geekulcha 2017: The Year In Open Data"/></p>
<p>Geekulcha also took efforts to drive Data Literacy in the country with a variety of programmes set out to build more interest, momentum and innovation. Here are 5 things Geekulcha did in the South African Open Data ecosystem in 2017.</p>
<p><strong>1. Open Data Day in Kathu and Pretoria</strong></p>
<p>In collaboration with Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism(DEDAT), Open Government Partnership South Africa and the Diamond Creative Vision Hub, we hosted and celebrated the International Open Data Day in Kathu, Northern Cape. The day was curated with workshops including Data Economy and a dataquest challenge with Lenovo Africa having sponsored 4 tablets as prizes.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/oddkathu.png" alt="Geekulcha 2017: The Year In Open Data"/></p>
<p>For the Pretoria leg, we collaborated with GIS@Tuks at the University of Pretoria to host high scholars and they did a Data Test on <a href="https://municipalmoney.gov.za/">public(municipal) finances</a>.</p>
<p><strong>2. Open Contracting Innovation Challenge</strong></p>
<p>The international Open Contracting Innovation challenge extended to South Africa and Geekulcha was called upon to run the challenge in the country. A meetup was hosted to guide the prospective participants into the challenge.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/opencontracting?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@opencontracting</a> isn't just for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/data?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#data</a> enthusiast but for any problem solver keen to use <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/opendata?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#opendata</a> <a href="https://t.co/2h6p1UX4GQ">https://t.co/2h6p1UX4GQ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OCIC2017?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OCIC2017</a></p>— Geekulcha đżđŠ đ» (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/860358022832455681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>3. gkVacWork in the Kalahari</strong></p>
<p>Ahead of the Bloodhound Supersonic Car coming into South Africa, we hosted the <a href="http://vacwork.ncdev.co.za/">Youth ICT and Business</a> VacWork in collaboration with DEDaT in Rietfontein, Northern Cape. The youngsters were challenged to build tourism information centered solutions.</p>
<p>A group of 3 year young ladies made use of Open Data to build a web application, profiling indigenous species and their concentration in Mier. This is to give consciousness to tourists to be careful when travelling, especially during the hunting season.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> - it really warmed my heart to see young people concerned and addressing Indigenous Knowledge Systems basis in the Kalahari. <a href="https://t.co/MqI6t4aOd2">pic.twitter.com/MqI6t4aOd2</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/887198718121971713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>4. Random Hacks of Kindness Pretoria 2017</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://blog.geekulcha.com/rhokpta-a-weekend-that-rhoked-2017/">A weekend that RHoKed the capital city</a>, an Open Data challenge was put up in efforts to help enhance academic access and excellence. Apps, web portals and Augumented Reality solutions were developed during the hackathon.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Team DevRoids seek to revolutionise advertising through Data-centricity and Augumented Reality <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RHoKpta?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RHoKpta</a> <a href="https://t.co/fm47VOwy8X">pic.twitter.com/fm47VOwy8X</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/906887568553336835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>5. GKHack17 Open Data Challenge</strong></p>
<p>Biggest public hackathon in South Africa, the 2017 edition of the Geekulcha annual hackathon had 6 solutions developed through the Open Data challenge to accelerate and sustain. The focus was on Street and Township economy and the envinronment.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/rhokpta.png" alt="Geekulcha 2017: The Year In Open Data"/></p>
<p>South Africa still has a long way to go in the Open Data movement. Ensuring quality standards and enabling ease of access and usage are amongst the key things to address. Geekulcha believes that we first have to build Data Literacy. We used platforms such as the VacWork, SkateHacks, the National Science Week, etc. to instil Data Science interest onto school learners.</p>
<p>The year 2017 had its <a href="https://www.flickr.com/geekulcha/albums">moments</a>, and we look forward to seeing what 2018 has in store towards the Data Liberation for sustainable development. Cheers!</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The South African Geek Culture in 2017]]></title><description><![CDATA[It is a year that the Millennials dubbed as the "turning" year. The year 2017
came with many surprises and history was changed. A birth year for some of the
technologies and death year for some, R.I.P. With all the glooms, ups and downs
of the year, the Geek Culture life kept on going.
Let's look at the year and the health of the tech ecosystem. We present top 10
tech stories we lived to see in the year that is 2017.
10. The War on Tech
South African has been named number 2 in terms of Afri]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/the-south-african-geek-culture-in-2017/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a335a9c5c6a8820d4033265</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[arduino]]></category><category><![CDATA[stem]]></category><category><![CDATA[2017]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 15 Dec 2017 10:25:54 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/36015660153_9cfd22afdb_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/36015660153_9cfd22afdb_o.jpg" alt="The South African Geek Culture in 2017"/><p>It is a year that the Millennials dubbed as the "turning" year. The year 2017 came with many surprises and history was changed. A birth year for some of the technologies and death year for some, R.I.P. With all the glooms, ups and downs of the year, the Geek Culture life kept on going.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/DEB4jrbXsAIuhGs.jpg" alt="The South African Geek Culture in 2017"/></p>
<p>Let's look at the year and the health of the tech ecosystem. We present top 10 tech stories we lived to see in the year that is 2017.</p>
<p><strong>10. The War on Tech</strong></p>
<p>South African has been named number 2 in terms of African most advanced countries ICT but our readiness and ability to embrace and consume tech remains a question. The Uber vs Metered Taxis may have lowered a developer confidence. The tech struggle got real, the emvironment was not always enabling for the young developers.</p>
<p>Uhm, yeah voting is still pretty much manual. IEC is putting on efforts to get everyone counted and located, through their portal though:</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Weâre asking voters to help ensure free & fair elections by checking & updating their addresses on the votersâ roll at <a href="https://t.co/7FpSCpcZuX">https://t.co/7FpSCpcZuX</a>. Have you updated yours?</p>— IEC South Africa (@IECSouthAfrica) <a href="https://twitter.com/IECSouthAfrica/status/938011588350660608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>9. The Age Cryptocurrency</strong></p>
<p>The years started out with a high popularity gain of Forex Trading, more people took a chance. Most techies in SA utilized a variety of apps, we also saw a rise in pages/groups that seek teach people how to trade with forex.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.bitcoin.com/">Bitcoin</a> is also gaining traction in the country. South Africa is set to having a large digital currency setting pace with the rest of the world.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">South Africa to Take "Balanced Approach" to Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Regulations <a href="https://t.co/bQA2XUATsH">https://t.co/bQA2XUATsH</a></p>— Erik Wp (@erikwp) <a href="https://twitter.com/erikwp/status/940071399313481728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>8. The Year in Hackathons</strong></p>
<p>Over 1400 Geeks have taken part in Geekulcha hosted/facilitated hackathons in 2017 and the hackathons have been hosted for various purposes.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/sld1.jpg" alt="The South African Geek Culture in 2017"/></p>
<p>Geeks got to <em>walk the talk</em> at the Hackathons and working on growing their skills capacity.</p>
<ul>
<li>More Geeks got hired through hackathons</li>
<li>Study vouchers were given</li>
<li>New startups resulted from the hackathon</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>7. Information Security</strong></p>
<p>While South AFrica remains one of the highly targetted countrie in cyber attacks, actions needed to be taken and there has been few programmes in 2017 to address the skills crisis in Cyber Security.</p>
<p><a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHskWiQMJe">SafeHack</a> hackathon by Geekulcha in collaboration with PwC, Telkom, MTN, mLab SA and the City of Tshwane saw young geeks getting short internship at PwC.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Meet Bosa Gumede, the only female member of team Otaka, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SafeHack?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SafeHack</a> winners who went to <a href="https://twitter.com/pwc_za?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pwc_za</a> for a weeks internship on security <a href="https://t.co/Eh9y5XtQUS">pic.twitter.com/Eh9y5XtQUS</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/888566819166060545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHskVfYzxP">SS17Hack</a> by ITWeb in collaboration with Geekulcha and Snode, the Vodacom Dome was filled by the ITWeb Security Summit and young Geeks who took part at the hackathon.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>6. Data Science Programmes</strong></p>
<p>The Sol Plaatje University just produced the first Data Science degree graduates in Africa. Data is the new oil and South Africa is forging ahead. Here are some of the Data things in 2017.</p>
<ul>
<li>The <a href="https://flic.kr/s/aHskVtAANy">International Open Data Day</a> was celebrating including in Kathu, Northern Cape</li>
<li><a href="http://www.deeplearningindaba.com/">Deep Learning Indaba</a> was hosted in Johannesburg</li>
<li><a href="http://www.explore-datascience.net/">Explore Data Academy</a> was launched with BCX sponsoring 300 internships</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>5. Organized Tech Communities</strong></p>
<p>The culture of meetups reignited further. There is nothing like a couple of like-minded Geeks meeting over beer to talk tech and set ideas in motion.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://developers.facebook.com/developercircles/find">Facebook Developer Circles</a> in 4 South African cities</li>
<li><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23EngineOne&src=typd">Engine One</a> Meetups by Lepsta</li>
<li><a href="http://opencampus.ncdev.co.za/">Open Campus</a> by the GKSS SPU team</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>4. Women and Junior Geeks</strong></p>
<p>Girl Power of fleek! The year 2017 saw a rise in a number of females in ICT empowerment initiatives. Biggest females in ICT event of the year was the <a href="https://www.htxt.co.za/2017/07/27/r300k-in-prizes-up-for-grabs-in-2017-girlcode-hackathon/">GirlCode Hackathon</a> which saw the winners having to travel to the US of A. The Geek Raeketsetsa initiative also put in extra efforts in enabling females Geeks.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/giphy.gif" alt="The South African Geek Culture in 2017"/></p>
<p>Future GeekStars also pushed. The gkVacWork programme took place in 4 provinces (Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and the Northern Cape) teaching over 230 youngsters how to code and build tech startups.</p>
<p>Oh look, the Geek Culture made it into a Grade 10 exam papers.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">What a week this was! The <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> programme, scholars + project from July 2015 edition made it to a Grade 10 Exam paper. This has been a collaboration with <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CityTshwane?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CityTshwane</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mlabsa</a> đâđ„đ„đ„ <a href="https://t.co/SBShk70kKa">pic.twitter.com/SBShk70kKa</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/931539905578139648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>3. Geek Culture on Campus</strong></p>
<p>The tech revolution took prevanlence into universities across South Africa and it was exciting to see the drive. Tshwane University of Technology was amongst the universities with Lab 214 having produced a group called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BrainHackersTUT/">Brain Hackers</a>.</p>
<ul>
<li>Former <a href="https://blog.geekulcha.com/gkss-leaders-graduate-cum-laude/">GKSS leaders graduate</a> for second time in 2017 after graduating Cum Laude at SPU</li>
<li>Geekulcha Student Society expands to TUT</li>
<li><a href="http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks/">Top 15 Young Geeks</a> were also featured</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/cover-topgeeks.png" alt="The South African Geek Culture in 2017"/></p>
<p><strong>2. IoT and Makerspaces</strong></p>
<p>There were not a lot of events for the Maker ecosystem in 2017 but there has been a lot of programmes/activities for the year inluding.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.htxt.co.za/topics/3d-print-of-the-day/">Tom Van Den Bon</a> - 365 Days of 3D printing, he has been printing 3D objects each day of 2017</li>
<li><a href="https://ewbsa.org/iot4sg-challenge/">EWB IoT for Social Good Design Challenge</a> ran in 3 cities</li>
<li>IoT became integral part of hackathons</li>
</ul>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Don't try this at home: Bringing real-time monitoring with Twitter intelligence on shack fires. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IoT4SG?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IoT4SG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://t.co/gArc9HpMaR">pic.twitter.com/gArc9HpMaR</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/909411008724262912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>1. Appy 2017: Breaking the App Poverty</strong></p>
<p>Good news, South African Android app developers can finally sell their apps on the Google Play Store. A variety of applications entered the South African market. MTN Business also announced the <a href="http://www.itnewsafrica.com/2017/10/winners-of-2017-mtn-business-app-of-the-year-awards-announced/">App of the Year Award</a> winners.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.feenix.org/">Feenix</a> gets students funded for university studies</li>
<li><a href="https://namola.com/download/">Namola</a> App safety went national</li>
<li>For Women's month, <a href="http://www.itweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=164052">POWA</a> app was launched to help fight gender-based violence</li>
</ul>
<p>It was a year to celebrate after Geekulcha won the <a href="https://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-wins-bbq-award/">Black Business Quartely Award</a> for the New and Innovative Business Award.</p>
<p>2017 will definately be a year to remember and we look forward to 2018 to make more impact and help the local tech ecosystem grow.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mosa Lefu: Wrapping My Head Around Progressive Web Apps]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hello fellow developers, my name is Mosa Lefu. I am a junior mobile apps
developer aspiring to be a top software developer in South Africa.
Have you ever noticed that most of the people leave the web pages not because
they do not find them interesting but simply because they take time to load?
Imagine waiting for a minute for a page to load, I mean even 30 seconds is a
lot. Downloading an app is not that bad but sometimes we just do not have the
time to wait for downloads and installations. How]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/mosa-lefu-wrapping-my-head-around-progressive-web-apps/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a2d3f735c6a8820d403324d</guid><category><![CDATA[android]]></category><category><![CDATA[developers]]></category><category><![CDATA[future]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[apps]]></category><category><![CDATA[pwa]]></category><category><![CDATA[dev]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 10 Dec 2017 14:28:46 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/Mosa-Lefu.jpeg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/Mosa-Lefu.jpeg" alt="Mosa Lefu: Wrapping My Head Around Progressive Web Apps"/><p><em>Hello fellow developers, my name is Mosa Lefu. I am a junior mobile apps developer aspiring to be a top software developer in South Africa.</em></p>
<p>Have you ever noticed that most of the people leave the web pages not because they do not find them interesting but simply because they take time to load? Imagine waiting for a minute for a page to load, I mean even 30 seconds is a lot. Downloading an app is not that bad but sometimes we just do not have the time to wait for downloads and installations. How cool would it be if one could just add an app within a second to a homescreen without going through the process of installation?</p>
<p>Progressive Web Apps(PWAs) do not need to be installed they are like websites and are accessed like one but PWAs can work even if you do not have any signal. They fit any form factor, always up-to-date and uses HTTPs for security. Before we get into more details lets first understand what are PWAs:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>PWAs are web applications that uses the latest technologies. They are regular web pages but can appear to users like native mobile applications. The PWAs provide the user with an app-like experience. They combine the best of the web and apps. The most interesting part about this kind of an app is that it can work wherever you are, you do not need to have internet access to access it.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/progressive-web-applications-01.jpg" alt="Mosa Lefu: Wrapping My Head Around Progressive Web Apps"/></p>
<p>To develop them requires service worker and APIs such as the cache storage API or IndexedDB. With service worker PWA can precache parts of a web so that it loads within a second the next time a user opens it.</p>
<p>Using a service worker gives PWAs the ability to prevent and to be able to handle network request. However PWA can run without a service worker. Also the PWA tend to be architected around an application shell. I'm not going to dwell much on this but in passing app shell contains local resources that your web app needs to load the user interface so it works offline.</p>
<p>For the first time when i got to learn about PWAs myself it was pretty interesting. The discovery thereof was overwhelming. I have developed a webpage before and a mobile app, but this was different altogether, being able to mix web and app in one bowl made it pretty interesting and the fact that it is faster than any of the two. I have had challenges along the way, like registering service worker. This was challenging but fortunate enough I got the hang of it.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/RHpy3Ho.jpg" alt="Mosa Lefu: Wrapping My Head Around Progressive Web Apps"/></p>
<p>In Order for one to develop a Progressive Web App an ability to create a website is needed and the knowledge of CSS, HTML, JavaScript as well as Version Control tools. Also the understanding of a lighthouse which is an open source, automated tool for improving the quality of web pages. Lighthouse enables a developer to check if the website is working as a PWA and gives you scores out of hundred to guide you.</p>
<p>The benefits of PWAs are that it is fast, reliable, fresh, app-like and engaging. They are fast and load instantly, researches shows that 53% of users leave a site if it takes more than 3 seconds to load, 53% that is more than half. Meaning that most of the users can engage with a web page if it loads within a second. It is reliable it can load without a network connection.</p>
<p>I would call it fresh because it is always up-to-date. App-like because the app shell model separates the application functionality from application content. Lastly but not least it is engaging because it is live on the userâs home screen.</p>
<p>One may wonder what is the fuss about. What is the future with it? The thing is, the PWAs are the future and are what users are looking for. We are moving into faster things and users are used to the idea of getting things faster.</p>
<p>PWAs cut down on the number of users abandoning your website. If you want to increase the number of people who visit your website the PWAs is the way to go. Big leagues like twitter are moving into PWAs so should you. There is nothing to lose but more to gain.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mpumalanga Youth Code A Greener Future At #gkVacWork]]></title><description><![CDATA[The latest edition of the Geekulcha Vacation Work(gkVacWork) programme was
hosted in Mpumalanga, Mashishing in Lydenburg at the Thaba Chweu Municipality
from 27 November till the 1st of December. Throughout the week, the youngters
got to learn how to code and build tech startups.
Powered by the Vulingqondo Innovation Hub
[https://twitter.com/vulingqondo?lang=en], the programme edition was focused on
"Integrated Green Economy". Youngsters had to come up with ideas of how they
would help their co]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/mpumalanga-youth-code-a-greener-future-at-gkvacwork/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a23fccd5c6a8820d403323c</guid><category><![CDATA[Youth]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[iot]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[mpumalanga]]></category><category><![CDATA[green]]></category><category><![CDATA[economy]]></category><category><![CDATA[vulingqondo]]></category><category><![CDATA[mentors]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 03 Dec 2017 14:42:56 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/IMG_1532.JPG" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/IMG_1532.JPG" alt="Mpumalanga Youth Code A Greener Future At #gkVacWork"/><p>The latest edition of the Geekulcha Vacation Work(gkVacWork) programme was hosted in Mpumalanga, Mashishing in Lydenburg at the Thaba Chweu Municipality from 27 November till the 1st of December. Throughout the week, the youngters got to learn how to code and build tech startups.</p>
<p>Powered by the <a href="https://twitter.com/vulingqondo?lang=en">Vulingqondo Innovation Hub</a>, the programme edition was focused on "Integrated Green Economy". Youngsters had to come up with ideas of how they would help their community realize and transit into the Green Economy. A couple of Geeks from Geekulcha and Reacoda mentored the youngsters and taken them through a process of building tech solutions.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Young lady soldering parts of their project at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> Mpumalanga. Always a great sight. We need to get more young ladies interested and get involved in the DIGITAL REVOLUTION <a href="https://twitter.com/vulingqondo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vulingqondo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/raeketsetsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@raeketsetsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CinaWood?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CinaWood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/jayshnaidoo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jayshnaidoo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> âđ„đ„đ„ <a href="https://t.co/WKsAtmSiB0">pic.twitter.com/WKsAtmSiB0</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/935873514397151232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Tis the season to Code!</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Everyday, the VacWork started from 09:00 till 16:00 and youngsters would work on their startups building products/services. Mobile apps, websites and electronics systems were the products in development using open source tools such as Arduino and IBM Watson for IoT platform.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Each group was treated as a startup and 7 mini-companies were created during the programme. Up to 31 scholars took part with 42% female participation and a youngest participants being 11 years old.</p>
<h3 id="herearethetop3winningsolutions">Here are the top 3 winning solutions:</h3>
<p>The judges judged the teams based on Innovation, Scalability, Market Potential and Presentation style of the projects.</p>
<p><strong>Number 1 - TechnoElectro Idols: Smartgeyer System</strong></p>
<p>We develop and market innovative connected devices and tailor-made solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT). Smartgey uses sensors to determine the temperature of the water inside the geysers. Users can also choose to set a limit of the amount of water they want to use per bath.</p>
<p><strong>Demo:</strong> <a href="https://youtu.be/NWZxH_65gvg">https://youtu.be/NWZxH_65gvg</a></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/IMG_1517.JPG" alt="Mpumalanga Youth Code A Greener Future At #gkVacWork"><br>
<em>Mmalehlohonolo Maidi(CEO), Dikupo Mkhabela(COO), Sipho Barendse(BA) and Bhekumuzi Vuma(BM)</em></br></img></p>
<p><strong>Number 2 - WebWise: LYD Smart Info</strong></p>
<p>This website will give you daily updates on the town affairs. Weâll help market upcoming project, new design's for young entrepreneur's by connecting them companies. Also focus on construction work giving skills for the unskilled and unemployed youth and give info on eco-friendly building materials for households.</p>
<p><strong>Demo:</strong> <a href="https://youtu.be/AeIGUa9_QP8">https://youtu.be/AeIGUa9_QP8</a></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/IMG_1514.JPG" alt="Mpumalanga Youth Code A Greener Future At #gkVacWork"><br>
<em>Hellen Sibiya(CEO), Sthembiso Kgopane(COO), Thabisile Mathujwa(BA), Antony Vuma and Thabang Mahlangu(BA)</em></br></img></p>
<p><strong>Number 3 - TechnoGen</strong></p>
<p>Our application allows the customers to be informed when load shedding is experienced. Customers can check on the application regarding their daily,weekly and monthly usage of electricity. The user can get reward electricity points when using electricity wisely.</p>
<p><strong>Demo:</strong> <a href="https://youtu.be/_PcQg1ThURc">https://youtu.be/_PcQg1ThURc</a></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/IMG_1515.JPG" alt="Mpumalanga Youth Code A Greener Future At #gkVacWork"><br>
<em>Tshepo Mokhethea(CEO), Sharon Malebe(CFO), Abednego Mkhombo(BA) and Abednego Mkhombo(HM)</em></br></img></p>
<p>You can checkout all the projects and teams <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWZxH_65gvg&list=PLmQ-AqWKlIK4M6xyFV58N7BV4kUO33Ce1">here</a>.</p>
<p>It was not all code, there moments of fun and digesting on daily activities with mentors having to learn musical instruments.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We taught them how to code now they are teaching us music <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/reacoda?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#reacoda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vulingqondo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vulingqondo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/skinnyshugo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@skinnyshugo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@4otune</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TiyaniTee</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CinaWood?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CinaWood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mbodification?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mbodification</a> <a href="https://t.co/X5APytmIAc">pic.twitter.com/X5APytmIAc</a></p>— #1milreacodas2030 (@reacoda_code) <a href="https://twitter.com/reacoda_code/status/935513220336496641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>A Debate was also hosted to engage and stimulate the youngster's minds with issues of social-relevancy. Two rounds of the debate focused on Government's efforts in ensuring a greener future and human effect on the acceleration of Global warming.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/12/IMG_1525.JPG" alt="Mpumalanga Youth Code A Greener Future At #gkVacWork"><br>
<em>Winners of the debate</em></br></img></p>
<p>The VacWork programme is open to youngsters and they may apply on <a href="http://future.geekulcha.com/">future.geekulcha.com</a>. Mpumalanga VacWork was a blast, checkout all the photos here:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157667033812779" title="#gkVacWork Mpumalanga - December 2017"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4551/38804288451_4cf390bca3.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Mpumalanga Youth Code A Greener Future At #gkVacWork"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Glory Mabunda on Using Data to Tell the Geekulcha Story]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hi all, my name is Glory Mabunda I am a Junior Applications Developer and a
final year student at the Tshwane University of Technology focusing on
data-centered applications, that help paint a clearer picture of what
Geekulcha's mission is. I also enjoy analysing scenarios and creating digital
solutions that require me to work outside my comfort and knowledge set, as I
continue to sculpture my development techniques in order to become a proficient
software developer.
Initially, I thought Geekul]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/glory-mabunda-on-using-data-to-tell-the-geekulcha-story/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a1e9cc55c6a8820d4033234</guid><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><category><![CDATA[geekulcha]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[libraries]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 29 Nov 2017 13:36:09 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/glo.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/glo.png" alt="Glory Mabunda on Using Data to Tell the Geekulcha Story"/><p><em>Hi all, my name is Glory Mabunda I am a Junior Applications Developer and a final year student at the Tshwane University of Technology focusing on data-centered applications, that help paint a clearer picture of what Geekulcha's mission is. I also enjoy analysing scenarios and creating digital solutions that require me to work outside my comfort and knowledge set, as I continue to sculpture my development techniques in order to become a proficient software developer.</em></p>
<p>Initially, I thought Geekulcha was just another company that was only focused on creating client-centered solutions, but it goes beyond that - Geekulcha is a platform where young, creative, and innovative minds get to share information and knowledge. Geekulcha is also responsible for bridging the gap that exists between young innovators, who want to create digital solutions that are relevant in the tech industry and professionals who currently working in the industry.<br>
<img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/tags2.PNG" alt="Glory Mabunda on Using Data to Tell the Geekulcha Story"><br>
Most people know the name Geekulcha and people involved but not what it does and its programmes. There are several programmes that Geekulcha runs throughout the year and hackathons form a huge part of what Geekulcha does.</br></img></br></p>
<p><strong>Hackathons</strong>, can be defined as âinvention marathonsâ. Where anyone who has an interest in technology attends a hackathon to learn, build & share their creations over the duration of the hackathon. Oh and just so you know, you donât have to be a programmer and you certainly donât have to done a Masters Degree in Electronics to attend a hackathon. Hackathons are also a fun way of creating digital solutions that make business sense in the industry, these Hackathons also attract professional industry leaders.</p>
<p>Here are 3 facts about Geekulcha:</p>
<ul>
<li>Geekulcha was awarded an ICT Achievers Award in 2016 for their role in local industrialisation of the ICT ecosystem.</li>
<li>Ms Africa finalist Rahab Matebane, once partnered with Geekulcha, to give school children better access and opportunity to see what careers exist in the field</li>
<li>Geekulcha has a radio show on Brandlive.co.za (internet radio) called #GeeksConnect, which airs on Thursdays at 10:00 - 11:00(CAT)</li>
</ul>
<p>Big data is the term that describes huge amounts of structured, semistructured and unstructured data that has the potential to be used for information that is of significant value.</p>
<p>I think that Data is important for developers, because so many times I think developers like myself get an idea of building a digital solution that seems or feels to be ground-breaking or digitally revolutionary, however we donât analyse exactly what weâre aiming at solving in order for our solutions to be relevant, usable or economically viable.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Without data it would be impossible to detect or know what kind of problems need to be solved, because let's face it we can create the best digital solution however it could be solving well nothing.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>âEnterprise Data Strategy is the comprehensive vision and actionable foundation for an organizationâs ability to harness data-related or data-dependent capability.â Companies should have a data strategy in place because, without a vision and foundation, different parts of the enterprise will view data-related capabilities differently.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/Big-data-1.jpg" alt="Glory Mabunda on Using Data to Tell the Geekulcha Story"/></p>
<p>This inevitably leads to duplication of both data and data systems across the organization and thus makes it quite difficult to determine the âtruthâ of oneâs data and will also drive up costs. Having a Data Strategy in place also provides the formula for all enterprise planning efforts connected to data-related capability.</p>
<p>One of the things Iâve done at Geekulcha was helping build the Geekulcha profile and it was it interesting feat for me to venture into, because I got to see how data is able to come âaliveâ from a long list of âdeadâ tables or datasets that would be boring to just display in raw format.</p>
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{name: 'VacWork Scholars',data: [28, 133, 189, 191, 172]},
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<p>I started off on researching on what kind of platforms I could use to visualise the data I was working with, and the platform I ended up working with mainly is âHighchartsâ. Highcharts is a charting library that is written in pure JavaScript, offering an easy way of adding interactive charts to your web site or web application.</p>
<p>Most of these data visualisation platforms do require that you have knowledge in programming.</p>
<p>Here are 5 other data visualization libraries/tools that are really useful in telling a story through data:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://developers.google.com/chart/">Google Charts</a></li>
<li><a href="https://d3js.org/">D3.js </a></li>
<li><a href="https://plot.ly/javascript/">Plot.ly</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.tableau.com/">Tableau Software</a></li>
<li><a href="https://powerbi.microsoft.com/en-us/">Microsoft Power BI</a></li>
</ul>
<p>Working on the Geekulcha Profile (to be made public soon) has taught me that there are lot of open source libraries that can be used to create diverse digital solutions that could be the next big thing in world wide web used. I aspire to be a senior software developer that has the ability to build software solutions efficiently, and quickly in a challenging environment and gain experience in working as part of a team to research and develop new software products.</p>
<p>Data science is analysis of huge volumes of data to create knowledge and useful data sets that could help people start asking the right question in order to solve problems. I believe that in South Africa Data Science could help solve one of our one of biggest problems which is unemployment by providing data that could help solve problems that exist in our nation.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Mpumalanga: Issa Coding Holiday]]></title><description><![CDATA[Holidays with the Geeks, youngsters from the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality are
currently sacrificing their summer holidays to learn how to Code and be all
innovative. The Geekulcha VacWork programme led and orgnized by the Vulinqondo
Innovation Hub, kicked off today in Mpumalanga at the Thusong Community Centre.
Mentored by the team from Geekulcha, Vulingqondo Innovation Hub
[https://twitter.com/vulingqondo], Reacoda [https://twitter.com/reacoda_code]
and Thusong Community Centre, the 40 youn]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-mpumalanga-issa-coding-holiday/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a1bfc235c6a8820d4033231</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 27 Nov 2017 12:04:06 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/WhatsApp-Image-2017-11-27-at-11.08.03.jpeg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/WhatsApp-Image-2017-11-27-at-11.08.03.jpeg" alt="#gkVacWork Mpumalanga: Issa Coding Holiday"/><p>Holidays with the Geeks, youngsters from the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality are currently sacrificing their summer holidays to learn how to Code and be all innovative. The Geekulcha VacWork programme led and orgnized by the Vulinqondo Innovation Hub, kicked off today in Mpumalanga at the Thusong Community Centre.</p>
<p>Mentored by the team from Geekulcha, <a href="https://twitter.com/vulingqondo">Vulingqondo Innovation Hub</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/reacoda_code">Reacoda</a> and Thusong Community Centre, the 40 youngsters are learning how to code and build their own tech startups during the holidays.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/designthinking?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#designthinking</a> session with the high school students underway at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkvacwork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gkvacwork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vulingqondo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vulingqondo</a> <a href="https://t.co/NbiHSttFL7">pic.twitter.com/NbiHSttFL7</a></p>— #1milreacodas2030 (@reacoda_code) <a href="https://twitter.com/reacoda_code/status/935101980393066496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The Innovation Capacity is ripe in Mpumalanga and these youngsters have to put their thinking caps on and make their solutions be business-sounding.</p>
<p>Follow up on social media: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a></p>
<p>We look forward to the solutions that will be built during the week and seeing the youngsters become top Tech leadersv in the country.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fhulufhelo Maumela on IoT: Girls Gonna Make]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hi everyone, my name is Fhulufhelo Maumela and I am a junior applications
developer, a final year student in Computer Systems Engineering at the Tshwane
University of technology. I build Web and Electronics solutions, being a Maker
is what I enjoy the most.
There are several ways that data can be captured, IoT (Internet of Things) is
also another way that we can use to capture, analyze data. We use these data to
make a conclusion that can be of use in the future. We capture data through IoT
wit]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/fhulufhelo-maumela-on-iot-girls-gonna-make/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a156f805c6a8820d4033227</guid><category><![CDATA[raeketsetsa]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[iot]]></category><category><![CDATA[future]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 22 Nov 2017 16:45:52 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/34763345893_54d8d03fbd_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded>< - accelerates Internet of Things innovation for makers, developers and the enterprise.<br>
âą <a href="https://www.ibm.com/internet-of-things">IBM Watson for IoT</a> - The Internet of Things becomes the Internet that thinks with Watson IoT<br>
âą <a href="https://nodered.org/">Node-RED</a> - a programming tool for wiring together hardware devices, APIs and online services in new and interesting ways.<br>
âą <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/internet-of-things/azure-iot-suite">Azure IoT Suite</a> - Improve industrial efficiencies with connected factory</br></br></br></br></p>
<p>In conclusion, South Africa is one of the countries can build more capacity in IoT by introducing industrial IoT. We need to collect data mostly in industrial areas as well as finding out what can be done with the data that was collected. I am very optimistic and I believe with IoT the world will be a better place.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Khanyisa Mabasa on BI Tools For Startups]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hello Entrepreneurs, My name is Khanyisa Mabasa, an inspiring Junior Business
Analyst part of Geekulcha crew, I have a keen interest in working in the bank
sector. With all the skills and experience I'm acquiring at Geekulcha, I strive
to take my career into the next level to gain more experience and exposure.
We live in a digitally-enabled world, where business moves fast and people are
well connected, everywhere in the world, competition is very high and customers
are demanding, so as much as]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/khanyisa-mabasa-bi-tools-for-startups/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__5a0ad4565c6a8820d403321c</guid><category><![CDATA[Business]]></category><category><![CDATA[bi]]></category><category><![CDATA[data]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 15 Nov 2017 08:47:06 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/business-intelligence-solutions.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/business-intelligence-solutions.jpg" alt="Khanyisa Mabasa on BI Tools For Startups"/><p><em>Hello Entrepreneurs, My name is Khanyisa Mabasa, an inspiring Junior Business Analyst part of Geekulcha crew, I have a keen interest in working in the bank sector. With all the skills and experience I'm acquiring at Geekulcha, I strive to take my career into the next level to gain more experience and exposure.</em></p>
<p>We live in a digitally-enabled world, where business moves fast and people are well connected, everywhere in the world, <em>competition is very high and customers are demanding</em>, so as much as digital technology is moving fast, in order to succeed, we need to master digital transformation. On such a complex journey, <em>it is better to partner up in every stage to co-create a strategy to realize a digital vision</em>, so it is very important for organizations to be data-centric.</p>
<p>Data science has been selected as one of the top 5 jobs in the future because most companies are in need of data scientists, data is never clean so most companies need people to spend their time analyzing and extract meaning from data because data is everything.</p>
<p>Information Systems (computer) can be seen as a system used to organize and analyze data, the group of components that interact to produce specific information, this is the way in which people interact with technology to support and control the performance of business processes. It focusses on business organizations such as people, business processes, information and technology.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/cis-header.jpg" alt="Khanyisa Mabasa on BI Tools For Startups"/></p>
<p>Information Systems shape the enterprise architecture in a very big way as many organizations work with a large amount of data, data is a value or a fact, organized in a database.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Many people think that data and information are the same but information is the data that has been organized. Information systems will help enterprises turn raw data into useful information that can help organizations make better business decisions.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Information systems can help or shape business process in an effective way because information system can help organization to ensure that the output it produces, matches the requirements of quality standards, this will simplify business processes and removes unnecessary activities. It makes sure that only users with applicable rights can perform specific tasks, also removes all the tasks that are repeating and increase accuracy and can lead to better project planning.</p>
<p>Business Intelligence is <em><strong>a technology driven process for analyzing data and presenting actionable information</strong></em> to help executives and managers make business decisions, BI is needed in all organizations.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/11/Importance-Business-Intelligence.jpg" alt="Khanyisa Mabasa on BI Tools For Startups"/></p>
<p>Some notes about Business Intelliegence</p>
<ul>
<li>It is a descriptive analytics</li>
<li>BI describes a past or current state</li>
<li>Offers a way for people to examine data to understand trends</li>
<li>In a supply chain, BI is needed to determine where delays are happening</li>
</ul>
<p>Business analysts need to keep their focus in business intelligence because as much as both BA and BI analyses data for change, Business Analysts need to focus on the current data to make sure that the business improves, not only for better future only but for the current state of business.</p>
<p>There is a need to focus on BI because if ever you work in a specific company and they want to improve operations and increase efficiency, BA with BI skills can be able to do to this. One needs to equip themeselves with these skills.</p>
<p>Business intelligence goes with the following components</p>
<ol>
<li><em>OLAP (Online Analytical Processing)</em><br>
This component of BI allows executives to sort and select aggregates of data for strategic monitoring.</br></li>
</ol>
<p><em>2. Advanced Analytics or Corporate Performance Management (CPM)</em><br>
This set of tools allows business leaders to look at the statistics of certain products or services.</br></p>
<p><em>3. Real-time BI</em><br>
Business can respond to real-time trends in email, messaging systems or even digital displays.</br></p>
<p><em>4. Data Warehousing</em><br>
This component business leaders sift through subsets of data and examine interrelated components that can help drive business.</br></p>
<p><em>5. Data Sources</em><br>
This component of BI involves various forms of stored data. It's about taking the raw data and using software applications to create meaningful data sources that each division can use to positively impact business.</br></p>
<p>There are many tools for startups that entrepreneurs can use to accelerate their businesses</p>
<p><strong>Fbstart.com by Facebook</strong><br>
Young and startup entrepreneurs can use the fbstart.com platform as a way to get ahead in their businesses, they can get all the necessary information and partner up with the right people, as a way of making their businesses big, this can help them learn more about other apps and be able to use other peoples skills to get things done because this program is all about doing it for young developers and helping each other.</br></p>
<p><strong>Audience centered Ad campaign</strong><br>
Getting your word out and making sure people know about your business is a very good way to start, there more people know about your business makes business to grow.</br></p>
<p><strong>Instant article distribution management</strong><br>
Articles are also very important, different people are reached in different ways, getting different people read an articles in different platforms about your business makes business to be noticed and it that way, people will be very interested to know more about business and that takes your business to another level and grow.</br></p>
<p>You can checkout the <a href="https://developers.facebook.com/docs/instant-articles/api/">Facebook Instant Articles API</a></p>
<p><strong>Web analytics</strong><br>
Entrepreneur need to understand that in order to make it or survive in business, they need to measure their own data. They need to know how many people are visiting their website and what channels are these people coming from and in that way, they can make more people visit their website.</br></p>
<p><strong>Video Marketing</strong><br>
Sometimes a video makes it very easy for people to understand what a certain business is all about, a video will bring traffic to business site, build lead and increase conversion rates for the business.</br></p>
<p><strong>Tableau</strong><br>
Helps entrepreneurs make their data readable and presentable in graphic way.</br></p>
<p><strong>Search Engine Optimization</strong> is also important for small businesses in future because it can make entrepreneur understand that in order to stand out and be discovered out there. Acquiring some SEO skills/telent will help business stay on top and implement a strategy to attract customers and make business grow because if your companyâs website isnât on the face page of the results, its practically invisible.</p>
<p><strong>The future of Business Intellegence</strong></p>
<p>One of the key trends many experts are predicting is a growth of the digital BI world into a more âcooperative space", where tools and platforms will become more broad-spectrum and eventually, more collaborative. BI was focused on small devices but now it will be shifted to touchy devices and this will make colleagues to work and make decision based on real time data.</p>
<p><strong>Big Data</strong> will help small and big businesses to have a clear<br>
understanding on how to make business decisions, with big data, they can be able to analyze data and figure out more value for customers.</br></p>
<p>I am so excited about the future because there is just a lot coming and I want to be part of it, there are many improvements coming up from now going forward and will make life easier than it is now, technologies that will transform the world and human welfare. Self-driving cars exist today that are safer than human-driven cars in most driving conditions. Over the next 3-5 years, they will get even safer and will begin to go mainstream.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha Wins BBQ Award: New and Innovative Business]]></title><description><![CDATA[Around this time last year, Geekulcha was celebrating having won the 2016 ICT
Achievers Award in the Local Industrialization category. It was a great moment
to receive the recognition for our role revolutionizing the Culture of Geeks in
South Africa. We are thrilled to be ending the year on a similar high note.
The Black Business Quarterly Awards by Big Time Group hosted their 16th annual
edition of the awards and Geekulcha was nominated in The Innovation Hub's New
and Innovative Business categ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-wins-bbq-award/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59ea579d5c6a8820d403320a</guid><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[Awards]]></category><category><![CDATA[Business]]></category><category><![CDATA[ICT]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:57:29 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-20-at-21.19.54.jpeg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-20-at-21.19.54.jpeg" alt="Geekulcha Wins BBQ Award: New and Innovative Business"/><p>Around this time last year, Geekulcha was celebrating having won the 2016 ICT Achievers Award in the Local Industrialization category. It was a great moment to receive the recognition for our role revolutionizing the Culture of Geeks in South Africa. We are thrilled to be ending the year on a similar high note.</p>
<p>The Black Business Quarterly Awards by Big Time Group hosted their 16th annual edition of the awards and Geekulcha was nominated in The Innovation Hub's New and Innovative Business category. "The nomination came in as a shock, we are still curious to know who nominated Geekulcha but nonetheless, we thank them for the consideration and recognition of our work", says Tiyani Nghonyama, the COO of Geekulcha.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We knew who the winner was that very moment when <a href="https://twitter.com/somizi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@somizi</a> struggled pronouncing <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geekulcha</a> đđ±đșđđŽïž <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bbqawards17?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bbqawards17</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ngjx4krRPm">pic.twitter.com/Ngjx4krRPm</a></p>— M I X O đ·đ»đ (@4otune) <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune/status/921461968288002048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>As an organization that always aimed to do more with less, Geekulcha welcomes this new award and appreciates how it complements the ICT award that was won last year.</p>
<p>CEO of Geekulcha, Mixo Ngoveni emphasizes that the real award winners are the Geekulcha crew and community members who had played crucial role in the growth of the Geekulcha platform. "This isn't an individual Award but one that belongs to the GK crew."</p>
<p>After this award, Geekulcha does recognize that more still needs to be done in driving and growing the tech ecosystem. We invite you to be part of this journey.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#FemaleGeeks: Nanikie Malwane on React Native]]></title><description><![CDATA[I am a Junior Applications Developer, a final year student in Information
Technology - Technical Applications at Tshwane University of Technology. Web and
mobile app development amongst the things I do. My goal is to elevate my
development skills in order to solve real life problems.
We are living in a digital age, and we cannot all help, but to be absorbed in
this rapid digital growth. For us to leave a remarkable digital footprint, we
ought to put ourselves out there such that we do not fall ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/nanikie-malwane-on-react-native/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e9c2905c6a8820d40331fe</guid><category><![CDATA[android]]></category><category><![CDATA[nanikie malwane]]></category><category><![CDATA[react]]></category><category><![CDATA[code]]></category><category><![CDATA[raeketsetsa]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 20 Oct 2017 09:56:21 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/37448416146_a603ff105d_z.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/37448416146_a603ff105d_z.jpg" alt="#FemaleGeeks: Nanikie Malwane on React Native"/><p><strong>I am a Junior Applications Developer, a final year student in Information Technology - Technical Applications at Tshwane University of Technology. Web and mobile app development amongst the things I do. My goal is to elevate my development skills in order to solve real life problems.</strong></p>
<p><em>We are living in a digital age, and we cannot all help, but to be absorbed in this rapid digital growth. For us to leave a remarkable digital footprint, we ought to put ourselves out there such that we do not fall behind.</em></p>
<p>React Native is a breakthrough for mobile app users and the community of developers at large. It is a JavaScript Framework that comes with pretty much most of the components you would need for building your mobile apps. It is open-source and runs on Android and iOS.</p>
<p>Challenges with using any new technology was getting started, however setting up the environment for React was not a train smash. The biggest mistake I committed was trying to be smart while all I needed to do was to follow simple instructions... I guess the excitement of getting that first React Native app to run got in the way.</p>
<p>Along the way, I discovered that the pain of ârunning" the app was not worthwhile after all. React introduces "Hot Loadingâ which updates the changes you make on the emulator without having to recompile or re-run your app.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/hmr-proxy.png" alt="#FemaleGeeks: Nanikie Malwane on React Native"/></p>
<p>So all the exhausting time of making changes, saving and running again is actually being utilized for more coding and zero-snoozing. This has improved my experience because now I could focus on the task at hand.</p>
<p>I am currently working on a Geekulcha Events App using react native. The app gives information about upcoming events and tracks hackathons for the community. I am using key components of react native such as the StackNavigator, ListView and TouchableOpacity which gives users the feel of the app, Data Parsing using JSON and other tools.</p>
<p>Girls need to be exposed to Technologies such as react React and many other new technologies because it is only through them that we really put ourselves out there, growing ourselves and be discovered, if not discovering ourselves in those technologies. This will further prove that girls are indeed moving with the rapid growth of Technology, in pursuit of living up to the expectations of leaving a remarkable digital footprint for future Tech ladies.</p>
<p>React has been a breakthrough in my journey as an uprising developer. It is so amazing to be provided with all the components but not knowing how to implement then becomes a problem. With React, <em>I got an opportunity to revisit my programming skills in terms of understanding the flow of bringing in together all the components to accomplish a set task</em>. I will continue using React because of its convenience.</p>
<p>"Try not to be that developer who does 1 000 things a thousand times", so said Tiyani Nghonyama. These are the words that were shared with me when I started my journey as a developer. To all the developers out there, do one thing a thousand times, master it and all the technologies that are yet to come will be so easy to adapt to.</p>
<p>The rapid growth of technology and how the whole world is emerging towards it is amazing. The excitement of bringing the physical world within the digital space promises a brighter future for me as a developer. Developers, let's unpack these technologies, use them and impact change in the world!</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Innov8Makers To Accelerate Innovation]]></title><description><![CDATA[Innov8, championed by The Innovation Hub is high-end networking panel discussion
type of an event to assess the Innovation Ecosystem and strive on finding more
angles to build the Innovation capacity.
Now, this edition is hosted by the Geekulcha Maker Library Network (MLN)
[http://design.britishcouncil.org/projects/makerlibraries/geekulcha/] and it's
NOT going to be a talk only but also includes hands-on maker activities. As it
will be interactive, we will be exploring 'Making' as a tool that a]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/innov8makers-to-accelerate-innovation/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655833c</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 15 Oct 2017 08:11:21 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/30476180031_b2b463b2e8_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/30476180031_b2b463b2e8_o.jpg" alt="Innov8Makers To Accelerate Innovation"/><p>Innov8, championed by The Innovation Hub is high-end networking panel discussion type of an event to assess the Innovation Ecosystem and strive on finding more angles to build the Innovation capacity.</p>
<p>Now, this edition is hosted by the <a href="http://design.britishcouncil.org/projects/makerlibraries/geekulcha/">Geekulcha Maker Library Network (MLN)</a> and it's NOT going to be a talk only but also includes hands-on maker activities. As it will be interactive, we will be exploring 'Making' as a tool that accelerate innovation.</p>
<p>Details of the event (FREE to attend)...</p>
<p>Date: Tue, 25 October 2016<br>
Time: 17:00 - 20:00 (Light dinner will be served)<br>
RSVP Here: <a href="http://bit.ly/2echXI1">http://bit.ly/2echXI1</a></br></br></p>
<p>The people must realize and embrace the "Power of Making" as this instill more creativity and innovation. Different speakers wills sit on the panel to discuss their techniques/practices and inspire others. Ecosystems, particularly the International one through the Maker Library Network are critical in sharing, uplifting and celebrating human excellence.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#GKHack17 Aims To Build A Reading Culture]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geekulcha Annual Hackathon takes place to gather tech developers, designers,
innovators and entrepreneurs every year to enhance their skills capacity and
build innovative solutions for Africa. This year, the hackathon will take place
at the Liberty Group in Johannesburg from the 29th of September until the 1st of
October.
Powered by Liberty and Standard Bank
Over 200 techies from various parts of South Africa and countries such as
Mozambique and Botswana will gather to take part at one of ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkhack17-aims-to-build-a-reading-culture/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655835a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 23 Sep 2017 12:37:54 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/507311349.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/507311349.jpg" alt="#GKHack17 Aims To Build A Reading Culture"/><p>The Geekulcha Annual Hackathon takes place to gather tech developers, designers, innovators and entrepreneurs every year to enhance their skills capacity and build innovative solutions for Africa. This year, the hackathon will take place at the Liberty Group in Johannesburg from the 29th of September until the 1st of October.</p>
<p>Powered by Liberty and Standard Bank</p>
<p>Over 200 techies from various parts of South Africa and countries such as Mozambique and Botswana will gather to take part at one of the largest public hackathon events. Participants are urged to be data-centric and innovation-conscious towards building a Collaborative Digital Economy.</p>
<p>Admission to the hackathon this year is a book, preferably a tech book of which will be given to the scholars of the <a href="http://future.geekulcha.com">Geekulcha Vacation Work (gkVacWork)</a> programme. With next editions in October and November, the programme equips high scholars with ICT and Business skills.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Admission to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GKHack17?src=hash">#GKHack17</a> is a book donation. The books will be given to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> scholars in efforts to promote a reading culture in Africa. <a href="https://t.co/8XSYqhV4F3">pic.twitter.com/8XSYqhV4F3</a></p>— #gkVacWork October (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/908196453050458115">September 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Tech Debates are part of the VacWork programme and the youngsters have to be more informed about the digital tools and how they affect our livelihood.</p>
<p>Watch a Tech Debate by scholars</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eJkKJ5QhGkk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Geekulcha calls on all participants to bring a book along to the hackathon to help build a reading culture in the country.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#RHoKpta - A Weekend That RHoKed 2017]]></title><description><![CDATA[Random Hacks of Kindness (RHOK) is a global Hackathon that takes challenges tech
designers, innovators and do-gooders to BYOD socially-relevant solutions using
technology. In South Africa, RHOK is hosted in collaboration between the UNISA
School of Computing Geekulcha every year. The 2017 edition of RHOK Pretoria took
place, 09 - 10 September at the UNISA Muckleneuk campus.
Up to 66 participants ranging from students to industry professionals gathered
at UNISA over a weekend of code for socia]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/rhokpta-a-weekend-that-rhoked-2017/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558359</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 15 Sep 2017 16:33:05 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/rhok-2017.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/rhok-2017.jpg" alt="#RHoKpta - A Weekend That RHoKed 2017"/><p>Random Hacks of Kindness (RHOK) is a global Hackathon that takes challenges tech designers, innovators and do-gooders to BYOD socially-relevant solutions using technology. In South Africa, RHOK is hosted in collaboration between the UNISA School of Computing Geekulcha every year. The 2017 edition of RHOK Pretoria took place, 09 - 10 September at the UNISA Muckleneuk campus.</p>
<p><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4393/36373719713_bef4c73f85_z_d.jpg" alt="#RHoKpta - A Weekend That RHoKed 2017"/></p>
<p>Up to 66 participants ranging from students to industry professionals gathered at UNISA over a weekend of code for social good. They came from all parts of the City of Tshwane while 7 participants came all the way from Mpumalanga.</p>
<p>The Hackathon challenges were once again centered on a variety of aspects that seeks to make our communities better. Lead organizer, Tiyani Nghonyama said, "one of the key challenges of the Hackathon was an Open Data challenge: <em>How do we use open data to enhance access to education and accelerate academic excellence?</em>". Different teams responded to the challenge differently.</p>
<p>With the given rise in social media robots technologies, it was not a surprise to see three of the 14 Hackathon solutions centered on Twitter Bots and data mining thereof.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Most solutions are addressing the low pass rate in our country in high schools, while some are focused on creating crime awareness <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RHoKpta?src=hash">#RHoKpta</a></p>— Dineo Malatjie (@DineoDionne) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineoDionne/status/906900931714973696">September 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>An app by the EduSol team caught Tiyani's attention for use at the Geekulcha Vacation Work programme for high scholars. The offline-based AI app allows users to ask any question on science and it interactively responds to the questions.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Group of ladies from <a href="https://twitter.com/CSIR">@CSIR</a> working on a cyber security solution. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rhokpta?src=hash">#rhokpta</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rhokpta">@rhokpta</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a>. <a href="https://t.co/CwDys4m5hW">pic.twitter.com/CwDys4m5hW</a></p>— #RHoKPta (@rhokpta) <a href="https://twitter.com/rhokpta/status/906765917362823168">September 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Here are the 3 winning solutions at the Hackathon:</p>
<h6 id="1stplacetheateam">1st Place: The A-Team</h6>
<p>An app which helps disabled students with communication and navigation in the campus.</p>
<p>If integrated with a university's blackboard and email system, with a few voice commands, the app could read out announcements, marks, timetable, and enable visually impaired people to participate in blackboard forums.</p>
<p>The student would only need a smartphone, and maybe earphones to ensure their privacy is not violated.</p>
<h6 id="2ndplacedemogargons">2nd Place: Demogargons</h6>
<p>Created Easy-Find which is a web application which is a source of sources. Through social media mining, they providing organizations with easy means of understanding customers, trends, and market dynamics.</p>
<h6 id="3rdplacemegadose">3rd Place: Megadose</h6>
<p>Developed an online marketplace bringing more ease in payment for people. The app allows people to buy gift cards</p>
<p>The organizers also gave prizes to the Best Female Star at the Hackathon to TUT student, Lerato Tsotetsi and an Ultimate GeekStar honor to tech entrepreneur Phathutshedzo from The Plug startup. Winners received gadgets from UNISA while the 1st place team got R4 000.00 in cash.</p>
<p>Prof. Mnkandla, the Head of Software Engineering at UNISA, thanked the participants for coming through and participating in the social-relevant computing mission of UNISA.</p>
<p><strong>Here are photos:</strong></p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157686558826314" title="#RHoKPta 2017 - Hackathon Finale"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4438/37187871555_78eee615c7.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="#RHoKpta - A Weekend That RHoKed 2017"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<p>RHOK Pretoria will take place again in 2018. Participants want more of Hackathons like RHOK for skills development and asked for more challenging challenges and a Capture the Flag feature. On the 7th of October, UNISA will be hosting a free community developer day training on mobile apps development at their Florida campus. All are invited and may RSVP on <a href="mailto:nxumals@unisa.ac.za">nxumals@unisa.ac.za</a>.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#NCDevWomenSummit - Igniting Female Digital Enablement in Kimberley]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Northern Cape has been quite active in Information and Communication
Technology(ICT) programmes, since 2015, 6 hackathons have been hosted in the
province. Many tech events have been hosted but there is a global problem - low
female participation in the ICT programmes.
> Raeketsetsa is a Geekulcha female initiative to attract and empower more females
into the world of ICT.
Through the local developer ecosystem, Raeketsetsa will be hosting a 1-day,
female-only ICT summit in collaboration w]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/ncdevwomensummit-igniting-female-digital-enablement-in-kimberley/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558358</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 12 Aug 2017 13:50:51 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DGiqUxMXsAE1z-J.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DGiqUxMXsAE1z-J.jpg" alt="#NCDevWomenSummit - Igniting Female Digital Enablement in Kimberley"/><p>The Northern Cape has been quite active in Information and Communication Technology(ICT) programmes, since 2015, 6 hackathons have been hosted in the province. Many tech events have been hosted but there is a global problem - low female participation in the ICT programmes.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Raeketsetsa is a Geekulcha female initiative to attract and empower more females into the world of ICT.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Through the local developer ecosystem, Raeketsetsa will be hosting a 1-day, female-only ICT summit in collaboration with the Northern Cape <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za">Department of Economic Development and Tourism(DEDaT)</a>. NCDev Women Summit is championed by the Geekulcha Student Society(GKSS) at Sol Plaatje University.</p>
<h6 id="detailsofthencdevwomensummit">Details of the NCDev Women Summit</h6>
<hr>
<ul>
<li>Date: 25 August 2017</li>
<li>Time: 10:00 - 15:00</li>
<li>Activities: <code>Talks</code> <code>Networking</code> <code>Story Telling</code> <code>Hands-on</code> <code>Design Thinking</code> <code>Careers</code> <code>Solutions Finding</code> <code>Acquire Tools</code></li>
<li>Tickets(free): <a href="http://bit.ly/2hTOcSf">http://bit.ly/2hTOcSf</a></li>
<li>Social Media: <strong>#NCDevWomenSummit</strong></li>
</ul>
<hr>
<p>This is a must attend for the ladies who are seeking to find the stance and take lead in the ICT field.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ncdevwomensummit?src=hash">#ncdevwomensummit</a> - elevation to women in ICT and Entrepreneurship. <a href="https://twitter.com/raeketsetsa">@raeketsetsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WomensMonth?src=hash">#WomensMonth</a></p>— #NCDevWomenSummit (@NCDevEco) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCDevEco/status/896318675812323328">August 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>NCDev Women Summit also seek to equip female entrepreneurs with digital skills and tools needed to uplift their businesses.</p>
<p>Speakers from both the public and private sector will be speaking at the summit to empower the ladies. Do join us for this exciting event.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Week of Science Excitation in Sebokeng]]></title><description><![CDATA[National Science Week (NSW)
[http://www.saasta.ac.za/programmes/focus-weeks/national-science-week/], an
initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) is a countrywide
celebration of science involving various stakeholders and/or role players
conducting science-based activities during the week.
National Science Week is run in all nine provinces simultaneously at multiple
sites per province. SAASTA has been appointed by the DST as the implementing
agency and play the role of the Nat]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/a-week-of-science-excitation-in-sebokeng/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558357</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 12 Aug 2017 13:17:54 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/13439228_1025674494136725_9010371034424043258_n.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/13439228_1025674494136725_9010371034424043258_n.jpg" alt="A Week of Science Excitation in Sebokeng"/><p><a href="http://www.saasta.ac.za/programmes/focus-weeks/national-science-week/">National Science Week (NSW)</a>, an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) is a countrywide celebration of science involving various stakeholders and/or role players conducting science-based activities during the week.</p>
<p>National Science Week is run in all nine provinces simultaneously at multiple sites per province. SAASTA has been appointed by the DST as the implementing agency and play the role of the National Project Manager for the National Science Week.</p>
<p>Geekulcha was called upon by the <a href="http://arcelormittalsa.com/BBBEE/SocioeconomicDevelopment/ScienceCentre.aspx">ArcelorMittal Science Centre</a> in Sebokeng to come empower the youngsters.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>The ArcelorMittal Science Centres are non-profit Centres of Excellence that seek to improve mathematics and science performance at schools, stimulate interest and curiosity in these fields and provide information, knowledge and skills training to teachers, learners, school leavers and the general public in the communities surrounding the companyâs operations.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Our team will bring Science and Technology to the youth of Sebokeng from tomorrow <a href="https://twitter.com/ArcelorMittal_S">@ArcelorMittal_S</a>. National Science Week. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSW2017?src=hash">#NSW2017</a> <a href="https://t.co/2E1FFyJvXt">pic.twitter.com/2E1FFyJvXt</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/894262902806519813">August 6, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The Geekulcha team brought along some projects to inspire the youngsters into Science and Technology. Projects were curated to represent various fieds given the theme 2017 theme of <em>"Advancing Science Tourism"</em>.</p>
<p>#######DataHunts</p>
<p>To tell the youngsters about Data Science as a career option, the team built and showcase data capturing robot. The robot was able to pick up human facial expression. Radio Frequency modules were used to acquire and transfer environmental data.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The team is still busy in Sebokeng by die Vaal bringing some Tech enlightenment onto young people <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSW2017?src=hash">#NSW2017</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ArcelorMittal_S">@ArcelorMittal_S</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NRF_SAASTA">@NRF_SAASTA</a> <a href="https://t.co/iA0BxMNrah">pic.twitter.com/iA0BxMNrah</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/895598737275400193">August 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>#######Holograms</p>
<p>Africa needs to grown capacity in optical tech and science, the Geekulcha team shown youngsters how to build own hologram dispalys through application of light convergence principles.</p>
<p>#######LightsShow</p>
<p>Motion-controlled lights - youngsters were shown how they programme their own lightshow using Arduino microcontrollers.</p>
<p>#######MusicShow</p>
<p>After the CodeBus Africa tour, the party had to continue. The <a href="http://sonic-pi.net/">Sonic Pi</a> platform was used to create music through code.</p>
<p>Projects by the <a href="https://www.shuttleworthfoundation.org/">Shuttleworth Foundation</a></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">National Science Week <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSW2017?src=hash">#NSW2017</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ArcelorMittal_S">@ArcelorMittal_S</a> - these learners did not want to go home, they wanted to learn more. <a href="https://twitter.com/NRF_SAASTA">@NRF_SAASTA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://t.co/8SNHcaUie0">pic.twitter.com/8SNHcaUie0</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/894947287885111296">August 8, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>It was an exciting week seeing young people growing their interest in Science and Technology. We also attend a Women's Day event hosted by the ArcelorMittal ladies to celebrate and inspire more females into Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).</p>
<p>Geekulcha was we represented by <a href="https://twitter.com/Loyd_NXK">Loyd Masilo</a>, Nkosana Ndlela and Fhulufhelo Maumela. We thank the ArcelorMittal Science Centre for the invite.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/ArcelorMittal_S">@ArcelorMittal_S</a> - we had a great week engaging with the young people young people. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSW2017?src=hash">#NSW2017</a> <a href="https://t.co/cUJ71gntHC">pic.twitter.com/cUJ71gntHC</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/895988306252406784">August 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork - Preparing for Bloodhound SSC With Digital Innovation]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism
[http://economic.ncape.gov.za/] seeks to expand and plug the program in rural
communities of the Northern Cape.
The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a real and
co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools.
Read More: vacwork.ncdev.co.za [http://vacwork.ncdev.co.za]
This edition was hosted in line with the Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC) set to
hit the ground in 201]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-preparing-for-bloodhound-ssc-with-digital-innovation/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558356</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 16 Jul 2017 19:47:12 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/DDlbCpFW0AACFbK.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/DDlbCpFW0AACFbK.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork - Preparing for Bloodhound SSC With Digital Innovation"/><p>The <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za/">Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism</a> seeks to expand and plug the program in rural communities of the Northern Cape.</p>
<p>The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a real and co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools.</p>
<p>Read More: <a href="http://vacwork.ncdev.co.za">vacwork.ncdev.co.za</a></p>
<p>This edition was hosted in line with the Bloodhound Supersonic Car (SSC) set to hit the ground in 2018 at the Haskeenpan.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Next edition of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> is hosted in line with <a href="https://twitter.com/BLOODHOUND_Edu">@BLOODHOUND_Edu</a> programme. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Speed?src=hash">#Speed</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Innovation?src=hash">#Innovation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/youth?src=hash">#youth</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZcNG9YQlut">pic.twitter.com/ZcNG9YQlut</a></p>— #gkVacWork July (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/880835321319096320">June 30, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>There is a need to build more awareness about the Bloodhound SSC for the stimulation of Science and Technology interest. Furthermore, the youth must realise the benefits of the festivities.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mr Dion Crestians from <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthernCapeSA">@NorthernCapeSA</a> Dept of Education with telling <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> scholars about the <a href="https://twitter.com/BLOODHOUND_Edu">@BLOODHOUND_Edu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BLOODHOUND_SSC">@BLOODHOUND_SSC</a> <a href="https://t.co/MwDueB7Ef7">pic.twitter.com/MwDueB7Ef7</a></p>— #InfoSecKBY Workshop (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/885057749448577026">July 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Mr Dion Christians gave the youngsters a session of what the Bloodhound is all about and the schools challenge set to launch in the Northern Cape.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork - A Beginning of a Geek Culture ko Limpopo]]></title><description><![CDATA[Giving Back to the Community is a Value at Mapitsi Holdings
[http://mapitsi.co.za/] â Mapitsi Foundation is the Social Responsibility arm
that puts those Values into Action.
In expanding the annual Thagaetala Career and Sports Day activities, Mapitsi
Holdings seeks to instil digital skills interest of the learners at Thagaetala
Secondary School.
The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a real and
co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with IC]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-a-beginning-of-a-geek-culture-ko-limpopo/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558355</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 16 Jul 2017 16:58:11 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/FullSizeRender--1-.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/FullSizeRender--1-.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork - A Beginning of a Geek Culture ko Limpopo"/><p>Giving Back to the Community is a Value at <a href="http://mapitsi.co.za/">Mapitsi Holdings</a> â Mapitsi Foundation is the Social Responsibility arm that puts those Values into Action.</p>
<p>In expanding the annual Thagaetala Career and Sports Day activities, Mapitsi Holdings seeks to instil digital skills interest of the learners at Thagaetala Secondary School.</p>
<p><em>The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a real and co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools.</em></p>
<p>Read More: <a href="http://future.geekulcha.com">future.geekulcha.com</a></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">HUGE S/O to <a href="https://twitter.com/MapitsiHoldings">@MapitsiHoldings</a> for making <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> Limpopo, Thagaetala Sec. School happen. She is indeed an active South African for change. <a href="https://t.co/smh769INe9">pic.twitter.com/smh769INe9</a></p>— #gkVacWork July (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/886258197404819456">July 15, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>To stimulate the minds of the youngsters, the programme was themed "We Are Digitally-Empowered" to challenge the youngsters to digitize the community and school.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hello Limpopo! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> - 2 provinces, same time. It's about Youth ICT, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. <a href="https://twitter.com/MapitsiHoldings">@MapitsiHoldings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://t.co/bfwLJ3YWDg">pic.twitter.com/bfwLJ3YWDg</a></p>— #gkVacWork July (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/884367046150168576">July 10, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Supported by <a href="https://www.mlab.co.za/">mLab Southern Africa</a>, <a href="http://limpopoconnexion.co.za/">Limpopo Connexion</a> and <a href="https://www.shuttleworthfoundation.org/">Shuttleworth Foundation</a>, the VacWork in Limpopo introduced the youngsters to different technologies and build ICT solutions for social problems.</p>
<p>Happening concurrently with the Northern Cape edition, the Limpopo youngsters worked hard to grasp the technologies and build their ideas.</p>
<p>A Tech debate was also hosted to engage the youngsters in digital activities.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TechDebate?src=hash">#TechDebate</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gkvacwork?src=hash">#Gkvacwork</a> limpopo. Topic: Technology has made people to be more lazy <a href="https://t.co/aWKBmbBuAN">pic.twitter.com/aWKBmbBuAN</a></p>— #FemaleGeeks (@raeketsetsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/raeketsetsa/status/885815718427709441">July 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork - Kalahari Youth Hack-a-Skate]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism
[http://economic.ncape.gov.za/] seeks to expand and plug the program in rural
communities of the Northern Cape.
The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a real and
co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools.
Read More: vacwork.ncdev.co.za [http://vacwork.ncdev.co.za]
To stimulate the minds of the youngsters, the programme was themed "Innovation
of Speed" in line with]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-kalahari-youth-hack-a-skate/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558354</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 16 Jul 2017 15:43:37 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/35792052951_fd5ee03dc7_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/35792052951_fd5ee03dc7_o.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork - Kalahari Youth Hack-a-Skate"/><p>The <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za/">Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism</a> seeks to expand and plug the program in rural communities of the Northern Cape.</p>
<p><em>The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a real and co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools.</em></p>
<p>Read More: <a href="http://vacwork.ncdev.co.za">vacwork.ncdev.co.za</a></p>
<p>To stimulate the minds of the youngsters, the programme was themed "Innovation of Speed" in line with the Bloodhound Supersonic Car which will grace the Kalahari desert in 2018.</p>
<p>Hack-a-Skate is part of the initiatives driven by Geekulcha and the department. Puting Tech onto skateboards to stimulate more youth interest into Science, Technolgy, Engineering and Mathematics.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> also collaborates with N Cape Gov. (DEDAT) - Tech skills to rural communities. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SkateHacks?src=hash">#SkateHacks</a> <a href="https://t.co/BskFqFVpJ1">pic.twitter.com/BskFqFVpJ1</a></p>— #gkVacWork Week (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/785155440074260480">October 9, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>On this edition of the VacWork, youngsters were challenged to put tech on the skateboard to innovate with speed.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pimp My Skate <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://t.co/XTpl4hxApW">pic.twitter.com/XTpl4hxApW</a></p>— #gkVacWork Week (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/886101451084267520">July 15, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>A group called QNEMS Electronics took the challenge, being mentored by a 3rd-year student, Lloyd Mafoo in building a Most Viable Product. They also had to showcase the Business Model Model Canvas with the project.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hack-a-Skate! Prototype ready at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> Kalahari for tomorrow's presentations. <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune">@4otune</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DCVHsa">@DCVHsa</a> <a href="https://t.co/OcBm9FsEcP">pic.twitter.com/OcBm9FsEcP</a></p>— #gkVacWork Week (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/885501146726625280">July 13, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork - A Tech Debate in the Kalahari]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism
[http://economic.ncape.gov.za/] seeks to expand and plug the program in rural
communities of the Northern Cape.
The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a real and
co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools.
Read More: vacwork.ncdev.co.za [http://vacwork.ncdev.co.za]
To stimulate the minds of the youngsters, a Tech Debate was curated for them to
engage in various dig]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/a-tech-debate-in-the-kalahari/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558353</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 16 Jul 2017 15:20:47 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/debate.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/debate.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork - A Tech Debate in the Kalahari"/><p>The <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za/">Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism</a> seeks to expand and plug the program in rural communities of the Northern Cape.</p>
<p><em>The Geekulcha VacWork program takes in a number of high scholars to a real and co-creative working environment, get trained and build projects with ICT tools.</em></p>
<p>Read More: <a href="http://vacwork.ncdev.co.za">vacwork.ncdev.co.za</a></p>
<p>To stimulate the minds of the youngsters, a Tech Debate was curated for them to engage in various digital aspects of life during the ICT and Business VacWork. Topics ranged from social media, digital currency to artificial intelligence and others.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> Tech Debate: This House believes that social media is killing a way of human interaction <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/socialmedia?src=hash">#socialmedia</a></p>— #gkVacWork July (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/884863394465148928">July 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>THBT = <em>'This House Believes That'</em></p>
<p><strong>First Round Sessions</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>S1: THBT technology has made people to be more lazy</li>
<li>S2: THBT digital education must be provided at every school</li>
<li>S3: THBT digital currency will help eradicate poverty in Africa</li>
<li>S4: THBT social media is killing a way of human interaction</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Second Round Sessions</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>S1 vs S2: THBT social media increases suicide rate onto youth</li>
<li>S3 vs S4: THBT robots should be used in fighting wars</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Finals</strong></p>
<p>Team TACU vs Speedo's: THBT robots should pay tax</p>
<p>Facilitator: Edward Matiwane, MD - <a href="http://dcvh.weebly.com/">Diamond Creative Vision Hub</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Allowing robots to fight wars has a risk of the robots being hacked by the enemy and make the turn against us</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The debate consisted of 3 rounds and 7 sessions (7 minutes each) of different topics and elimination rounds with 4 judges and a moderator.</p>
<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FDCVHsa%2Fposts%2F1926251484281476%3A0&width=500" width="500" height="491" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true"/>
<p>Mixed between Afrikaans and English, the debate got heated and taught the youngsters the ability to think on their feet. We hope that this will fuel more interest in digital activities.</p>
<p>Here are the photos</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157683482978564" title="#gkVacWork Kalahari - Tech Debate"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4231/35752216222_8f80f21677_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="#gkVacWork - A Tech Debate in the Kalahari"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Nkululeko Tunzi]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role
in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a
community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young
Geeks in the country. Honouring Top 15 Young Geeks [http://gekulcha.com/] in the
country who are playing a part in the Digital Revolution.
Meet Nkululeko Tunzi
An inventor from ekasi, Soweto. Nkuleleko is a final year student from the
Tshwane University of Technolo]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-nkululeko-tunzi/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558351</guid><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[Youth]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[robotics]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 18 Jun 2017 11:58:14 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/top-15-young-geeks.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/top-15-young-geeks.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Nkululeko Tunzi"/><p>The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young Geeks in the country. Honouring <a href="http://gekulcha.com/">Top 15 Young Geeks</a> in the country who are playing a part in the Digital Revolution.</p>
<h5 id="meetnkululekotunzi">Meet Nkululeko Tunzi</h5>
<p>An inventor from ekasi, Soweto. Nkuleleko is a final year student from the Tshwane University of Technology with a great interest in electronics systems development. He has attended various hackathons creating solutions that matter for the community.</p>
<p><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8890/28252104196_696353b16c_z_d.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Nkululeko Tunzi"/></p>
<p>Nkululekoâs curiosity and his willingness to learn from other people led him to participate in various extracurricular activities such as the Geekulcha Hackathon 2015 and 2016, Tech4Africa Hackathon 2015, TUT Hackathon 2015 and was a mentor for the 2016 Geekulcha VacWork program where he helped build a Water Management System that was able to detect between clean and dirty water, thus saving clean water that could have been wasted.</p>
<p><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7432/27787309842_d38e7b1fa6_z_d.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Nkululeko Tunzi"/></p>
<p>He likes to see development wherever he is, he later started a student organization, Engineers Without Borders-TUT in 2016 with his friends, where he led the organization as a Chairperson, the role he cherished and served with distinction.</p>
<p>His passion for using technology to improve life and solve problems led him to build a robot that helps blind people navigate around.</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/28004935190/in/album-72157670589648926/" title="IMG_3366"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8599/28004935190_9486975a93_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Nkululeko Tunzi"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<p>When Nkululeko is not glued to his computer, he spends time with family and friends, if not, he plays with his two dogs, which sometimes leads to him thinking of innovating for animals, something he is also passionate about. For him, this is just the beginning.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Rio Modiba]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role
in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a
community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young
Geeks in the country. Honouring Top 15 Young Geeks
[http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks/] in the country who are playing a part in the
Digital Revolution.
Meet Reabetswe "Rio" Bodiba
Reabetswe (Rio) Bodiba was born and raised in Pretoria. He patented an invention
for ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-rio-modiba/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558350</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 18 Jun 2017 11:25:50 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/top-15-young-geeks-1.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/top-15-young-geeks-1.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Rio Modiba"/><p>The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young Geeks in the country. Honouring <a href="http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks/">Top 15 Young Geeks</a> in the country who are playing a part in the Digital Revolution.</p>
<h5 id="meetreabetsweriobodiba">Meet Reabetswe "Rio" Bodiba</h5>
<p>Reabetswe (Rio) Bodiba was born and raised in Pretoria. He patented an invention for a universal remote that you can call with a cellphone at the age of 12, making him arguably the youngest person to register a patent in South Africa. Check it out: <a href="http://bitly.com/riosfamouspatent">bitly.com/riosfamouspatent</a></p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/06/NIKE-NRC-SPEED-RUN-06-OCT-2016_0002.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Rio Modiba"/></p>
<p>A few years later, through a suggestion from his Headmaster, Rio took an IQ test and was given the opportunity to skip 1.5 years of school, taking him from the end of Gr.8 to the middle of Gr.10.</p>
<p>In the middle of matric, Rio weaseled himself into a job at Geekulcha. When he wasn't at school, he was working.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>With this experience, Rio skipped the usual university process.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Instead, he continued working for Geekulcha on various projects, he then applied and made it into The Digital Academy's Barclays Africa unit as the youngest intern there and the only intern without a university certification and bolstered his team to first place by a large margin.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3746/19573029142_298b4bafb4_z_d.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Rio Modiba"/></p>
<p>Rio's currently working on a hair&beauty startup that reached the Top 8 at the 2016's Gauteng Accelerator Programme competition, he's working on revolutionizing insurance as a product developer in Old Mutual Insure's Digital Solutions & Innovation team and he's also piloting an agritech solution in the next few months.</p>
<p>Connect with him:</p>
<p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/imnotrio">@ImNotRio</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Rebecca Franks]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role
in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a
community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young
Geeks in the country. Honouring Top 15 Young Geeks
[http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks/] in the country who are playing a part in the
Digital Revolution.
Meet Rebecca Franks
Rebecca is the Android Engineering Lead at Dynamic Visual Technologies. She
qualified cum lau]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-rebecca-franks/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655834f</guid><category><![CDATA[Students]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[android]]></category><category><![CDATA[africa]]></category><category><![CDATA[developers]]></category><category><![CDATA[google]]></category><category><![CDATA[top15younggeeks]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 18 Jun 2017 10:11:20 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/top-15-young-geeks-3.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/top-15-young-geeks-3.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Rebecca Franks"/><p>The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young Geeks in the country. Honouring <a href="http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks/">Top 15 Young Geeks</a> in the country who are playing a part in the Digital Revolution.</p>
<h5 id="meetrebeccafranks">Meet Rebecca Franks</h5>
<p>Rebecca is the Android Engineering Lead at Dynamic Visual Technologies. She qualified cum laude from the University of Johannesburg in 2012 with a BSc (Hons) in Information Technology.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/06/DVT-Android-developer-Rebecca-Franks-has-been-selected-as-a-Google-Developer-Expert.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Rebecca Franks"/></p>
<p>Since then she has worked at a few different companies developing their custom software solutions, such as DStv's On Demand Android App. She has also developed an Android app for Book Dash that contains free kids books.</p>
<p>Rebecca frequently travels to speak at conferences about development and she most recently spoke in Switzerland about developing for the Internet of Things.</p>
<p>Watch her on on Android Dialogs: Rebecca Franks: Book Dash + Firebase</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XwU1pEIYv-U" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Last year in March, she was awarded the status of a <strong>Google Developer Expert</strong>, being the first female in Africa to get this recognition. Since then, she has received other notable awards. She enjoys sharing her knowledge with others and has a passion for Google Technology.</p>
<p>Reach out to her:</p>
<p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/riggaroo">@riggaroo</a><br>
GitHub: <a href="https://github.com/riggaroo">riggaroo</a></br></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Regina Kgatle]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role
in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a
community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young
Geeks in the country. Honouring Top 15 Young Geeks
[http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks/] in the country who are playing a part in the
Digital Revolution.
Meet Regina Kgatle
Cleverly disguising educational content in arcade-style games, Regina Kgatle is
blurring the b]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-regina-kgatle/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655834e</guid><category><![CDATA[Youth]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[geekulcha]]></category><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[design]]></category><category><![CDATA[games]]></category><category><![CDATA[vr]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 18 Jun 2017 09:22:54 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/top-15-young-geeks-2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/10/top-15-young-geeks-2.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Regina Kgatle"/><p>The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young Geeks in the country. Honouring <a href="http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks/">Top 15 Young Geeks</a> in the country who are playing a part in the Digital Revolution.</p>
<h5 id="meetreginakgatle">Meet Regina Kgatle</h5>
<p>Cleverly disguising educational content in arcade-style games, Regina Kgatle is blurring the boundaries between learning and play. Her company, Educade, offers a selection of games that are suitable for the national curriculum, and each game is housed in an Educational Arcade Machine made from e-waste and other recycled materials.</p>
<p><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8803/28691028644_dcff6e9d2f_z_d.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Regina Kgatle"/></p>
<p>Educade emphasizes the positive role of teaching through technological platforms and the importance of play as a learning incentive.</p>
<p>Regina also founded <a href="http://67games.org/">67Games</a> with a belief that well-crafted games and playful media experiences can function as a conduit for educational content. 67Games is shaping up the educational gaming industry, bringing fun to learning.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We forgot to share with you our latest finished <a href="https://twitter.com/67GamesSA">@67GamesSA</a> arcade consoles. How sleek are these beauties for <a href="https://twitter.com/SHAWCO_UCT">@SHAWCO_UCT</a> X <a href="https://twitter.com/CapeTownMayor">@CapeTownMayor</a> <a href="https://t.co/lEh4jzZfQq">pic.twitter.com/lEh4jzZfQq</a></p>— 67Games (@67GamesSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/67GamesSA/status/874898292949348352">June 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Over time, Regina hopes, her arcade games will not only address gaps in the education system but will also instill a love of learning in the children who play them.</p>
<p><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8491/29205552132_dd993d1abd_z_d.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Regina Kgatle"/></p>
<p>She was an artist in residence at the Fakugesi Digital Innovation Festival in 2016 and showcased some of her great work with Google Cardboard VR games.</p>
<p>Reach out to her:</p>
<p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/RrrEeGina">@RrrEeGina</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Dineo Malatjie]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role
in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a
community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young
Geeks in the country. Honouring Top 15 Young Geeks
[http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks] in the country who are playing a part in the
Digital Revolution.
Meet Dineo Malatjie
Dineo hails from Mpumalanga, initially came to Gauteng to study medicine but
ended up with Com]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/top15younggeeks-meet-dineo-malatjie/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655834d</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 18 Jun 2017 07:48:29 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/06/dineo_cover.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/06/dineo_cover.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Dineo Malatjie"/><p>The Geek ecosystem in South Africa is vibrant and ready to play a critical role in helping with the digital transformation of our common society. With a community of over 9 000 students, Geekulcha celebrates some of the coolest young Geeks in the country. Honouring <a href="http://geekulcha.com/young-geeks"><strong>Top 15 Young Geeks</strong></a> in the country who are playing a part in the Digital Revolution.</p>
<h6 id="meetdineomalatjie">Meet Dineo Malatjie</h6>
<p>Dineo hails from Mpumalanga, initially came to Gauteng to study medicine but ended up with Computer Systems Engineering as her second preference in which she found something she has always been passionate about growing up, that being Machine-Learning/ Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Electronics.</p>
<p><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8675/28115297732_206bfd34d5_z_d.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Dineo Malatjie"/></p>
<p>She also does software development, data analytics and develops IoT systems. She is a Computer Systems Engineer by qualification.</p>
<p>As a graduate, Dineo seeks to grow her capacity in the world of Tech through learning and hands-on engagement platforms. She has since built her own IoT-enabled 3D Printer realizing it as a consumer need in the coming few years.</p>
<p><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5729/30476180031_dec33892c0_z_d.jpg" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Dineo Malatjie"/></p>
<p>In 2016, she led a project that was developed and exhibited to the CEO of IBM (Ginni Rometty).</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Meet our project leader today <a href="https://twitter.com/IBM_SouthAfrica">@IBM_SouthAfrica</a> Research Lab launch, Ms <a href="https://twitter.com/DineoDionne">@DineoDionne</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/Connect_ZA">@Connect_ZA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/makerlibraries?src=hash">#makerlibraries</a> <a href="https://t.co/jOBGFs4s6m">pic.twitter.com/jOBGFs4s6m</a></p>— Geek Community (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/768767158235099136">August 25, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Dineo is one of the young minds to lookout for the in tech space and she also enjoys transferring her skills to the others through various platforms.</p>
<p>She currently works at the CSIR defense unit with cyber security as her focus area. As a regular hackathon participant, she has earned her Geek cred in putting skills to use.</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/34538873222/in/album-72157680857136473/" title="IMG_0858"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4163/34538873222_f67bf67fcd_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="#Top15YoungGeeks - Meet Dineo Malatjie"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<p>Reachout to her:</p>
<p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/DineoDionne">@DineoDionne</a><br>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dineo-malatjie-093a04111/">Dineo Malatjie</a></br></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Local Meetup for $60 000 #OCIC17 Challenge]]></title><description><![CDATA[Annually, over $9.5 Trillion is spent on public contracts by Governments from
around the world. There is a need to bringing more efficiency and integrity in
these public contracts.
The Open Contracting Partnership [https://theodi.org/] and Open Data Institute
[https://theodi.org/] are looking for heroes (innovators) who can come up with
game-changing solutions in public procurement. Open Contracting Innovation
Challenge 2017 [http://challenge.open-contracting.org/] is now open for
applications.]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/local-meetup-for-60-000-ocic17-challenge/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655834c</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 07 May 2017 06:35:19 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C_DIzd4XcAASl1y.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C_DIzd4XcAASl1y.jpg" alt="Local Meetup for $60 000 #OCIC17 Challenge"/><p>Annually, over $9.5 Trillion is spent on public contracts by Governments from around the world. There is a need to bringing more efficiency and integrity in these public contracts.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://theodi.org/">Open Contracting Partnership</a> and <a href="https://theodi.org/">Open Data Institute</a> are looking for heroes (innovators) who can come up with game-changing solutions in public procurement. <a href="http://challenge.open-contracting.org/">Open Contracting Innovation Challenge 2017</a> is now open for applications.</p>
<p>With $60 000 in prizes, the global challenge is calling on anyone/groups to bring forward their innovative ideas with a potential to change or improve the way of things.</p>
<p>Any idea is valid, here is what is in store:</p>
<p>`âą June 2017:</p>
<ul>
<li>Government Innovation prize</li>
<li>Six âFinalist Prizesâ - $5,000`</li>
</ul>
<p>If your application is shortlisted by our judges as one of six finalists, you will receive a cash prize of $5,000 to take your idea forward</p>
<p>`âą September 2017:</p>
<ul>
<li>One âGrand Prizeâ - $30,000`</li>
</ul>
<p>Locally, Geekulcha is driving the local activities of the challenge and hosted a workshop on the 5th of May. The meetup was to help guide the participants in entering the challenge as well as to how the South African public procurement system work.</p>
<p>Hosted at the Tshwane Innovation Zone, the meetup was supported by the Open <a href="http://www.ogp.gov.za">Government Partnership South Africa</a> through DPSA and helped shed more light into the participants.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Presentation by a representative from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OGP?src=hash">#OGP</a> elaborating the SA OGP Action Plan <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ODIHQ">@ODIHQ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Opendata?src=hash">#Opendata</a> <a href="https://t.co/OM3SJNaH4u">pic.twitter.com/OM3SJNaH4u</a></p>— Fikile (@Fikile888) <a href="https://twitter.com/Fikile888/status/860415634802388993">May 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The Open Contracting Innovation Challenge is open until 24 May.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/05/ocic17-timelines.PNG" alt="Local Meetup for $60 000 #OCIC17 Challenge"/></p>
<p>Tom Hunter from the Open Data Institute also joined in through Skype to guide the participants and urged them to apply in time.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Don't leave it until the last minute to apply for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OCIC17?src=hash">#OCIC17</a>: <a href="https://t.co/QFGX4YXnqp">https://t.co/QFGX4YXnqp</a></p>— #SS17Hack 16-17 May (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/860410863093776385">May 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>ENTER THE CHALLENGE ---> <a href="http://challenge.open-contracting.org/">HERE>>></a></strong></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The First #gkVacWork Tech Debate]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geekulcha Vacation Work (VacWork) programme is designed for high school
learners giving the exposure and skills in ICT. They get to spend holidays with
the Geeks getting trained, mentored and build ICT solutions with their simulated
Tech startups. Reported everyday to the CodeTribe Academy at The Innovation Hub.
09:00 - 16:00.
April edition of the programme introduced a Technology Debate to get the
youngsters engaged in digital discussion and most importantly, learn and find
more interest i]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/the-first-gkvacwork-tech-debate/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655834b</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 15 Apr 2017 14:37:01 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/04/debate.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/04/debate.jpg" alt="The First #gkVacWork Tech Debate"/><p>The Geekulcha Vacation Work (VacWork) programme is designed for high school learners giving the exposure and skills in ICT. They get to spend holidays with the Geeks getting trained, mentored and build ICT solutions with their simulated Tech startups. Reported everyday to the CodeTribe Academy at The Innovation Hub. 09:00 - 16:00.</p>
<p>April edition of the programme introduced a Technology Debate to get the youngsters engaged in digital discussion and most importantly, learn and find more interest in the digital transformation. With 10 schools competing, various topics were chosen and a debate was up for the taking.</p>
<p><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9OyAzrXoAQNEEM.jpg" alt="The First #gkVacWork Tech Debate"/></p>
<p>Youngsters were coached by Tania Twinoburyo who is part of the South African debate team and has spoken a various international platforms. Tania also moderated the sessions to ensure a healthy debate. Judges included young innovators Moses Mohlwana, Njabulo Sibiya and Kingsley "Skinny Kgwedi".</p>
<p>Each session lasted 10 minutes with each team having 1 minute to state their case for the motion set before them. The debate was not without a few incidents of heated in-casualties, youngsters got emotional and stood firm in defending their case.</p>
<p>Here are the schools and the topics debated upon:</p>
<p><code>ROUND 1</code></p>
<ol>
<li>
<p>Dr AT Meoresele High School vs Thuto Botlhalo Seconadary School: This house believes that South Africa will ban self-driving cars in 5 years</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>The Indepents (various schools) vs Nellmaphius Secondary: his house believes that South Africa is ready for Artificial Intelligence</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Phelindaba Secondary vs Tebogwana: This house believes that Robots will take away jobs</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Father Mkhatââshwa vs Steve Tswete: This house believes that Government should monitor Internet Usage</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p><code>ROUND 2</code></p>
<p>Session 1: This house believes that Africa's Industrial revolution will be based on Mobile Technology</p>
<p>Session 2: This house believes that Technology can solve povertyâ issuesâ</p>
<p><code>ROUND 3 (finals)</code></p>
<p>This house believes Township Economy needs digital acceleration</p>
<p>At the end, it was Nellmaphius Secondary School versus Steve Tshwete Secondary School at the finals. Both these schools had to use their experience to justify their arguments.</p>
<div style="position:relative;height:0;padding-bottom:75.0%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XvULDqbLEk0?ecver=2" width="480" height="360" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;left:0" allowfullscreen=""/></div>
<p>This was a first of its kind, the Tech Debate will now form part of the Geekulcha VacWork programme which is in collaboration with The Innovation Hub, City of Tshwane and mLab Southern Africa.</p>
<p>Here are the debate photos:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157682376857006" title="#gkVacWork Tech Debate April 2017"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2883/33133104004_82e8b1f633_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="The First #gkVacWork Tech Debate"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Scholars Win at Hack4Water]]></title><description><![CDATA[A programme dedicated to high school learners, the Geekulcha Vacation
Work(VacWork) programme aims to groom the Geeks of the future through ICT and
Business Skills. Since 2014, the VacWork has taken youngsters to a simulated
working environment where they learn, get mentored by the Geeks and build
products/services using ICT tools.
In Gauteng, the programme is implemented in collaboration with The Innovation
Hub [http://www.theinnovationhub.com/#home], City of Tshwane
[http://www.tshwane.gov.za]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-scholars-win-at-hack4water/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655834a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 03 Apr 2017 07:00:15 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/04/h4w.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/04/h4w.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Scholars Win at Hack4Water"/><p>A programme dedicated to high school learners, the Geekulcha Vacation Work(VacWork) programme aims to groom the Geeks of the future through ICT and Business Skills. Since 2014, the VacWork has taken youngsters to a simulated working environment where they learn, get mentored by the Geeks and build products/services using ICT tools.</p>
<p>In Gauteng, the programme is implemented in collaboration with <a href="http://www.theinnovationhub.com/#home">The Innovation Hub</a>, <a href="http://www.tshwane.gov.za/Pages/default.aspx">City of Tshwane</a> and <a href="https://www.mlab.co.za/">mLab Southern Africa</a>. As such, more often, the programme is hosted to complement the Youth FabLab programme in Tshwane and Soweto.</p>
<p>The programme is open and free to high school learners whom are told to make the best of their experience and knowledge gained during the programme.</p>
<p>More on the programme: <a href="htto://future.geekulcha.com">future.geekulcha.com</a></p>
<p>In 2015, three youngsters came through the programme hailing from Attridgeville and Mpumalanga who were taught about electronics. Njabulo Sibiya, Moses Mhlwana and Ndumiso Cossa saw an opportunity through the Hack4Water challenge and entered one of the solutions.</p>
<p><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C8dtapKXcAABJP-.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Scholars Win at Hack4Water"/></p>
<p>Hack4Water is a national competition by the Department of Water and Sanitation to challenge developers to use Open Data in addressing the water crisis. Participants made video submissions of their solutions to make the cut to top 25 in the country.</p>
<p>The three friends created a prototype of a smart tank that saves water by enabling users to digitally select the quantity of water they need.</p>
<p>It then dispenses the exact measure required.</p>
<p>Water does not get wasted because the tank is connected to containers that collect spilt water .</p>
<p>The tank has sensors that detect the amount of moisture in the soil. When the soil is dry, the tank automatically releases the optimum amount of water. It can be used anywhere by anyone, but farmers and villages with water shortages are expected to be the main customers.</p>
<p>Read more on <a href="http://www.timeslive.co.za/thetimes/article2435994.ece">Times LIVE</a></p>
<p>Subsequently, the 3 youngsters made it to finals of the Hack4Water challenge and won a category prize at the World Water Day gala dinner. For high school learners, winning R15 000.00 is not bad.</p>
<p>Geekulcha congratulates them. We hope that these 3 youngsters will continue the Momentum for more innovative ideas, inspire others and build empires that would employ thousands.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Struggle Within]]></title><description><![CDATA[Authors: Rhulani Salani and Prudence Mahlangu
Follow: @nonhlanhlaprudy @rhulani_carlle
Itâs so easy to follow the crowd, to fake a smile, to do what pleases everyone
but at the end of the day there is a battle inside each of us, a battle to find
ourselves, our true purpose, to find fulfillment, to find joy.
Many are times where we settle for less because we think we have reached our
limit, that 9 to 5 job, that basic salary.
We have been programmed from an early age by the system of the world]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/the-struggle-within/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558349</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 01 Apr 2017 07:17:11 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="https://fireashoutlander.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/cropped-482900_183254438471110_178224566_n.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="https://fireashoutlander.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/cropped-482900_183254438471110_178224566_n.jpg" alt="The Struggle Within"/><p>Authors: Rhulani Salani and Prudence Mahlangu<br>
Follow: @nonhlanhlaprudy @rhulani_carlle</br></p>
<p>Itâs so easy to follow the crowd, to fake a smile, to do what pleases everyone but at the end of the day there is a battle inside each of us, a battle to find ourselves, our true purpose, to find fulfillment, to find joy.</p>
<p>Many are times where we settle for less because we think we have reached our limit, that 9 to 5 job, that basic salary.</p>
<p>We have been programmed from an early age by the system of the world to think in a particular way: you are born, you go through approximately 15 years of education and then work for someone.</p>
<p>It is not wrong, however, it has limited our capacity to expand.<br>
Itâs only a few people that explode and stand out. They live life to its fullest potential and theyâre usually the ones who make an impact in their generations.</br></p>
<p>I love the way cartons are programmed to think, they have no limits, no boundaries, anything is possible in their world, as much as that world does not exist, I think our world would be more spontaneous and amazing if we had such thinking capabilities.</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn1.thehunt.com/app/public/system/note_images/2848991/original/526529184537a31cb1b4f2afeeeedf75.jpg" alt="The Struggle Within"/></p>
<p>Have we reached a point where life is not cherished, celebrated and explored as it should? Are we stuck in our own misery?</p>
<p>At the end of the day true fulfillment is when youâre living in your purpose, each one of us is born for a reason. and that reason is your purpose. We are born to flourish and expand.</p>
<p>For as long as that inner man in you is not satisfied, keep on running, running towards your dreams, your goals, your aspirations. All things are possible to those who believes in themselves.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Donât find yourself in a situation where one day you will look back at your life a and wish you could start again.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Whether youâre a teenager, youâre in your early twenties or even late 50s, life has no age restrictions, be the best in your field, be the best you can be, be original. maximize you.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[My Inseparable Friend]]></title><description><![CDATA[Written by Mrs Lungile Mohale
Follow us Twitter: @sibo_luluMohale
As I woke up this morning thanks to my friend's voice, reaching out to me from
my dreams to awake, I was reminded what a friend indeed, I have. She holds my
hand, sits securely next to me, stares at me with longing and adoration and
whispers sweet things in my ear.
We are inseparable, two peas in a pot. If you were to see my friend, she is a
reflection of myself, like my shadow although sometimes a crooked version of me.
She is]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/my-inseparable-friend/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558348</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 01 Apr 2017 06:25:57 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://vnd-6ac9.kxcdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Future-of-Technology.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://vnd-6ac9.kxcdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Future-of-Technology.jpg" alt="My Inseparable Friend"/><p>Written by Mrs Lungile Mohale<br>
Follow us Twitter: @sibo_luluMohale</br></p>
<p>As I woke up this morning thanks to my friend's voice, reaching out to me from my dreams to awake, I was reminded what a friend indeed, I have. She holds my hand, sits securely next to me, stares at me with longing and adoration and whispers sweet things in my ear.</p>
<p>We are inseparable, two peas in a pot. If you were to see my friend, she is a reflection of myself, like my shadow although sometimes a crooked version of me.</p>
<p>She is my connection to the rest of the world, I donât know where all the information she has comes from. She knows the best places and has been everywhere, she is my travel guide and a legit go-to girl.</p>
<p>Keeps me informed and in the know, never wanting me to be left behind. As great as my friend is she can disappoint, I canât count the number of times she has left me stranded, gave me the wrong address or was simply unavailable and inaccessible.</p>
<p>With all that said my friend is pretty great, she invites me to things, helps me organize my life and get things done, she is a bit of a PA in that sense but a smart and an efficient one, although her nagging about tasks I need to complete can be irritating I appreciate her help.</p>
<p>If you havenât guessed it yet, my friend is my phone. Technology is a means to an end, its roots run deep and its reach is far and wide. Technology has seamlessly embedded a seed of itself into our lives, from the clothes we wear to the food we eat, it's mass production and the details provided by all of its added benefits.</p>
<p>TV, phone, electricity, water, personal hygiene and the numerous social media sites I can't live without, all further emphasizes how technology has become so part of our lives. We are sometimes unaware of its brilliance and how much more brilliant the creators of it are.</p>
<p>I might never quite fully remember a life before technology, but I am glad for its existence and it's helping hand.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[GKSS Leaders Graduate Cum Laude]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geekulcha Student Society (GKSS) was first established at the Sol Plaatje
University in Kimberley Northern Cape, 2015. GKSS seeks to grow a Geek Culture
on campus to stimulate, cultivate and accelerate Student Innovation. A team of 6
members became the faces of Geekulcha at the newly established university.
Of the leaders was Ms Nomfundo Nkosi as the Chairperson and Ms Joyce Munetsi as
the PR Manager, both studied Information Technology (Applications Development)
at the university.
For the]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkss-leaders-graduate-cum-laude/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558347</guid><category><![CDATA[tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[geeks]]></category><category><![CDATA[GKSS]]></category><category><![CDATA[leaders]]></category><category><![CDATA[graduate]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 28 Mar 2017 08:32:44 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/gkss-graduate.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2019/01/gkss-graduate.png" alt="GKSS Leaders Graduate Cum Laude"/><p>The Geekulcha Student Society (GKSS) was first established at the Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley Northern Cape, 2015. GKSS seeks to grow a Geek Culture on campus to stimulate, cultivate and accelerate Student Innovation. A team of 6 members became the faces of Geekulcha at the newly established university.</p>
<p>Of the leaders was Ms Nomfundo Nkosi as the Chairperson and Ms Joyce Munetsi as the PR Manager, both studied Information Technology (Applications Development) at the university.</p>
<p>For the first ever graduations at the university, both these ladies graduated with Cum Laude at their studies and named Top Achievers in IT. We strongly believe that Geeks will rule the world one day and this is boss.</p>
<p>Join us in congratulating these ladies as they take on the ICT world with a storm.</p>
<p>Here are some of the things they did as GKSS Leaders:</p>
<ul>
<li>Establishment of the <a href="https://ncdev.co.za/">NCDev Ecosystem (website)</a></li>
<li>Student mentors in programming</li>
<li>Led girls meet-ups to increase confidence in varsity</li>
<li>Brought the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157657593992111">first Hackathon</a> in the Northern Cape province</li>
<li>Led youth empowerment programmes at the National Science Week</li>
</ul>
<p>These are amongst the brilliant minds our country and field has to offer - people who stand up to take action.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Our leadership <a href="https://twitter.com/munetsi_joyce">@munetsi_joyce</a> getting ready for the presentations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCDevHack?src=hash">#NCDevHack</a> <a href="https://t.co/N58QToPZ1H">pic.twitter.com/N58QToPZ1H</a></p>— #gkVacWork 03 April (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/777425283205005312">September 18, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Future employers and industry leaders, we support them in this journey of building their path and the future they want to see.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">So my boss <a href="https://twitter.com/LaNozzy">@LaNozzy</a> can really cook. Proud of that lady, she led the <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> Student Society in the Northern Cape as well. @nonohskitchen <a href="https://t.co/hV0B21PxuW">pic.twitter.com/hV0B21PxuW</a></p>— #gkVacWork 03 April (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/810455792356913152">December 18, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/><!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha Open For Innovation]]></title><description><![CDATA[Author: Nkosana Ndlela
What is innovation? The definition from dictionary âThe process of translating
an idea or invention into a good or service that creates value for which
customers will payâ, with kasi definition, âcreating something with your handsâ.
All these definitions about innovation are true and correct but in our world of
science and Technology innovation is ânew idea, device or method or application
of better solutions that meet new requirements, unarticulated needs, or existing
m]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-open-for-innovation/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558346</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 26 Mar 2017 06:36:29 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="https://img.evbuc.com/https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.evbuc.com%2Fimages%2F21645473%2F80758319587%2F1%2Foriginal.jpg?w=1000&rect=0%2C356%2C4272%2C2136&s=1070e70f074e1eccc7a0b083ebb9b0a9" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="https://img.evbuc.com/https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.evbuc.com%2Fimages%2F21645473%2F80758319587%2F1%2Foriginal.jpg?w=1000&rect=0%2C356%2C4272%2C2136&s=1070e70f074e1eccc7a0b083ebb9b0a9" alt="Geekulcha Open For Innovation"/><p>Author: Nkosana Ndlela</p>
<p>What is innovation? The definition from dictionary âThe process of translating an idea or invention into a good or service that creates value for which customers will payâ, with kasi definition, âcreating something with your handsâ.</p>
<p>All these definitions about innovation are true and correct but in our world of science and Technology innovation is ânew idea, device or method or application of better solutions that meet new requirements, unarticulated needs, or existing market needsâ.</p>
<p>Geekulcha open for innovators? Yes, No, Maybe? The correct answer is Yes, Geekulcha has hosted many hackathons which are part of innovation capacity building programme, with the recent one was Cyber Security, SafeHack (18 - 17 March 2017) which took place at The Innovation Hub (SA).</p>
<p>As one knows that the world is shifting or moving from analog to digital where many things are done with the single click of a button, it could be your smartphone (bank transitions), desktop computer or laptop.</p>
<p>All this operation contain virtual information about companies, that is why Geekulcha in partnership with various companies saw the need that SA Cyber Security need to be upgraded, that is innovation the group of young and old minds come together and tackle the issue using different strategies.</p>
<p>The World is filled with innovators Geekulcha provide the platform for them to showcase their innovation see some below</p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/">https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/</a></p>
<p>What is your innovation? Because we all innovative</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[What Makes Us Different From Artificial Intelligence]]></title><description><![CDATA[Authors: Prudence Mahlangu and Rhulani Salani
Have you ever stopped and wondered how human beings function as a whole, which
algorithm can be written to perform a certain task. Well, general Artificial
Intelligence is triggering the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills
of how to simulate people.
The Artificial Intelligence has motivated technophile to research and does
analytical thinking about how they could apply the human reaction to machinery.
We find it amazing how the human ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/what-makes-us-different-from-artificial-intelligence/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558345</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 26 Mar 2017 06:16:24 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://www.wlearn.gr/images/artificial-intelligence.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://www.wlearn.gr/images/artificial-intelligence.jpg" alt="What Makes Us Different From Artificial Intelligence"/><p>Authors: Prudence Mahlangu and Rhulani Salani</p>
<p>Have you ever stopped and wondered how human beings function as a whole, which algorithm can be written to perform a certain task. Well, general Artificial Intelligence is triggering the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills of how to simulate people.</p>
<p>The Artificial Intelligence has motivated technophile to research and does analytical thinking about how they could apply the human reaction to machinery. We find it amazing how the human brains works and the fact that it does work so amazingly, robustly and adaptively.</p>
<p>Even though sometimes the Artificial Intelligence can outperform us at its specific task like playing chess and solving the equations it would be nice to have the general Artificial Intelligence that would outperform humans at nearly every cognitive task.</p>
<p><img src="http://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/660/media/images/71257000/jpg/_71257388_chess-lead.jpg" alt="What Makes Us Different From Artificial Intelligence"/></p>
<p>As humans sometimes we struggle with personal implications and emotions when making similar decisions. We think Artificial Intelligence would make a decision without struggling.</p>
<p>AI machines are often programmed to follow statical models in making decisions.</p>
<p>Human intelligence works naturally and makes up a certain thought by adding different cognitive processes. On the other hand, Artificial intelligence is on the way to make up a model that can behave like humans which seem impossible because nothing can replace a natural thing into an artificial thing.</p>
<p>We may question some threats on AI but we can research and plan ahead to prevent them.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Systems Analysis]]></title><description><![CDATA[Authors: Claudio Manuel, Gundo Ligudu, Loyd Mafoo
Twitter: @ClaudeElSousa [https://twitter.com/ClaudeElSousa], @GundoVictory2
[https://twitter.com/Gundovictory2], @Loyd_NXK [https://twitter.com/Loyd_NXK]
âIt's easier to make a working system fast than to make a fast system workâ plus
âyou can not argue with a working systemâ.
Being able to solve a problem is the beginning of applying systems analysis
principles. Using the right methods to solve problems saves time and money in
software develop]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/systems-analysis/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558344</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 26 Mar 2017 06:02:07 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="https://media.licdn.com/mpr/mpr/AAEAAQAAAAAAAAYYAAAAJGFhOGMyZWIyLTQ1OGYtNDdjNi1hM2YxLWFlMDgxNGUzNzk5YQ.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="https://media.licdn.com/mpr/mpr/AAEAAQAAAAAAAAYYAAAAJGFhOGMyZWIyLTQ1OGYtNDdjNi1hM2YxLWFlMDgxNGUzNzk5YQ.jpg" alt="Systems Analysis"/><p>Authors: Claudio Manuel, Gundo Ligudu, Loyd Mafoo<br>
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ClaudeElSousa">@ClaudeElSousa</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Gundovictory2">@GundoVictory2</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Loyd_NXK">@Loyd_NXK</a></br></p>
<p>âIt's easier to make a working system fast than to make a fast system workâ plus âyou can not argue with a working systemâ.</p>
<p>Being able to solve a problem is the beginning of applying systems analysis principles. Using the right methods to solve problems saves time and money in software development.</p>
<p>System Analysis is the process of decomposing a system or an idea into pieces and study these pieces individually to identify their main functions to make a working system. Its major goal is to improve organizational systems</p>
<p>IT related Projects go through a process called System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) which is a method used for system development. SDLC is composed of 7 phases which are to be integrated for better system development: <em>System Investigation, System Analysis, System Design, Programming, Testing, Implementation</em> and <em>Operation and Maintenance.</em></p>
<p>You canât fix it if you donât know how it works, and how it should work.You canât improve it unless you understand it.You canât control it unless you comprehend what happens. That, in a nutshell, is the importance of system analysis.</p>
<p>System Security</p>
<p>It is very important to include security early in the SDLC, this will result in less expensive and more effective security. You should be able to determine the security controls that will be required for the system.</p>
<p>As an analyst you should ask yourself this:</p>
<ul>
<li>How critical is the system in meeting the organization's mission?</li>
<li>What are the security objectives required by the system, e.g., confidentiality, integrity, and availability?</li>
<li>What regulations and policies are applicable in determining what is to be protected?</li>
<li>What are the threats that are applicable in the environment where the system will be operational?</li>
</ul>
<p>We urge you to take time and explore more on these concepts.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Social Geeks]]></title><description><![CDATA[Written by Ms Oitumetse Lekana & Mrs Lungile Mohale
Follow us Twitter: @lekana_o [https://twitter.com/lekana_o] and @sibo_luluMohale
[https://twitter.com/sibo_luluMohale]
Do geeks have a social life? Hell yeah. Days are gone where geeks were a
marginalised group of individuals, stereotyped as boring, extroverts, creepy,
not fun and male.There are four different type of geeks.
The night owl who codes in dreams and is always up late, the early Bird who has
breakfast by the keyboard ,the perfecti]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/social-geeks/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558343</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 26 Mar 2017 05:46:02 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="https://4otune.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/savedpicture-2014259243.jpg?w=736" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="https://4otune.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/savedpicture-2014259243.jpg?w=736" alt="Social Geeks"/><p>Written by Ms Oitumetse Lekana & Mrs Lungile Mohale<br>
Follow us Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/lekana_o">@lekana_o</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/sibo_luluMohale">@sibo_luluMohale</a></br></p>
<p>Do geeks have a social life? Hell yeah. Days are gone where geeks were a marginalised group of individuals, stereotyped as boring, extroverts, creepy, not fun and male.There are four different type of geeks.</p>
<p>The night owl who codes in dreams and is always up late, the early Bird who has breakfast by the keyboard ,the perfectionist always on time leaves helpful notes no room for errors and lastly, the wildcard thinks totally outside of the brackets, loves experimenting with codes.</p>
<p>So, which one are you?</p>
<p>The real question here is when do you break free from the pc and all the projects you are consumed by??? All geeks need a break from their computer screens whichever geek you may be and have a life. It is time geeks be identified as normal people, with a life, who have fun, go out, socialize and learn new things that are not tech related.</p>
<p>These are some of the cool activities that we reckon are worth trying out bounceinc and Bowling both in Menlyn lastly klitsgras get a drumming experience with amphitheater around a cozy fire with professionals and novices. It will help improve your coordination,balance and muscle development.</p>
<p><img src="http://vamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Vamers-FYI-Events-The-Free-Jumping-Revolution-is-Here-BOUNCEinc-Now-in-South-Africa-Banner.jpg" alt="Social Geeks"/></p>
<p>This is for my social geeks who donât confine themselves to the âloser lifeâ, there is life outside tech, go and explore, you can always take your laptop with.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#ODDPretoria - Open Data for Financial Insight]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Centre for Geoinformation Science and Geekulcha invites you to: Show me the
money!
An open data rummage to track public spending Join our search for insight into
public spending. This event is to celebrate International Open Data Day, and
promote the value of open data by engaging with the local community.
During this event, you will be asked to answer various questions from provided
datasets relating to public spending. For example, what percentage of the budget
in 2017 is allocated for b]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/oddpretoria/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558342</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 28 Feb 2017 15:38:37 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://media.gettyimages.com/videos/technologic-financial-data-blue-video-id467176024?s=640x640" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://media.gettyimages.com/videos/technologic-financial-data-blue-video-id467176024?s=640x640" alt="#ODDPretoria - Open Data for Financial Insight"/><p>The Centre for Geoinformation Science and Geekulcha invites you to: Show me the money!</p>
<p>An open data rummage to track public spending Join our search for insight into public spending. This event is to celebrate International Open Data Day, and promote the value of open data by engaging with the local community.</p>
<p>During this event, you will be asked to answer various questions from provided datasets relating to public spending. For example, what percentage of the budget in 2017 is allocated for basic education? There will be prizes in various categories.</p>
<p>The event is FREE to attend and will be hands-on, participants are advised to bring own computers.</p>
<ul>
<li>Date: 4 March 2017</li>
<li>Time: 09:00 â 13:00</li>
<li>Venue: Geography 2-3, University of Pretoria</li>
</ul>
<p>Please RSVP for this event <a href="https://goo.gl/r39EIM">HERE</a></p>
<p>Follow the dayâs events at <code>#ODDPretoria</code></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Digital Journey of the Northern Cape Province]]></title><description><![CDATA[We all agree that there is a need of a Digital Transformation to help
civilization adapt to the Industrial Evolution being accelerated by the Internet
Economy. The world is moving on and getting more things connected. No one wants
to be left behind. Various cities have set out their Industrial Development
Plans (IDP) and are ready to execute towards being a smart city.
The Northern Cape province have realized the need to cultivate ICT and SME
skills development in creating a vibrant and active ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/digital-journey-of-the-northern-cape-province/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558341</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 12 Feb 2017 11:13:25 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/02/nc-digital.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/02/nc-digital.jpg" alt="Digital Journey of the Northern Cape Province"/><p>We all agree that there is a need of a Digital Transformation to help civilization adapt to the Industrial Evolution being accelerated by the Internet Economy. The world is moving on and getting more things connected. No one wants to be left behind. Various cities have set out their Industrial Development Plans (IDP) and are ready to execute towards being a smart city.</p>
<p>The Northern Cape province have realized the need to cultivate ICT and SME skills development in creating a vibrant and active economy. Through the Department of Economic development and Tourism (DEDAT), a plan of action had been taken to establish a Geek Culture in the province to grow an ecosystem towards an mLab.</p>
<p>Geekulcha was called upon to help in this journey and had since created the NCDev Ecosystem to localize things and monitor the provincial scene of Techies, Innovators and Entrepreneurs. To date, the ecosystem had acquired over 450 members since the launch in April 2015.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ncdev.co.za">www.ncdev.co.za</a></p>
<p>To start and ignite the Digital fire, various events/activities have been hosted in the province including tech trainings, Hackathons, Youth ICT and Business VacWork programmes, code weeks and more. These activities have proven to stimulate more innovation and developer confidence in the province.</p>
<p>Collaborations are key and the one with Sol Plaatje University is fundamental in growing student innovation. Most activities have been hosted at the university. The Geekulcha Student Society(GKSS) was establish to grow the Geek Culture on campus and support student entrepreneurship.</p>
<p>Making light work requires manpower and champions of innovation and change. It was necessary to explore and bring local small businesses aboard - the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Diamond-Creative-Vision-Hub-1562142810692347/">Diamond Creative Vision Hub (DCVH)</a> and they been critical in driving the activities.</p>
<p>Access to resources and support can never be enough and the Northern Cape innovators have a long way to go. It's always great to just start and the province has started. The DEDaT department through the Knowledge and Innovation Economy has seen the need to invest in skills needed for access, development and sustainability of innovation.</p>
<p>The fire has been started, it needs to stay burning - it's all up to us to help the Northern Cape find their way and get them as great contributors to the national Digital Economy.</p>
<p>Northern Cape is ready - we urge all Geeks to get behind the Digital Train. Check out and join the NCDev Ecosystem through www.ncdev.co.za. Here are some of the photos:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/geekulcha/BFkNH2" title="#NCDevHack 2016 - Upington"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8339/29781486736_fb27d1b2c9_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Digital Journey of the Northern Cape Province"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Open Data Day - Kathu]]></title><description><![CDATA[Open Data Day is a gathering of citizens in cities around the world to write
applications, liberate data, create visualizations and publish analyses using
open public data to show support for and encourage the adoption of open data
policies by the world's local, regional and national governments.
> Open data is data that can be freely used, shared and built-on by anyone,
anywhere, for any purpose.
Kathu is a town in South Africa, and the iron ore capital of the Northern Cape
province. Its nam]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/open-data-day-kathu/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558340</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2017 08:03:50 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/01/open-data-day--ppna-helsingborg.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/01/open-data-day--ppna-helsingborg.png" alt="Open Data Day - Kathu"/><p>Open Data Day is a gathering of citizens in cities around the world to write applications, liberate data, create visualizations and publish analyses using open public data to show support for and encourage the adoption of open data policies by the world's local, regional and national governments.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Open data is data that can be freely used, shared and built-on by anyone, anywhere, for any purpose.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Kathu is a town in South Africa, and the iron ore capital of the Northern Cape province. Its name means "town under the trees", after the Camel Thorn forest it is situated in. The phrase "the town under the trees" was coined by an engineer working in the town in the early-1990s as part of a tourist marketing drive, together with the accompanying graphic.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2017/01/kathu.png" alt="Open Data Day - Kathu"/></p>
<p><a href="https://wazimap.co.za/profiles/ward-34503003-ward-3-34503003/"><em>Wazi Map South Africa</em></a></p>
<p>In line with digital skills development mandate, the International Open Data Day will be localized to address solutions for the area of Kathu.</p>
<p><strong>Event Details</strong></p>
<p>Venue: NCR FET College, Kathu<br>
Time: 09:00 - 17:00<br>
RSVP: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/363045514068427/">https://www.facebook.com/events/363045514068427/</a></br></br></p>
<p>Breakfast and lunch will be served.</p>
<p>Most of work on the day will be on computers as a strategy to build more digital interest and drive a Collaborative Digital Economy. At the end of the event, participants will have innovative business ideas through Open Data.</p>
<p>Story of the Open Data Day will be published through different platforms of the department and Geekulcha.</p>
<p>Mining Data will be amongst the datasets for the dayâs event. It will be an open event with a variety of datasets for people to use.</p>
<p>Check out the photos from the last Open Data event - the Responsive Cities Challenge in Kimberley.</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157676750558836" title="#RCC2016 Kimberley - Day 1"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5740/30303745643_61f6f0abda_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Open Data Day - Kathu"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Building a Digital Kasi at #gkVacWork]]></title><description><![CDATA[Preparing and securing the skills of tomorrow means equipping young people with
the relevant skills that will enable them to bring change in the world.
Geekulcha, The Innovation Hub [https://www.mlab.co.za/] and mLab Southern Africa
[https://www.mlab.co.za/] have been a hosting a vacation work programme for high
school learners during school holidays.
This time around, the programme returns to Soweto to grow ICT and
Entrepreneurship skills capacity onto the youngsters, 30 - 06 December.
Program]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/building-a-digital-kasi-at-gkvacwork/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655833f</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 18 Dec 2016 08:45:30 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/12/3065258064n3_7ea4777d77_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/12/3065258064n3_7ea4777d77_o.jpg" alt="Building a Digital Kasi at #gkVacWork"/><p>Preparing and securing the skills of tomorrow means equipping young people with the relevant skills that will enable them to bring change in the world. Geekulcha, <a href="https://www.mlab.co.za/">The Innovation Hub</a> and <a href="https://www.mlab.co.za/">mLab Southern Africa</a> have been a hosting a vacation work programme for high school learners during school holidays.</p>
<p>This time around, the programme returns to Soweto to grow ICT and Entrepreneurship skills capacity onto the youngsters, 30 - 06 December. Programming or computer literacy not necessary, youngsters from age 9 - 20 may apply to take part.</p>
<p>Information Page: <a href="http://future.geekulcha.com">future.geekulcha.com</a></p>
<p>With the realization that ICT is an enabler of Innovation in almost each and every sector, the VacWork programme in Soweto will be set against the backdrop of a need of the Township Economic Revitalization. Taking place at the newly launched Ekasi Labs in Soweto, Diepsloot.</p>
<p>Youngsters were challenged to come up and build innovative solutions that will help with Digital Transformation in their Soweto township and make life easy.</p>
<p>This will be a practical based learning where the scholars are trained, mentored and get hands on throughout the programme in building their solutions. Focus of the VacWork programme is centered on mobile apps, web applications, graphics design, electronics/robotics and business development.</p>
<p>At the end of the programme, the youngsters will did formal presentations of their solutions in front of judges. They may choose pursue the projects as a start up.</p>
<p>Here are the top 3 projects:</p>
<p><strong>Number 1: Kasi App Lovers</strong></p>
<p>They developed an app for high school learners to stimulate and help them apply for varsity. School learners will enter their marks, province of choice, annual family income, etc. and then the app will list all the possible universities/colleges one can apply in as well as bursary opportunities one may get.</p>
<p>The app also helps those already in varsity to manage budgets and spend with an aim to help reduce drop out rates.</p>
<p><strong>Number 2: Safe Society</strong></p>
<p>An offline device for the community alert one another about crime incidents and to help insurance companies much better through the data and reports.</p>
<p><strong>Number 3: Zaitoff Graphics</strong></p>
<p>This team provided graphics design services to other teams during the programme. They design logos and help other teams find/strengthen their identity and brand essence.</p>
<p>Here are the photos:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157673585511903" title="#gkVacWork Soweto Finale"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5676/31089918080_f702e615cc_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Building a Digital Kasi at #gkVacWork"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Innov8Makers for Business Sense]]></title><description><![CDATA[In collaboration with The Innovation Hub [http://www.theinnovationhub.com], the
Geekulcha Maker Library Network
[http://design.britishcouncil.org/projects/makerlibraries/geekulcha/] hosted an
event dedicated for Makers. Innov8 is a high-level networking event bringing
expert matters and enthusiasts together to discuss best practices, celebrating
and accelerating innovation.
This edition of Innov8 was focused on South African MakerSpace ecosystems to
help makers connect and make business. Hoste]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/innov8makers-for-business-sense/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655833e</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 26 Oct 2016 16:08:59 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/10/30476180031_bs2b463b2e8_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/10/30476180031_bs2b463b2e8_o.jpg" alt="Innov8Makers for Business Sense"/><p>In collaboration with <a href="http://www.theinnovationhub.com">The Innovation Hub</a>, the <a href="http://design.britishcouncil.org/projects/makerlibraries/geekulcha/">Geekulcha Maker Library Network</a> hosted an event dedicated for Makers. Innov8 is a high-level networking event bringing expert matters and enthusiasts together to discuss best practices, celebrating and accelerating innovation.</p>
<p>This edition of Innov8 was focused on South African MakerSpace ecosystems to help makers connect and make business. Hosted at The Innovation Hub on the 25th of October, Innov8Makers was themed "Making as a tool to accelerate Innovation".</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bringing you an interactive <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Innov8Makers?src=hash">#Innov8Makers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mcleansibanda">@mcleansibanda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheGGDA">@TheGGDA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CICSouthAfrica">@CICSouthAfrica</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/theOpenIX">@theOpenIX</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee">@TiyaniTee</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Mmamoseneke">@Mmamoseneke</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SAINE_SA">@SAINE_SA</a> <a href="https://t.co/WA6ZboYbjx">pic.twitter.com/WA6ZboYbjx</a></p>— The Innovation Hub (@InnovHub) <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub/status/790971030286299136">October 25, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Young Makers from around the province brought their projects for showcase and finding collaborative angles with each other.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Check out some of the awesome <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Innovations?src=hash">#Innovations</a> showcased at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Innov8Makers?src=hash">#Innov8Makers</a> <a href="https://t.co/BWqsc4GtQK">https://t.co/BWqsc4GtQK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/innov8makers?src=hash">#innov8makers</a> <a href="https://t.co/FOmyttbgqv">pic.twitter.com/FOmyttbgqv</a></p>— African Progress (@AfroProgress) <a href="https://twitter.com/AfroProgress/status/790968098757173248">October 25, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>It was also important to learn from industry key players such as Mr Don Pitsoe (Open Innovation Specialist), from the Innovation Hub, Ms Lydia Ntlhophi from the City of Ekurhuleni, Dr Vukosi Marivate (Data Scientist) from CSIR and Winstone Jordaan from the Sasol Solar Grid.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Our panelist for tonight <a href="https://twitter.com/Mmamoseneke">@Mmamoseneke</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vukosi">@vukosi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SasolSA">@SasolSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Innov8Makers?src=hash">#Innov8Makers</a> <a href="https://t.co/PGI9Dk3Wgz">pic.twitter.com/PGI9Dk3Wgz</a></p>— #Innov8Makers (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/790949562164936708">October 25, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The talks were insightful and the audience got to raise their feel about the Maker movement. Sustainability was one of the key issues raised.</p>
<p>Check out all the photos from the event here:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157672120477544" title="Innov8Makers"><img src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8630/30562549175_095c2cc5f2_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Innov8Makers for Business Sense"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Getting Geeky On #AfricaCodeWeek]]></title><description><![CDATA[Africa as a developing continent, needs to secure all the right skills as
possible - coding is one of those skills. One of the initiatives behind this is
the Africa Code Week [http://africacodeweek.org/] supported by Google.
Coding is the literacy of the digital age indeed: a whole new language for
children to speak fluently and express themselves in the 21st century. This is
what brought SAP, the Cape Town Science Centre and the Galway Education Centre
to join forces and give birth to Africa C]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/getting-geeky-on-africacodeweek/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655833d</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 23 Oct 2016 08:21:56 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/10/CvTXyLaWcAEffcy.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/10/CvTXyLaWcAEffcy.jpg" alt="Getting Geeky On #AfricaCodeWeek"/><p>Africa as a developing continent, needs to secure all the right skills as possible - coding is one of those skills. One of the initiatives behind this is the <a href="http://africacodeweek.org/">Africa Code Week</a> supported by Google.</p>
<p>Coding is the literacy of the digital age indeed: a whole new language for children to speak fluently and express themselves in the 21st century. This is what brought SAP, the Cape Town Science Centre and the Galway Education Centre to join forces and give birth to Africa Code Week.</p>
<p>Through the popular <a href="http://future.geekulcha.com">#gkVacWork programme</a>, Geekulcha drove the Africa Code Week by grooming Future Geeks by a spending a week coding and building products/services.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sunday 9 October at 19:30 on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SABCNews?src=hash">#SABCNews</a> DSTV404: info on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> where Pretoria school pupils got free coding & other tech skills. <a href="https://t.co/y7kwcieFHp">pic.twitter.com/y7kwcieFHp</a></p>— Network (@SABCNetwork) <a href="https://twitter.com/SABCNetwork/status/784645621466660864">October 8, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Furthermore, the coding train continued to the Northern Cape, Kimberley - powered by the <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za/">Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDaT)</a>. Coding sessions were conducted at Vuyolethu High School, where youngsters coded robots and hacked a skateboard.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We believe that programming is not coding but its understanding the problem then code <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IBlameGk?src=hash">#IBlameGk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DCVHsa">@DCVHsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NCDevEco">@NCDevEco</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AfricaCodeWeek">@AfricaCodeWeek</a> <a href="https://t.co/6GWXvewhl2">pic.twitter.com/6GWXvewhl2</a></p>— sakhile (@sakhilesibuyi) <a href="https://twitter.com/sakhilesibuyi/status/789877682972557314">October 22, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Coding sessions in were run by the Geekulcha together with the <a href="http://dcvh.weebly.com/">Diamond Creative Vision Hub</a>. There was greater interest from the youngsters about coding.</p>
<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D1797022810537678%26id%3D1562142810692347&width=500" width="500" height="646" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true"/>
<p>Africa Code Week was yet another initiative to grow the Digital Economy in the country. We are looking forward to being more engaged in skills development initiative.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork October 2016]]></title><description><![CDATA[Yet another VacWork programme for high school learners took place to train and
enable youngsters build products/services through ICT, 03 - 07 October. This
time, the programme focused on building healthcare systems for this smartb
growing world.
About 30 youngsters from around Gauteng sacrificed their early morning sleep to
Spend Holidays with the Geeks by attending the work-simulated programme aimed at
building the Digital Capacity and skills needed for the world of tomorrow,
today.
Attendin]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-october-2016/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655833a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2016 08:44:32 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/10/30137079966_3a7a2a3122_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/10/30137079966_3a7a2a3122_o.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork October 2016"/><p>Yet another VacWork programme for high school learners took place to train and enable youngsters build products/services through ICT, 03 - 07 October. This time, the programme focused on building healthcare systems for this smartb growing world.</p>
<p>About 30 youngsters from around Gauteng sacrificed their early morning sleep to <em>Spend Holidays with the Geeks</em> by attending the work-simulated programme aimed at building the Digital Capacity and skills needed for the world of tomorrow, today.</p>
<p>Attending from 09:00 till 16:00. The youngsters were assigned mentors who helped them build their solutions.</p>
<p>The programme is powered by The Innovation Hub, mLab Southern Africa, City of Tshwane and collaborates with the Layyers in mentoring the youngsters.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">"We have so much WiFi around us" Healthcare should be much easier <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/reHealthAfrica">@reHealthAfrica</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/784358598352797696">October 7, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/reHealthAfrica">ReHealth Africa</a> is an initiative by <a href="https://www.mlab.co.za/">mLab Southern Africa</a> and CSIR Meraka to give a platform for mobile health solutions. The youngsters were guided and helped see various opportunities offered by the initiative.</p>
<p>On the 4th day, the youngsters got opportunity to visit Telkom Business Connexion and got to learn from them.</p>
<p>Here is what they got up to during the programme:</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVXAQ3Rwfx4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Here are the photos of the VacWork programme:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157673593510622" title="GKVacWork FInale"><img src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8617/30171758955_db920383de_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="#gkVacWork October 2016"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Open Data Debate at #EMMHack]]></title><description><![CDATA[Data, a very popular trend right now and everyone is trying to understand and
master the skill of working with data. Municipalities in particular, are gaining
momentum in the Open Data movement.
Essentially, Open Data refers to data that is freely available, can be accessed,
used and changed by anyone. There are civic tech organizations in South Africa
championing the Open Data movement.
Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) is among the cities opening up data
for the public around the wo]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/open-data-debate-at-emmhack/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558339</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 03 Oct 2016 15:54:16 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/10/IMG_6169h.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/10/IMG_6169h.jpg" alt="Open Data Debate at #EMMHack"/><p>Data, a very popular trend right now and everyone is trying to understand and master the skill of working with data. Municipalities in particular, are gaining momentum in the Open Data movement.</p>
<p>Essentially, Open Data refers to data that is freely available, can be accessed, used and changed by anyone. There are civic tech organizations in South Africa championing the Open Data movement.</p>
<p>Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) is among the cities opening up data for the public around the world. The EMM Hackathon was hosted to ignite a "Digitally Connected City" - putting skills into use through Open Data, Innovation and Creativity. Hackathon was hosted 30 - 02 October at the Alberton Civic Centre, Council Chambers.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EMMHack?src=hash">#EMMHack</a> Be part of our debate: Should the government open data to the public?</p>— CITY OF EKURHULENI (@EMMInfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/EMMInfo/status/782208122710528000">October 1, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>During the hackathon, honorable members of the hackathon were challenged to debate on "should cities make the data open to the public?". Different arguments were made with members emphasizing socio-economic benefit. One member argued that cities should open data because data enables self-empowerment.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q__Vgx-lHbo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>The debate was aimed at building more knowledge, interest and explore possibilities with Open Data. Some of the members are skeptical about having having cities open data.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bGUQ_71EXkA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>13 year old Naledi who also attended the hackathon, made her argument and said that data must be shared to make the city work.</p>
<p>Want to get involved in Open Data, here is a great start, enter the <a href="http://challenge.responsivecities.org.za/">Responsive Cities Challenge</a> and stand a chance to win great prizes.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mpumalanga Got Geekulchad]]></title><description><![CDATA[Geekulcha is a platform for ICT students where they connect, learn, share and
put skills to real use. We are always looking for ways to reach to more students
and empower the youth. University of Mpumalanga (UMP) [http://www.ump.ac.za/] is
one of the newest universities and they invited the Geeks to come through.
Consisting of 3-day workshops, Geekulcha crew visited the University with a
mission to establish a Geekulcha Student Society (GKSS) at UMP.
> University of Mpumalanga studnets worki]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/mpumalanga-got-geekulchad/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558336</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 08 Sep 2016 14:27:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/09/DSCN1114s.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/09/DSCN1114s.jpg" alt="Mpumalanga Got Geekulchad"/><p>Geekulcha is a platform for ICT students where they connect, learn, share and put skills to real use. We are always looking for ways to reach to more students and empower the youth. <a href="http://www.ump.ac.za/">University of Mpumalanga (UMP)</a> is one of the newest universities and they invited the Geeks to come through.</p>
<p>Consisting of 3-day workshops, Geekulcha crew visited the University with a mission to establish a Geekulcha Student Society (GKSS) at UMP.</p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:28.1944444444% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"/></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BKApZ7tg8tK/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">University of Mpumalanga studnets working on creating Online Presence for their Business ideas. We are doing workshops as part of the @geekulcha Student Society launch. #GKSSUMP</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A video posted by Geekulcha Makers (@gkmakers) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-09-06T09:51:59+00:00">Sep 6, 2016 at 2:51am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"/>
<p>To assess capacity, different hands-on workshops were hosted including an Intel Developer Tools session, product development cycle and an open dataquest focused on HIV and AIDS.</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/vukosi">Dr Vukosi Marivate</a>, a Data Scientist from CSIR also joined in through Skype to inspire/motivate the students.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">University of Mpumalanga Students listening to Dr <a href="https://twitter.com/vukosi">@vukosi</a> from <a href="https://twitter.com/CSIR">@CSIR</a> via Skype talking Data. <a href="https://twitter.com/gkssump">@gkssump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Data?src=hash">#Data</a> <a href="https://t.co/IyVC6RzEcW">pic.twitter.com/IyVC6RzEcW</a></p>— Geek Community (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/773452861124517888">September 7, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>A new team to lead the GKSS committee was established to grow the Geek Culture movement on campus and provide leadership through Technology and Innovation onto other students.</p>
<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGeekulcha%2Fposts%2F1085979518106222%3A0&width=500" width="500" height="500" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true"/>
<p>GKSS UMP also joins the GKSS at Sol Plaatje University chapter in this student innovation drive.</p>
<p>We thank the university's ICT leadership through Prof. Thembisa Ngqodi. It's very pleasing to see the leadership trying all efforts to empower the students.</p>
<p>The Geeks had great a time at the University of Mpumalanga and looking forward to seeing the students become industry leaders.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Maker Librarians at Decorex 2016]]></title><description><![CDATA[Decorex SA, South Africaâs premier dĂ©cor, design and lifestyle exhibition
showcases in three cities âDurban, Cape Town and Joburg. The dĂ©cor and design
industryâs leading and most trusted brand was founded in 1994, and continues to
play a pivotal role in shaping the industry.
In Johannesburg, Decorex is taking place 05 - 09 August at the Gallagher
Convention Centre.
Grow the Maker Movement, Ms Mia Van Zyl of the South African Makers Collective
led the Makers Corner at the Decorex Johannesburg ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/maker-librarians-at-decorex-2016/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558335</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 08 Aug 2016 05:14:20 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/08/CpK_KHfWIAAffKHN.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/08/CpK_KHfWIAAffKHN.jpg" alt="Maker Librarians at Decorex 2016"/><p>Decorex SA, South Africaâs premier dĂ©cor, design and lifestyle exhibition showcases in three cities âDurban, Cape Town and Joburg. The dĂ©cor and design industryâs leading and most trusted brand was founded in 1994, and continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the industry.</p>
<p>In Johannesburg, Decorex is taking place 05 - 09 August at the Gallagher Convention Centre.</p>
<p>Grow the Maker Movement, Ms Mia Van Zyl of the South African Makers Collective led the Makers Corner at the Decorex Johannesburg 2016.</p>
<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fdecorexsa%2Fphotos%2Fa.175065505870915.36620.173008979409901%2F1236214373089351%2F%3Ftype%3D3&width=500" width="500" height="380" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true"/>
<p>The Geekulcha Maker Librarians also exhibited some of their IoT, Holo tech and 3D camera projects.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We are happy to be part of <a href="https://twitter.com/decorexSA">@decorexSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Decorex2016?src=hash">#Decorex2016</a> with fellow Makers <a href="https://twitter.com/mia_designmake">@mia_designmake</a>. Tech in home Decoration. <a href="https://t.co/9LBz2n8wwv">pic.twitter.com/9LBz2n8wwv</a></p>— Geek Community (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/761843084015591424">August 6, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>It was a day of Show & Tell, sell and share maker techniques with the public. There is great interest in the Maker Movement, we need to grow it as much as possible.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[August - Geekulcha Tours 5 Provinces]]></title><description><![CDATA[As a busy as a Geek! If we are not coding, we are out there on the ground to
hear and helping empower the people. Spreading and building a community of Geeks
across the country with various partners.
Geekulcha will be touring 5 provinces and invites to you join in if you are
around these ares:
Gauteng - Sebokeng
As part of the National Science Week 2016, we are joining the ArcelorMittal
Science Centre for this year's edition.
Date: 08 - 12 August
Venue: 4 Samuel Street, Sebokeng, 1983
> Tha]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/august-geekulcha-tours-5-provinces/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558334</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 07 Aug 2016 18:58:01 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/08/header-bg--1-.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/08/header-bg--1-.jpg" alt="August - Geekulcha Tours 5 Provinces"/><p>As a busy as a Geek! If we are not coding, we are out there on the ground to hear and helping empower the people. Spreading and building a community of Geeks across the country with various partners.</p>
<p>Geekulcha will be touring 5 provinces and invites to you join in if you are around these ares:</p>
<p><strong><code>Gauteng - Sebokeng</code></strong></p>
<p>As part of the National Science Week 2016, we are joining the ArcelorMittal Science Centre for this year's edition.</p>
<p>Date: 08 - 12 August<br>
Venue: 4 Samuel Street, Sebokeng, 1983</br></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@GeeKulcha</a> for making our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InnovativeDay?src=hash">#InnovativeDay</a> at Arcelor Mittal Science Centre today incredible! <3 <3</p>— Skyy (@SkyyWanda_Her) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyyWanda_Her/status/628646362196910081">August 4, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong><code>Limpopo - Polokwane</code></strong></p>
<p>The 12th annual Thagaetala Career Day Day #TACD2016 is happening. Tiyani Nghonyama will be speaking to inspire the Future GeekStars.</p>
<p>Date: 19 - 20 August<br>
Venue: Thagaetala Secondary School</br></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/Lesufi">@Lesufi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/VictorAfrica">@VictorAfrica</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/LeanneManas">@LeanneManas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GautengDED">@GautengDED</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OtpLimpopo">@OtpLimpopo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee">@TiyaniTee</a> .How do we ensure education free for all . Pls join <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TACD2016?src=hash">#TACD2016</a></p>— Rahab Matebane (@MapitsiHoldings) <a href="https://twitter.com/MapitsiHoldings/status/760711084231786496">August 3, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong><code>Free State - Sasolburg</code></strong></p>
<p>Annually, Geekulcha collaborates with the University of Technology (TUT) through the Sasol TechnoX. Different organizations/institutions will be competing through Tech exhibitions.</p>
<p>Date: 15 - 19 August<br>
Venue: Boiketlong Sport Centre. Eric Louw Road, Sasolburg</br></p>
<p><strong><code>North West - Rustenburg</code></strong></p>
<p>We'll be joining our friends from P-STEM on the Community Day outreach as part of the National Science Week.</p>
<p>Date: 13 August<br>
Venue: Tshirologang Primary School, Rustenburg</br></p>
<p><strong><code>Northern Cape - Kimberley</code></strong></p>
<p>Another National Science Week stop, the Geekulcha Student Society (GKSS) at Sol Plaatje University will be flying the flag at for the first NSW2016 at SPU.</p>
<p>Date: 10 - 13 August<br>
Venue: Sol Plaatje University, Kimberley</br></p>
<p>All these events/activities are free. Do join or share information with those you know.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Looking forward to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSW2016?src=hash">#NSW2016</a> in Kimberley <a href="https://twitter.com/MySPU">@MySPU</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> Student Society (GKSS) team will be flying the flag.</p>— #NCDevHack 16 Sept (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/762350920936161280">August 7, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geeking Out At VUT Open Day]]></title><description><![CDATA[> Vaal University of Technology is a tertiary institution in South Africa. It
attracts students from all over the country. It is one of the largest
residential Universities of Technology, with about 15,000 students, 300
programs, all primarily taught in English.
> The campus and facilities are conducive to learning, research, recreation and
sport, art and culture, and community service.
As read from wikipedia
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaal_University_of_Technology]
On the 23rd of July,]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geeking-out-at-vut-open-day/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558332</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 24 Jul 2016 06:29:42 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/IMG_8107s.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><blockquote>
<img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/IMG_8107s.jpg" alt="Geeking Out At VUT Open Day"/><p>Vaal University of Technology is a tertiary institution in South Africa. It attracts students from all over the country. It is one of the largest residential Universities of Technology, with about 15,000 students, 300 programs, all primarily taught in English.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>The campus and facilities are conducive to learning, research, recreation and sport, art and culture, and community service.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>As read from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaal_University_of_Technology">wikipedia</a></p>
<p>On the 23rd of July, Geekulcha took part at the VUT Open Day 2016 to reach out to youngsters who are looking to further their education. The invite was made through the <a href="http://www.gdgvut.co.za/">Google Developer Groups</a> at VUT.</p>
<p>The Geekulcha <a href="http://design.britishcouncil.org/projects/makerlibraries/geekulcha/">Maker Library Network</a> had setup some of the projects developed by young makers at the exhibition area to help present ICT as a career path to follow.</p>
<p>High schoolers were told about the <a href="http://future.geekulcha.com/">Geekulcha Vacation Work (gkVacWork)</a> programme. Some have already started applying for the programme.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We're at <a href="https://twitter.com/VUT_Online">@VUT_Online</a> Open Day and are meeting some interesting young curious minds <a href="https://twitter.com/girlagain_19099">@GirlAgain_19099</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wzd7xu4mOL">pic.twitter.com/Wzd7xu4mOL</a></p>— Geek Community (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/756798367737470976">July 23, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>It was evident that girls are really scared of the Science and Technology fields as career paths. A lot still needs to be done to bring more interest.</p>
<p>A great day it was, lot of exhibitions, the future of South African Tech and Innovation looks very bright, we just need need to equip and groom the future generation with adequate skills and momentum.</p>
<p>We are looking forward to future initiatives at the Vaal University of Technology. Checkout the photos below:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157668531236574" title="VUT Open Day 2016"><img src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8676/28428834411_a6bbffa412.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Geeking Out At VUT Open Day"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Grand Slam in Durban]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Kimberley Diamond Cup have about 15 national tours as a build-up to the
Skateboarding World Championships happening, 03 - 08 October in Kimberley.
The stop came to Durban to scout talent in the regional qualifier event, the
Grand Slam. We joined our skater friends in this tour to see if Durban has what
it takes to represent the country.
Of course, the Geeks are more interested in Tech hence we have established the
SkateHacks initiative to put tech onto skateboards to make them smart and ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/a-grand-slam-in-durban/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558330</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 19 Jul 2016 11:39:13 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/IMG_4333.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/IMG_4333.jpg" alt="A Grand Slam in Durban"/><p>The Kimberley Diamond Cup have about 15 national tours as a build-up to the Skateboarding World Championships happening, 03 - 08 October in Kimberley.</p>
<p>The stop came to Durban to scout talent in the regional qualifier event, the Grand Slam. We joined our skater friends in this tour to see if Durban has what it takes to represent the country.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/CneFXyEXgAEzyW9.jpg" alt="A Grand Slam in Durban"/></p>
<p>Of course, the Geeks are more interested in Tech hence we have established the SkateHacks initiative to put tech onto skateboards to make them smart and cool. It's always great to hear from skaters of how cool they want their skateboards to be. All skaters almost everywhere want their skateboards to fly!</p>
<p>This is part of the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism's mission to use skateboarding to attract more youth into Science and Technology.</p>
<p>Skateboarding brings a whole new world of possibilities through its ability to bring about livelihood, creativity and fulfilment in the lives of the skaters. KDC in particular, champions the Skateboarding For Hope reach out to various communities.</p>
<p>Great time in Durban, congratulations to all the winners who grabbed all the R50 000.00 that was on offer.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">KDC <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/durban?src=hash">#durban</a> Grand Slam finalists Alan Marola, Braxton Haine & <a href="https://twitter.com/KhuleNgubane">@khulengubane</a> ripping at the beachfront <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kdcskate?src=hash">#kdcskate</a> <a href="https://t.co/ECgxKoI3dJ">pic.twitter.com/ECgxKoI3dJ</a></p>— Kimberley DiamondCup (@KDiamondCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDiamondCup/status/754922920556789761">July 18, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>We are looking forward for the bigger event in October and rallying behind our local boys and girls as they take on world skaters.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork for Modern Workplace Skills]]></title><description><![CDATA[Every school holidays, young minds from across the province sacrifice their late
morning sleep by coming and taking part at the Geekulcha VacWork programme which
is aimed at building ICT and Entrepreneurship skills capacity.
This time around, the programme took place from the 4th until the 15th of July
at Code Tribe, The Innovation Hub. Scholars were transported by the Tshwane Bus
Services everyday.
> Meanwhile in Tshwane @InnovHub [https://twitter.com/InnovHub], the @CityTshwane
[https://twit]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/vacwork-for-modern-workplace-skills/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655832f</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 17 Jul 2016 12:01:48 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/IMG_0e362.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/IMG_0e362.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork for Modern Workplace Skills"/><p>Every school holidays, young minds from across the province sacrifice their late morning sleep by coming and taking part at the Geekulcha VacWork programme which is aimed at building ICT and Entrepreneurship skills capacity.</p>
<p>This time around, the programme took place from the 4th until the 15th of July at Code Tribe, The Innovation Hub. Scholars were transported by the Tshwane Bus Services everyday.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Meanwhile in Tshwane <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a>, the <a href="https://twitter.com/CityTshwane">@CityTshwane</a> Bus dropped youngsters for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mcleansibanda">@mcleansibanda</a> <a href="https://t.co/DjS3atKO9W">pic.twitter.com/DjS3atKO9W</a></p>— Tiyani Nghonyama (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/749870815114657792">July 4, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The VacWork programme accommodates youngsters from the Youth FabLab programme powered by the City of Tshwane and The Innovation Hub while others applied online through future.geekulcha.com. Up to 50 youngsters took part including two young man who came all the way from Mpumalanga.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">S/O to these youngsters, they came all the way from Mpumalanga to take part at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://t.co/r839RapFIZ">pic.twitter.com/r839RapFIZ</a></p>— #gkVacWork (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/752807087374209024">July 12, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>As usual, the aspects of Mobile Apps, Web Applications, Electronics/Robotics, Graphics Design and Business Applications were covered. VacWork programme is based on <em>learn-by-doing model</em> in which the youngsters are assigned mentors (Geekulcha crew and the community) who help them throughout. Depending on the length of the school holiday, they get to build products or services that addresses a need in line with theme given.</p>
<p>A field trip was conducted, youngsters got an opportunity to visit the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) observatory Centre in Harteestebees. After the visit, some of the youngsters have since grown interest in Astronomy.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GKVacWork?src=hash">#GKVacWork</a> field trip. S/O to <a href="https://twitter.com/CityTshwane">@CityTshwane</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CityofJoburgZA">@CityofJoburgZA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SANSA7">@SANSA7</a> <a href="https://t.co/7NH1mBaZ3b">pic.twitter.com/7NH1mBaZ3b</a></p>— #GKVacwork (@CinaWood) <a href="https://twitter.com/CinaWood/status/752433536607617024">July 11, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>On this edition, theme was "Modern Workplace" with an intention to get the young people involved in designing or at least re-invent better environment of tomorrow's working place and processes.</p>
<p>Dressed formal wear, the youngsters presented their projects to a panel of judges which consisted of previous VacWork schoolers. Mr McLean Sibanda, CEO of The Innovation Hub, addressed the youngsters before the presentations.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Create your own future, no one owes you anything. <a href="https://twitter.com/mcleansibanda">@mcleansibanda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CityTshwane">@CityTshwane</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/dd_naidoo">@dd_naidoo</a></p>— #gkVacWork (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/753873350519361536">July 15, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Here are the highlighted projects from the programme:</p>
<p><strong>Future Electronics Innovators:</strong> Helping you make sure that your house appliances/operations are autonomous and helping optimize energy consumption while you are at work. The system helps control lights, aircons, fire detection, etc.</p>
<p><strong>Art Sensation</strong>: Graphics design service provider with an aim of helping startups design to their needs. Here are some of the logos they designed during the programme <em>(excluding The Innovation Hub, Geekulcha, City of Tshwane and mLab SA logos)</em>:</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/Capture.JPG" alt="#gkVacWork for Modern Workplace Skills"/></p>
<p>Next edition of the VacWork programme will be taking place in October and promises to be as exciting. Previous schoolers may again apply for the programme which is free from the age of 9 up to metric level.</p>
<p>University students may apply to mentors in which they will be taken through Train The Trainer to be in a better position.</p>
<p>Geekulcha would like to thank The Innovation Hub, City of Tshwane and mLab Southern Africa for their continuous support to make sure that the youngsters are well taken care of. Another thank you is extend to the mentors who shared their skills with the younger ones.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">SA has more going for it than against. Our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/youth?src=hash">#youth</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/entrepreneurs?src=hash">#entrepreneurs</a> are resilient, innovative,unstoppable.Jst look <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a></p>— Diane Naidoo-Ngcese (@dd_naidoo) <a href="https://twitter.com/dd_naidoo/status/753897228821987328">July 15, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/><!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[RHoKing the Capital For Humanity]]></title><description><![CDATA[One of the most exciting and popular hackathons, Random Hacks of Kindness (RHOK)
Pretoria took place on the 9th until the 10th of July at the UNISA Muckleneuk
campus. The hackaton attracted over 70 students and industry developers to
address and build socially-relevant solutions using Technology.
RHoK Pretoria is annually hosted by the UNISA's College of Science, Engineering
and Technology (CSET) in collaboration with hackathon evangelists, Geekulcha.
There is always something new to learn at ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/rhoking-the-capital-for-humanity/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655832e</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 13 Jul 2016 17:15:18 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/28184243166_2s1932e8624_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/28184243166_2s1932e8624_o.jpg" alt="RHoKing the Capital For Humanity"/><p>One of the most exciting and popular hackathons, Random Hacks of Kindness (RHOK) Pretoria took place on the 9th until the 10th of July at the UNISA Muckleneuk campus. The hackaton attracted over 70 students and industry developers to address and build socially-relevant solutions using Technology.</p>
<p>RHoK Pretoria is annually hosted by the UNISA's College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET) in collaboration with hackathon evangelists, Geekulcha.</p>
<p>There is always something new to learn at a hackathon, it was exciting to see new talent at the hackathon. A young techy from North West came all the way to take part at RHOK Pretoria, the spirit is truly alive.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We are still here <a href="https://twitter.com/unisa">@unisa</a>, no sleep for the past 30 hours, Hacking For Humanity <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rhokpta?src=hash">#rhokpta</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CityTshwane">@CityTshwane</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorOfTshwane">@MayorOfTshwane</a> <a href="https://t.co/jIIZsHt4rM">pic.twitter.com/jIIZsHt4rM</a></p>— #gkVacWork 4-15 July (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/752075926930911232">July 10, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Geekulcha Maker Library Network was set up at the hackathon to enable creativity and build the maker culture.</p>
<p>Nine solutions were developed from the hackathon. These are solutions aimed at helping the community accelerate in Digital Migration and Transformation.</p>
<p>Congratulations to team Vimba for wining the hackathon with their real-time crime-monitoring solution.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Took 1st position thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rhokpta?src=hash">#rhokpta</a> for the platform & exposing the young generation to technology, innovation & entrepreneurship <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vimba?src=hash">#vimba</a></p>— YapeleSolutions (@YapeleSolutions) <a href="https://twitter.com/YapeleSolutions/status/752241367519297538">July 10, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Here are the winning solutions as Dr Jabu Mtsweni deliberate, he is the father of RHoK Pretoria.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Md4CkPehN20" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>UNISA and Geekulcha extends a thank you to all the coordinators, judges, mentors and all the participants who sacrificed their weekend to hack for humanity.</p>
<p>See you all at RHoK Johannesburg #RHoKJozi, first weekend of December.</p>
<p>Check out the photos:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157670881277345" title="Random Hacks of Kindness 2016"><img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8578/28114222062_cc09ae1224.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="RHoKing the Capital For Humanity"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#gkVacWork Goes To Nababeep]]></title><description><![CDATA[One of the most exciting school programmes in the land, the Geekulcha VacWork
programme powered by the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and
Tourism (DEDaT) [http://economic.ncape.gov.za/] finally goes to the Northern
Cape. This is one of the initiatives for youth skills development in the
Northern Cape.
Aimed for school learners, the programme is championed by the Nama eSkills
Center, Mr James Jonas. About 60 youngsters will be taught about ICT and
Entrepreneurship skills that t]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gkvacwork-goes-to-namabeep/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655832d</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 03 Jul 2016 14:02:59 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/10411094_102e07463300642362_6208062178572707141_n.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/10411094_102e07463300642362_6208062178572707141_n.jpg" alt="#gkVacWork Goes To Nababeep"/><p>One of the most exciting school programmes in the land, the Geekulcha VacWork programme powered by the <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za/">Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDaT)</a> finally goes to the Northern Cape. This is one of the initiatives for youth skills development in the Northern Cape.</p>
<p>Aimed for school learners, the programme is championed by the Nama eSkills Center, Mr James Jonas. About 60 youngsters will be taught about ICT and Entrepreneurship skills that they can use to accelerate Digital Transformation in the province.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Excited about the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkVacWork?src=hash">#gkVacWork</a> starting on Monday in Namabeep <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthernCapeSA">@NorthernCapeSA</a> in collaboration with NC Gov (DEDaT). <a href="https://t.co/6CUQeLMWVo">pic.twitter.com/6CUQeLMWVo</a></p>— #RHoKPta 09-10 Jul (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/749298921072189440">July 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Namabeep is situated about 22km outside Springbok in the Namaqualand district. VacWork programme will run from 04 - 08 July.</p>
<p><em>Holidays with the Geeks</em> - youngsters will be coming to a simulated working environment, mentored by the Geeks in building innovative solutions. The programme focuses on <em>mobile apps, web applications, electronics/robotics, graphics design</em> and <em>business</em> skills development.</p>
<p>A career day is hosted as part of the schedule. Dressed in formal, the youngsters will present their solutions on the last day.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZhtZSgo9IwE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Other collaborators onto the programme includes Layyers and the DCVH. It's going to be an interesting week of learning, exploring and innovating towards the Digital freedom.</p>
<p>The mobile trolley for Rural Skills development will be used to reach out and empower the youth.</p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.5% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"/></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BEqKMwsm4zT/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Mobile trolley equipped with laptops, data storage and connectivity. We will be using it for Rural Skills development in the Northern Cape. #SkateHacks #kdcskate.</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Geekulcha Makers (@gkmakers) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-04-26T09:39:03+00:00">Apr 26, 2016 at 2:39am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"/><!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Data Viz With The Maker Library]]></title><description><![CDATA[Data is an important part of our lives, we make some of the safe and important
decisions through data. It's an integral part of life and we to understand the
essence of it with ease. The CSIR through the Data Science for Impact and
Decision Enhancement (DSIDE) [http://dsideweb.github.io/] have establish a
Vacation Work program that takes in students from across South African
universities to train and build Data Science oriented solutions.
[https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/27929899022/i]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/data-viz-with-the-maker-library/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655832c</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 02 Jul 2016 17:25:08 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/27418434734_6f3709xc1e9_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/07/27418434734_6f3709xc1e9_o.jpg" alt="Data Viz With The Maker Library"/><p>Data is an important part of our lives, we make some of the safe and important decisions through data. It's an integral part of life and we to understand the essence of it with ease. The CSIR through the Data Science for <a href="http://dsideweb.github.io/">Impact and Decision Enhancement (DSIDE)</a> have establish a Vacation Work program that takes in students from across South African universities to train and build Data Science oriented solutions.</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/27929899022/in/album-72157670504705075/" title="IMG_6905"><img src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7641/27929899022_90999fc824.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Data Viz With The Maker Library"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<p>These students used variety data visualization tools to explore and give meaning with data and projects presented to them. Any tech solution have a user/customer, it's important to make sure that what we are building speaks and makes sense to the intended target(s).</p>
<p>The Geekulcha Maker Library Network was invited to host a Maker Afternoon for the students in efforts to spark more momentum and creativity in visualizing data.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The <a href="https://twitter.com/dsideprog">@dsideprog</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CSIR">@CSIR</a> interns are busy with ideation on different data story angles <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DataScience?src=hash">#DataScience</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BigData?src=hash">#BigData</a> <a href="https://t.co/ek65YNAbMi">pic.twitter.com/ek65YNAbMi</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/748861281264922624">July 1, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Everyone stepped away from their computers and get hands-on to build artistic crafts that will help the public have more understanding of data.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Day9: Scientists can be creative. Physical visualisation at <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> Maker Workshop <a href="https://twitter.com/CSIR">@CSIR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DSIDE2016?src=hash">#DSIDE2016</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DataScience?src=hash">#DataScience</a> <a href="https://t.co/jUnAaiYe3E">pic.twitter.com/jUnAaiYe3E</a></p>— Dr Vukosi Marivate (@vukosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/vukosi/status/748979807103422465">July 1, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Maker Librarians brought tools/resources and challenged the students to build physical objects that communicate stories through data onto the general public.</p>
<p>Some of the story angles included:</p>
<p><strong>Death of a Millionaire</strong> - from the day you are born, life is systematic, this group depicted how a Millionaire can be made or deterred from the path.</p>
<p><strong>Tshwane Unrest</strong> - exploring and visualizing all the possible aspects that may have led to the recent Tshwane protests: social media, ethnic groups and others.</p>
<p><strong>Blessers</strong> - as it is one of the societal issues, a group showcased how era of the Blessers have evolving throughout the years.</p>
<p><strong>Education system of South Africa</strong> - given the high drop-out rate in the country, this team showcased all the factors that contribute to the drop out rate.</p>
<p><strong>Gangsterism in South Africa</strong> - showcased reality of Gangsterism in the country with various factors. The group also made a wheel of life with different options we go through in life as far as gangsterism is concerned.</p>
<p>We certainly had fun at the Maker Afternoon, creativity was seen in action. Everyone should return to the crafts and help each other learn.</p>
<p>Here are all the photos from the Maker Afternoon:</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157670504705075" title="Maker Afternoon at CSIR"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7311/27929965412_72e9b5ee4d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Data Viz With The Maker Library"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of ICT on Education in Remote Areas]]></title><description><![CDATA[In recent years, many surveys which have been conducted on education system say
that Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) help enhance learning
outcomes and improve access to education.
ICT literacy is the ability to use digital technology, communication tools
and/or networks to define, access, manage, integrate, evaluate, create and
communicate information ethically and legally in order to function in a
knowledge society.
âTo succeed, it is not enough to master technical skills: w]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/role-of-ict-on-education-in-areas/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655832b</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 17 Jun 2016 10:43:51 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/06/ictinschoolwordle1456uj21.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/06/ictinschoolwordle1456uj21.png" alt="Role of ICT on Education in Remote Areas"/><p>In recent years, many surveys which have been conducted on education system say that Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) help enhance learning outcomes and improve access to education.</p>
<p>ICT literacy is the ability to use digital technology, communication tools and/or networks to define, access, manage, integrate, evaluate, create and communicate information ethically and legally in order to function in a knowledge society.</p>
<p>âTo succeed, it is not enough to master technical skills: we must also know how to apply them within an information societyâ, theme behind ICT literacy. Here, Iâd like to discuss few important things about role of ICT in education.</p>
<p>As we know, with the help of Internet, weâre now able to access any information right in front of our monitor and also explore the whole world just at our finger tips. That were the Initiative for Geekulcha Northern Cape was established in the Northern Cape to expose the communities with Tech/Entrepreneurship for a smart and an inclusive province.</p>
<p>SkateHacks is an initiative by Geekulcha and the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DeDaT) - Sports Science Workshops and Maker/Developer activities during the Skateboarding For Hope and the Kimberley Diamond Cup championship events.</p>
<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKimberleyDiamondCup%2Fvideos%2F518154078369017%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"/>
<p>This is in efforts to encourage youngsters to follow the path of Sports and Science and be involved in making the Northern Cape a smart and an inclusive province. The mission is drived by the Knowledge and Innovation Economy sub-programme of DeDaT.</p>
<p>My role at the SkateHacks event was to teach the youngsters how to make a Mobile Apps, the theme in the software part was âTo make a Mobile App can be easy â Teaching youngsters how to make a Mobile Apps for social relevancy and for skateboarding.</p>
<p>Youngsters were taught about the Rapid Applications Development platform (MIT App Inventor) and were very enthusiastic to start build their own apps. A lot of young scholars also wanted to know the career field of the software development and how can one fellow the career route.</p>
<p>The advice I gave the young scholars was after learning ICT Skills itâs important for them to identify problems that they are facing in the communities and come up with Tech solutions in making the province a smart city.</p>
<p>By <a href="https://twitter.com/PalesaAntony">Palesa Antony</a></p>
<p>Junior Web/Mobile Developer for Geekulcha</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[16 June: Need For Skate in Soweto]]></title><description><![CDATA[It was 40 years ago, the youth of Soweto took to the streets and made history in
a struggle for change. Inspiration is drawn from the youth that stood for
something, a better life and access for all. Today, the young came out in
numbers to realize their goals and find thrill through Skateboarding.
The Kimberley Diamond Cup is one of the richest skateboarding competitions in
the world with national tours that lead up to the Skateboarding World
Championships. The Soweto stop - Grand Slam was yet ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/need-for-skate-in-soweto/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655832a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2016 18:43:03 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/06/IMG_3135.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/06/IMG_3135.jpg" alt="16 June: Need For Skate in Soweto"/><p>It was 40 years ago, the youth of Soweto took to the streets and made history in a struggle for change. Inspiration is drawn from the youth that stood for something, a better life and access for all. Today, the young came out in numbers to realize their goals and find thrill through Skateboarding.</p>
<p>The <a href="">Kimberley Diamond Cup</a> is one of the richest skateboarding competitions in the world with national tours that lead up to the Skateboarding World Championships. The Soweto stop - Grand Slam was yet another regional qualifier event for the finals happening 03 - 08 October in Kimberley.</p>
<p><a href="">Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism</a> and Geekulcha established the SkateHacks initiative to grow more interest into Science and Technology through Skateboarding.</p>
<p>Through the Maker Library Network, Geekulcha brought tech activities into Soweto during the Grand Slam edition. As the world gets smarter and more integrated, people should also connect more. Skater meets Maker to share ideas and set them on motion to make skateboards more cool and smarter.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Maker meets Skater <a href="https://twitter.com/KDiamondCup">@KDiamondCup</a>, sharing ideas of what and how to put Tech onto skateboards. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kdcskate?src=hash">#kdcskate</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SkateHacks?src=hash">#SkateHacks</a> <a href="https://t.co/7CQgGHCc6I">pic.twitter.com/7CQgGHCc6I</a></p>— #SkateHacks - Soweto (@TiyaniTee) <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee/status/743505566228750336">June 16, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<p>Skaters skate, Makers make - all have to learn each other to embrace the art and creativity. Some of the skaters we met from the last tours are now a bit more tech-savvy and suggesting more ideas. Makers, are now challenged to learn how to skate.</p>
<p>A skateboard was hacked with an app that shows the information from the skateboard such as the altitude, speed and shows the skater how much they have skated per day. More ideas are tested through engagements with the skaters. Another project was the HacXercises which gamifies exercise - the right way.</p>
<p>Great talent came out to play such as the 10 year old Boipelo from Kimberley who wowed everyone with her skills. It's amazing to see young talent taking a chance to play with the big boys and girls in the game.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We caught up with Boipelo, few of the youngest skaters around. Going to Skateboarding World Championships. <a href="https://t.co/KA1OjoZDXK">pic.twitter.com/KA1OjoZDXK</a></p>— #GKHack16 (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/743378155176591360">June 16, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<p>Many hands can make light work, we shall continue making the two worlds meet for a greater skills development. Youth have an important role to play in taking the country forward through the Collaboration Economy and Social Cohesion.</p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.5% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"/></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BGtruNIm482/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Makers make and Skaters Skate. Hack-a-Skate at #kdcskate Grand Slam. #SkateHacks #makerlibraries @geekulcha @connect_za</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Geekulcha Makers (@gkmakers) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-06-16T11:32:29+00:00">Jun 16, 2016 at 4:32am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>Congratulations to all the winners, we are confident that you will make the country proud at the main KDC event, we can't wait.</p>
<p>Our friends at <a href="http://www.htxt.co.za">Htxt.Africa</a> wrote article on our SkateHacks drive: <a href="http://www.htxt.co.za/2016/06/15/whats-happened-at-the-skatehacks-tours-so-far-how-you-can-still-get-involved/">What's happened at SkateHacks tours + how you can still get involved</a>. Check it out and get involved.</p>
<p>Stay alert of the SkateHacks activities, next stop is at the Geekulcha annual hackathon - <a href="http://skatehacks.ncdev.co.za/">#GKHack16</a>.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hack-a-Skate at the Skateboarding World Championships]]></title><description><![CDATA[Life is a dream, things get crazy almost every time we check our phones,
computers, read a paper and we see this everywhere we go. Technology is changing
our world at a faster rate, the future comes much sooner than expected.
The Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Geekulcha have realized
the rate at which the change is going and we need to get everyone on the board.
Through the collaboration, we launched the SkateHacks
[http://skatehacks.ncdev.co.za/] initiative with an intent]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/hack-a-skate-at-the-skateboarding-world-championships/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558329</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 12 Jun 2016 18:50:57 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/06/26890444484_c2b4eed91d5_k.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/06/26890444484_c2b4eed91d5_k.jpg" alt="Hack-a-Skate at the Skateboarding World Championships"/><p>Life is a dream, things get crazy almost every time we check our phones, computers, read a paper and we see this everywhere we go. Technology is changing our world at a faster rate, the future comes much sooner than expected.</p>
<p>The Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Geekulcha have realized the rate at which the change is going and we need to get everyone on the board. Through the collaboration, we launched the <a href="http://skatehacks.ncdev.co.za/">SkateHacks</a> initiative with an intention of making skateboards smart and cool through Open Source technologies.</p>
<p>SkateHacks activities are rolled out during the <a href="http://www.kimberleydiamondcup.com/">Kimberley Diamond Cup</a> tours as a lead up to the Skateboarding World Championships. Skaters and Makers come together and build Innovative projects through electronics systems and mobile apps.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XUtxCFJDXyE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Now it's your turn! Can you innovate and Hack-a-Skate? Come through to <a href="http://gkhack16.geekulcha.com/">#GKHack16</a>, <strong>come up with a super cool project and you could win a trip</strong> to exhibit and watch the world skaters at the Skateboarding Championships in Kimberley!</p>
<p>If you are in the Northern Cape, you will get an opportunity at the annual NCDev Hackathon that will take place in Upington, 19 - 20 August.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/06/WSGP-Skateboarding-Championships-2016-KDC.jpg" alt="Hack-a-Skate at the Skateboarding World Championships"/></p>
<p>Go ahead and take part, your skateboarding Innovation could be tested out by the world best skaters! See you at #GKHack16</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The countdown begins: Geekulcha hackathon 2016]]></title><description><![CDATA[Here we are again. It is time for another jam packed weekend filled with
creation, innovation and fun. This will be the third annual GKHack taking place
24-26 June 2016 at the innovation hub. It is a great opportunity for young tech
Geeks to develop solutions and network with one another to showcase their
expertise.
The theme for this yearâs hack is âSMART GROWING WORLDâ. The aim is to develop
solutions that help people adapt in this vast changing world. The focus will be
education, health, gam]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/the-countdown-begins-geekulcha-hackathon-2016/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558328</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi Tsotetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 31 May 2016 19:37:19 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/GK-1.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/GK-1.png" alt="The countdown begins: Geekulcha hackathon 2016"/><p>Here we are again. It is time for another jam packed weekend filled with creation, innovation and fun. This will be the third annual GKHack taking place 24-26 June 2016 at the innovation hub. It is a great opportunity for young tech Geeks to develop solutions and network with one another to showcase their expertise.</p>
<p>The theme for this yearâs hack is <b>âSMART GROWING WORLDâ. The aim is to develop solutions that help people adapt in this vast changing world. The focus will be education, health, gaming, entertainment, social media, fashion, construction, water, open data, data science, music, art and makers. There are no boundaries.</b></p>
<p>Everyone is invited. The hack is open to all and will bring together creatives, designers, entrepreneurs, innovators and developers. This is not just a programming event, the GKHack will provide a learning experience for business case writing and presentation skills.</p>
<p>Prototypes will be submitted and pitched on the last day of the hack. You know what that means? There is a winning prize. The hack will be both user and tech centred. Solutions will be assessed on addressing a need and the best use of emerging technology in implementation.</p>
<p>Quick tips on things to think about when creating your solution are:<br>
<list><br>
Market potential<br>
Socio-economical impact and<br>
Scalability<br>
<list/></br></br></br></br></list></br></p>
<p>Bring out your inner Geek at the Geekulcha hackathon 2016. You donât want to miss this.</p>
<p>Sign up at <a href="http://gkhack16.geekulcha.com/">www.gkhack16.geekulcha.com</a></p>
<p>Click <a href="http://blog.geekulcha.com/the-story-to-be-told-the-geekulcha-hackathon-2015/">here</a> to take a look at what happened at the GKHack15</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Giyani School Visits Geekulcha]]></title><description><![CDATA[In the world of the Digital Age, we need to be reaching out and consume as much
information as possible. There are times when we want to know more.
Youngsters from Giyani, accompanied by their teachers, embarked on a journey to
Pretoria to visit Geekulcha to learn more about the world of ICT and
Entrepreneurship on 27 May 2016.
> At the Innovation hub with kids from my high school Giyani High School
@Geekulcha [https://twitter.com/Geekulcha] #iBlameGK
[https://twitter.com/hashtag/iBlameGK?src]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/giyani-school-visits-geekulcha/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558327</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 29 May 2016 09:46:14 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/IMG_4486.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/IMG_4486.jpg" alt="Giyani School Visits Geekulcha"/><p>In the world of the Digital Age, we need to be reaching out and consume as much information as possible. There are times when we want to know more.</p>
<p>Youngsters from Giyani, accompanied by their teachers, embarked on a journey to Pretoria to visit Geekulcha to learn more about the world of ICT and Entrepreneurship on 27 May 2016.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">At the Innovation hub with kids from my high school Giyani High School <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iBlameGK?src=hash">#iBlameGK</a></p>— Joe Dlomu (@Joe_Dlomu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Joe_Dlomu/status/736100322100137984">May 27, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="http://www.theinnovationhub.com/#home">The Innovation Hub</a>, <a href="http://www.sansa.org.za/">South African National Space Agency (SANSA)</a> and <a href="http://www.mlab.co.za/">mLab Southern Africa</a> helped us in welcoming the youngsters. It was a day of learn, exploration and setting path in the world of ICT.</p>
<p>Mr Ogone Ntwae sparked more interest into both scholars and teachers with the idea of the <a href="http://www.theinnovationhub.com/skills-development/fablab-9">Youth FabLab</a>, an initiative by The Innovation and the City of Tshwane.</p>
<p>Hosted at The Innovation Hub's Knowledge Centre, the youngsters got a one day experience of the Geekulcha VacWork programme mentored by the Geeks. SANSA did a workshop to bring Space Enlightenment onto the youngsters through interactive maps.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ogone from <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a> talking to the young minds from Giyani High School <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkvacwork?src=hash">#gkvacwork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STEM?src=hash">#STEM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GCR106FM">@GCR106FM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SANSA7">@SANSA7</a> <a href="https://t.co/TBd56ngunm">pic.twitter.com/TBd56ngunm</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/736101087875207168">May 27, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<p>They were introduced to the Hour of Code where they obtained the certificates by completing the tasks.</p>
<p>On this day, we got to experience a more variety of possibilities from Giyani. The learners were enthusiastic about the upcoming Geekulcha annual hackathon (GKHack16) and idea of the <a href="http://future.geekulcha.com">Geekulcha VacWork</a> in Giyani.</p>
<p>They got an opportunity to tour the different areas of The Innovation Hub such as the Youth FabLab, mLab and the BioPark.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Giyani Scholars touring the Bio Park <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub">@InnovHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mlabsa">@mlabsa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mcleansibanda">@mcleansibanda</a> <a href="https://t.co/APqS254Z9j">pic.twitter.com/APqS254Z9j</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/736162339838382080">May 27, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<p>We are glad that they had a great time in Pretoria, Geekulcha commits to bringing the VacWork in Giyani in efforts to growing ICT skills.</p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:36.7592592593% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"/></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BF-1IQIG4y2/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Gave the young men an Arduino Mega board and some other components, they were so thrilled. Planting a seed for #gkVacWork in Giyani and Malamulele. They are going to build a robot. #iBlameGK</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Geekulcha Makers (@gkmakers) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-05-29T06:50:23+00:00">May 28, 2016 at 11:50pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>Here are the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157668942629276/with/26716004753/">photos from the day's visit</a>.</p>
<p>Through collaborative work, we can empower more people for the benefit of the masses. We are looking forward to hosting more youth as they find their path in life.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown--></hr>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Day of Skateboarding For Hope]]></title><description><![CDATA[This weekend we joined some of the South African finest young skaters with the
Kimberley Diamond Cup
[http://www.kimberleydiamondcup.com/2016/05/skateboarding-hope-national-tour-heads-ybf-skate-plaza-jhb-saturday/]
's Skateboarding For Hope. This regional qualifier event for the Skateboarding
World Champions was hosted at the YBF Skate Plaza in Bryanston, 27 May 2016.
With a focus on empowering youth through skateboarding, Skateboarding For Hope
aims to reach underprivileged kids throughout So]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/a-day-of-skateboarding-for-hope/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558326</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 28 May 2016 18:19:22 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/IMG_2686.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/IMG_2686.jpg" alt="A Day of Skateboarding For Hope"/><p>This weekend we joined some of the South African finest young skaters with the <a href="http://www.kimberleydiamondcup.com/2016/05/skateboarding-hope-national-tour-heads-ybf-skate-plaza-jhb-saturday/">Kimberley Diamond Cup</a>'s Skateboarding For Hope. This regional qualifier event for the Skateboarding World Champions was hosted at the YBF Skate Plaza in Bryanston, 27 May 2016.</p>
<p><em>With a focus on empowering youth through skateboarding, Skateboarding For Hope aims to reach underprivileged kids throughout South Africa by introducing skateboarding as a powerful, positive alternative to destructive lifestyle choices that provides a sense of purpose and self worth.</em></p>
<p>Source - KDC website.</p>
<p>We love the vision of SFH in empowering the future. Ten youngsters from <a href="http://www.oneloveskate.org/#1love">One Love Skate</a> were given brand new skateboards to help build their dreams in being great skaters.</p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:37.5% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"/></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BF8oAObks89/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Good times with the One Love Skate kids from Johannesburg here at @ybfplaza #kdcskate #skateboardingforhope</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Kimberley Diamond Cup (@kimberleydiamondcup) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-05-28T10:17:12+00:00">May 28, 2016 at 3:17am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>Geeks? Skateboarding? Geekulcha in collaboration with the Northern Cape <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za/">Department of Economic Economic Development and Tourism</a> (DEDaT) have launched the <a href="http://skatehacks.ncdev.co.za">SkateHacks</a> initiative that uses skateboarding to attract more youth into Science and Technology.</p>
<p>Skateboarding unveils the beauty of Creativity and Art, as the world gets smarter and starter, things are getting more connected and integrated together. We need to use Technology as an enabler to make skateboards more cool and smarter.</p>
<p>Great talent was showcased, uprising talent such as Ashton, Lehlogonolo and others. Congratulations to all the winners of the different contests.</p>
<p>DEDaT and Geekulcha will be bringing maker activities at the KDC events. This youth month, there are <a href="http://www.htxt.co.za/2016/05/24/a-whole-month-of-making-with-the-skatehacks-youth-month-tours/">activities</a> lined up for SkateHacks with KDC.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/IMG_2712-1.jpg" alt="A Day of Skateboarding For Hope"/></p>
<p>The Kimberley Diamond Cup has connected and built a family of skaters - this is a future we want to see.</p>
<p>The world is growing, it us up to us to imagine things and make them a reality - let's Hack-a-Skate.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[SkateHacks - Youth Month Tours]]></title><description><![CDATA[Skateboarding is an Art that requires focus and best level of creativity. For
many, this is also a way of life and how they make a living.
For Techies, there is a great challenge that explorers can work on: putting tech
into skateboards to make them smart and cool. As the world get more connected,
interesting stuff result.
Geekulcha in collaboration with the Northern Cape Department of Economic
Development and Tourism (DEDaT), have been on a mission to use Skateboarding to
enhance Tech skills ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/skatehacks-youth-month-tours/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558324</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 17 May 2016 18:34:23 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/13177475_102092061764w94197_593813823882341772_n-1.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/13177475_102092061764w94197_593813823882341772_n-1.jpg" alt="SkateHacks - Youth Month Tours"/><p>Skateboarding is an Art that requires focus and best level of creativity. For many, this is also a way of life and how they make a living.</p>
<p>For Techies, there is a great challenge that explorers can work on: putting tech into skateboards to make them smart and cool. As the world get more connected, interesting stuff result.</p>
<p>Geekulcha in collaboration with the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDaT), have been on a mission to use Skateboarding to enhance Tech skills and Innovation through the SkateHacks.</p>
<p>SkateHacks activities take place mainly as part of the Kimberley Diamond Cup events to attract more youngsters into Science and Technology through Skateboarding.</p>
<p>This June, the focus is specifically on the youth through the plug and play mobile trolley initiative by DEDaT. Each tour consist of these activities: <em>Skater meets Maker chats</em>, <em>Mobile Ninjas section</em>, <em>Maker Corner (Hack-a-Skate)</em> and a <em>Gaming Zone</em>.</p>
<p>Youth Month tours will take place as follows:</p>
<p><strong>Northern Cape (Rural Education Development )</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>02 June: Springbok</li>
<li>03 June: Upington</li>
<li>05 June: De Aar</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Gauteng (Smart Growing World solutions)</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>16 June: Soweto</li>
<li>23 - 24 June, Midrand, Gauteng (IoTHack @ InnoLive Conference)</li>
<li>24 - 26 June, Pretoria, Gauteng (GKHack16)</li>
</ul>
<p>These activities seeks to find and promote Innovation in Skateboarding. The best idea will be exhibited at the Skateboarding World Championships in October.</p>
<p>Exploring the path in using Skateboarding for STEM Education development through skateboarding.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[SkateHacks: Maker Meet Skater at KDC]]></title><description><![CDATA[Skateboarding: One of the activities that brings art, creativity, fun and
livelihood together. The Kimberley Diamond Cup (KDC)
[http://kimberleydiamondcup.com] is one of the biggest skating events in Africa
and brings over 100 skaters from 50 countries into South Africa for the
Skateboarding World Championships.
The world is growing smarter and we need to adapt, Geekulcha has entered into a
collaboration with Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism
(DEDaT) [http://economic.]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/skatehacks-maker-meet-skater-at-kdc/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558323</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 12 May 2016 17:31:46 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/13177475_102092061764w94197_593813823882341772_n.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/13177475_102092061764w94197_593813823882341772_n.jpg" alt="SkateHacks: Maker Meet Skater at KDC"/><p>Skateboarding: One of the activities that brings art, creativity, fun and livelihood together. The <a href="http://kimberleydiamondcup.com">Kimberley Diamond Cup (KDC)</a> is one of the biggest skating events in Africa and brings over 100 skaters from 50 countries into South Africa for the Skateboarding World Championships.</p>
<p>The world is growing smarter and we need to adapt, Geekulcha has entered into a collaboration with <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za">Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDaT)</a> in the Northern Cape, to use skateboarding as a way to attract more youth into Science and Technology.</p>
<p><a href="http://skatehacks.ncdev.co.za">SkateHacks</a> is an initiative that connects Skaters and Makers to come up with Creative and Innovative ideas to make skateboards smart and cool.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Damian likes IT and Skateboarding, be like Damian.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iblameGK?src=hash">#iblameGK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KDC?src=hash">#KDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KDCskateplaza?src=hash">#KDCskateplaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GKSS?src=hash">#GKSS</a> <br>Visit <a href="https://t.co/ssJPbpUJuC">https://t.co/ssJPbpUJuC</a> <a href="https://t.co/4eqEtivdcx">pic.twitter.com/4eqEtivdcx</a></br></p>— #skateHacksMidwayMay (@iamkeenanG6) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamkeenanG6/status/728982045318328320">May 7, 2016</a></blockquote>
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On 07 May, KDC hosted the Midway Mayhem which attracted young skaters from the Kimberley and neighbouring cities to build their journey in becoming the next Nyjah Houston or better world skaters. Once again, the wow factor was there, there is great potential.
<p>DEDAT and Geekulcha Maker Library Network and GKSS led the following activities at the Midway Mayhem:</p>
<ol>
<li>SkateHacks Chat: Makers hear from Skaters of their understanding of Tech and how cool they want their skateboards to be.</li>
<li>Mobile Ninjas: Youngsters learned about mobile apps and how to build.</li>
<li>Hack-a-Skate: Hands-on with Arduino - Tech onto skateboard</li>
<li>Gaming Zone: Mastering the skate tricks through digital gaming.</li>
</ol>
<p>This is a mission to drive STEM Education and Career Alignment through Localization (Skateboarding).</p>
<p>The next SkateHacks activities will take place as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>02 June: Springbok, Northern Cape</li>
<li>03 June: Upington, Northern Cape</li>
<li>05 June: De Aar, Northern Cape</li>
<li>16 June: Soweto, Gauteng</li>
</ul>
<p>Calling on all Skaters and Makers to get involved in SkateHacks to drive Innovation, Open Source, IoT, Big Data and Machine Learning fundamentals in the country to grow the skills capacity.</p>
<p>See you soon!</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Maker Librarians at MakerEdu Conference]]></title><description><![CDATA[For the first time in South Africa, our friends at Think Ahead Education
Solutions and Create Africa, hosted Makerspace in Education Conference. The
conference took place at the Redhill School in Sandton , 07 May.
As the conference was targeted for teachers, it was quite fascinating to explore
how the education system might look like in the future with the integration of
MakerSpaces. Over 100 teachers got a chance to learn how they can start a
MakerSpace in their schools.
The Geekulcha Maker L]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/maker-librarians-at-makeredu-conference/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558322</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 08 May 2016 14:05:03 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/20160507_145413.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded>< for the collaboration, all participants who came to the workshop and a hearty thank you to the event organizers for making it happen.
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Intel Training at UP]]></title><description><![CDATA[Intel Software and Services through Geekulcha reached out at the University of
Pretoria for a Maker-based training for students. The training consisted of the
Intel RealSense and Intel Edison board.
The training was hosted in collaboration with Engineers Without Boarders (EWB)
at the UP. Engineers were introduced and got to play with Intel Developer Tools
while realizing and exploring possibilities.
With such tools, students can take their ideas in motion to address the needs of
the growing wo]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/intel-training-at-up/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558325</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 06 May 2016 09:21:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/26501908150_b9197de5ff_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/26501908150_b9197de5ff_o.jpg" alt="Intel Training at UP"/><p>Intel Software and Services through Geekulcha reached out at the University of Pretoria for a Maker-based training for students. The training consisted of the Intel RealSense and Intel Edison board.</p>
<p>The training was hosted in collaboration with Engineers Without Boarders (EWB) at the UP. Engineers were introduced and got to play with Intel Developer Tools while realizing and exploring possibilities.</p>
<p>With such tools, students can take their ideas in motion to address the needs of the growing world.</p>
<p>The Intel RealSense camera is getting some good reception from the student developer communities and it's quite easy to develop for. Although the avail camera was the F200 version, students are finding innovative solutions.</p>
<p>University of Pretoria students are interested using the Intel RealSense for fashion solutions.</p>
<p>Geekulcha urges students to join the Intel Developer Developer zone for more greater opportunities.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Skateboarding For STEM Development]]></title><description><![CDATA[Skateboarding is a fairly popular game in South Africa amongst youth. It is used
for recreation, sport, transport mode and to make a living. One of the biggest
Skateboarding events is the Kimberley Diamond Cup which takes place in the
Northern Cape province with the Skateboarding World Championships.
Geekulcha began a collaboration with the Northern Cape Department of Economic
Development and Tourism (DEDAT) to explore possibilities of skateboarding as a
stimulant for Science and Technology car]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/skateboarding-for-stem-development/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558321</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 03 May 2016 06:11:33 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/sksh.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/sksh.jpg" alt="Skateboarding For STEM Development"/><p>Skateboarding is a fairly popular game in South Africa amongst youth. It is used for recreation, sport, transport mode and to make a living. One of the biggest Skateboarding events is the Kimberley Diamond Cup which takes place in the Northern Cape province with the Skateboarding World Championships.</p>
<p>Geekulcha began a collaboration with the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) to explore possibilities of skateboarding as a stimulant for Science and Technology career paths.</p>
<p>The journey began at the Skateboarding For Hope organized by KDC where a Sports Science workshop was hosted to introduce local youth into the world of Tech. These youngsters love skating, hence it was necessary to use what they know already and enable them to more possibilities with skateboarding.</p>
<p>"Making skateboards smart and cool" is what this collaboration has been driving. The Geekulcha team engage with skaters to hear their ideas and then set the ideas in motion. Power of Open Source and Making put into play in efforts to inspire the youth.</p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="6" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:28.125% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"/></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BE7ohM-G49i/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Tech into Skateboards? Yep that's what we will be up to in Kimberley this weekend at the Midway Mayhem @kimberleydiamondcup. #kdcskate #SkateHacks #MakerLibraries</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Geekulcha Makers (@gkmakers) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-05-03T04:31:04+00:00">May 2, 2016 at 9:31pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>As the world and things get more connect, it is important to realize the value of ICT as an enabler in almost each and every field.</p>
<p>We believe that this is one of the methods to drive Tech Education and equip the youth with adequate skills needed for the future. Skateboarding is art and brings about creativity, let's channel that energy in attracting more youth in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Weekend of Space Apps in Kimberley]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Northern Cape, the astronomical capital of South Africa, is home to the
South African Largest Telescope (SALT) and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA)
project. These two projects are to help make our lives be more informed and
advance Space Knowledge.
Over the weekend of 22-24 April, Kimberley joined over 100 locations around the
world for the NASA International Space Apps challenge. The Innovation Incubation
programme by NASA seeks to gather developers/innovations together to solve
challenges]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/a-weekend-of-space-apps-in-kimberley/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558320</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 27 Apr 2016 14:54:31 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/04/IMG_0143de.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/04/IMG_0143de.jpg" alt="A Weekend of Space Apps in Kimberley"/><p>The Northern Cape, the astronomical capital of South Africa, is home to the South African Largest Telescope (SALT) and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project. These two projects are to help make our lives be more informed and advance Space Knowledge.</p>
<p>Over the weekend of 22-24 April, Kimberley joined over 100 locations around the world for the NASA International Space Apps challenge. The Innovation Incubation programme by NASA seeks to gather developers/innovations together to solve challenges in space and impact of life on earth.</p>
<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/26057995183/in/album-72157665174591883/" title="IMG_0056"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1665/26057995183_f2f4f62468.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="A Weekend of Space Apps in Kimberley"/></a><script async="" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"/></p>
<p>First in the province, the Kimberley edition of Space Apps challenge was hosted at the Sol Plaatje University on the university's official opening weekend. Over 30 local developers came through to put their skills into test and motion for change.</p>
<p>Six solutions were solved from the hackathon, <a href="https://youtu.be/3-ASh5SHnnA?list=PLmQ-AqWKlIK6sGa00GQCPyP6n8xIh-TN-">watch what the teams were up to</a>.</p>
<p>Space Apps challenge in Kimberley was hosted by the <a href="http://economic.ncape.gov.za/">Northern Cape DEDaT (Knowledge Economy & Innovation)</a> and Geekulcha (GKSS). The hackathon was supported by <a href="http://www.sita.co.za/contacts/cont_northcape.htm">SITA</a> in the Northern Cape and the <a href="http://dcvh.weebly.com/">Diamond Creative Vision Hub</a>.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaceAppsKimberley?src=hash">#SpaceAppsKimberley</a> Be like..... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BUC2016?src=hash">#BUC2016</a> <a href="https://t.co/3XExwLr67x">pic.twitter.com/3XExwLr67x</a></p>— Tlhalefo (@Tyquee_TL) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tyquee_TL/status/723622237836849154">April 22, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The struggle is real outchea <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaceApps?src=hash">#SpaceApps</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaceAppsKimberley?src=hash">#SpaceAppsKimberley</a></p>— Nyakallo (@Nyakallo_Motsoa) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nyakallo_Motsoa/status/723650588509147136">April 22, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afronaut?src=hash">#Afronaut</a> just skyped <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaceAppsKimberley?src=hash">#SpaceAppsKimberley</a>. Love the morale, keep up the spirits Techies âđŸïžâđŸ. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfronautMoment?src=hash">#AfronautMoment</a> cc <a href="https://twitter.com/spaceapps">@spaceapps</a></p>— Mandla Maseko (@MandlaMaseko1) <a href="https://twitter.com/MandlaMaseko1/status/723866125839290368">April 23, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Space Heritage is certainly growing, it's always great seeing the community get together and work for change.</p>
<p>The Chairperson of the Geekulcha Student Society, Ms Nomfundo Nkosi, thanked everyone who came through to the Space Apps Kimberley. "I'd like to take this opportunity to THANK EACH AND EVERY INDIVIDUAL who sacrificed their weekend to attend the SpaceApps Hackathon. Most importantly I hope everyone learnt something and had lots of Fun."</p>
<p>Geekulcha extends a thank you to all the partners/sponsors who helped make this event a success.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Intel Training at Wits]]></title><description><![CDATA[Intel Software and Services through Geekulcha reached out at the Digital
Innovation Zone (Wits University) for a Maker-based training for students. The
training consisted of the Intel RealSense and Intel Edison board.
With such tools, students can take their ideas in motion to address the needs of
the growing world.
The Intel RealSense camera is getting some good reception from the student
developer communities and it's quite easy to develop for. Although the avail
camera was the F200 version,]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/intel-training-at-wits/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655831f</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 14 Apr 2016 14:15:18 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/26501908150_b9197de5ff_o-1.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/05/26501908150_b9197de5ff_o-1.jpg" alt="Intel Training at Wits"/><p>Intel Software and Services through Geekulcha reached out at the Digital Innovation Zone (Wits University) for a Maker-based training for students. The training consisted of the Intel RealSense and Intel Edison board.</p>
<p>With such tools, students can take their ideas in motion to address the needs of the growing world.</p>
<p>The Intel RealSense camera is getting some good reception from the student developer communities and it's quite easy to develop for. Although the avail camera was the F200 version, students are finding innovative solutions.</p>
<p>Geekulcha urges students to join the Intel Developer Developer zone for more greater opportunities.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha vacation programme]]></title><description><![CDATA[At Geekulcha, we believe that the foundation of IT as a solution provider should
start early in schooling. Many students select IT as a career path with little
knowledge of the industry and also having had little hands on experience with
the IT community. To address this matter, Geekulcha launched an initiative in
July 2014.
The Geekulcha Vacation Work (GKVacWork) programme is aimed at creating IT
awareness in high schools and showing young students how to use ICT to solve
every day issues. It ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-vacation-programme/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655831e</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 07 Apr 2016 12:34:09 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/04/Geekulcha.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/04/Geekulcha.jpg" alt="Geekulcha vacation programme"/><p>At Geekulcha, we believe that the foundation of IT as a solution provider should start early in schooling. Many students select IT as a career path with little knowledge of the industry and also having had little hands on experience with the IT community. To address this matter, Geekulcha launched an initiative in July 2014.</p>
<p>The Geekulcha Vacation Work (GKVacWork) programme is aimed at creating IT awareness in high schools and showing young students how to use ICT to solve every day issues. It highlights the importance of IT across all industries and provides students with the opportunity to be involved in current IT developments during school holidays.</p>
<p>This round of the Geekulcha programme ran from 22 March to 1 April 2016 in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Soweto. 100 students were taken into the programme from grade 6 to grade 11. The youngsters used mobile apps, web applications, electronics systems, art, graphic design and business development tools to give solutions to bring efficiency to living in smart cities.</p>
<p>Hereâs what some of the Geeks had to say:</p>
<p><b> What are the lessons you have learned from the programme? </b></p>
<p><b>Bongani (18)</b>: âYou should think out of the box instead of thinking inside the box. I am smarter than I think I am. I must be innovative. Any crazy idea is perfectâ</p>
<p><b>Tshenolo (15):</b> âI learned that everything is theoretically impossible until proven possibleâ</p>
<p><b>Nthatuoa (15):</b> âI learned computer literacy, business model canvas, value proposition canvas, coding, creating a device using arduino board, preparing for presentation and PowerPoint.â</p>
<p><b>Tshegofatso (16):</b> âI learned communication skills, how to participate in group work and also to be responsible in the tasks that I am givenâ</p>
<p><b>What advice can you give the youth about joining the IT industry?</b></p>
<p><b>Bongani (18):</b> âIT is the most important weapon we use to change the world. Join IT and feel the funâ</p>
<p><b>Zinhle (15):</b> âIT is fun and effective, it just needs commitment and focusâ</p>
<p><b>Thabiso (17):</b> I would advise them to join the IT industry as we live in a world that is forever developing and upgrading technologyâ</p>
<p><b>Michelle (15):</b> âYou must be determined and open minded, always speak your mind and be a hard worker. Joining the IT industry is a good idea and an opportunity for great thingsâ</p>
<p><b>What do you like most about the IT industry?</b></p>
<p><b>Jessica (16):</b> âYou can do anything using technologyâ</p>
<p><b>Milo (16):</b> âThe fact that you take a challenge and youâre never alone because even the opposition can help you out when you stuck or strugglingâ</p>
<p><b>Michelle (15):</b> âIt empowers young minds and gives us the opportunity to explore the IT world (industry)â</p>
<p>We would like to thank everyone who has made the GKVacWork possible. More programmes will be run and information will be made available on the GK website to register.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Intel Training at VUT]]></title><description><![CDATA[Students at the Vaal University of Technology had the opportunity to play around
with Intel Developer Zone tools. The Geekulcha hosted a training based Intel
RealSense 3D camera and the Intel Edison board for the students.
These are the tools shaping up the developer ecosystem and more students need to
be exposed to them.
It's really easy to get started, here on software.intel.com
[http://software.intel.com]. VUT students were provided with tools for the
training.
> The underboxing of the @In]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/intel-training-at-vut/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655831d</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 28 Mar 2016 15:24:16 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/03/25978062471_97ddaa9ef6_k.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/03/25978062471_97ddaa9ef6_k.jpg" alt="Intel Training at VUT"/><p>Students at the Vaal University of Technology had the opportunity to play around with Intel Developer Zone tools. The Geekulcha hosted a training based Intel RealSense 3D camera and the Intel Edison board for the students.</p>
<p>These are the tools shaping up the developer ecosystem and more students need to be exposed to them.</p>
<p>It's really easy to get started, here on <a href="http://software.intel.com">software.intel.com</a>. VUT students were provided with tools for the training.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The underboxing of the <a href="https://twitter.com/IntelRealSense">@IntelRealSense</a> by the <a href="https://twitter.com/VUT_Online">@VUT_Online</a> students. It's about to go down <a href="https://t.co/9ZAHQg7XKU">pic.twitter.com/9ZAHQg7XKU</a></p>— Geekulcha (@Geekulcha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geekulcha/status/713660277657575424">March 26, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>The training also extended to include Android training, to show developer new tools and techniques in mobile apps development.</p>
<p>As usual, participants came up with innovative ideas they could build with the Intel RealSense camera.</p>
<p>Here's what the participants had to say:</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LzTGAcisEnI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>We would like to thank the Google Developer Groups and Vaal University of Technology for hosting us.</p>
<p>Watch out,the training is coming to a campus near you soon.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The SKAHack 2016 is almost here]]></title><description><![CDATA[Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is an international effort to build the world's
largest and most sensitive radio telescope. The SKA project is driven by Big
Data [http://blog.geekulcha.com/big-data/] ,collaborating to confront Big Data
challenges and developing skills in Big Data management. Sol Plaatjie University
and WITS have introduced data science to address the skills shortage in South
Africa. Big Data continues to be one of the growing trends in the world with the
number of internet users gr]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/the-skahack-2016-is-almost-here/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655831c</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2016 19:20:08 GMT</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><p>Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is an international effort to build the world's largest and most sensitive radio telescope. The SKA project is driven by <a href="http://blog.geekulcha.com/big-data/">Big Data</a> ,collaborating to confront Big Data challenges and developing skills in Big Data management. Sol Plaatjie University and WITS have introduced data science to address the skills shortage in South Africa. Big Data continues to be one of the growing trends in the world with the number of internet users growing from 4 million in 2004 to 3.2 billion in 2015. This will be co-hosted by South Africa and Australia.</p>
<p>Geekulcha and the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development, and Tourism (DEDaT) will be hosting the FIRST ever hackathon for SKA themed SKA Knowledge. This is an initiative by the DEDaT. Through a theme "SKA Knowledge", the hackathon will gather developers, entrepreneurs, designers, data scientists and public representatives together to build civic tech while realising socio-economic value.</p>
<p>The hack will take place at Mayibuye Centre (Main hall), Kimberley on 12-13 March 2016. Donât worry about being a first time hacker, there is something for everyone and crash courses will be given for the tools that can be used during the hack. Lessons to be learned include networking, developing, design, entrepreneurship, business analysis and presentation skills.</p>
<p>Participants will be presenting solutions to the judges using mobile apps, websites, and other methods of impacting the community. Itâs best to bring your A game because SKAHack will be putting support structures in place to support technical and business development for the best solutions.</p>
<p>As if being involved with the development of the worldâs biggest telescope isnât exciting enough, <a href="http://www.mlab.co.za/">Mlab Southern Africa</a> will be sponsoring trips to the GKHack16 for the winners of the SKAHack. Does that not make you want to <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/skahack-2016-tickets-20035511755">register</a> already?</p>
<p>To get more information about the SKAHack visit the website <a href="http://skahack.ncdev.co.za/">HERE</a></p>
<p>âThis promises to establish Africa as a hub for expanding scientific inquiryâ â Jacob Zuma</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Make a good idea a great idea]]></title><description><![CDATA[Being good at something does not automatically make a good business idea. Being
personally invested, or passion as they put it, is a critical element of
realising the difference between a good and great idea.
Although brainstorming sessions and research are essential for building a
business idea, the âneedâ will usually come while you are hard at work and A:
You wish there was a better way of doing it or B: The product/service doesnât
exist at all.
We often associate a good idea with complexit]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/make-a-good-idea-a-great-idea/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655831b</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2016 13:39:28 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/02/hanging_light_bulbs.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/02/hanging_light_bulbs.jpg" alt="Make a good idea a great idea"/><p>Being good at something does not automatically make a good business idea. Being personally invested, or passion as they put it, is a critical element of realising the difference between a good and great idea.</p>
<p>Although brainstorming sessions and research are essential for building a business idea, the âneedâ will usually come while you are hard at work and A: You wish there was a better way of doing it or B: The product/service doesnât exist at all.</p>
<p>We often associate a good idea with complexity. Most of the time it is a simple problem that you are solving but A LOT of people have the same problem. You need to be sure that there is a market for the product/service that you are providing. After finalising your product/service, test it on strangers and ask for feedback. This is the best way to find out how your consumers perceive your product; after all, they will be using it.</p>
<p>Make sure youâre reachable and people know about you. There are various avenues for marketing. Make sure you have a website. If youâre not Googlable do you really exist?</p>
<p>Your idea has to be flexible enough to accommodate changing customer needs and must be able to evolve. Even if your idea is solving a complex problem, you must be able to explain your idea in simplistic terms so that you can get buy in from consumers, potential investors and sponsors. Geekulchaâs concept was to bring Tech Geeks together and from that, various initiatives and activities have come about because of its organic growth element.</p>
<p>There must be a component of uniqueness that will differentiate the idea from other similar products/services. It doesnât not have to be extreme, most of the time, the differentiator is something small that makes you noticeable to your market.</p>
<p>With many of the hackathons we host, we see students coming up with good ideas but not extending the thought process to make it a great idea. Tech Geeks tend to look at only the functionality of a product and forget considerations like revenue models, self-sustainability, marketing and brand names.</p>
<p>Make sure that your idea makes sense from three angles:</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Your perspective</b> in terms of what you are trying to achieve from the idea</li>
<li><b>Business perspective </b> regarding the financial element of the idea</li>
<li><b>Consumer perspective </b>relating to the market and if people need your product/service</li>
</ul>
<p>Tech is fun to play with and with it being one of the most co-dependant industries for other trades, the playground is boundless.</p>
<p>Remember, sometimes a great idea isnât new, itâs just better.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Let's Create More Open Data Clubs]]></title><description><![CDATA[You have probably heard a lot about Open Data, data this, data that - what's
this fuss really about? Believe it or not, we are all in the data business. This
is what the cool kids are up to these days, crunching on that data.
Open Data is not a new concept, data have been given out on the Internet by
various organizations. Why the surge in popularity? There are many civic tech
organizations like Geekulcha who just want more data.
The greatest pressure is out on the government - "feed us with m]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/lets-create-more-open-data-clubs/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655831a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2016 06:47:32 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://gijn.org/files/2015/06/opendata.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://gijn.org/files/2015/06/opendata.jpg" alt="Let's Create More Open Data Clubs"/><p>You have probably heard a lot about Open Data, data this, data that - what's this fuss really about? Believe it or not, we are all in the data business. This is what the cool kids are up to these days, crunching on that data.</p>
<p>Open Data is not a new concept, data have been given out on the Internet by various organizations. Why the surge in popularity? There are many civic tech organizations like Geekulcha who just want more data.</p>
<p>The greatest pressure is out on the government - "feed us with more data", the cool kids would say. It is of a popular belief that a lot of country's data must be made Open Data. Open Data? Open Data means that the data is freely available, accessible and can be changed by anyone. What happens when there is just a whole lot of data? Then you have Big Data.</p>
<p>You may know that too much of everything can become a mess. We must be able to do a reality check, with this too much demand of Open Data, do have the right capacity to handle this? In South Africa, the skills are not that great but it is encouraging that we have Open Data Champions.</p>
<p><a href="http://code4sa.org">Code For South Africa (Code4SA)</a> is one organization championing Open Data and the use of it through civic tech to make the lives of South Africans better. They have used Open Data to both question and answer many of the social issues we face on daily basis. The good thing is, Open Data is open for all, Code4SA recently launched a journalism academy for Open Data!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.meetup.com/topics/open-data/za/durban/">Open Data Durban</a> was formed out of a meet-up and they have since been working on a lot of cool Open Data projects. It's organizations like these who are making governments come at ease with releasing data to the public.</p>
<p>We need to grow the skills capacity to be able to handle this Open Data - we need more Open Data champions.</p>
<p>Geekulcha believes that it takes a village to raise a child. Why not build ecosystems? Let's check out what The Girl Next Door is doing, does she need help in liberating the data? Let's learn from Vanessa and share with her what we know. An Open Data Club can be an ideal solution to accelerate this Open Data revolution.</p>
<p>With the right mindset, great skills capacity and ultimate champions, it would make things easier to release that data that the government have been holding.</p>
<p>An Open Data club will launch in the City of Tshwane on 19 March 2016, we encourage you to rally behind and let's liberate that data.</p>
<p>How to get started? Well check these open <a href="https://data.code4sa.org/browse">datasets available on Code4SA</a> website and come up with a story angle</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Africa Checkout: Celebrating Innovation in Africa]]></title><description><![CDATA[As Geeks, the perception is that we spend most of our time behind the computer -
turning caffeine into code, making and breaking things. I was once told that
"Tiyani, if you don't play outside, you will never develop outside interests".
This was a challenge to get out and see what others are making/doing.
The Tech world is Huge and there is enough space for everyone to surf. We grow
by learning from each other through skills and experience.
Innov8 is an exciting Innovation event hosted by The ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/africa-checkout-celebrating-innovation-in-africa/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558319</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 13 Feb 2016 10:19:59 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/02/4418804763_7f76da61haa_b.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/02/4418804763_7f76da61haa_b.jpg" alt="Africa Checkout: Celebrating Innovation in Africa"/><p>As Geeks, the perception is that we spend most of our time behind the computer - turning caffeine into code, making and breaking things. I was once told that "Tiyani, if you don't play outside, you will never develop outside interests". This was a challenge to get out and see what others are making/doing.</p>
<p>The Tech world is Huge and there is enough space for everyone to surf. We grow by learning from each other through skills and experience.</p>
<p>Innov8 is an exciting Innovation event hosted by The Innovation Hub to bring Innovators together and keep the ecosystem vibrant. This time around, Innov8 had a theme "Celebrating Innovation in Africa" - #Innov8CIA. A perfect opportunity for Geeks Night Out and get on with the people in the ecosystem.</p>
<p>It was truly an exciting night, various countries were represented in light of the Innovation Prize Africa challenge. This year's edition of the IPA will be hosted in Botswana in June.</p>
<p>What a night! There was so much wisdom on the panel such that we could write a book of African Innovation Narratives. Moderated by The Innovation Hub's CEO, Mr Mclean Sibanda, the panel consisted of Innovation prisoners and enablers, Intellectual Priority activists, Indigenous Knowledge holders and others. There are 2 things to take away from both panel discussions:</p>
<p><strong>Building a Culture of Innovation</strong></p>
<p>"Africa Solutions for African Challenges" was a theme for the first panel discussion. This panel brought together Innovation Pioneers and Enablers to discuss ways of making Innovation thrive in Africa.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gov must be an enabler not a provider of innovation. Private sector needs to partner w/ academia for research & development <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Innov8CIA?src=hash">#Innov8CIA</a></p>— The Innovation Hub (@InnovHub) <a href="https://twitter.com/InnovHub/status/697470966088208384">February 10, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p><strong>Knowledge Production</strong></p>
<p>Themed "Made In Africa", Africa's best of minds took stage, perhaps the Godfathers and mothers of Innovation. The panel took focus on African Knowledge and Innovation. "If we loose the education competition, we loose everything" - Prof Nyasse from Nigeria.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Collaboration and knowledge sharing will help us build a more vibrant innovation ecosystem. - <a href="https://twitter.com/PaulineM4">@PaulineM4</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IPAprize">@IPAprize</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Innov8CIA?src=hash">#Innov8CIA</a></p>— #GoodNewsWednesday (@nunnovation) <a href="https://twitter.com/nunnovation/status/697482088279339008">February 10, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"/>
<p>Geekulcha Northern Cape will be hosting a second edition of the NCDevHack in August which will focus on "Our Future through Innovation and Indigenous Knowledge".</p>
<p>This was a first Innov8 event of the year, there will be more to come. We encourage you to get out of the box, discover and be discovered.</p>
<p>Africa is rising with a capacity of Innovating for humanity and the future we want to live in - play your role. Keep with these types of events through geekulcha.com/events or email <a href="mailto:events@theinnovationhub.com">events@theinnovationhub.com</a>.</p>
<p>We can't wait for the Innovation Prize Africa and if you have a lift in going to Botswana, do halla at the Geeks.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mentor A Geek]]></title><description><![CDATA[Many of us grew up in villages and we still remember the way of life in a
village: Your child is my child and my child is your child. You can't leave an
African home without eating anything and as much as we hated those taboos
"swiyila", deep down we know that they were meant to protect and build us.
Grandmothers/fathers have been great mentors of life hacks through Indigenous
Knowledge for us to be where we are.
Can indigenous Knowledge and Social Activism drive us in building the country's
c]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/mentor-a-geek/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558318</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 02 Feb 2016 05:16:18 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/02/bg2--1-.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/02/bg2--1-.jpg" alt="Mentor A Geek"/><p>Many of us grew up in villages and we still remember the way of life in a village: Your child is my child and my child is your child. You can't leave an African home without eating anything and as much as we hated those taboos "swiyila", deep down we know that they were meant to protect and build us.</p>
<p>Grandmothers/fathers have been great mentors of life hacks through Indigenous Knowledge for us to be where we are.</p>
<p>Can indigenous Knowledge and Social Activism drive us in building the country's capacity? What drives a Knowledge Economy? Geekulcha believes in establishing communities and ecosystems to ensure growth of all persons in the space that they are in.</p>
<p>School/Varsity drop-out rates continues to escalate and many people tend to loose focus and/or interest, particularly in the ICT field. Students can do better in finding their path on their chosen field with a little guidance - a helping hand to show light on their difficult/dark path.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/02/header-bg.jpg" alt="Mentor A Geek"/></p>
<p>Geekulcha is on a quest to finding dedicated individuals who are willing to spare some of their time to serve as mentors to the Geekulcha Tech and Entrepreneurship Community.</p>
<p>The way of education keeps on evolving, we need to realize the value in Sharing Economy, invest time and skills and ensure that the skills are constantly being put to work. Be at the fore-front of nurturing progress.</p>
<p>To become a Geekulcha Mentor, apply <a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/mentor">HERE</a>.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[#SkillsMustRise]]></title><description><![CDATA[We are currently experiencing one of the greatest revolutions of our times,
students standing up on their belief to say: #FeesMustFall. The support behind
the Free Education movement has been tremendous. Education is important because
we all need to get the adequate skills to enable greatness in our lives.
Through the #FeesMustFall movement, a lot of questions arose such as "How much
does it cost to produce a graduate in South Africa?", "Are South African
universities spending too much to produ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/skillsmustrise/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558317</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2016 04:22:34 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/01/17207883451_26x7e32e063_o.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/01/17207883451_26x7e32e063_o.jpg" alt="#SkillsMustRise"/><p>We are currently experiencing one of the greatest revolutions of our times, students standing up on their belief to say: #FeesMustFall. The support behind the Free Education movement has been tremendous. Education is important because we all need to get the adequate skills to enable greatness in our lives.</p>
<p>Through the #FeesMustFall movement, a lot of questions arose such as "How much does it cost to produce a graduate in South Africa?", "Are South African universities spending too much to produce a single graduate?" and a lot more.</p>
<p>In ICT particularly, South Africa is ranked number 75 in the global Network Readiness Index of the <a href="http://reports.weforum.org/global-information-technology-report-2015/network-readiness-index/">Global Information Technology Report</a> by the World Economic Forum. Watch here:</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8rwzXrK07YE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""/>
<p>Skills Capacity remains a challenge in the country, employers/recruiters are having a tough time in bringing the right skills into the Job Market. Reality is, a large number of graduates end up not using their acquired skills.</p>
<p>More often than not, graduates would land jobs as office assistants, shop keepers, clerks, in construction sites and others. Two more questions: Are these graduates not skilled enough? Should the fees increase to get the best skills? Well, chances of employment also depends on which institution you went to.</p>
<p>Geekulcha believes that it's all about what you can do. Here's what the Geekulcha Community is interested in.<br>
<img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/01/imageewgg.png" alt="#SkillsMustRise"/></br></p>
<h6 id="letsbuildtheskillscapacity">Let's build the skills capacity</h6>
<p>As a platform for ICT students, Geekulcha champions the following aspects of skills transformation: <em>Realization</em>, <em>Acquirement</em>, <em>Development</em>, <em>Redistribution</em> and <em>Utilization</em>. We got your back Jack! These are the ways Geekulcha will help you develop your skills this year.</p>
<ul>
<li>Hackathons (SKAHack, GKHack16, RHoK Pretoria, NCDevHack and others)</li>
<li>Maker Culture drive: Electronics, IoT, Big Data, sensor tech, open source, etc.</li>
<li>Open Data: Data analysis, processing and visualizations through a collaboration with <a href="http://code4sa.org">Code4SA</a></li>
<li>Campus Invasion: We will be coming to your campus very soon to train and expose your skills to the corporate world.</li>
<li>Future GeekStars: We need to start growing skills from the early age. Let's teach high scholars about Entrepreneurship and Innovation.</li>
</ul>
<p>Use everything at your disposal, there are a lot of resources out there, use them to learn and grow your skills.</p>
<p>The Fees Must Fall but let's make them Skills Rise in 2016, the journey starts now and it's all up to you.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Africa CheckOut: Scofray Nana Yaw Yeboah]]></title><description><![CDATA[
Transformational Coach and Brand Expert Scofray Nana Yaw Yeboah ranked 21st Most
Influential Young Ghanaian for 2015
Avance Media and associate conducted a poll of ranking 50 Most influential Young
Ghanaian which was made up of creme de la creme young women and men across about
10 categories.
Scofray Nana Yaw Yeboah was ranked 21sf among the poll of 50 other equally
influential Young Ghanaians. He was ranked 9th by Speakers bureau Ghana and
motivational speakers network in same 2015, He was ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/africa-checkout-scofray-nana-yaw-yeboah/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558316</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2016 15:13:32 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/01/4418804763_7f76da61haa_b.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/01/4418804763_7f76da61haa_b.jpg" alt="Africa CheckOut: Scofray Nana Yaw Yeboah"/><p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/01/12417962_102050650g46896915_1617905553750349020_n.jpg" alt="Africa CheckOut: Scofray Nana Yaw Yeboah"/></p>
<p>Transformational Coach and Brand Expert Scofray Nana Yaw Yeboah ranked 21st Most Influential Young Ghanaian for 2015</p>
<p>Avance Media and associate conducted a poll of ranking 50 Most influential Young Ghanaian which was made up of creme de la creme young women and men across about 10 categories.</p>
<p>Scofray Nana Yaw Yeboah was ranked 21sf among the poll of 50 other equally influential Young Ghanaians. He was ranked 9th by Speakers bureau Ghana and motivational speakers network in same 2015, He was listed among 20 Brand Expert also in 2015 and in 2014 he was listed among 20 young change makers.</p>
<p>Scofray Nana Yaw Yeboah is a gifted dynamic Transformational Coach, Consultant, Media Analyst, Author and a Public Speaker on varied topics such as leadership, branding (personal & corporate and rebranding), women empowerment, Relationships, and Communication.</p>
<p>He is the lead facilitator for Zoweh Global Consultâs Corporate Employee Performance Training â CEPT. He is a committed youth activist, and has taken part in many youth projects and conferences in Ghana. Scofray is arguably the most prolific young Ghanaian engaged on the Ghanaian media landscape from Radio, TV and news web portals on varied topics within his expertise not forgetting socio-politico-cultural discussions.</p>
<p>He is a regularly face on GTVâs Counseling Session, Adinkafo ayebi, Break Fast Show, GBC24 World View & Womenâs Voice , TV Africaâs â New Generation & morning show, Viasat 1- Paper review, CRTVâs â Morning Dew, Shalom TVâs â Start up, ATV, Capital TV, ETV, Metro TV, Obonu FM â Generational Hour, Radio Gold, Joyfm, Ultimate fm, Kasapa Fm, Rainbow Radio International, Pink fm, Radio Central, Radio XYZ, Neat FM, Okay fm, GFM radio UK Voice Of America â VOA and with a lot of article on modern Ghana, Ghana web, Spyghana, Etc</p>
<p>In the area of transformational coaching, he studied under some of the world renowned trainers, under the program Life Design Integrated program (VISTAR), a self-actualization & transformation training and coaching program. (Trainers: Dr. Carolyn âIsisâ Fuqua, Bettie Spruil, Sue Hawkes and Joyce Christie-all of USA). He was trained in Communication skills by Adom Ghartey and Associates under the sponsorship of VTF (Vocational Training for Female) Secretariat. He was at other training programs like the Baseline survey & strategic planning at Ho, training on the constitution of Ghana. Working Ethics, Accessing & modification of EST syllabus for Voc/Tech institutes and E.S.T training of trainer.</p>
<p>He is a Micro-computer technologist and Electrical/Electronics engineer certified by City & Guilds Institute of London â UK. And his expertise includes, computer hardware & software; repairing, upgrading and installation. Micro electronics and Honeywell intruder alarm systems.</p>
<p>He attended Koforidua Sec-Tech (Mmarima Mma â Abusua Kesie) and currently serves as the youngest President of the alumni as he is spearheading the building of one of the biggest a multi purpose assembly halls in West Africa for a senior high school with a 4000 seating capacity with axillary offices, executive suites, store rooms etc with a parking space for 250 cars.</p>
<p>He is member of National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). He was a broadcast journalist with Media 7 operators of shalom Tv, CRTV and Wassaman TV but a freelance journalist now. He also worked with Debill Services Ltd, and later rose to the position head of technical department, where he supervised the control room, installations and maintenance of all kinds of intruder alarm devices and any ICT related issues.</p>
<p>He has 3 books to his credit, Art of life â mastering tools for living, Transformational Pearls â practical leadership ingredients and the latest Branding 360 â a simplified guide to practical branding.. Credit <a href="http://rebrandlive.com/">Rebrandlive.com</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[2016: Rise of the Geeks]]></title><description><![CDATA[Last year was quite eventful for Geekulcha. Through hosting a multitude of
successful hackathons, initiatives and launching the Northern Cape Developer
(NCDev) Ecosystem, Geekulcha was able to grow its footprint. Although it was
challenging, many lessons have been learned and we as a team are now equipped to
come into 2016 with machines blazing.
Our hackathons are a platform for people to identify current issues, showcase
their skills, and create business opportunities that are economically via]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/2016-rise-of-the-geeks/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558315</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 11 Jan 2016 15:03:49 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/01/bg2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2016/01/bg2.jpg" alt="2016: Rise of the Geeks"/><p>Last year was quite eventful for Geekulcha. Through hosting a multitude of successful hackathons, initiatives and launching the Northern Cape Developer (NCDev) Ecosystem, Geekulcha was able to grow its footprint. Although it was challenging, many lessons have been learned and we as a team are now equipped to come into 2016 with machines blazing.</p>
<p>Our hackathons are a platform for people to identify current issues, showcase their skills, and create business opportunities that are economically viable. The events take place for up to 48 hours. During these hours, solutions are built using computer programming, robotics, design and entrepreneurial skills.</p>
<p>The Geekulcha VacWork Programme is growing bigger this year and will even take things to the street to explore a "Smart City Life" - the progress and attitude towards digital migration.</p>
<p>Reaketsetsa, a womenâs initiative of Geekulcha, will continue with events to empower women and girls within the Information and Communication Technology Industry.</p>
<p>Through our blogs this year, we will be unpacking subjects directly and indirectly impacting the IT industry. We will also be letting you in on where you, as a Geek, fit in and can find opportunity. Skills and capacity are a challenge in the IT industry because of the rate of tech growth vs. the capability that is available. This is because of the lack of detail in the information spread about IT developments. Thatâs what we are here for.</p>
<p>Geekulcha will be leading by example in terms of driving digitization through the use of Business Intelligence and Analytics. We will be providing awareness about the importance of information security in terms of cyber-attacks and managing intellectual property. We will delve into how the technical affects business and vice versa to inform whether to build cost saving or money making products/services. This year we will take a twist and also involve some personal growth experiences.</p>
<p>There are a series of events to attend and initiatives to be involved in. Geekulcha will be communicating the events as they unfold so be on the lookout for the launches. You donât want to miss out! These are just a few of the occasions to look forward to.</p>
<p>Focus will be placed on the Northern Cape where GK Geekulcha will be assisting DEDAT to establish an MLab presence in the province. Northern Cape is in for an action-packed year hosting the Ultimate Geekstar and Entrepreneur Awards, the NCDev Hackathon, and Start up weekend Northern Cape, which is a 52 hour bootcamp for entrepreneurs. There will also be a rise of Maker Activities to attract more youth into Science, Technology, Engineering and Math education (STEM) through Sports.</p>
<p>Johannesburg and Pretoria have a range of events to anticipate like the Random Hacks of Kindness (RHok) and the third annual Geekulcha hackathon. The annual GK hack will be going international with involvement from Kenya, Mozambique and Botswana.</p>
<p>Through the years we have established a presence in Gauteng and the Northern Cape but believe that it is onwards and upwards from here. Geekulcha is coming at you in 2016!!! Thank you to our partners for supporting us.</p>
<p>Random fact: CIO job satisfaction levels are at an all-time high and the strategic relevance of CIOâs in the boardroom has risen significantly. This means that organisations are opening up to IT informing forward looking innovations instead of just being cost centres.</p>
<p>It feels amazing to be in an industry that is always in the middle of a new boom.</p>
<p>Join the movement and join the community on the following platforms:<br>
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a><br>
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Geekulcha/">Geekulcha</a><br>
Website: <a href="http://geekulcha.com/">http://geekulcha.com/</a></br></br></br></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Summer Dev Days In Kimberley]]></title><description><![CDATA[Being a developer these days requires keeping up with time, the industry and
simply Getting Stuff Done. More often than not, here at Geekulcha we tell people
to live by the code. This year we established a Northern Cape leg of Geekulcha
that is stimulating, cultivating and driving a Geek Culture in the province.
With the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism
[http://economic.ncape.go.za] (DEDaT), it is our goal to grow the
Developer/Maker momentum in the province. Through]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/sumber-dev-days-in-kimberley/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558314</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 10 Dec 2015 07:54:34 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/12/IMG-20151207ggg-WA0015.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/12/IMG-20151207ggg-WA0015.jpg" alt="Summer Dev Days In Kimberley"/><p>Being a developer these days requires keeping up with time, the industry and simply Getting Stuff Done. More often than not, here at Geekulcha we tell people to live by the code. This year we established a Northern Cape leg of Geekulcha that is stimulating, cultivating and driving a Geek Culture in the province.</p>
<p>With the <a href="http://economic.ncape.go.za">Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism</a> (DEDaT), it is our goal to grow the Developer/Maker momentum in the province. Through the Knowledge Economy and Innovation sub-programme of the department, we aim to see the ICT/Entrepreneurship scene take new heights in the province.</p>
<p>For 3 days, our Geeks took a journey to Kimberley and helped local Innovators take their ideas in motion. This is what they got up to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Intel IDZ Training (NDK and the XDK)</li>
<li>Coming up with Innovation for SKA Knowledge and build apps</li>
<li>Business Development support with the IDZ</li>
<li>Microsoft Imagine Cup activation workshop</li>
<li>Technical support for the <a href="http://hackathon.ncdev.co.za">NCDev Hackathon</a> winners</li>
</ul>
<p>The students coming from institutions such as SPU itself, UNISA and TVET College, came up with these ideas for the SKA Knowledge:</p>
<ol>
<li>An app called <a href="https://twitter.com/ElJo_Mayunga/status/674584107196817408">Daasie Move</a> to provide a job portal and ability to apply with ease for SKA related job offers.</li>
<li>Simplifying and translating SKA information for ordinary people to understand through the <a href="https://twitter.com/ElJo_Mayunga/status/674588369796636672">SKA Inform</a> app.</li>
<li><a href="https://twitter.com/ElJo_Mayunga/status/674591601453375488">Update Me</a> app - Giving people the exclusivity and first hand at new discoveries that the SKA encounters through the app.</li>
<li>Making use of the SKA to localize climate in helping farmers - <a href="https://twitter.com/ElJo_Mayunga/status/674584892525707264">SupaNova</a>.</li>
</ol>
<p>Geekulcha Mobile Ninjas (<em>Tchisseke Vicente</em>, <em>Thamsanqa Mahlaola</em> and <em>Jonathan Mayunga</em>) took charge of the trainings. They were also joined by the Geekulcha Student Ambassadors at Sol Plaatje University - <em>Keenan Gwells</em> and <em>Thato Duiker</em>.</p>
<p>On behalf of all the Northern Cape Geeks, we would like to say extend a huge thanks to DEDaT for their contuniues support.</p>
<p>In February 2016, an SKA Hackathon will be hosted to drive more SKA Knowledge. Keep your eyes on <a href="http://www.ncdev.co.za">www.ncdev.co.za</a>.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Makers Quest To Find Business Sense]]></title><description><![CDATA[Basically, the basic idea in the Tech world is to basically keep interest in big
and emerging technologies that will basically disrupt our world as we basically
know it.
The Intel RealSense 3D camera is amongst those upcoming technologies in South
Africa to create a futuristic world, "this is where it all changes" as promoted
with everybody's favourite nerd, Sheldon Cooper!
Geekulcha Electronics (Maker initiative) decided to host an Intel RealSense
seminar that aimed at finding Business Sense ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/makers-quest-to-find-business-sense/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558313</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2015 19:27:27 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/11/poster2.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/11/poster2.jpg" alt="Makers Quest To Find Business Sense"/><p>Basically, the basic idea in the Tech world is to basically keep interest in big and emerging technologies that will basically disrupt our world as we basically know it.</p>
<p>The Intel RealSense 3D camera is amongst those upcoming technologies in South Africa to create a futuristic world, "this is where it all changes" as promoted with everybody's favourite nerd, Sheldon Cooper!</p>
<p>Geekulcha Electronics (Maker initiative) decided to host an Intel RealSense seminar that aimed at finding Business Sense out of the technology. About 33 Makers/Entrepreneurs participated in this seminar and got to spend time learning and working with the camera. A seminar about futuristic technologies could not had been complete without the Future GeekStars themselves, Geekulcha VacWork scholars formed part of the seminar.</p>
<p>The seminar was hosted at the Tshwane Innovation Zone, a city's pop-in area for creativity and reach out to city's innovation support structures. We are celebrating the Global Entrepreneurship Week thereby helping Makers make sense.</p>
<p>It was quite interesting to explore the types of solutions that can be developed with the Intel RealSense camera. Here are some of the ideas that came through for the Intel RealSense camera:</p>
<ul>
<li>DectorCRime</li>
<li>No-Lie Device</li>
<li>Smart Hospital</li>
<li>Skin Tone Detector</li>
<li>Patient Emergency Alerts</li>
</ul>
<p>Makers also completed Business Model Canvas aspects in the quest to finding and making Business Sense out of their ideas. The Intel RealSense camera is only available for developers in South Africa, we can't wait for mass-production and help Makers take their solutions to the people for socio-economic benefit.</p>
<p>Keep up with what Geekulcha Makers are up to: <a href="http://electronics.geekulcha.com">electronics.geekulcha.com</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Data Fans Find Sense In Open Data]]></title><description><![CDATA[Data, Data, Data! A lot of data, all around us, in many forms, there is a whole
lot of it. Why should we care? Is it even available to us? What we need is Open
Data, data that is freely available to use and can be distributed by anyone,
machines or a set of sensors.
Our friends at Code4SA [http://www.code4sa.org] are on a mission to establish a
National Open Data portal [http://dgz.code4sa.org]. To get the momentum going,
Code4SA drove Open Data Quest workshops in Cape Town, Durban and Pretori]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/data-fans-find-sense-in-open-data/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558311</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2015 21:31:32 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/10/12065621_10207713408655934_6155687683277668990_n.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/10/12065621_10207713408655934_6155687683277668990_n.jpg" alt="Data Fans Find Sense In Open Data"/><p>Data, Data, Data! A lot of data, all around us, in many forms, there is a whole lot of it. Why should we care? Is it even available to us? What we need is <strong>Open Data</strong>, data that is freely available to use and can be distributed by anyone, machines or a set of sensors.</p>
<p>Our friends at <a href="http://www.code4sa.org">Code4SA</a> are on a mission to establish a <a href="http://dgz.code4sa.org">National Open Data portal</a>. To get the momentum going, Code4SA drove Open Data Quest workshops in Cape Town, Durban and Pretoria to get data fans, journalists, designers, programmers and enthusiasts to join efforts in liberating South African data.</p>
<p>We co-hosted the Pretoria workshop with <a href="http://www.theinnovationhub.com">The Innovation Hub</a> and <a href="http://htxt.co.za">Htxt Africa</a> on the 24th of October where 47 Gauteng data worshippers took part.</p>
<p><strong>#SAOpenData</strong> - join the quest, we are rich in data.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/10/Selection_171.png" alt="Data Fans Find Sense In Open Data"/></p>
<p>Five teams came up with story angles for the data sets availed on the Code4SA Open Data platform.</p>
<p>Open Data revolution has started in South Africa we hope you will join us in this journey. See you soon and keep finding meaning in that data.</p>
<p><a href="mailto:dev@geekulcha.com">dev@geekulcha.com</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Intel Empowers TUT Student Developers]]></title><description><![CDATA[First 10 months in the country, Intel Corporation South Africa (Software and
Services) has been on a journey across the student communities and various
institutions enabling and empowering developers.
Geekulcha as a platform for ICT students, has been helping Intel on this journey
including finding their first Intel Student Partners (ISPs) in universities such
as TUT, UNISA and UJ.
On the 17th, the Intel Student Partners at the Tshwane University of Technology
hosted a workshop for 52 students]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/intel-empowers-tut-student-developers/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f6558310</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2015 08:13:26 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://www.capitalfm.co.ke/campus/files/2013/09/Intel.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://www.capitalfm.co.ke/campus/files/2013/09/Intel.jpg" alt="Intel Empowers TUT Student Developers"/><p>First 10 months in the country, Intel Corporation South Africa (Software and Services) has been on a journey across the student communities and various institutions enabling and empowering developers.</p>
<p>Geekulcha as a platform for ICT students, has been helping Intel on this journey including finding their first Intel Student Partners (ISPs) in universities such as TUT, UNISA and UJ.</p>
<p>On the 17th, the Intel Student Partners at the Tshwane University of Technology hosted a workshop for 52 students. The aim of the workshop was to get students to use Intel Developer Zone tools such as the XDK and get students to become Intel Developers through <a href="http://software.intel.com">software.intel.com</a>. Manned by the first TUT ISPs, Neo Malatji and Marie Mbenoun, the workshop was fully supported by the institution's Faculty of ICT for their 1st, 2nd and 3rd year students.</p>
<p>Our own Tiyani Nghonyama was present for support and manned one of the sessions. Tiyani told the TUT students that, "It's up to you guys to prepare for the next generation of the Intel Student Partners, what legacy are you leaving behind?".</p>
<p>The journey of Intel with Geekulcha this year has seen the use of IDZ tools in other initiatives such as RHOK Pretoria, Geekulcha Annual Hackathon, UN Women Hackathon and the Northern Cape's first ever Hackathon.</p>
<p>Intel's workshops have a nature of having hands-on sessions where students come up with ideas and build apps for the ideas. The workshop at TUT was no different and students had built apps such as the Love-Match Calculator, Online Art Gallery and a NaviApp.</p>
<p>A special thanks to the Intel ISPs, the TUT Faculty of ICT and all students who came through for the training, we are looking to more.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geeking Out At KDC]]></title><description><![CDATA[What happens when your system is running on Geek Juice? You live and breathe
Technology and impact? You see the world as a connected thing and think it can
be smarter? These are similar symptoms that the Geekulcha Geeks had and went all
out to attend the Skateboarding World Championships - the Kimberley Diamond Cup
[kimberleydiamondcup.com].
Geekulcha and the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism
are making skateboards smart and cooler through Maker activities at KDC.
Ge]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geeking-out-at-kdc/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655830f</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 12 Oct 2015 07:14:24 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://www.kimberley.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/PT-KDC2015-Now_On.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://www.kimberley.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/PT-KDC2015-Now_On.jpg" alt="Geeking Out At KDC"/><p>What happens when your system is running on Geek Juice? You live and breathe Technology and impact? You see the world as a connected thing and think it can be smarter? These are similar symptoms that the Geekulcha Geeks had and went all out to attend the Skateboarding World Championships - the <a href="kimberleydiamondcup.com">Kimberley Diamond Cup</a>.</p>
<p>Geekulcha and the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism are making skateboards smart and cooler through Maker activities at KDC.</p>
<p>Geeks must do Geeky things and it's all fun when we do it together. Geekulcha called on all Northern Cape Geeks and skaters to be involved in SkateHacks activities, putting cool sensors and communication modules on skateboards.</p>
<p>The Maker activities aims to encourage youngsters to be involved in Science, Technology and Sports. KDC hosted over 100 best skaters from 50 countries with R5 Million cash prizes at the Kumba Skate Plaza.</p>
<p>Hack-a-Skate was a challenge that Geekulcha had set out and opened the platform to the public to give out best ideas for Skateboarding Tech Innovation. Samuel Baloyi and Solly Cossa, as Serial Electronics Hackers, they did live hacks that attracted and exposed youngsters into the world of technology.</p>
<p>Geekulcha also used this opportunity to launch and pilot its <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.skatepoint.user.skatepoint&hl=en">SkatePoint</a> app that helped the audience with information and test their knowledge while enjoying the game of skateboarding.</p>
<p>There was a lot of skateboarding greatest moments, we took a lot of photos and videos. Best 3 skaters in the world gave us a great show but it was America's Nyjah Huston who took the ultimate $100 000 prize.</p>
<p>Networked, disturbed the peace and hung out with some very cool people. KDC have about 16 events per year including the World Skateboarding Championships and we are looking forward to all of them.</p>
<p>Entertainment was also point from the Kimberley Football Free stylers, 5FM Djs, local hip-artists and international flavour by Mos Def.</p>
<p>Check out the photos <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/geekulcha/albums/72157657347416794">HERE</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[IBM Bluemix at TUT]]></title><description><![CDATA[Did somebody say student skills development? Now you are speaking our language
and we had heed a call from IBM South Africa [http://www.ibm.com/za/en/] to
reach out to students with their Bluemix [http://ibm.biz/BluemixZA] platform.
Tshwane University of Technology is home to some of the coolest Geeks we know
and we saw it cool starting out with them.
In this modern world of the ICT world, you hear things such as Cloud, Cloud
Computing! What's all this exactly? Does it matter and why should we ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/ibm-bluemix-at-tut/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655830d</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2015 16:14:42 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://cs.smu.ca/bluemixhackathon/img/IBMBlueMix.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://cs.smu.ca/bluemixhackathon/img/IBMBlueMix.jpg" alt="IBM Bluemix at TUT"/><p>Did somebody say student skills development? Now you are speaking our language and we had heed a call from <a href="http://www.ibm.com/za/en/">IBM South Africa</a> to reach out to students with their <a href="http://ibm.biz/BluemixZA">Bluemix</a> platform. Tshwane University of Technology is home to some of the coolest Geeks we know and we saw it cool starting out with them.</p>
<p>In this modern world of the ICT world, you hear things such as Cloud, Cloud Computing! What's all this exactly? Does it matter and why should we care? A young girl once challenged the Geeks: "Unless if you come up with a solution for my rural community, I won't take you serious." This was touching, think Cloud for mass-impact.</p>
<p>IBM have a really cool platform to help developers develop their apps fast, easy and it's all in the Cloud. It's important that we bring these technologies to the people but for what? We are setting out a challenge to TUT students to use this opportunity in developing solutions that matters.</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/10/20972337374_64ce4czsw3048_b.jpg" alt="IBM Bluemix at TUT"/></p>
<p>These are TUT students starting to embrace the Bluemix evolution for cool developers out there.</p>
<p>Be on the lookout with Geekulcha on social media, we might be coming to a campus near you very soon. Can't wait, reach us out on <a href="mailto:dev@geekulcha.com">dev@geekulcha.com</a>.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ticket to Tech4Africa 2015]]></title><description><![CDATA[Want to attend one of the biggest conferences in Africa with top industry
leaders? Here is an opportunity for students to get free tickets to attend
Tech4Africa [http://tech4africa.com/] conference 07 - 08 October at the FNB
Stadium, Soccer City.
Win a ticket by posting (Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram) the best post with any
of the following questions with the topic #hashtag and #tech4africa #iBlameGK:
1. #t4aSpeakers Who are your favourite 5 speakers for Tech4Africa 2015?
2. #SAInnovati]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/ticket-to-tech4africa/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237db0e16b116f655830c</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2015 15:58:25 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_128-3.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_128-3.png" alt="Ticket to Tech4Africa 2015"/><p>Want to attend one of the biggest conferences in Africa with top industry leaders? Here is an opportunity for students to get free tickets to attend <a href="http://tech4africa.com/">Tech4Africa</a> conference 07 - 08 October at the FNB Stadium, Soccer City.</p>
<p>Win a ticket by posting (Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram) <strong>the best post</strong> with any of the following questions with the topic <code>#hashtag</code> and <strong>#tech4africa</strong> <strong>#iBlameGK</strong>:</p>
<ol>
<li><code>#t4aSpeakers</code> Who are your favourite 5 speakers for Tech4Africa 2015?</li>
<li><code>#SAInnovation</code> Your top 5 Innovations from South Africa</li>
<li><code>#LiftAfrica</code> How can we lift African Innovation to a global competitive platform?</li>
<li><code>#SocioTech</code> Tech solution for your community/kasi</li>
<li><code>#Digitalization</code> How would you go about making old people embrace and adapt to digitalization?</li>
<li><code>#GreenTech</code> What do you understand by Green Technology?</li>
<li><code>#CloudinAfrica</code> Application of Cloud Computing in Africa for a smarter content.</li>
<li><code>#FutureSchool</code> What do you think schools will be in the future?</li>
<li><code>#Holograms</code> Is Africa ready for holograms and how can they help life in Africa?</li>
<li><code>#Geekulcha</code> What is Geekulcha to you and how can it help you as a student?</li>
</ol>
<p>Here is an example:</p>
<p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_134.png" alt="Ticket to Tech4Africa 2015"/></p>
<p>Good luck and we hope to see you at the conference, remember to network so that they remember you.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tech4Africa announces a Startup Day of âin the trenches intelâ, by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Tech4Africa seems to be opening itâs own remit by adding Yet Another Startup
Event (letâs call it YASE), on the 9th October and after the main Tech4Africa
event. Do we really need yet another one?
Says Gareth Knight, the founder of Tech4Africa and a serial entrepreneur
himself: "We actually started out doing this with SeedCamp, way back in 2010.
The consumer and investor market definitely wasnât as bouyant then as it is now.
Since then thereâs been this wave of events happening on everything Le]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/tech4africa-announces-a-startup-day-of-in-the-trenches-intel-by-entrepreneurs-for-entrepreneurs/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f655830a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2015 07:10:53 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_128-1.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_128-1.png" alt="Tech4Africa announces a Startup Day of âin the trenches intelâ, by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs"/><p>Tech4Africa seems to be opening itâs own remit by adding Yet Another Startup Event (letâs call it YASE), on the 9th October and after the main Tech4Africa event. Do we really need yet another one?</p>
<p>Says Gareth Knight, the founder of Tech4Africa and a serial entrepreneur himself: "We actually started out doing this with SeedCamp, way back in 2010. The consumer and investor market definitely wasnât as bouyant then as it is now. Since then thereâs been this wave of events happening on everything Lean Startup to bootcamp weekends.</p>
<p>Whatâs been interesting for us is that when we analysed the landscape, very few of them seem to be run by people with real time in the trenches, and we think that time in the trenches is the only signal an entrepreneur should be paying attention to with all the noise we have today. So we sat down with SW7, the largest and fastest growing accelerator in Africa, and decided to put together an event that we would take time out for."</p>
<p>So it seems that Tech4Africa and SW7 are taking somewhat of the contrarian approach â the speakers are all entrepreneurs, not consultants, sales or corporate incubator people, the content is all âHow-toâ, and whilst the one day event is open to anyone, it is restricted and will be vetted so that the mix of people will allow for free flowing content.</p>
<p>Says Keith Jones of the accelerator SW7: "Weâve found that entrepreneurs are driven to find people like themselves, and that the best value for time comes from learning from other entrepreneurs who have worked the same or similar problems before. Weâre all on this journey together, some are ahead, some are behind, but weâve all got something to learn. And I guess thatâs what attracts us to Tech4Africa â their spirit is can-do, and must-learn, and we love the honesty they bring.â</p>
<p>The speaker content for the day will focus on topical problems right now, like which growth verticals to pick, the local landscape, bootstrapping, SME finance, how to do business with large organisations, how to move IP offshore, how to raise capital, and how to grow your business internationally.</p>
<p>Says Knight: "Weâve taken the view that the âBy entrepreneur, for entrepreneur" mantra is the right way to go for any kind of startup day, especially in Africa where the market is so rich and different from most anywhere else in the world, so street smarts and local experience count for a lot. This is the beginning of exposing a crop of entrepreneurs to the notion that anything is possible if you surround yourself with the right people.â</p>
<p>It remains to be seen that this approach will work, but doubtless if the Tech4Africa track record is anything to go by, it will be good value for the ticket price of ÂŁ350 for the whole day. This is one to watch.</p>
<p>The website can be found at: <a href="http://bit.ly/T4AJoburgStartups">http://bit.ly/T4AJoburgStartups</a> and anyone can register at <a href="http://register.tech4africa.com">http://register.tech4africa.com</a>. Tickets are R350 for the Startup Day on the 9th October. The main Tech4Africa event on the 7th & 8th October is R500.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha And The New Obsession - Skateboarding]]></title><description><![CDATA[Why did the chicken cross the road? Because it wanted to see what's on the other
side. The world is growing, things are changing, getting smarter and more
integrated than ever. Geekulcha honoured an invite by the Northern Cape
Department of Economic Development and Tourism [http://economic.ncape.co.za]
(DEDaT) to take part in skateboarding activities in the province - the
Kimberley
Diamond Cup [http://kimberleydiamondcup.com] (KDC).
KDC is one of biggest skateboarding events with over 15 annu]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-and-the-new-obsession-skateboarding/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558309</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 27 Sep 2015 08:02:38 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/bg.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/bg.jpg" alt="Geekulcha And The New Obsession - Skateboarding"/><p>Why did the chicken cross the road? Because it wanted to see what's on the other side. The world is growing, things are changing, getting smarter and more integrated than ever. Geekulcha honoured an invite by the <a href="http://economic.ncape.co.za">Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism</a> (DEDaT) to take part in skateboarding activities in the province - the <a href="http://kimberleydiamondcup.com">Kimberley Diamond Cup</a> (KDC).</p>
<p>KDC is one of biggest skateboarding events with over 15 annual regional qualifier events for the Skateboarding World Championship. Part of KDC is the Skateboarding For Hope which certainly gives hope to local youth and empower them into a global platform of skateboarding. Local and international skaters will all gather in Kimberley 07-10 October for the main event, Skateboarding World Championships at the Kumba Skate Plaza.</p>
<p>So why did the geeks go skateboarding? Besides wanting to be cool, we wanted to see a role that ICT can play in the sport. We hosted the first Sports Science workshops in April where we integrated Tech to a skateboard to make it cool and smarter.</p>
<p>Local skaters gave ideas of how cool they want their skateboards to be. Ideas ranged from tracing stolen skateboard, determining and spotting high crime areas, to having a skateboard with a wireless music player and others. Sounds exciting? We thought so too hence we decided to embark on a Maker Culture journey with skateboarding.</p>
<p>Taking advantage of open source technologies, our serial Makers took the challenge and integrated a set of sensors and communication modules onto a skateboard and it's <strong>a thing connected to the Internet</strong>. DEDaT believes that these Maker activities will attract the local youth to explore the fields of science and sports as their careers.</p>
<p>It was certainly not surprising to see a skateboarding solution at the August NCDevHack, an app called Sk8t Quizz was developed by local youth to help youngsters understand the sport. The skateboard also featured at the Maker Library Network Digital Innovation festival events by the British Council of South Africa. Everyone should join in and have fun, let's Hack-a-Skate.</p>
<p>In October, the geeks will set up SkateHacks Maker Space at KDC with live hacks in making the skateboard more cooler. Hopefully they will finally learn how to skate.</p>
<p>It's up to us to adapt and find our place in this growing world, we need to grow with it. For more information and be involved in these Maker activities, visit <a href="http://electronics.geekulcha.com/skatehacks">electronics.geekulcha.com/skatehacks</a> or email <a href="mailto:electronics@geekulcha.com">electronics@geekulcha.com</a>.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tech4Africa challenges established development teams to join the Random Hacks of Kindness and share skills]]></title><description><![CDATA[This year Tech4Africa is running a Hackathon on the two days prior to the main
event. The Hackathon is aimed at imparting workplace skills around
collaboration, and instilling the notion that a simple utility value product can
be shipped in two days when a team pulls together.
And heâs the rub: Tech4Africa is challenging all tech teams from established
companies to send at least one person to the Hackathon, to share their skills,
even if for a few hours.
The founder of Tech4Africa, Gareth Knig]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/tech4africa-challenges-established-development-teams-to-join-the-random-hacks-of-kindness-and-share-skills/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558308</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2015 08:41:09 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_127.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_127.png" alt="Tech4Africa challenges established development teams to join the Random Hacks of Kindness and share skills"/><p>This year Tech4Africa is running a Hackathon on the two days prior to the main event. The Hackathon is aimed at imparting workplace skills around collaboration, and instilling the notion that a simple utility value product can be shipped in two days when a team pulls together.</p>
<p>And <strong>heâs the rub:</strong> Tech4Africa is challenging all tech teams from established companies to send at least one person to the Hackathon, to share their skills, even if for a few hours.</p>
<p>The founder of Tech4Africa, Gareth Knight, says: âOur contention is that the Europeans and Americans are going to figure out pretty quickly that the African market is going to be big enough to target once the $50 smartphone reaches ubiquity, and indeed some of them already have, but theyâre not local and they donât understand the local market, so there is a gap.</p>
<p>That said, we also think there is a lack of skill around technical execution in the African market. So whilst the Hackathon doesn't solve it, it will give the participants the confidence to build and release something, so we start the cycle sooner.â</p>
<p>So whilst the Hackathon isnât aimed at experienced developers, there is definitely a need for skills to be shared in much the same way this is done all over the world. You just have to think of the PayPal & Skype mafia to understand how important it is for anyone to gain industry knowledge from people who have already done it.</p>
<p>Unlike most Hackathons the format will be different and the attendees will all work on the same project, but within their different skill sets and abilities, so there are plenty of opportunities for experienced developers to pass on their skills for the next generation of hackers.</p>
<p>To support this, Microsoft are sponsoring Azure cloud instances which will give the developers the ability to push their code live, as well as FREE online training. Tech4Africa will be running Google Hangouts beforehand to help the developers get up to speed.</p>
<p>Says Knight: "Itâs pretty simple: as an organisation weâre not about ivory towers and fishbowls, weâre about merit, earning success, and acknowledging the realities of the market we live in, so weâre going to welcome anyone who has something to learn, and everyone who wants to share how theyâve learnt. I built my career on that principle, and so weâre hoping that the established tech teams can see the value in it too."</p>
<p>Anyone interested in participating need only register for FREE on the Tech4Africa site.</p>
<p>The Hackathon website can be found at <a href="http://bit.ly/Tech4AfricaRHoK">http://bit.ly/Tech4AfricaRHoK</a>, the main website at: Tech4Africa.com and anyone can register at <a href="http://register.tech4africa.com">http://register.tech4africa.com</a>. Tickets are R500 for the main event on the 7th & 8th October, and R350 for the Startup Day on the 9th October. The Hackathon is FREE, and dates are 5th & 6th October.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tech4Africa focuses on local content, stories and successes, moves to the Kalabash]]></title><description><![CDATA[After 5 years of authentic content, Tech4Africa returns to Johannesburg on the
7th & 8th October for two days of inspiring and engaging talks at the iconic
Kalabash. Widely recognised as the SxSW of Africa, Tech4Africa has leveraged its
community speaker submission platform to uncover and profile local stories,
successes and learnings.
Over the two full days, Tech4Africa will be featuring 55 speakers over 12
speaker tracks, a Hackathon for two days before the main event, and alongside
the accel]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/tech4africa-focuses-on-local-content-stories-and-successes-moves-to-the-kalabash/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558307</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2015 08:24:52 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_128.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/Selection_128.png" alt="Tech4Africa focuses on local content, stories and successes, moves to the Kalabash"/><p>After 5 years of authentic content, Tech4Africa returns to Johannesburg on the 7th & 8th October for two days of inspiring and engaging talks at the iconic Kalabash. Widely recognised as the SxSW of Africa, Tech4Africa has leveraged its community speaker submission platform to uncover and profile local stories, successes and learnings.</p>
<p>Over the two full days, Tech4Africa will be featuring 55 speakers over 12 speaker tracks, a Hackathon for two days before the main event, and alongside the accelerator SW7 a specialist Startup Day âby entrepreneurs, for entrepreneursâ afterwards. Itâs certainly action packed, and there seems to be something for everyone.</p>
<p>Says Gareth Knight, the founder of Tech4Africa: "In 2013 we realised that the local market is very different to the international one, and whilst everyone wants to imitate the Valley hotshots, the reality is that the combination of market size, buying power, skills and access to capital all mean a different playing field for everyone on the ground, and so we narrowed focus on the local stories which make up the local ecosystem."</p>
<p>Amongst the 55 speaker sessions, Fraser Black and Nicholas Wallander will be talking about the deal behind their investment deal for their ecommerce site âSA Floristâ on Dragons Den. Nic Haralambous will be talking about what itâs like to sell a mobile Startup and then build a profitable ecommerce business selling socks online and in stores. Steve Evans will be talking about the âUnderdog mentalityâ and what it takes to bring down established Giants.</p>
<p>Says Knight: "In Cape Town the stories these guys told really resonated with everyone. Itâs real, itâs current, and itâs relevant. Youâre getting it straight from the proverbial horseâs mouth, so the learning is fantastic.â</p>
<p>At the end of each of the two days, and as is becoming the norm for Tech4Africa, there is a big focus on networking, having fun and building relationships, so they are going to be putting on a live DJ set, and plenty of free drinks for everyone. Delegates can also expect the coffee to be free!</p>
<p>Says Knight: "This year weâre really excited about the speaker quality weâve seen start the speaking process. Itâs taken a big bet on the ecosystem, and after 3 years it feels like everyone is finally realising that weâre only about good content, not Death by Powerpoint and certainly not snorefests. So this year in Joburg weâre proud to profile a bumper crop of speakers who have amazing experiences to share, and important lessons to impart. Weâre ecstatic our speaker submission and voting process is working, and that the local stories are starting to percolate. Itâs fantastic content, so weâll see you there!"</p>
<p>The website can be found at: <a href="http://bit.ly/T4AJoburg2015">http://bit.ly/T4AJoburg2015</a> and anyone can register at <a href="http://register.tech4africa.com">http://register.tech4africa.com</a>. Tickets are R500 for the main event on the 7th & 8th October, and R350 for the Startup Day on the 9th October. The Hackathon is FREE, and dates are 5th & 6th October.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[I Love My Entrepreneurship Culture]]></title><description><![CDATA[I am of a belief that "You are not hardcore unless you live hardcore". Being an
Entrepreneur in 2015 is one of the most popular things to be but we need to be
true to ourselves and not embark on the journey just because the The Girl Next
Door is in it.
There is more to being an Entrepreneur than meet the eye, the suits and the
economical-correct jargon and I will be sharing my experience of the
Entrepreneurship ecosystem as a member of the Geekulcha movement.
A motto you will often hear about ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/i-love-my-entrepreneurship-culture/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558306</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2015 14:14:28 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://dougleschan.com/the-recruitment-guru/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/inspirational-quotes-blog-45.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://dougleschan.com/the-recruitment-guru/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/inspirational-quotes-blog-45.jpg" alt="I Love My Entrepreneurship Culture"/><p>I am of a belief that "You are not hardcore unless you live hardcore". Being an Entrepreneur in 2015 is one of the most popular things to be but we need to be true to ourselves and not embark on the journey just because the The Girl Next Door is in it.</p>
<p>There is more to being an Entrepreneur than meet the eye, the suits and the economical-correct jargon and I will be sharing my experience of the Entrepreneurship ecosystem as a member of the Geekulcha movement.</p>
<p>A motto you will often hear about Entrepreneurship is that <em>Entrepreneurs are problem solvers while finding value out of it</em> and of course you need establish and nurture a business. You will have to agree that <strong>a business is not a business if it does not have a customer</strong> and this is one of the most important points to consider when embarking on this journey.</p>
<p>How many times have you heard this: "I decided to quit my job and focus on my Business", mmmmh I could have generated R13 629.44 revenue if my business was to listen to that for a cent. That's how the journey normally starts.</p>
<p>Do I think everyone should be an entrepreneur? No, Entrepreneurship is not for everyone but I am proud of people out there willing to take the risk in this journey that is not meant for the faint-hearted. Many people enter with a lot of courage, many live or leave with regret.</p>
<p>Entrepreneurship is about timing, you have to know when to enter, when to focus more on rewards, when to celebrate and when to leave. I often compare Entrepreneurship to marriage, you as the wife and your business is the husband, your business can abusive and <strong>it is okay to let go</strong>.</p>
<p>Survival of the fittest? What are the values and customs of my culture?</p>
<p>Entrepreneurs know and understand their business and the value it provides to the customer(s). They understand all the risks involved and are willing to put in extra effort into it. Entrepreneurs live in an ecosystem, it is important to network and build networks and good relationships with other Entrepreneurs. Stay focused towards a dream and be value and goal-driven.</p>
<p>No matter how difficult Entrepreneurship may be, one has to embrace it as a culture. It is important to "do it, do it sooo good so that they don't know what to do with themselves".</p>
<p>Let's encourage our youngsters to try out the journey in Entrepreneurship and let's also be fair, tell them about failure and how to embrace it.</p>
<p>Celebrate Entrepreneurship as a culture - the world needs heroes and that hero is just in the mirror.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why South Africa Needs Female Makers]]></title><description><![CDATA[My Father works in the SAPS and he once said that this thing of South Africa
trying to equalize the gender in the police force is a bad idea because it's
going to get them killed, they now have to protect an extra person who is
standing in their way of duty. Only women who want to be in the police force and
physically qualify to be there should be there, the rest should find something
else to do.
What do you think? I'm a feminist but I have to agree with my dad.
We have to acknowledge our diff]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/why-south-africa-needs-female-makers/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558305</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Kutullo Makgatho]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2015 08:48:57 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/meet-the-makers-1024x675.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/09/meet-the-makers-1024x675.jpg" alt="Why South Africa Needs Female Makers"/><p>My Father works in the SAPS and he once said that this thing of South Africa trying to equalize the gender in the police force is a bad idea because it's going to get them killed, they now have to protect an extra person who is standing in their way of duty. Only women who want to be in the police force and physically qualify to be there should be there, the rest should find something else to do.</p>
<p>What do you think? I'm a feminist but I have to agree with my dad.</p>
<p>We have to acknowledge our differences and embrace them, we are known to be problem solvers, home makers, love makers ;). Our hands can make amazing things but why are we not pushing this Maker DNA that we as women are born with?</p>
<p>"A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.â â Diane Mariechild.</p>
<p>Being a Maker is limitless, almost every field needs a Maker, be it in <em>ICT</em>, <em>Construction</em>, <em>Innovation</em>, <em>Engineering</em>, <em>Science</em>, <em>Electronics</em>, <em>Arts</em>, <em>Catering</em>, <em>Beauty</em>, <em>Fashion</em> and the list is simple endless! If you look back on the list, the first 6 that I mentioned, the Male gender dominates massively. Why is that?</p>
<p>I don't know if it's a lack of information but here's a list of some opportunities you can jump onto that will help you utilize your Maker DNA.</p>
<p>Geekulcha started embracing the Maker Culture last year through the Electronics Wednesday initiative.</p>
<p>Electronics Wednesday is a Geekulcha Maker initiative that brings students together to connect, learn, share and put skills to real work. The Maker session connects the worlds of Electronics and Mobile apps together through the big 4 phenomena:</p>
<ul>
<li>Cloud Computing</li>
<li>Internet of Things (IoT)</li>
<li>Big Data</li>
<li>Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)</li>
</ul>
<p>A topic of focus is chosen every week and you can join this movement by visiting the website: electronics.geekulcha.com and through hackathons.</p>
<p>Joelle Umutoni, a female Maker, is a Computer Systems Engineering graduate, started as an Intern at Geekulcha and now is in charge of the <a href="http://electronics.geekulcha.com">Geekulcha Electronics</a> division. She runs the Electronics Wednesday sessions and any other electronics projects.</p>
<p>The House4Hack is an initiative to bring together technology specialists and entrepreneurs in an informal setting. The setting is a 400 mÂČ house in Lyttleton Manor in Centurion and will be equipped with various prototyping tools.</p>
<p>They are trying to combine concepts from hackerspaces and innovation incubators in a way that hobbyists, folks stuck in corporations (read slavery) or want to take a break from your regular job can experiment with start-ups in a safe friendly environment.</p>
<p>Please contact our friend Schalk dot heunis at gmail dot com, if this sounds like you!</p>
<p>Here are other Maker Houses</p>
<ul>
<li>UP Maker Space</li>
<li>Durban MakerSpaceZA</li>
<li>Cape Town MakerSpace,</li>
<li>Maker Library Network</li>
</ul>
<p>All these places are male dominated but there's more than enough room and opportunities for all you ladies, so grab them and let's show these boys what we are made off.</p>
<p>I am a 23 year old Female Maker, started my own company called Fema Science and Technology Innovations. I have 15 inventions and innovations that are creating solutions for women. In future, the company looks to employ women only.</p>
<p>I'm also one of the leaders of <a href="http://raeketsetsa.geekulcha.com">Raeketsetsa</a> which is another initiative under Geekulcha aiming to increase the number of women in ICT encouraging and training them in various sectors of ICT from an early age and I'm proud to say I'm also one of the Geeks at Geekulcha. I grab every opportunity to be a Maker and to inspire another Makers.</p>
<p>Now ask yourself this question, why aren't you a maker?</p>
<p>I hope you're inspired.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Disruptive Technology]]></title><description><![CDATA[Disruptive technology is a result of a market-driven technology evolution where
customers want an instant response from business and business wants to have a
single view of the customer to leverage off the increasing amount of data that
is now available. Another driver of disruptive tools is to enable a homogeneous
user experience across all platforms. There is also a need for organisations to
create a virtual workforce and have rapid deployment of technologies.
To some, disruptive technology. ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/disruptive-technology/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558304</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2015 13:39:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/08/disruptive-technology-300x180.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/08/disruptive-technology-300x180.jpg" alt="Disruptive Technology"/><p>Disruptive technology is a result of a market-driven technology evolution where customers want an instant response from business and business wants to have a single view of the customer to leverage off the increasing amount of data that is now available. Another driver of disruptive tools is to enable a homogeneous user experience across all platforms. There is also a need for organisations to create a virtual workforce and have rapid deployment of technologies.</p>
<p>To some, disruptive technology. To others, business opportunity. As with most IT innovations, it is not only about the scaling of business potential and ability, but also the automation of jobs and processes.</p>
<p>Organisations are progressively realising that earlier technology in the business world is becoming displaced. This is a result of the boom that technology is currently facing. New markets and value networks are being created and are ready to be cultivated as a result of digitization and the uprising of disruptive technology.</p>
<p>This is mainly based on providing services to customers that could not previously be served. It does not always mean creating a new service or going into an emerging market. Disruption can take place by simply<br>
re-engineering an existing customer base and creating an easier way to deliver business.</br></p>
<p>Social collaboration has enabled business collaboration and knowledge sharing within the mobile work force. Research is finding that soon enough there will be intelligent software systems that are able to perform knowledge work. This is not difficult to believe considering that artificial intelligence has advanced and devices have adopted a âpractice makes perfectâ approach to bettering performance.</p>
<p>Enterprise mobility has created a mobile workforce, especially in a customer facing situation, where employees travel or where client turnaround is expected to be rapid. Organisations should be looking at investing in an enterprise mobility strategy and cost effective BYOD strategy to create an anywhere/anytime employee workforce. The power of having mobile internet has increased general employee productivity greatly.</p>
<p>Mobility goes hand in hand with social collaboration tools and the implementation of the one requires support from the other. Countless studies have shown that CIOâs are in agreement that these technologies are business drivers. Conversely, the same CIOâs admit that their organisations would not be able to realise the business benefits that these technologies could potentially offer.</p>
<p>The list of disruptive innovations ranges from data and analytics, social media, cloud, advanced robotics, the internet of things and 3D printing to name a few.</p>
<p>Market demands, financial pressures, the consumerization of IT and analytics are driving business to adopt these technologies. Tech-savvy organisations have been able to implement scalable solutions with little or no IT support.</p>
<p>Not only consumers of business services have expectations with regards to these technologies. Employees are increasingly relying on organisations correctly implementing their technologies in order to work remotely from their mobile offices.</p>
<p>Challenges that may arise include security threats, IT capacity being able to keep up with demand and implementing solutions that are not fit for purpose. Working in silos will be a thing of the past with these collaborative technologies relying on a single version of the truth.</p>
<p>Businesses are on a constant journey to improve. What differentiates a business now is how quickly it adopts new technology and innovates towards optimizing the use of tech to create value for its customers. Consumers are getting smarter because of the wealth of information that is available to them. Leaders in the market recognise that the mobile enablement of processes and technology doesn't only contribute to innovation, it is a driver for business relevance. It is important for organisations to implement solutions that will enable their business and not just rush to catch a ride on a trend.</p>
<p>It is a time to move from traditional skills to opportunistic skills. Itâs a challenging time to be a leader now in IT but itâs the perfect time to flourish in technology with a new breed of IT professionals.</p>
<p>The IT industry is thriving with careers. There has never been a better time to delve in this industry where a new job description is created almost every other month. This is an indication of the appetite of the world to continue innovating and have the ability to manage the disruptions brought on by technology effectively.</p>
<p>Africa is seen by investors as a high risk high return environment because of the various political, cultural, infrastructure and social challenges. An aspect that greatly impacts South Africa directly is social unrest. Disruptive technologies have the highest success and growth rates in emerging markets because of the growing middle class. It is time to invest in our nation.</p>
<p>Organisations must position themselves to be anticipatory towards upcoming trends in order to fully realise the benefits of the technology. All solutions brought forward should be mobile and web ready. Being reactive and trying to catch a trend may result in the organisation missing the trend and forfeiting the benefits. These technologies will truly test the ability to align business and IT to achieve full enterprise value.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The story to be told â The Geekulcha Hackathon 2015!!]]></title><description><![CDATA[It was razzmatazz, indeed it was. The Geeks were out in numbers to
attend and participate in this yearâs Geekulcha Hackathon with the aim to
provide business and social solutions using technical skills. Geekulcha was
sponsored by the likes of T-Systems [http://www.t-systems.co.za], City of
Tshwane [http://www.tshwane.gov.za], Intel [http://www.intel.co.za], IBM
[http://www.ibm.co.za], Redbull [http://www.redbull.co.za], Standard bank
[http://www.standardbank.co.za], mLab Southern Africa [http://]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/the-story-to-be-told-the-geekulcha-hackathon-2015/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558303</guid><category><![CDATA[hackathon]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2015 11:28:52 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/07/Optimized-blog-collage.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/07/Optimized-blog-collage.png" alt="The story to be told â The Geekulcha Hackathon 2015!!"/><p>It was razzmatazz, indeed it was. The Geeks were out in numbers to<br>
attend and participate in this yearâs Geekulcha Hackathon with the aim to provide business and social solutions using technical skills. Geekulcha was sponsored by the likes of <a href="http://www.t-systems.co.za">T-Systems</a>, <a href="http://www.tshwane.gov.za">City of Tshwane</a>, <a href="http://www.intel.co.za">Intel</a>, <a href="http://www.ibm.co.za">IBM</a>, <a href="http://www.redbull.co.za">Redbull</a>, <a href="http://www.standardbank.co.za">Standard bank</a>, <a href="http://www.mlab.co.za">mLab Southern Africa</a>, Northern Cape Department Economic Development and Tourism, <a href="http://www.kalapeng.co.za">Kalapeng Pharmacies</a>, Empire State, <a href="https://plus.google.com/117599647232533838312">Google Developer Group Pretoria</a>, <a href="http://www.fabuhealth.co.za">FABU Health</a>, <a href="http://www.communica.co.za">Communica</a>, and <a href="http://www.getbuild.today">Build</a>.</br></p>
<p>It was during the freezing weekend of the 26th to 28th in Midrand, at<br>
<a href="http://www.t-systems.co.za">T-Systems</a> South Africa, where computer programming was the name of game. The Geeks, as they call themselves, were using collaborative IT efforts to bring solutions brought forward by the sponsors with skills ranging from programmers, designers, robotics and input from aspiring entrepreneurs. The participants were from universities and high schools.</br></p>
<p>The attendance of females at tech events is on the rise. It is important to realize that hackathons are not limited to gents. The Geeks had an abundance of fun. There was a variety of expertise and it was a great networking opportunity. There was a PlayStation for breaks, good music playing in the background and the food was AMAZING. The purpose of this hackathon was to consider not only the delivery of a working solution but considering the commerciality of the solution being provided. Geekulcha aims to instil an entrepreneurial mind in the youth and develop both business and IT skills.</p>
<p>On Friday night, the Geeks separated into groups and selected their projects which were later pitched to all participants. The main objective of the projects was to have social and business impact. Projects ranged from health, vehicle safety, logistics, gambling, and electronics to assist farming communities etc.</p>
<p>On Saturday, different speakers shared insightful topics and apps with the Geeks.</p>
<p>Sunday was an exciting day as it is the time everyone was waiting for, presentation time. The Geeks were working on 21 different projects. A panel of judges consisting of various organizations and sponsors judged the projects on Innovation, impact (social and economical), market potential and scalability of the project.</p>
<p>The winning team addressed the challenge of getting people to clean their environment. They used platforms such as IoT in marking their smart bin much smarter. The runners up were close behind addressing a smart car that alerts nearest hospitals in cases of accidents through the utilization of IoT Technologies and electronics sensors.</p>
<p>The prizes won are as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Smart Bin (R3500 shopping voucher from Geekulcha, opportunity to pitch at mLab and speak at Tech4Africa)</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Mobi Electro (Exhibition at Tech4Africa and R1000 voucher from GDG Pretoria)</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Synergy and Handi Connect (R500 voucher from GDG Pretoria and Geekulcha)</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>GeekIn project to be adapted at the next Geekulcha hackathon taking place TUT 25-26 July</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Ultimate GeekStar: Neo from <em>Handi Connect</em></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>The Geekulcha Hackathon 2015 was made possible by the great support Geekulcha received by all the partners and sponsors. Mixo thanked the sponsors for showing enormous trust and faith in the work Geekulcha is doing.</p>
<p>" <em>You can't ignore the Geeks forever</em> " <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iBlameGK%E2%80%AC">#âiBlameGKâŹ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gkhack15">#GKHack2015</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HireGeeks%E2%80%AC">#HireGeeksâŹ</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Holiday with the Geeks]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Geekulcha Vacation Work Programme saw a number of youngsters flock into mLab
[http://www.mlab.co.za/] at the Innovation Hub to learn.
The activities included building mobile apps, web development, electronics and
bringing awareness of business/entrepreneurship skills.
The future GeekStars in the making spent a week acquiring skills from the geeks
of Geekulcha who had roles of mentors and tutors.
Candidates from grade 6 to 12 were received with the youngest being 12 years
old.
The programme ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/holiday-with-the-geeks/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f0</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/gk-vacation.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/gk-vacation.jpg" alt="Holiday with the Geeks"/><p>The Geekulcha Vacation Work Programme saw a number of youngsters flock into <a href="http://www.mlab.co.za/">mLab</a> at the Innovation Hub to learn.<br>
The activities included building mobile apps, web development, electronics and bringing awareness of business/entrepreneurship skills.<br>
The future GeekStars in the making spent a week acquiring skills from the geeks of Geekulcha who had roles of mentors and tutors.<br>
Candidates from grade 6 to 12 were received with the youngest being 12 years old.</br></br></br></p>
<p>The programme launched over MaxumMonday which was intentionally organised for the vacation workers.</p>
<p>The students came from different areas such as Soshanguve, Hammanskraal, Attridgeville, Thembisa, Midrand, Centurion and the inner parts<br>
of the City of Tshwane. They were educated about values required to withstand the real work place. The students endured a 09:00 to 16:00 day,<br>
submitting their day's work to their mentor for assessment on each day.</br></br></p>
<p>The youngsters were challenged to think out of the box; be innovative, take initiative, be collaborative and responsible for the tasks and<br>
projects they were given to complete. The following projects were given to the four teams:</br></p>
<h4 id="ictxplorer">ICT Xplorer</h4>
<p>A Windows Phone app that takes high school learners through a tour of the world of ICT by team <strong>GeekTech4Teen</strong>. The team decided to<br>
create a character, <strong>Vuyie</strong>, who interacts with you through the app. This team plans on publishing the app this week and have<br>
gotten their DreamSpark accounts through Geekulcha.</br></br></p>
<h4 id="poetry">Poetry</h4>
<p>A Windows Phone app by team <strong>GeekTech4Teen</strong>. This app teaches people about poetry and guides them to becoming a phenomenal poets.<br>
The app was given as a bonus app after the team mastered how to use <a href="http://appstudio.windows.com/">Windows App Studio</a> and Visual studio in three days.</br></p>
<h4 id="schoolreinvented">School Reinvented</h4>
<p>Looking at schools of the future, team <strong>DOT</strong> created a web application platform to give young people a place to raise their voices<br>
about how they want future schooling to be. The website also takes to highlight current best practices of schools. This platform is<br>
now online as <a href="http://schoolreinvented.geekulcha.com/">schoolreinvented.geekulcha.com</a> and there are plans to make it bigger and better.</br></br></p>
<h4 id="traffichack">Traffic Hack</h4>
<p>Inspired by the frustration of traffic congestions, team <strong>RoboGeeks</strong> was given an electronics system project that finds ways to make<br>
traffic smooth on roads. Totally new to electronics, they had to learn and program Arduino. They built the system's prototype.</br></p>
<p>The aim of this project was to build a density-dependent traffic light system. This system changes the duration of traffic lights<br>
depending on traffic volumes on the lanes of the roads. The project has gotten the three grade 10âs and 11âs excited to be more<br>
innovative with how traffic should ideally be in South Africa.</br></br></p>
<h4 id="businessmodelcanvas">Business Model Canvas</h4>
<p>Team <strong>Business Geeks</strong> had a project and a role in Business analysis. They were building bases for all the projects that were worked on.<br>
The team was trained to have a business/entrepreneurship mind-set. They worked on building business revenue models as a first task<br>
to their assignment. They also had the responsibility of the documentation projects.</br></br></p>
<p>All projects were on learn and implement basis. They were carried out to execution in a space of five days. Teams did wire-framing of<br>
the projects and applications and they were advised to design with reusability in mind.</br></p>
<p>The closing ceremony, following a Braai, was a formal wear occasion where the functionality of the projects was presented and demonstrated<br>
to the clients. Keynotes were given by Miss Pholile Mhlanga (Geekulcha BA mentor), Gary Bannatyne (the Innovation Hub, Maxum),<br>
ThoughtWorks and the City of Tshwane Representatives.</br></br></p>
<p>Certificates of completion and acknowledgement were issued to the youngsters.</p>
<p>Feedback from Vacation Workers</p>
<p>Many of them wished we could prolong the programme while others have indicated that they will be joining us for the next edition. Here is what some had to say:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I do Business studies in school. It was nice to see the principles being applied in the real world</p>
<small><em>Sibusiso Mdlovu</em>, matriculant</small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="hero text-right">
<p>I hate that they (fellow team members) call me a boss. We are all bosses!</p>
<small>12-year old <em>Nkateko Hlongwane</em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>This week made me realise that I don't have to look for a job, I can be my own boss</p>
<small><em>Malwandla Ngoveni</em></small>
</blockquote>
<p>We acknowledge the following entities who helped make this a success; <a href="http://www.mlab.co.za/">mLab Southern Africa</a> for the hackerspace and computing resources. <a href="http://www.theinnovationhub.com/">The Innovation Hub</a> for providing food and stationary during the course. <a href="http://www.tshwane.gov.za/">City of Tshwane</a> for providing transport all week.<br>
<a href="http://www.thoughtworks.com/">ThoughtWorks</a> (YAT) for food (lunch) provision and more stationary resources to profile the candidates and <a href="http://durbanhub.co.za/">Durban Hub</a> for the Mentorship in Business/Entrepreneurship.</br></p>
<p>We are already getting requests for the next placement in the programme and we hope that it will only get bigger and better to reach through to many young minds across the country.</p>
<p>Geekulcha Vacation Work programme is part the Future GeekStars initiated by <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee">Tiyani Nghonyama</a> and this is what he had to say:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>My strongest belief is that the way to address the country's skills shortage issue, is to listen to the voices of the future, the unrealized skills of the young people. Let's all try to invest time and faith into the young ones because they might actually know something we don't that could save the future</p>
</blockquote>
<p>For more info, email to <a href="mailto:future@geekulcha.com">future@geekulcha.com</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[More product savvy, less brand conscious]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Apple product launch had the world up in arms. Both the tech geeks and âthe
restâ. Itâs really amazing; the perfection that is expected from anything that
is related to technology. Be it the actual device, the presentation of it or the
features it is bringing forward.
With so many devices to choose from, brand loyalty from customers is almost a
given. You use a device that works for you, and going forward, you support the
brand (regardless of any other product innovations).
Giving no prefe]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/more-product-savvy-less-brand-conscious/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582ee</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 10 Sep 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/iphone-event.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/iphone-event.jpg" alt="More product savvy, less brand conscious"/><p>The Apple product launch had the world up in arms. Both the tech geeks and âthe restâ. Itâs really amazing; the perfection that is expected from anything that is related to technology. Be it the actual device, the presentation of it or the features it is bringing forward.</p>
<p>With so many devices to choose from, brand loyalty from customers is almost a given. You use a device that works for you, and going forward, you support the brand (regardless of any other product innovations).</p>
<p>Giving no preference to any specific brand, this is how I view it.</p>
<p>Apple is extremely exclusive. The people on the inside love the niche and the people on the outside hate being left in the dark. Apple devices work best with other Apple devices. It is a perfect strategy to keep customers buying. The full experience is what keeps them coming back. We cannot take away from its efficiency and design in the UI and the actual devices. It is indeed a sexy brand with a consistent differentiation strategy.</p>
<p>Android has evolved into the dominator, the âall-encompassing operating systemâ. Regardless of the device it operates on, the fact that it runs across multiple gadgets emphasises that Android is a brand on its own. Their app store is a wholesale among retailers. Their playground ranges from Samsung, LG, HTC, Lenovo, Sony (endless list). Truly a brand among brands.</p>
<p>Windows, the newbie. They are also moving towards running across multiple devices. They might not have the biggest market share but they are the fastest growing brand. They are taking the world by storm with their cost-effective phones that have competitive features. The rebranding of the OS and Microsoftâs entrance into the cell phone market has launched the brand into a growing trend amongst the techies.</p>
<p>The features on devices have become so mirrored that the brand determines the market share. Surprisingly, there is this war on devices just for people to download the popular apps. How much faster can you make a phone processor and how much better can you claim to make the graphics. Donât get me started on the empty âlonger battery lifeâ promises. Phones are fast becoming glorified health trackers with phone call making capabilities.</p>
<p>The developments and capabilities of the devices that are introduced are amazing. A question I always ask myself is, is it the device that I want or is it the operating system that I prefer? If you could buy a device and install any operating system, would that change the device that you bought?</p>
<p>It is time for the apps to be given the glory. They make the product. How often is it that you hear a person saying_ âI was window shopping in the app store and downloaded this amazing thingâŠâ_</p>
<p>Most users are so preoccupied with putting last yearâs device battle genie back into the bottle that they are too brand distracted to notice that the devs have conjured up even more unpredictable apps.</p>
<p><em>âŠAnd once again IT is in the dog box for not living up to its promises when it had convinced business to buy into its business fad.</em> Dear user, be more product savvy and less brand conscious.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[What the geeks say...]]></title><description><![CDATA[Geekulcha is very young in business years. Yes, it is an IT base, however, it is
built up of a range of circumstances, individuals and experiences. The common
ground is the positive knowledge that it has managed to share about ICT. Through
the years, we have become stronger as a team and have managed to grow as an
organisation. Who wouldâve thought that a group of students who shared mutual
interest could have such influence?
Below is what some of our Geeks have to say:
> âI am a Graphic desi]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/what-the-geeks-say/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582ef</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 21 Aug 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/1482755_648193571884821_403553899_n.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/1482755_648193571884821_403553899_n.jpg" alt="What the geeks say..."/><p>Geekulcha is very young in business years. Yes, it is an IT base, however, it is built up of a range of circumstances, individuals and experiences. The common ground is the positive knowledge that it has managed to share about ICT. Through the years, we have become stronger as a team and have managed to grow as an organisation. Who wouldâve thought that a group of students who shared mutual interest could have such influence?</p>
<p>Below is what some of our Geeks have to say:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>âI am a Graphic designer, photographer and illustrator and I joined the Geekulcha crew about a year ago. I have since learnt so much about fields that are related to my own such as UI design, web design, web development and also about team effort. I also got to realise that one can always learn from another person's experience and skills, no matter which field they are in. Geekulcha is perfect for the person who is willing to learn and share their experience with others. I am glad that I get the chance to be around such talented and passionate people.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://www.behance.net/Merry_Lyne">Marilyn</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="hero text-right">
<p>âBeing a member of Geekulcha has been a wonderful experience thus far. I have learned and mastered Android mobile app development and I have been involved in various projects. Now Iâm learning and working on web development. Geekulcha has also exposed me to community outreach, such as the eKasi Labs program, which is what makes Geekulcha unique and I am proud to be part of it.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/Hervinho_243">Herve</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>âAs a student in the ICT field, Geekulcha has helped me in many different ways. It helped me better my skills. I went from someone who knew nothing about mobile application development to someone who can actually build a fully functional application (Android). Geekulcha has taken part in many projects to help not only students in the ICT field but also pupils from high schools which I think itâs a great initiative. It closes the knowledge gap that we have from high school to university and from university to the industry. Overall, I believe being at Geekulcha was a privilege and I am happy to be a part of it.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/king_karime">Abdoul</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="hero text-right">
<p>âGeekulcha has taught me that passion truly is a great driver of success. Since joining Geekulcha last year, we have matured into a well-recognised organisation. We have achieved a lot by seeing beyond financial boundaries. I joined as a student, now being an employee, I can comment from both sides how programs like Geekulcha contribute to the ICT community. What is great about Geekulcha is that you are not limited. It takes you where your interests take you. The confirmation that I am in the right industry came from Geekulcha. Thank you.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/Keitu_Tsotetsi">Keitumetsi</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>âI've been part of the Geekulcha core team for almost a year now. Although I'm currently not full time with the team at the hub, I am still very much involved in major activities organised by GK. I am also contributing to the development of a couple of web applications for GK. I've met incredible young talented people and I have had the privilege of working with some of them and still do. GK is actively working at bridging the gap between ICT student community and companies in need of their skills. So far is doing a great job at it and the best is still to come.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/diraulo">Raoul</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="hero text-right">
<p>âThe journey with Geekulcha has allowed me grow and explore the ICT field on large scale. It has opened many doors of opportunity in various aspects as a developer, engineer, innovator, analyst, speaker and leader. Honestly, I hated programming and software development before I joined Geekulcha. The programme has allowed me to grow and find interest between various fields and integrate them together. Iâve had experiences with TEDxPretoria, Tech4Africa, Nedbank marketing summit, among others through Geekulcha.__ An opportunity to lead the tech element of Geekulcha has been interesting in regard to building an army of Geeks that live on using technology to solve real life programs. Geekulcha has given me room for initiative and I have been able to establish initiatives such Geekulcha Electronics (with Electronics Wednesday) and Future GeekStars (with GK Vacation Work program).â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee">Tiyani</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>âI view GK as a platform that enables one to shine as they do what they enjoy. For the fact that it is a place filled with youngsters, it is warm to be around because everybody in it is eager to learn and explore different technologies. Even if one was to come through uninspired, something from their adrenalin is triggered and they can join in with everybody and learn.__Personally, GK has groomed me to be very confident in what I do. I have learnt to develop in a number of platforms and be sure enough in the skills I have.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/HlullyR">Ruth</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="hero text-right">
<p>âGeekulcha is a very good platform, or movement as we call it, for every young person to consider joining. It might be a start-up but its voice is so loud that the whole of South Africa can hear it dark or blue. It has changed how I think about a lot of things. It changed how I speak, how I do things when it comes to my developer career and how to lead a team. I like the fact that they throw you into something you don't even know and guide you through it in one peace. It helps you learn different things with no limits. Through GK I have realised that I have very strong drive to teach children. I will say, Geekulcha is a one step ahead start-up and am proud to say am a Geek. I say Geekulcha is the next Facebook, SA should watch the space.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/ndebza_fistaz">Sifiso</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>âThe GK experience has been worth it. Iâve gotten to know different people from different backgrounds but with equal or even more interest in technology. What really took me to embrace and join GK is the philosophy that is preached and brought up by <a href="https://twitter.com/4otune">Mixo</a> that is
<em>Create a community around technology and be the bridge between the universities and colleges to the Industry world</em>
I hope this philosophy continues for many years to come. I trust that GK will continue to grow and become the point of reference for Tech Students.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/joaonzango">Joao</a></em></small>
</blockquote>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Enterprise Architecture Part 2]]></title><description><![CDATA[We have previously [/enterprise-architecture] addressed the concept of
enterprise architecture. Now we probe into the fundamentals to be considered
when defining the design phase of enterprise architecture. When developing an
enterprise architecture, like solving any problem, the whenâs, whoâs, whatâs,
whenâs, and whyâs must be clarified. Considering pieces like data, functions,
networks, people, the schedule and the motivation supporting the project will
contribute to the success of implementat]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/enterprise-architecture-part-2/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f1</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Enterprise-Architecture.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Enterprise-Architecture.jpg" alt="Enterprise Architecture Part 2"/><p>We have <strong><a href="/enterprise-architecture">previously</a></strong> addressed the concept of enterprise architecture. Now we probe into the fundamentals to be considered when defining the design phase of enterprise architecture. When developing an enterprise architecture, like solving any problem, the whenâs, whoâs, whatâs, whenâs, and whyâs must be clarified. Considering pieces like data, functions, networks, people, the schedule and the motivation supporting the project will contribute to the success of implementation. It is important to understand how each project in the organisation ties back to high-level corporate goals.</p>
<h4 id="thefollowingaretheenterprisearchitecturedomains">The following are the Enterprise architecture domains:</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>Business architecture</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>This bridges the enterprise business model with the enterprise strategy. It speaks to the functional structure which is the business services and business information. At this stage, functions are identified and resources are reserved. This will define the business capability and how the business goals will be achieved. It is a prerequisite to be able to perform work in any of the other enterprise architecture domains.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Application architecture</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>The application architecture ensures that the collection of applications being used by an organisation to create the composite architecture is scalable, reliable, available and manageable. It is used to identify, define and manage the interactions between business applications. Breaking this down will classify any technological risks that may impact future business.</p>
<p>The service model defines who the customers are, what services the organisation provides and what channels are used to provide the services. The process model defines the processes, the value chain, work packages and the involved tasks.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Technical architecture</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>This is the design and documentation of a software application. It supports the application architecture by defining the communication networks, security, hardware and software. It assesses the compatibility of new systems with already existing company devices and equipment. Information regarding this layer is normally provided by the database administrators, programmers, security officers and other roles that deal with the networks, security, and hardware and software management within the organisation.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Security architecture</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>The security architecture looks at the requirements and provisions that must be addressed within the organisation. From this plan, the definition of where security controls must be applied, what they are and why the security measures are in place is specified. The effects and odds against critical business assets are identified in this area.</p>
<p>The identified measures will facilitate business risk exposure objectives and the mitigation plans for materialised vulnerabilities. Not only does the security architecture assist in terms of risk management, it puts the organisation at an advantage with legal and regulatory compliance.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Data architecture</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>This is an elaborate description of the governance of the companyâs data around aligning the IT programs and information assets with the business strategy. The attribute structure and physical class of system interfaces manages the way in which the data during the implementation of new systems changes when moved amongst systems. It also defines the collection of data in terms of how it is stored, used, arranged and how it is put to use in the database systems. This ensures that integration, quality, availability, integrity and confidentiality are maintained</p>
<p><em>âIn technology, change is too fast for even the best reaction time to be fast enough. These days, thriving is not only about agility; itâs also about anticipationâ</em></p>
<p>The solutions that IT customers are looking for are increased effectiveness to reduce costs and increased customer experience to boost revenue. The enterprise architecture is one of the many resolutions that IT and business are bringing to the corporate world in order to add value and manage business continuity. A well-defined IT strategy is the difference between being an implementer vs being a driver of business.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Enterprise Architecture]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Enterprise architecture (EA) practise uses collaborative design methods,
standard architectural frameworks and general patterns to manage the complexity
of large scale enterprise changes without losing sight of strategic context. It
helps to identify opportunities for improvement and to define the desired future
state of the business and its IT assets.
The most widely used practise is The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF)
with the recent version being TOGAF 9.1, released 1 December ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/enterprise-architecture/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f2</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 17 Jul 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Enterprise-Architecture-1.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Enterprise-Architecture-1.jpg" alt="Enterprise Architecture"/><p>The Enterprise architecture (EA) practise uses collaborative design methods, standard architectural frameworks and general patterns to manage the complexity of large scale enterprise changes without losing sight of strategic context. It helps to identify opportunities for improvement and to define the desired future state of the business and its IT assets.</p>
<p>The most widely used practise is <em>The Open Group Architecture Framework</em> (TOGAF) with the recent version being TOGAF 9.1, released 1 December 2011</p>
<p><em>â<strong>TOGAF</strong> is a high level approach to design. It is typically modeled at four levels: Business, Application, Data, and Technology. It tries to give an overall starting model to information architects, which can then be built upon. It relies heavily on modularization, standardization, and already existing, proven technologies and products.â</em></p>
<p>EAâs plans and designs help provide understanding of the impact of new business vision on the IT systems that support current business. It is used to operate and align IT systems with emerging business needs and also reduces the risk associated with large scale transformation projects.</p>
<p>The services provided by EA help to bridge the gap between business/IT strategy and execution. It helps to identify opportunities and gain cost effective efficiency through eliminating redundant business functions and IT systems.</p>
<p>There are 2 definitions of EA:</p>
<ol>
<li>A set of business system models and plans</li>
<li>The practice that produces the models and plans</li>
</ol>
<p>EA is a set of blueprints and roadmaps which represent the fundamental organisation of a business and its IT systems embedded in its components, their relationships to the environment and the principles guiding the business and IT systemâs design and evolution.</p>
<p>From the blueprints, roadmaps are created to describe how to transition from the current state to the future state by identifying all the required projects. The projects can range from software and system enhancements to process improvements.</p>
<p>It comprises of two fundamental elements. The business architecture which aligns the business strategy with the business operations and the IT architecture which aligns the technology operations and the IT strategy.</p>
<p>Enterprises must adapt to align people, processes and technology with changing goals and resources. The enterprise value chain includes supplies, supply management, products and distribution, delivery channels and customers.</p>
<p>Assets that support IT are complex in their own right. This is called accidental complexity. This complexity is the divergence between businessâ systems and IT adds a layer of complexity. EA produces IT blueprints that manage accidental complexity that is introduced by technology. It aligns the changes between the business blueprint and IT blueprint.</p>
<p>A large business is inherently complex and so are its processes. This is called essential complexity. Transformational solutions in large organisations cannot be too simple otherwise they risk losing sight of the essence of business. EA helps to manage essential complexity by capturing the essence of the business from strategy to operations to detailed processes.</p>
<p>Increased productivity in applying IT to solve business problems has caused enterprises to move from incremental to transformational change projects to adjust to the shifting environment.</p>
<p>There is a big challenge in translating technology investments into significant business benefits. IT is seen as a cost centre and not as a value adding component. Complexity and changes have undermined our ability to successfully deliver IT enabled transformation initiatives.</p>
<p>Now that we have an overall understanding of EA keep your eyes on your screens for the follow up edition of EA where we will delve into the different domains that build up this framework. Soon to follow will be the discussion on business architecture, applications architecture, technical architecture, security architecture and data architecture.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[UI/UX - Which One Massages Your Feelings?]]></title><description><![CDATA[We have seen tons of apps and applications big ones, small ones, beautiful ones,
ugly ones, live ones, dead ones and each moment with them is either memorable or
has barred our feelings into visiting them again. Software has become a way of
living, it is there to help us wake up, help us prepare, work, interact to our
needs and help us to sleep to wake up again. Our needs with software is
different but either way, we want it to massage our feelings.
Software design is growing viral with new pla]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/uiux-which-one-massages-your-feelings/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f3</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 07 Jul 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/ui-ux-header.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/ui-ux-header.png" alt="UI/UX - Which One Massages Your Feelings?"/><p>We have seen tons of apps and applications big ones, small ones, beautiful ones, ugly ones, live ones, dead ones and each moment with them is either memorable or has barred our feelings into visiting them again. Software has become a way of living, it is there to help us wake up, help us prepare, work, interact to our needs and help us to sleep to wake up again. Our needs with software is different but either way, we want it to massage our feelings.</p>
<p>Software design is growing viral with new platforms and styles coming oito the market. Software is visual, does not wear out in time but can be outdated. Intangible. Anticipated to eat the world.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Good software is the engine of today's world"</p>
<small><em>H. Jeske</em></small>
</blockquote>
<p>Two elements that make software what it is are the <em>User Interaction</em> (UI) and <em>User Experience</em> (UX). The two focuses on the user but differences between the two have a line drawn to separate them from each other, the debate around them is big and dangerous. UX design involves user interactivity/usability with the application, how the user feels inside about using the software application. UI design takes credit for the implementation of components that are used to collect users' data, information flow and the logic of the application.</p>
<h5 id="functionalvsnonfunctionalrequirements">Functional vs Non-functional requirements</h5>
<p>cheers to the developers; the web masters, mobile ninjas, code crunchers/munchers. Reality is, most programmers don't give much detail to usability never mind design of their software products. One of the common things you hear from our Geekulcha developers: "Eh guy I'm not designer neh? I'm a developer". UI/UX is just a "later feature" to most developers. It's like building a house: Does this meet the standards (4 walls, roof and a floor) of a house? Yes! I will put in windows and doors later. Ideally, developers and designers go together like horse and carriage in making the best of the software product.</p>
<h5 id="customervsuser">Customer vs User</h5>
<p>There are cases where developers are building a product for a customer (can be a user) who aims to distribute it to masses of users. Most customers make a mistake of basing the software design based on their own feelings/likings. The customer must be advised to have in mind, "User Centered" design.</p>
<p>For the sake of this debate on UI vs UX, we have called on three of our members to give their contribution on this topic.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Well as a UI and UX designer I can say that both of them are really important on the success of our site, mobile or desktop app. The first thing that I consider when creating an app is to make the user life easy and keep work minimal as he tries to reach a certain goal using my app. What I mean by the last sentence is that aspects like defining the app structure and find the appropriate navigation are fundamental and should always come first before any graphics.</p>
<p>I think UX is actually the base and the invisible part of an application that touches our feelings. A great UI starts with a great job done by the UX designer and sometimes it can be the same person. I personally like the UI designing process and I always try to keep it minimal by translating everything that I can to pictures so that it could intuitively have users attention."</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/DarioMungoi">Dario Mungoi</a> - Mobile Apps Developer/Designer</em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="hero text-right">
<p>âWell, as a graphic designer, I would say that I am naturally attracted by user interface design. I believe that the appearance of a website, mobile communication devices or software plays a role as important as its functionality. However, User Experience is as important as the way the target interacts with a device influences pretty much the overall experience that they will keep about the app/device/website.</p>
<p>To make it short, UI and UX are definitely related in my point of view, you as one must keep in mind the functionality and the user experience when designing. I may be getting more and more into UI but UX is a field that I will definitely explore further in the nearest future.â</p>
<small><em><a href="https://www.behance.net/Merry_Lyne">Marilyn Ekoka</a> - Graphic Designer</em></small>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>"The first ultimate goal on these two rivals should always be in parallel with "User centered design incentives". UX design is a very important but it can be hard to satisfy the needs of different people of different age groups, generation, and educational background, among others. Therefore, UX should be given enough credit as being the basis of an application, as it is the one that addresses the user needs of the application directly.</p>
<p>User interface designers ensure that the application gets what it wants and the user get the information they want with the physical elements on the application, I must admit though, UI designers do deserve a very nice vacation to Hawaii for the delicate work they put in. UX stands out for me because there wouldnât be no users if it was not there. I also do acknowledge that the two complements each other, âWe are in this together Jackâ.</p>
<p>Whatever your feelings may be, UI/UX are important elements to have in your software design. Not only are the "best practices", you ensure usability and maintainability of your application. One question to keep in mind, "Will previous users return to use my application again?" These may be our personal opinions. It's up to you how you look at the two principles. Here is something worth noting, have a look at <a href="http://faculty.washington.edu/jtenenbg/courses/360/f04/sessions/schneidermanGoldenRules.html">Shniederman's Eight Golden</a> rules of design to help you make the right decisions.</p>
<small><em><a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee">Tiyani Nghonyama</a> - Systems Developer</em></small>
</blockquote>
<p>Thanks to the contributors to this article; <a href="https://twitter.com/TiyaniTee">Tiyani Nghonyama</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DarioMungoi">Dario Mungoi</a> and <a href="https://www.behance.net/Merry_Lyne">Marilyn Ekoka</a>.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Social Engineering]]></title><description><![CDATA[âThe Art of Human Hackingâ as Christopher Hadnagy describes it.
This is a non-technical form of authorized information gathering. It relies
heavily on human interaction. In the context of information security, social
engineering is the art of manipulating people into giving up confidential
information.
The easiest way to get a personâs password is not by formulating remarkable
algorithms that spit combinations at the speed of light. Usually you can get it
by simply asking. Criminals use this f]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/social-engineering/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f4</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 27 May 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/socialengineering.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/socialengineering.jpg" alt="Social Engineering"/><p>â<em>The Art of Human Hackingâ</em> as Christopher Hadnagy describes it.</p>
<p>This is a non-technical form of authorized information gathering. It relies heavily on human interaction. In the context of information security, social engineering is the art of manipulating people into giving up confidential information.</p>
<p>The easiest way to get a personâs password is not by formulating remarkable algorithms that spit combinations at the speed of light. Usually you can get it by simply asking. Criminals use this form of attack because it is far laid-back than any other form of attack.</p>
<p>A common misconception is that the only thing a hacker is looking for is a password. WRONG! The password just gives access to mountains of information on the system that a human could effortlessly communicate without thought.</p>
<p>I was once told a story about I & J, a company that produces the best fish fingers. There was little understanding on why there was so much business intelligence and IT security for this company. What was found is that they were trying to protect where they did their fishing and when. Go figure!</p>
<p>Further broken down, where they fish could give away the costs and profit margins of the business which would be very useful for a competitor. A regular person would never think of that but this is very important information that determines the very success of their product.</p>
<p>Now here is a scenario: A hacker could go through the tedious task of trying to access the system with many failed attempts, or simply ask âHey Keitumetsi, where do you guys fish?â and BOOM there is the answer.</p>
<p>There are 2 common types of social engineering. Computer based and human based.</p>
<p>The computer based approach uses computer software that attempts to retrieve the desired information. These techniques include phishing, on-line scams and baiting.</p>
<p>Social media reveals a wealth of information. By Googling a person, you can find their Facebook profile link, LinkedIn profile, Twitter handle, websites related to that name, and also images. Never something we think of when posting on these sites. Social networks are the biggest human identification database and can be used to gather all sorts of personal and professional information.</p>
<p>The human based approach depends on human interaction. Here, the attacker uses impersonation as a regular employee or super user to gain physical access to the system. A person might phone claiming to need urgent access to a network.</p>
<p>The most common attack used is pretending to be a third party with permission from âauthorityâ to gather information. An attacker could pretend to be a desktop support agent. It is amazing how easily people give away information when you say youâre calling from IT.</p>
<p>Less successful, is shoulder surfing. This is a technique where the attacker watches a valid user log into the system and then later uses that for their own benefit. Depending on the type of information one is searching for, dumpster diving, which is going through the trash for thrown away printouts could also reveal a lot.</p>
<p>People are not aware of the value of the information they possess, they are usually careless when protecting it. Social engineers rely on people's inability to keep up with a culture that relies heavily on information technology.</p>
<p>Most security and risk professionals are so preoccupied with putting last weekâs vulnerability-malware-hacktivist genie back into the bottle that theyâre too distracted to notice that weakness lies in a user who accepts a scenario at face value. Often the user isnât aware that there is information being gathered for attack purposes. We, and I say we including myself, so easily give away important information.</p>
<p>Important information could include a list of clients, cell phone numbers, business plans, patented secrets, locations where raw materials are purchased, prices of items, the list is endless. Who wouldâve imagined that a humanâs natural inclination to be helpful would bite them back in tech!</p>
<p>_ â_<em>Security is all about knowing who and what to trust: Knowing when, and when not, to take a person at their word; when to trust that the person you are communicating with is indeed the person you think you are communicating with; when to trust that a website is or isnât legitimate; when to trust that the person on the phone is or isnât legitimate; when providing your information is or isnât a good ideaâ</em></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Programmer's playground]]></title><description><![CDATA[It is not secret that varsity may prepare us but hardly equips us enough to be
ready to receive the rapid demand on delivery of the working world. It is
important to take it upon oneself to be further educated and be informed about
the skills relevant to your trade. Knowledge is not only an asset. It is fast
becoming a skill across all industries.
âKnowledge has to be improved, challenged and increased constantly or it
vanishesâ- Peter Drucker
Attending meetups, hackathons and conferences etc.]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/programmers-playground/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f5</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/programmers-1.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/programmers-1.png" alt="Programmer's playground"/><p>It is not secret that varsity may prepare us but hardly equips us enough to be ready to receive the rapid demand on delivery of the working world. It is important to take it upon oneself to be further educated and be informed about the skills relevant to your trade. Knowledge is not only an asset. It is fast becoming a skill across all industries.</p>
<p>âKnowledge has to be improved, challenged and increased constantly or it vanishesâ- <strong>Peter Drucker</strong></p>
<p>Attending meetups, hackathons and conferences etc. develops capabilities and might give rare insight to an areas of potential interest. There may be financial constraints to attending conferences but there are many organisations that assist students and young IT professionals to gain access to these events. Hackathons and meetups are usually free and provide a great platform for information exchange and learning.</p>
<p>The opportunities are overflowing however they are often missed because they are not adequately marketed. Often people are not aware of them or donât have the means to access the required material. Attending these events is beneficial for networking, information transfer and skills building.</p>
<p>IT is and industry of many specialities with programming being one of the most in demand, and also requiring a lot of self-learning to familiarise oneself with the chosen platforms. The interest is growing not only in being able to use web services and applications but also understanding the logic and creation process of these items.</p>
<p>A survey I personally conducted indicates that many students are only aware of programming once they start their varsity education and very few are exposed to it at a high school level. The participants also emphasised the lack of promotion of these events with areas of improvement including more resources and more IT hubs for intense training.</p>
<p>Java and C# have come up as the most preferred languages. All participants are willing to learn new languages. This highlights the hunger for knowledge and a desire for boundless challenges. Many agree that the development environment in Gauteng is growing rapidly and more attention has been given to this area in comparison to past years. Even more stimulating is that that these individuals are not only eager to learn but also very keen to teach and participate in the spread of IT awareness.</p>
<p>Here is a wide range of attended events among the participants:</p>
<p>Microsoft Hackathon (Durban), CodeFest (Durban), RHOK, GAP ICT hackathon, TEDxPretoria, Tech4Africa hackathon and event, Cloud Colloquium, Ericsson, Microsoft YouthSpark Event, BlackBerry Jam Session, LevelUp event at Thoughtworks, Ericsson Hackathon, Innovation summit, Mobile development workshop by Nokia, Microsoft TechDays, Meetups at JoziHub, Android over tea and Microsoft BizSpark.</p>
<p>More consideration is given to certain geographical areas which may cause a barrier for those outside of these locations. There is always room for improvement and organisations are certainly working on their reach.</p>
<p>There are a couple of events that are upcoming and can be attended *DRUM ROLL*</p>
<p><strong>Random Hacks of Kindness (RHOK)</strong></p>
<p>This is a semi-annual event(Hackathon) that happens first weekend of June and December at its usual venue, UNISA main campus.</p>
<p>Developers, entrepreneurs, designers, social developers, analysts, tech evangelists, code monkeys, Hacktivists come together developing/hacking/solving socially relevant solutions facing the communities, humanity, business world and life in general.</p>
<p>Solution solvers present their work after 24 hours of hacking and winners are announced at the end, top 3. With prizes. Other prizes include "The best Hacker", as nominated by other team mates. Prizes are also given to the best Hackathon spirit, those who had actually survived the full 24hour of hacking.</p>
<p>Geekulcha is the reigning winner of the event. Tradition, the winning team organize the next event.</p>
<p>Great solutions have been coming through over the years, proposed by individuals, institutions, peace workers, social developers and companies.</p>
<p><strong>Google Developer Groups Pretoria (GDG Pta)</strong></p>
<p>This a community of developers as recognized by the Google relations office. Ran by senior technologists at the CSIR, one of the organizers is GDG champion in South Africa.</p>
<p>The three main organizers are proud nerds. GDGPta was formed as a Pretoria extension to GDG Johannesburg GDG Pretoria have hosted training in different institutions such as TUT, UNISA, mLabsa, to mention a few.</p>
<p>As part of the outreach to students, they have established what they call "Android Over Tea". Android over Tea (AoT) is a meeting held every 2 weeks by the Google Developer Groups members traditionally aimed at discussing android apps dev, projects, new technologies, help, new ideas. This has since extended to not only focus on android development but to other tech platforms.</p>
<p>They have hosted a Google Dev Fest mini conference in which our own Geekulcha geeks were exhibitors. The conference was mainly focused on the use of Google products and services. The plan is extend to universities have something like GDGUp.</p>
<p><strong>Geekulcha hackathon</strong></p>
<p>We will be hosting our very own hackathon where all students and young IT professionals are invited to attend. More information about this event will be given out closer to the time so keep a look out for that.</p>
<p>A big thank you to everyone who participated in this survey and for the great insight given towards this topic. Please see some of the comments from our geeks below:</p>
<p>âI think we all need to take part in such events as programmers so we can show case our skills and also learn from others. Who knows one might come up with an online voting system?â - <strong>Sandiso Sithole</strong></p>
<p>âThe land is fertile. With the right platform and support, we can grow solid space. For the development to flourish, a developer space/community has to be established and enforce co-creationâ - <strong>Tiyani Nghonyama</strong></p>
<p>âLife runs on code for us programmers, give us a place to play.â- <strong>Kutlwano Kemisho</strong></p>
<p>âBesides the degree, these events can be a good place to network with professionals from a range of fields. Seize the opportunity to not only learn from your professors, but also your classmates and peersâ- <strong>Chauke Kurisani</strong></p>
<p>âGovernment programmes in South Africa acknowledge the importance of digital literacy and the power of e-learning as a force to improve the lives of its people. Their wide range of free courses and their powerful learning management system (LMS) will help everyone in South Africa to obtain the learning needed for the 21st century.â - <strong>Chauke Kurisani</strong></p>
<p>For more information on any of the listed events feel free to tweet me <a href="https://twitter.com/Keitu_Tsotetsi">@keitu_tsotetsi</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cloud enablement]]></title><description><![CDATA[The cloud environment is coupled with internet based data exchange and access,
and internet based access to low cost computing and applications. The
characteristics of cloud computing include on-demand self-servicing, pooled
resources, which allow economies of scale, elastic capacity and usage based
billing. Internet access is a must for cloud utilization.
Walking into a data centre, you walk into walls of large servers storing
information heading from one end to the other. Cloud enablement off]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/cloud-enablement/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f6</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 29 Apr 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/cloud_enablement-1.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/cloud_enablement-1.png" alt="Cloud enablement"/><p>The cloud environment is coupled with internet based data exchange and access, and internet based access to low cost computing and applications. The characteristics of cloud computing include on-demand self-servicing, pooled resources, which allow economies of scale, elastic capacity and usage based billing. Internet access is a must for cloud utilization.</p>
<p>Walking into a data centre, you walk into walls of large servers storing information heading from one end to the other. Cloud enablement offers transformational flexibility and scalability for business and customers. It is not the technology that is new but the ways in which to use it that have evolved.</p>
<p>The evolution of IT grows at an exponential pace. A little walk through the development of IT from one point of view; the mainframe allowed automation of tasks. Electronic data interchange enabled data exchange between organisations. Personal computers and client-server democratized computing and brought technology closer to the user. The internet/web supported open and interconnected networks bringing business closer to customers and started driving new business models. Here then enters the era of the cloud </insert angels singing and shiny sparkles here></p>
<p>_ âThe rise of the cloud is more than just another platform shift that gets the geeks excited, but will profoundly change the way in which people work and companies operateâ â Economists 2008â_</p>
<p>Among cloud enabled organisations, there are those taking leadership positions in cloud, those that are piloting and those still researching. This shows that different levels of organisations are reaching towards a cloud enabled administration. Cloud enablement is leveraging IT services for business value add. What we should be doing is helping customers realise the clouds full potential.</p>
<p>The deployment community of the cloud can be differentiated by private, public and community deployment. We need to understand the transformational impact that cloud is having on clients. Building knowledge of cloud is not a one-time event. We need to continue to learn in order to stay current.</p>
<p>The different service models in this revolution are created to suit the needs of all organisations, different sizes and streams. Software as a service (SaaS) comprises of business operations being conducted over a network. With this model perpetual software licences are now being replaced with flexible service level agreements (SLAs). Cost shifts from being a capital expense to being an operational expense.</p>
<p>Platform as a service (PaaS) deploys customer created applications to the cloud. This includes operating systems, application servers and database servers. It means not having to manage underlying software and/or hardware issues.</p>
<p>Infustructure as a service (SaaS) incorporates rentals for storage, processing, servers, software, networks and other computing resources.</p>
<p>When applying cloud implementation and enablement, some of the key issues to consider are privacy and security, data portability and regulatory policies. Business models are shifting and customers are demanding higher levels of service on a global scale.</p>
<p>As this is still fairly new the risks that raise many eyebrows in corporate are data ownership and portability. The transition risks and switching costs involved. The regulatory, taxation complexity and ambiguity that comes with large multi-country cloud deployment efforts made by one company.The human factor, which would affect the adoption of cloud because of vision, threats and the culture around cloud. Assurance of privacy and security, which are at the top of every usersâ priorities and Legacy complexity and embedded investments that come with the new deployment.</p>
<p>The business environment is more complex than ever. We need to help clients embrace and leverage the change to their advantage to increase their competitiveness. The impact that information technology is having on everything cannot be overemphasized. Cloud has reached an inflection point in the marketplace. The virtualization of IT impacts economics and business processes of organisations.</p>
<p>Cloud is a business issue, not just an IT issue. It is one of the most disruptive issues in the past 20 years. Performance and risk balance to bring sustainable change over time. It is more about business transformation than it is about IT transformation. Cloud allows firms to focus less on their IT inefficiencies and more on their and focus more on their business competencies.</p>
<p>The focus is now more on service management and less on IT deployment. It has transformed the way data moves making it cheaper, more efficient and faster. Now, companies can be distributed across the globe carrying advantages such as speed to market, improved working capital and reduced invested capital.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Head of the IT project]]></title><description><![CDATA[The biggest impact that any tech implementation has is change. How that change
is managed has a lot of influence on the success of the project.
There is much to be said about the roles, relationships and priorities carried
by the lead of the project. The increased awareness of the business/IT merger is
bringing about discussions with regards to the importance, difference and
relevance of who heads the IT project. Business or IT- The business analyst, or
the project manager.
The business may be]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/head-of-the-it-project/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f7</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 23 Apr 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/day009b.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/day009b.jpg" alt="Head of the IT project"/><p>The biggest impact that any tech implementation has is change. How that change is managed has a lot of influence on the success of the project.</p>
<p>There is much to be said about the roles, relationships and priorities carried by the lead of the project. The increased awareness of the business/IT merger is bringing about discussions with regards to the importance, difference and relevance of who heads the IT project. Business or IT- The business analyst, or the project manager.</p>
<p>The business may be too concentrated on bringing change that has few significant or lasting benefits. Here, the motive is to deliver a project within scope and budget. Once a start date has been given the go ahead, work has to start. At the beginning, all research may be complete but with the flexibility of IT, what seems like a minor change could result in detrimental project transformation. A transformation that business may not realise because of processes that were clarified at the beginning and not assessed as the conversions came. There is a massive risk in delivering a project that was poorly designed. What is a project delivered on time and at cost if it is ineffective?</p>
<p>IT always aspires towards a âwhat could work in the futureâ prospect, sometimes abandoning what is working perfectly right now. Here, the motive is to deliver a complete, fully tested and functional IT solution. This perception of what makes a great venture and continuous acceptance of change requests could greatly impact the time frame of project delivery. Their argument is that business has great analysis techniques but minimal implementation expertise. IT without project management stands the risk of being a high quality source of good ideas, but non-effective delivery.</p>
<p>Large IT projects are at greater risk of failure. This is why âthe IT guyâ might be given the position to march in the front. As condemning as it is to for me to say this, the anti-social, non-communicative qualities of a technical mind are not always just a stereotype. The inability to manage people and relationships could be the very downfall of the project. The outcome may be decisions made from a technical viewpoint and not necessarily a business perspective.</p>
<p>Not all companies are equipped to bring the solutions they need. We cannot be initiating new projects with old business processes. The reality is that many times an IT project is never complete but, it almost always works. Users always find workarounds. Perhaps the business analyst should look at the stakeholder aspect of things and the project manager at the project aspect? Project management is about implementation.</p>
<p>Business analysis is about delivering the right quality to the involved parties Ultimately both roles are working towards adding value to productivity and efficiency. The 2 different roles are vital in contesting decisions and managing expectations from the various functional areas.</p>
<p>We need people who understand the importance of keeping budget, are aware of time constraints and are able to push for quality delivery. We also need people who understand the business process activities and find root causes for problems to be able to assess if the solution is the answer to the problem. Together the combination attain remarkable results. No greater importance can be placed on one or the other.</p>
<p>Still the question remains, who better to head the project, business or IT?</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[What about the boys?]]></title><description><![CDATA[I am a female in IT, proudly. I believe in the empowering of women in this field
however, I also believe in equality, especially when it comes to opportunity.
Many women feel that they have to work twice as hard to prove themselves in the
workplace as compared to their male counterparts. This may be a challenge but,
are we not instilling inequality when all opportunities are targeted to the
females?
We often hear of CSI initiatives, bursaries and sometimes even entry level IT
jobs directed spe]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/what-about-the-boys/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f8</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/woman.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/woman.jpg" alt="What about the boys?"/><p>I am a female in IT, proudly. I believe in the empowering of women in this field however, I also believe in equality, especially when it comes to opportunity.</p>
<p>Many women feel that they have to work twice as hard to prove themselves in the workplace as compared to their male counterparts. This may be a challenge but, are we not instilling inequality when all opportunities are targeted to the females?</p>
<p>We often hear of CSI initiatives, bursaries and sometimes even entry level IT jobs directed specifically to women. This might make it seem easier for females to have advantages in the industry which is why they might have to work harder (arguable).</p>
<p>Competition in both the work place and development areas at school should be fair and provide equal opportunity to both sexes. This is a far reach of optimism, I know. It is all good and well to invest in women to be in IT. Iâm not being controversial, just proposing that males be given attention to develop as well.</p>
<p>If we are only looking at the girls, where does that leave the boys? Does it imply that they perhaps donât need any assistance and/or guidance? Imagine being declined a break because of your gender or the feeling of knowing that the reason you were granted an opportunity is because of gender?</p>
<p>Many guys that Iâve asked personally felt that it was almost âunfairâ all the consideration that the girls get in the industry. Another interesting point made was that the ladies would be given much more recognition for a completed task that the males have completed equally as well. There are even incidences of a person being turned down because a female was a preferred candidate.</p>
<p>We cannot hold it against the males that the females are not taking interest in the field. Instead, what we can do is create greater awareness. When the prospect of a progression comes, it should be given to the most deserving and it should be fair.</p>
<p>Anyone who has interest is eager to learn. People should be awarded benefits because of their performance. This will breed a healthy competitive environment from the start. The pay and the distribution of work is now equal, the chances given should now also be equal.</p>
<p>Let us not neglect the guys in IT. Let us involve them in the information we spread, the bursaries we give, the gadgets won in competitions, the conferences we host and let us give them the credit and acknowledgement for a job well done.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Spam]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cyber technology has introduced new and unique ethical issues that couldnât have
existed before computers. Human error plays a great role in how cyber threats
become a reality. One bad move causes an exponential trigger.
For big companies, an attack on one computer could spread resulting in an
overload on the network with a DoS(Denial of service) attack disabling the OS
and significantly affecting the systems operability.
The effects vary from an increase of outgoing messages to a complete net]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/spam/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582f9</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Spam-email.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Spam-email.jpg" alt="Spam"/><p>Cyber technology has introduced new and unique ethical issues that couldnât have existed before computers. Human error plays a great role in how cyber threats become a reality. One bad move causes an exponential trigger.</p>
<p>For big companies, an attack on one computer could spread resulting in an overload on the network with a DoS(Denial of service) attack disabling the OS and significantly affecting the systems operability.</p>
<p>The effects vary from an increase of outgoing messages to a complete network breakdown or loss of critical data. If data is stolen as the result of a targeted attack on a specific individual/company the damage can be tremendous, particularly if the data belonged to a company or even the state â client databases, financial and technical documentation or even banking details can end up in the wrong hands â the possibilities are endless.</p>
<p>_ _<em>âIn January 2003 the Slammer worm caused a geographically-rotating Internet blackout across the USA, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. As a result of the uncontrolled prevalence of the worm, network traffic increased by 25%, leading to serious problems with banking operations for the Bank of Americaâ</em></p>
<p>An account of mine was compromised early this week. One moment I was using an application, the next moment the gods of spam had invaded my account at 3am and made a mess.</p>
<p>While doing damage control, I had to explain to many people that the link they followed was spam. What is spam? They asked. My explaining of why they had to change their passwords and how someone out there got a hold of it without them giving it away or ever having met them was miserable. Users have not taken the effort to educate themselves on how to handle these situations.</p>
<p>We as users easily give away our information without being aware of how relevant it could be to someone who is looking for something. Having your e-mail address available on a public platform leaves the hacker with only a password to figure out</p>
<p>Using public computers at libraries, electronics stores or internet cafes significantly increases the risk of being a victim. Simply forgetting to log out could give the next user full control of all accounts you have logged into on that machine.</p>
<p>There are ways to mitigate the risks involved with net surfing: Never have the same password for all your accounts. Install the latest anti-viruses. Have separate e-mail addresses for personal use and for registering on sites, newsletters, online shopping etc. Make your password strong. The reasoning behind the â8 character, 1 upper case, 1 lower case, 1 special characterâ password is because of hackers throwing combinations of passwords at your account and the combination grouping makes in THAT much harder.</p>
<p>You canât trust all links on websites, social media and web catalogues. Which ones to trust and which not to? Unfortunately, this is a question that will only be answered after youâve clicked it.53% of email users say spam has made them less trusting of email, compared to 62% a year ago. Many have said that spam has made their use of the internet unpleasant.</p>
<p>Sites vary, with some you have to put some information in, with others one click makes you and your list of contacts victims. There are available platforms to report spam although the reality is that most of us just look at it, give a big sigh and carry on with life. These platforms and organisations fight towards making spam illegal. There have been talks of anti-spam laws that should come soon but with IT being such a fluid environment, it is difficult for the law to keep up.</p>
<p>What to do when you receive spam? Try to inform the people who could be targeted by the spam. Proceed to delete it and the cure to it would be simply logging in and changing your password. In extreme cases it might result in having to deactivate the account entirely.</p>
<p>The titles of the links are always deceivingly luring. Means of spreading spam include e-mails, pop-ups, advertisements or even a poser just asking for information. E-mail gives you the option to filter out or completely delete spam.</p>
<p>When you are spammed, you will know. Your contacts will tell you about the messages that âyouâ are flooding them with. In some situations you are no longer able to log into your account or once logged in, you will find that your settings have been changed or the account has been blocked. Your level of pain may fall anywhere between minor annoyance to personal and financial meltdown.</p>
<p>Spam has stayed around for so long because the process can easily be automated to save time. We could almost say that spam is self-regulating because of it being facilitated by user behavior. It hasnât gone away because it works, and very well at that. One of the things that are a negative effect of the efficiency of IT. The reasons folks spam is possibly to advertise a website, product, or service, to get back links to their site, to collect e-mail addresses (phishing) and to also to spread viruses.</p>
<p>Be careful where you tread. The internet was designed to be redundant, not secure.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell]]></title><description><![CDATA[So there we were busy with our normal lives, being Geeky, munching, stressing
and debugging on the code, developing mobile apps. Tiyani Nghonyama
[http://www.twitter.com/TiyaniTee] received an email that got him excited, an
invite to the National Electronics Week ADEC Expo 2014.
[http://www.new-expo.co.uk/newsa/]
[http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-2.jpg]
Tiyani is from an electronics background and he's very passionate about the
field and had had worked with vario]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/national-electronics-week-the-geeks-tell/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582fa</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 13 Mar 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/geeks_tell.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/geeks_tell.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell"/><p>So there we were busy with our normal lives, being Geeky, munching, stressing and debugging on the code, developing mobile apps. <a href="http://www.twitter.com/TiyaniTee" title="Tiyani Nghonyama">Tiyani Nghonyama</a> received an email that got him excited, an invite to the <a href="http://www.new-expo.co.uk/newsa/" title="National Electronics Week ADEC EXPO 2014">National Electronics Week ADEC Expo 2014.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-2.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-2-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell"/></a></p>
<p>Tiyani is from an electronics background and he's very passionate about the field and had had worked with various Microcontrollers including the at89s52 family, Microchip's PIC16F6XX/PIC16F8XX series and open hardware Arduino. His major interest is in wireless communication modules and had used modules such as the RN-42 Bluetooth shield, GPRS/GSM/Wireless, GPS module, among others for his projects. At Geekulcha, he uses sensor technologies in developing systems with mobile and web applications.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-300x181.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell" title="Tiyani's pride, at89s52 family controller board"/></a><br>
Tiyani's pride, at89s52 family controller board</br></p>
<p>The N.E.W Expo was seen as a great opportunity for our new GeekStars <a href="https://www.facebook.com/king.abdoul.9?fref=ts">Abdoul King</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Herve_243">Herve Ntubi</a> to get interact with various companies, the corporate world and importantly, to learn more. Having came from an electronics background, Abdoul and Herve had been working on various electronics projects, and had made use of liquid sensors on one of their projects.</p>
<p>Recently, Tiyani, Abdoul and Herve had been working on a queue mobile app with the use of electronics sensors. The team was really excited about the Expo and were looking forward to learning new technologies, and the to bring home technologies they would use for their projects.</p>
<p>We made our way to the Expo venue, The Gallagher Convention Center. The venue was not new to us as we had attended several conferences at this venue and we think it couldn't had been a better venue. Though we were dressed as Geeks, we were humbled that they had put up a red carpet. Registration process was quite good though we had had forgotten to print out our registration letters as instructed, we were not worried at all, we were at the Electronics EXPO and we felt like Royal Geeks.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-511.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-511-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell"/></a><br>
Red Carpet Walk</br></p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/teiya.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/teiya-225x300.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell" title="Tiyani"/></a><br>
Expo Access</br></p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-1.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-1-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell" title="The Exhibitors"/></a><br>
Exhibitors list on map</br></p>
<p>There about 80 Exhibitors of local and international electronics houses ranging from basic components distributors - soldering technologies - to optic technologies - PCB boards innovation - simulation softwares - technology publishing houses - data evangelists - high resolution microscopes -oscilloscopes - to massive high speed processing place-and-pick machines.</p>
<p>We visited each and every exhibition there was and it was very exciting to see the different technologies they brought along. Tiyani had brought his own multimeter, one of the multimeter exhibitors took aim at him and offered him the very latest of the multimeter technologies.</p>
<p><strong>This is what Abdoul King had to say about the Expo:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-22.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-22-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell" title="Freebies"/></a><br>
Gifts From the Expo<br>
[caption id="attachment_305" align="alignright" width="250"] <a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-21.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-21-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell" title="Abdoul King"/></a> Abdoul at the Proteus Design Suite[/caption]</br></br></p>
<blockquote>
<p>As a fan of electronics, it was a blessing, being able to attend the electronics exhibition that took place at theGallagher estate in Midrand on the 11th of March.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Attending the exhibition gave me a great idea on not just how the different components Iâve been using throughout my time in varsity are manufactured but how they are distributed in the world and by which companies. I had the chance of meeting very interesting companies who distributes electronics components throughout South Africa. I also attended a seminar that discussed the problem designers are facing nowadays which was a great insight.</p>
<p>Besides the seminar, there were many exciting exhibitions such as the pick and place machines, that assembles 70,000 components per hour, thatâs</p>
<p>almost 1167 components per minute (now thatâs crazy) it is so fast that one of the exhibitors said there we</p>
<p>re able to make 10 Nokia Lumnia phones in 1.5 seconds, crazy right? Well thatâs technology. Another great exhibition was the Touch screen oscilloscope, I mean not long ago I was using a normal oscilloscope in the lab at school which had many great features and now they manufactured a better version which is both touch screen and hard button, when did technology advance so much that we cannot even imagine what will be next?</p>
<p>As a member of the Geekulcha family, I believe in the future we can approach the manufacturers and<br>
suggest to become the link between them and the community as to expose electronic lovers such myself to the âReal Dealâ. Last but not least, âThe</br></p>
<p>freebiesâ getting to know different electronics companies was really great but their reception was even better (most of them), each company gave us what youâll call a farewell gift, although I was a bit disappointed by Panasonic, they did not really show interest in our questions.</p>
<p>Overall it was a great learning experience and I will definitely love to attend the next exhibition.</p>
<p>Long Live ElectonicsâŠ</p>
<p><strong>What Herve Ntubi had to say:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-3.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-3-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell"/></a><br>
Proteus Game Board</br></p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-11.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo-11-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell"/></a><br>
Herve With The Touch Screen Oscilloscope</br></p>
<blockquote>
<p>We decided to attend the expo to better familiarize ourselves with electronic gadgets, to get an insight view of the electronics field in the engineering industry, and also to see the different technologies used and innovations made in the field.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>One of my highlights was definitively the Panasonic cellphone-making machine that processes seventy thousand components per hour (really impressive), the Zetech pick-and-place machine and the cellphone-making machine that makes ten Nokia Lumia in 1.5 seconds.</p>
<p>About technologies to try out, I think itâll be really good to get my hands on devices like the PIC32, the EDA Technologiesâ PCBs, LabView by National Instruments, and so on.</p>
<p>Iâd gladly attend future events to learn more about electronics and find out about new technologies in the electronics field. Geekulcha would fit in because it also incorporates electronics in their various mobile development projects, like the AQMS.</p>
<p>I think the expo organizers reached out to the community because anybody/everybody from the community was welcome to attend the event, and people had been assisted with any inquiries they had.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo2.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo2-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell" title="Seminar"/></a><br>
National Instruments Seminar</br></p>
<p>The Expo also featured 6 seminars all aiming to inform, teach and change the mindset of design with new technologies. With 80 exhibitions to see, we only had the opportunity to attend two of the the seminars. A seminar by National Instruments was aimed at employing a Graphical System Design Methodology for Embedded System Development, we learned about the evolution of the software abstracrion and raised an interesting question: Buy or Build?</p>
<p>A seminar by EDA Technologies taught all that we need to know about about building good, safe and maintainable Printed Circuit Boards and the different techniques to protect them. This seminar introduced us to the Altium softwares and its different capabilities.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo1.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo1-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell" title="Netwirking"/></a><br>
The best of networking</br></p>
<p>All in all, we had a very good time at the N.E.W Expo, as much as we enjoyed getting all the freebies, pens, books, bags, and others, the knowledge we had gained is phenomenal. In each exhibition we went to, we would ask what they do, it's either a company is a manufacturer or a distributor of electronics components or they are into media space distributing information on technology.</p>
<p>Networking was also a best element of the Expo, exchanging ideas, new technologies trends talk and business cards. There is a reason as to why we exchange the cards, building a wider network of the technological space and we aim for it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/walkout.jpg"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/walkout-300x224.jpg" alt="National Electronics Week - The Geeks Tell"/></a><br>
As we walked out</br></p>
<p>We look forward to the next one. Thank you for a great time over a feast of knowledge.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Degree vs Certification]]></title><description><![CDATA[This debate dates way back and is equivalent to asking whether the chicken or
the egg came first. The IT industry is one where a person can make a living
because of their general interest and not on a qualification. That, however, is
rarely the case. In the real world employers want to see some sort âproof of
abilityâ
Some argue that certifications are the way to go with the IT industry being so
dynamic now more than ever. That may be a vulnerability because with each new
release you would have]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/degree-vs-certification/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582fb</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 10 Mar 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Grad-School-e1370011106752.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Grad-School-e1370011106752.jpg" alt="Degree vs Certification"/><p>This debate dates way back and is equivalent to asking whether the chicken or the egg came first. The IT industry is one where a person can make a living because of their general interest and not on a qualification. That, however, is rarely the case. In the real world employers want to see some sort âproof of abilityâ</p>
<p>Some argue that certifications are the way to go with the IT industry being so dynamic now more than ever. That may be a vulnerability because with each new release you would have to get a new certification. But with that certification comes the confidence that you are able to do your work with specialised intricate knowledge. The certification might get you in at a lower level post but will give you a solid grounding in the real world and the ability to climb the ladder. Degrees can become dated. Certifications have to be renewed as technology evolves</p>
<p>Going the certification route means you can select a specialised direction of items that you would like to study whereas the degree syllabus is pre-set. The issue with being too specialised is that youâre unable to broaden your work span without having to further educate yourself. I suppose thatâs the area that a degree has an advantage, flexibility. That also doesnât guarantee any certainty because a high percentage of students end up working in a field that they did not study.</p>
<p>The field of work you chose and how you want to market yourself may need to have both a qualification and a certification. Exploration has found that the social influence in a country is important in dictating the attitude of employers over degrees verses certifications because of perception.</p>
<p>I, personally having been a university student had many college friends and used to envy the amount of experience and hands on tasks they would get. We had the same ideas in our heads with the difference being them actually being able to do the task at hand. It is important to remember that when you get a job, the piece of paper with your qualification will not be doing your work for you. All knowledge with no experience is a risk.</p>
<p>Research is imperative in deciding where to work, or which field to go into. Many students blindly jump into studies without actually knowing what theyâre getting into. I was one of those and was lucky enough that it was my perfect match.</p>
<p>Coding, for example, is something you can even teach yourself if you have enough patience and interest. These days many platforms makes the tools available for use and The issue with that would then not following standard procedures like commenting, performing unit testing, etc.</p>
<p>Your qualification, certification or self-learning shouldnât be the basis of how you market yourself to potential employers. These are important and help with getting your foot in the door but once you are hired, your performance does the talking for you. You need to be able to do what your employer requires of you.</p>
<p>Regardless of what form of education you chose, you should always be confident in what you can do and also be humble enough to continue learning. Any career is a growing and continuing process. Be ready to accept constructive criticism. Reach out for advice from your superiors.</p>
<p>With any form of education, learning only comes through doing. IT is an elastic trade and your choice of education can fit your interests. Many organisations have their own unique ways of working. There is no generic fit for what you think you know. Learning is a continuous process and it is never enough. Never forgetting that the ultimate advantage is experience, nothing beats that.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Big Data]]></title><description><![CDATA[There is no âone size fits allâ solution with how a company goes about using
their data to find insight. This provides an endless stream of competitive
advantage. Two companies may have the same data but may be using it differently
to find new trends and to predict what it is that their consumers will want
next.
One of the many new buzzwords that everyone is hearing is BIG DATA. So, what is
big data? It is the collection and analysis of large amounts of data that is
generated by people, machine]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/big-data/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582fc</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 28 Feb 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Big-data-Red.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Big-data-Red.jpg" alt="Big Data"/><p>There is no âone size fits allâ solution with how a company goes about using their data to find insight. This provides an endless stream of competitive advantage. Two companies may have the same data but may be using it differently to find new trends and to predict what it is that their consumers will want next.</p>
<p>One of the many new buzzwords that everyone is hearing is BIG DATA. So, what is big data? It is the collection and analysis of large amounts of data that is generated by people, machines and even nature. The information found from this can be used to access untapped indicators that competitors may not have and therefore allow a company to market more effectively which will ultimately increase revenue. Open source frameworks that support large data processing across clustered systems are emerging. These technologies come with core organisational goals: Better business decisions. More money.</p>
<p>Data equity will resemble the importance of brand equity. It will become to be known as a prerequisite in business just as the internet is. That is how common it will be. It will provide a stream of gains for all industries. Risk management can be optimised through finding anticipated patterns before they happen and therefore being able to counter act them.</p>
<p>The Major benefiters of this trend so far have been the banking, telecoms and marketing industries. They have been able to predict what customers want as a market segment and also down to the individual. Customised service to suite my needs? YES PLEASE.</p>
<p>Social media is a key play maker in this spectacle as it is constantly feeding information to system. This can answer almost every question ranging from whether or not customers approve of your products, to which areas your brand is impacting.</p>
<p>Big IT organisations will have to up their game in providing better capabilities. They will have to continue to modernise in order to stay relevant. The industry will have to revolutionise to accommodate all the changes and be able to manage the expectations that will arise from this. The information is available but how to turn it into a valuable resource is still a challenge. What to then do with the newly identified patterns, trends and information from the raw data is also cryptic.</p>
<p>It enhances how everything is monitored captured and analysed. Organisations are still learning how to use this. All inventions and improvements are aimed at better decision making, increased productivity and higher efficiency.</p>
<p>Here, all walks of IT come together. Your data analysts, database specialists, business intelligence gurus, programmers and technicians are all invited to the big data party.</p>
<p>Good servers need to be set up, maintained and run in the correctly structured databases. Storage has to be maintained. There has to be good quality information that is relevant not redundant and complete. The data canât just be stored, it has to be used to find insight and unknown trends. The correct tools need to be created and sustained for continued improvement in this field.</p>
<p>Inventions in IT are always significantly better than the previous and this is because of the various boundaries that this industry crosses and integrates with. Anything is possible and everything is so different. If ever there was a time to pursue a career in IT, it is now.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[IoT (Internet of things)]]></title><description><![CDATA[Believe it or not, IoT is the transferring of data from one machine to another
without any human-to-computer interaction. It is a manifestation that has
evolved from micro-electromechanical systems, wireless and internet
technologies. This means that technological value can be added to anything that
can be given an IP address and has the ability to transfer data.
> "The complexity of IoT interconnections rapidly outstrips our ability to
unravel them"
Andrew Rose
One of the risks that may not ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/iot-internet-of-things/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582fd</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 06 Feb 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/iot.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/iot.png" alt="IoT (Internet of things)"/><p>Believe it or not, IoT is the transferring of data from one machine to another without any human-to-computer interaction. It is a manifestation that has evolved from micro-electromechanical systems, wireless and internet technologies. This means that technological value can be added to anything that can be given an IP address and has the ability to transfer data.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"The complexity of IoT interconnections rapidly outstrips our ability to unravel them"</p>
<small><em>Andrew Rose</em></small>
</blockquote>
<p>One of the risks that may not necessarily be negative because of usage but negative because of the growth that IoT conveys, is running out of address space to accommodate all of these new IP addresses.</p>
<p>The many conveniences that IoT brings comes with unpredictable data security. Data privacy may be compromised. Not everyone is comfortable with having almost every detail of their life captured and even through the data may be protected, security always poses a threat. The route that the data takes to the provider could be tampered with. Unauthorized access may be granted because of loss due to physical theft. Nothing out of the ordinary for a data carrying device but still very disastrous.</p>
<p>Another question that can be asked is, does IoT increase the gap between the rich and poor? Not having internet access may mean less access to things that may matter most. This could discriminate against people who have little or no access to the internet.</p>
<p>As with many IT developments this idea is not going unchallenged. What is clear is that the benefits out way the disadvantages by a long shot and as with any invention, there is always room for improvement.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/IoT_Image.png"><img src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/IoT_Image.png" alt="IoT (Internet of things)"/></a></p>
<p>If you are a business owner you will be glad to know that this development reduces cost and loss because of the increased accuracy that this development brings. It gives great grounds to the emerging knowledge economy. IoT means business strategies can be more productive and current.</p>
<p>Every field will benefit from better management because of the availability of data and the precision at which it is collected. Drâs could monitor critical patients and immediately see any changes. People will be able to monitor their home security systems from any location on their personal devices. Appliances will be able to communicate which is important for better energy efficiency and therefore reduced costs in the household. The most widely used example being a fridge that can detect when your milk is almost finished, or is expired, and then orders it for you. AMZAING!</p>
<p>Thereâs no question about how big data will be affected by this and the benefits customers will reap from customization and personalisation. Suddenly all sorts of data will be available all the time to find out almost anything if you have access to it.</p>
<p>Machines will now have less dependability on humans for information. Can anyone say GOOD-BYE HUMAN ERROR? It seems that this is another challenge for IT to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and provide humans with simplicity.</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Your social media footprint]]></title><description><![CDATA[Social Media now has a bigger impact than ever on people both getting and losing
jobs. Although this should be a personal space, more employers are looking to
social media to get a feel of their employees and applicants. The amount off
accountability has increased significantly and even things you post within your
personal capacity can be negatively held against you.
Your social media footprint is any information that can be found about you
online. It is the trail that is left behind every time]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/your-social-media-footprint/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582fe</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 31 Jan 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/110.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/110.jpg" alt="Your social media footprint"/><p>Social Media now has a bigger impact than ever on people both getting and losing jobs. Although this should be a personal space, more employers are looking to social media to get a feel of their employees and applicants. The amount off accountability has increased significantly and even things you post within your personal capacity can be negatively held against you.</p>
<p>Your social media footprint is any information that can be found about you online. It is the trail that is left behind every time you get tagged in a Flickr photo, upload a photo on Instagram, check in on Foursquare, tweet on Twitter, share anything on Facebook, pin on Pinterest, publish videos on YouTube, add jobs and education info on LinkedIn.</p>
<p>This phenomenon is not just about what happens on the internet. It allows you to present an image of how you would like the world to perceive you at first glance. Google yourself. Do you like what you see?</p>
<p>Being the mobile generation, there is no place cheaper and easier to build a brand for yourself than a social platform. Get connected and increase your networking. Stay active on the net, it increases your reachability.</p>
<p>Your profile picture is a first impression. Make sure that it is presentable. Chose a platform that is suited for you so that it can be easily maintained. The last thing you need is to build an audience and then leave them wondering. Engage with your audience and be consistent with your updates. Keep your content interesting and add a touch of personal. The more content you create the more likely it is to fall into the right hands.</p>
<p>I personally love the twitter platform. It is available on any smartphone and is quite cost effective on data. It feels great to tweet and get feedback from the biggest names in the industry and see that there are people who agree with your opinions. There is also a vast range of available information to me that I would otherwise not be able to get and many of the issues are often summarized so that I can get the core of it. A quick tip I can give is be careful not to be too personal and never respond when youâre emotional.</p>
<p>It is important that you take interest in your field of study and gather as much information about the industry before you get in it. Not only does this make you more knowledgeable but the evidence of you doing so makes you marketable to potential employers.</p>
<p>Donât wait until it is too late to start your connections in the industry. The brand you build for yourself could be the one factor that uniquely identifies from the rest. Get social!</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[No one ever rallies around a conference call.]]></title><description><![CDATA[Social media? What's in it for you and your business? Our guest blogger, Mr
Vinay Naran gives some insights around the subject.
Decided to randomly browse through my previous post this evening â Yes I am
aware of how socially active my lifestyle is. A certain paragraph however had me
not go any further. Read it, read it again, thought, considered, visualized,
read it again, thought and stoppedâŠ.."wait a min" I mumbled to myself, âthis is
actually bigger than we think it to be, deeper than just ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/no-one-ever-rallies-around-a-conference-call/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582ff</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Tiyani Nghonyama]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 31 Jan 2014 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/conference-call-conferencing-circle-around-mans-picture-placed-avatars-other-people-who-talking-to-each-other-35308231.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/conference-call-conferencing-circle-around-mans-picture-placed-avatars-other-people-who-talking-to-each-other-35308231.jpg" alt="No one ever rallies around a conference call."/><p>Social media? What's in it for you and your business? Our guest blogger, Mr Vinay Naran gives some insights around the subject.</p>
<p>Decided to randomly browse through my previous post this evening â Yes I am aware of how socially active my lifestyle is. A certain paragraph however had me not go any further. Read it, read it again, thought, considered, visualized, read it again, thought and stoppedâŠ.."wait a min" I mumbled to myself, âthis is actually bigger than we think it to be, deeper than just that on the surface.</p>
<p><em>Everyone seems to be scrambling to utilize social media in any way they can. Consumers are spending more time on social networks than on any other kind of website - This presents an opportunity for those seeking to build and strengthen relationships with customers. Does it not?</em></p>
<p>It's not an overstatement to say social media is transforming every aspect of business. Please do take into consideration that when I mention social media I do by all means exclude those of you that are reading this and trying to align that mentioned to your yearly Facebook status updateâŠneither the Twitter handle that displays the last tweet warning tweetland of the Y2k bug.</p>
<p>On a more serious note though, even as I type this I wonder to myself if we really do understand how big this social media revolution actually is. Yes I know everything everywhere is about âlike my page âhereâ follow me thereâ ârequesting to be pinned to boards and shared amongst friends. But my friends, okay and my followers too, pause for a moment as a business owner that is active on social media platforms, and reflect on how the behavior of those purchasing your products and services has drastically changed â Cetris paribus, just in respect of social media itself.</p>
<p>Does it not scare you that you employees and your customers, oh and your business partners too, can converge at the same place and share what they each think even while training with Sir Branson for their galactic virgin of a mission? The thought is overwhelming to be honest, I can just see screwing up resulting in a business going from hero to zero in 2 likes, 1 comment and 15 shares. Ouch!</p>
<p>Realise this â Social media is for more than just marketing. Social media is more than just being able to allow you to market goods and services differently to that in the past. I think we should have a part 3 focusing on the how and why of why the how, agreed?</p>
<p>Innovation has become the âflavourâ of the year, it is now a growing social and economic imperative, it is a call to action to be more innovative more often. If innovation begins with the keen observation of people and their behavior - as humans observing our experiences â Should you not begin to consider embracing social media and how it can transform your business?</p>
<p>Itâs easier to figure out how to get peopleâs attention when you first create something worthy of holding it, said the Bearded Man. You cannot build the wondrous upon a base of the forgettable.</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/EagleNaran" title="@EagleNaran">@EagleNaran</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Technology, a male dominated industry?]]></title><description><![CDATA[We all know that people vaguely understand IT unless theyâre in it. For some
reason, everyone assumes that if youâre in IT that must mean you fix computers.
We need to inform people on the different roles that are available to both men
and women in IT. Society still remains very much uninformed when coming to the
opportunities available in the field.
When you were a young girl growing up did you picture yourself as a .Net
developer in a cubicle? Probably not. Many times we see âthe IT guysâ wit]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/technology-a-male-dominated-industry-3/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558300</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Keitumetsi]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 11 Dec 2013 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/IT.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/IT.jpg" alt="Technology, a male dominated industry?"/><p>We all know that people vaguely understand IT unless theyâre in it. For some reason, everyone assumes that if youâre in IT that must mean you fix computers. We need to inform people on the different roles that are available to both men and women in IT. Society still remains very much uninformed when coming to the opportunities available in the field.</p>
<p>When you were a young girl growing up did you picture yourself as a .Net developer in a cubicle? Probably not. Many times we see âthe IT guysâ with white lab coats being placed far off in the company at a little corner with many screens full of numbers and letters and lots of pizza. The reason there arenât many women in technology is possibly because of some of the stereotypes that are associated with the industry. This generally takes away the female attraction to the field. Just as pink is no longer only for females, tech is no longer only for males and for those of you who have not heard Geek is the new cool.</p>
<p>The blame canât entirely be placed on companies for not hiring women if women are not taking interest in the field to begin with. The fear of going into the unknown because of its perceived male dominance could be holding back the entire industry. There are some places you can learn more from through failing than you would through other places succeeding. Catch 22. Women need to realise this.</p>
<p>A question that may arise is whether or not itâs true that there arenât many women in IT. Are they just underreported? Companies are actively hiring more people regardless of gender and both men and women have taken a greater interest in technology over recent years. This is not just a service industry, we are shaping the world to come and by disadvantaging women we are disregarding 50% of intellectual and creative potential. What should be considered is not only hiring women, but also men who are able to work with women in such an industry.</p>
<p>The rate of employment of women in the Information technology field is steadily increasing at an impressive rate. The male-to-female ratio is declining as more women confidently walk into IT and companies gain confidence in their ability to produce the same results as their male counterparts. The feeling of being a female in a male world is slowly coming to an end as the IT sector becomes more diversified in both gender and nationality. Organisations are realising the importance of having a balanced workforce. Although there is still the issue of salary differences, which is not only unique to the technology field, they (women) are certainly filling up the positions.</p>
<p>There has been a positive shift. For the first time in 10 years, women are the popular tech hires. It is not only in executive positions that there is an imbalance in female positions, but all levels of technology. 60% of the hires for this year went to women and although on the whole women still account for only 31% of the technology force, this is a giant leap. Goodbye Male domination. Hello woman power!</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[RHoK Pretoria 2013]]></title><description><![CDATA[For those of you who still donât know what RHoK is all about, Random Hacks of
Kindness (RHoK) is a global initiative that is primarily aimed at merging a wide
community of innovators to collectively to make the world a better place via
socially relevant computing.
During the past weekend, two RHoK hackathons took place in Johannesburg and
Pretoria simultaneously, and I was privileged to be one of the RHoK Pretoria
student participants.
So what exactly did we do?
Shortly after arrival on Satur]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/rhok-pretoria-2013/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558301</guid><category><![CDATA[hackathon]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 02 Dec 2013 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/rhok-blog.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/rhok-blog.jpg" alt="RHoK Pretoria 2013"/><p>For those of you who still donât know what RHoK is all about, Random Hacks of Kindness (RHoK) is a global initiative that is primarily aimed at merging a wide community of innovators to collectively to make the world a better place via socially relevant computing.</p>
<p>During the past weekend, two RHoK hackathons took place in Johannesburg and Pretoria simultaneously, and I was privileged to be one of the RHoK Pretoria student participants.</p>
<p>So what exactly did we do?</p>
<p>Shortly after arrival on Saturday, students, interns and a few IT experts in the industry were seated and presented with 5 challenges. The audience was then encouraged to take part in any one of the challenges at their own discretion with the aid of the experts present.</p>
<p>The top three challenges in summary</p>
<p><strong>Challenge 1</strong> : âYehlaâ, Presented by Tiyani Nghonyama from <a href="http://www.geekulcha.com">Geekulcha</a></p>
<p>The task here was to create a mobile app that will alert taxi users of their point of departure, to avoid missing stops and getting lost.</p>
<p><strong>Challenge 2</strong> : âAjiraâ, Presented by Dr Jabu</p>
<p>Hackers were to design and develop a backend and client(s) app that would allow a micro employer to post jobs. The backend system should also be able to rate uWorkers after each submission.</p>
<p><strong>Challenge 3</strong> : School Library System, Presented by Jay from the African school of excellence.</p>
<p>The task entailed upgrading an already existing library system to keep track of books going in and out of the schoolâs library.</p>
<p>The rest of the challenges</p>
<p><strong>Challenge 4</strong> : <a href="https://twitter.com/RobohandSA">@RobohandSA</a>, Presented by Quentin Harley from House4Hack</p>
<p>Interested parties were to create a system that will be used by doctors to enter hand measurements of patients who lose their hands in fatalities and then use a 3D Printer to print the robot hand..</p>
<p><strong>Challenge 5:</strong> Medical stock out, Presented by Dr Jabu from UNISA</p>
<p>This system should be able to alert hospitals/ clinics of soon coming medication shortages.</p>
<p><strong>Challenge 6</strong> : Donate-My-Stuff, Presented by Ishmael Makitla from the CSIR</p>
<p>Attendees were presented with a task to create a web based application that will act as a mediator between donors and people in need. Donors should be able to make offers and view requests made by potential beneficiaries.</p>
<p>We were given about 36 hours (meaning NO SLEEP!) to code the solutions. Sounds fun right? Not only do students get the opportunity to platform their coding skills, but non-coders, like me, get to draw from fellow group members. For one, I was introduced to JSON for the first time (Side note: I feel I need to broadcast how good I turned out to be at it). Another interesting aspect of this event is getting to take part in uplifting, thought shifting conversations with like-minded people during âdown timeâ. A great way to connect, gather inspiration and make friends that will yield good fruit in the future.</p>
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<p>Apart from all of the above, the idea of utilizing what you know to be a small part of something bigger than you to help and advance humanity is in excess of humbling. So, Iâd like to urge all IT enthusiasts; students, employees and employers to look out for the next RHoK event and avail themselves. Be part of the revolution. Hack for humanity!</p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Meet Keitumetsi]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hello everyone, Keitumetsi here. IT fanatic, soon to be graduate, lover of food
and full time optimist. Iâm the new addition to the crew and, might I add, I am
super excited. Iâm looking forward to sharing my opinions and hearing yours
about the modernization that Information technology has to offer.
I was introduced to Geekulcha by Griff (@macgriffiths), a fellow IT enthusiast
that I attend varsity with at the University of Johannesburg. Taken by the idea
of bringing a better IT experience to ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/meet-keitumetsi/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f6558302</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 24 Nov 2013 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Tumi_pic.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/Tumi_pic.jpg" alt="Meet Keitumetsi"/><p>Hello everyone, Keitumetsi here. IT fanatic, soon to be graduate, lover of food and full time optimist. Iâm the new addition to the crew and, might I add, I am super excited. Iâm looking forward to sharing my opinions and hearing yours about the modernization that Information technology has to offer.</p>
<p>I was introduced to Geekulcha by Griff (@macgriffiths), a fellow IT enthusiast that I attend varsity with at the University of Johannesburg. Taken by the idea of bringing a better IT experience to the community, I too wanted to contribute to the ICT development in South Africa (while having a good time) and what better way to do that than through Geekulcha?</p>
<p>How did I meet the crew? Social Media of course! This medium is a great tool because it enables people to network from any location. It brings together societies with the same interests to one platform. This is how it came about that I âmet upâ with the crew members. We would share our points of view on many IT related matters. It is always amazing to connect with people who are excited about the same things you are. Not long after that I met Lehlogonolo, Tiyani and Thabang at the Microsoft TechDays event, where I won the tweet geek prize (very fitting).Who would have thought that tweeting would get you anything?</p>
<p>I believe that more effort should be put into students and corporates coming together to bridge the gap between the learning and corporate world. This will enable graduates to be better equipped to face the working industry and reach higher lengths with less effort through proper guidance. Technology is a broad industry; join us as we explore the various fields that contribute to the evolution and success of the IT phenomenon. From the core of software development, to the benefits that business corporations have reaped. All topics will be reached for the coverage of all aspects in the industry.<br>
We are living in the greatest era of discovery. It is only when youâre thrown in the deep end that you realise your learning capacity, stress tolerance levels, how to capitalize on your strengths and , even more profiting, work on your personal weaknesses. Ladies and gentlemen, this is IT, this is the deep end. Itâs time to learn how to swim.</br></p>
<p>First blog coming soon!! Look out for it out as I (obviously) discuss the role of females in the IT industry and how it has changed. Woman power *whoop*<br>
In the time to come Lehlogonolo and I will be looking through the developments that have been made and brought by the IT industry, how it has improved our lives and how we, as young IT individuals, can better ourselves. There is a lot to be discussed. Your Big Data, Cloud, Marketing, Social Media, Application development, new devices⊠the list is endless. We will also be seeing the sight of the different aspects of how innovation is changing the Business and IT industry, and how they work together to advance life.</br></p>
<p>Feel free to give feedback/suggestions and follow conversations at #Geekulcha<br>
Follow me on Twitter (@keitu_tsotetsi) and of course @Geekulcha. Stick with us to see how incredible IT can be. Itâs about to get larger-than-life.</br></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[TedxPretoria]]></title><description><![CDATA[On the 27th of September we had the first ever TedxPretoria which was hosted at
The Innovation Hub. It was my first ever Tedx event but definitely not the last.
Being part of the TedxPretoria organizing team was really something special, a
great honor and plenty of fun. It had to be lots of with Linda âThe Circus
Masterâ Swart at the helm
So what is Tedx?
TEDx was created in the spirit of TEDâs mission, âideas worth spreading.â The
program is designed to give communities, organizations and indi]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/tedxpretoria/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582ed</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 17 Oct 2013 17:27:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/04/tedx_pretoria-1.jpg" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/04/tedx_pretoria-1.jpg" alt="TedxPretoria"/><p>On the 27th of September we had the first ever TedxPretoria which was hosted at The Innovation Hub. It was my first ever Tedx event but definitely not the last. Being part of the TedxPretoria organizing team was really something special, a great honor and plenty of fun. It had to be lots of with Linda âThe Circus Masterâ Swart at the helm</p>
<h4 id="sowhatistedx">So what is Tedx?</h4>
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<div class="col-sm-6">
<p>TEDx was created in the spirit of TEDâs mission, âideas worth spreading.â The program is designed to give communities, organizations and individuals the opportunity to stimulate dialogue through TED-like experiences at the local level.</p>
<p>At TEDx events, a screening of TED Talks videos â or a combination of live presenters and TED Talks videos â sparks deep conversation and connections. TEDx events are fully planned and coordinated independently, on a community-by-community basis.</p>
<p>TedxPretoria had a great turn out. It was a full house of Ted Talks fans that came to listen to some really great speakers. The stage setup was also nicely designed in-line with the TedxPretoria theme of Collaboration. The students from the Pretoria school worked on the TedxPretoria stage logo and they did an awesome job on it.</p>
</div>
<div class="col-sm-6">
<img class="img-responsive" src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/IMG_2728-300x200.jpg" alt="TedxPretoria" style="width:400px; margin-bottom:15px;">
</img></div>
</div>
<blockquote>
<p>"The more playful you are, the more creative you become"</p>
<small><em>Itha Taljaard</em></small>
</blockquote>
<p>The Speaker lineup was also good with a balance of experienced Tedx speakers like Stafford Masie and Leyla Haidarian and newbies like Ahmed Alkayyali, Lany Sommers, Itha Taljaard. The youth were also well represented with Bruce Dube from Youth Village and Geekulchaâs very own Gabriel âPoetic Blaqueâ Matabane on the spoken word and Tiyani Nghonyama talking and showing some of his cool inventions.</p>
<p>There was a bit of beatboxing from Christopher MacClements aka ChrisMac who took the audience through a variety of beat-boxing sounds that originates as far as France, England and Australia. His set was wrapped with a tribute to local South African Sounds</p>
<p>Each speaker went home with a hand drawn portrait of themselves which was pretty cool. To find out more about the different speakers have a look at this TedxPretoria link: <a href="http://www.tedxpretoria.co.za/">http://www.tedxpretoria.co.za/</a></p>
<h4 id="foodforthoughts">Food for Thoughts</h4>
<p>The lunch was so nicely packaged by the Blankcanvas team in this designed boxes. The food was really something different yet very delicious and fresh.</p>
<p>Constant laughter and stomach pains were dished out by Don Packett. He was the MC and a great one at it</p>
<p>Really looking forward to the next TedxPretoria event and hopefully be part of the organizing team again. Massive respect to the âCircus Masterâ, Linda Swart, for taking up the challenge, selecting the right team that worked so well to deliver the amazing event.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"People donât want more tech, they want more convenience. Make it disappear and it will be more ubiquitous"</p>
<small><em>Stafford Masie</em></small>
</blockquote>
<p>Let the spirit of Innovation and collaboration continue beyond TedxPretoria because through it we will be able to see lots of change within our city and also our country.</p>
<div style="text-align:center; margin-top:40px;">
<img class="" src="http://www.geekulcha.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/IMG_2788-300x200.jpg" alt="TedxPretoria" style="width:400px; margin-bottom:15px;">
</img></div><!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[GDG Wits Hack Session]]></title><description><![CDATA[Jozihub hosted the most fun-packed event, the GDG hackathon session, which was
filled with passionate devs who came in with one goal in mind,to build a
complete front end and back-end website for the user.from
design-development-deployment.It proved to be a challenge to work as a
team,especially with different personalities and style of work. I was in a team
of six and so was pretty much everyone else more or less and so began the
strategy of seeing who would "come out on top".
[http://www.geek]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/gdg-wits-hack-session-2/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582ec</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 17 Aug 2013 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate><media:content url="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/gdg_wits.png" medium="image"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/06/gdg_wits.png" alt="GDG Wits Hack Session"/><p>Jozihub hosted the most fun-packed event, the GDG hackathon session, which was filled with passionate devs who came in with one goal in mind,to build a complete front end and back-end website for the user.from design-development-deployment.It proved to be a challenge to work as a team,especially with different personalities and style of work. I was in a team of six and so was pretty much everyone else more or less and so began the strategy of seeing who would "come out on top".</p>
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<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[I am an unemployed youthâŠIS THERE A FUTURE FOR ME?]]></title><description><![CDATA[
One of the greatest challenges facing our beloved country is the rate of
unemployment. Let's face it,it's not going to end anytime soon. There is a
growing debate on whether the government is doing enough to create jobs for the
youth and also for the general public. Another challenge that comes to mind,
even though some see it as an excuse by big corporates,is that we are in an
economic crisis and instead companies are letting people go than hiring them.
As a young South African I must admit ]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/i-am-an-unemployed-youthis-there-a-future-for-me/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582eb</guid><category><![CDATA[Youth]]></category><category><![CDATA[Entrepreneurs]]></category><category><![CDATA[Graduates]]></category><category><![CDATA[Jobs]]></category><category><![CDATA[Unemployment]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:13:00 GMT</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/04/internships.jpg" alt=""/></p>
<p>One of the greatest challenges facing our beloved country is the rate of unemployment. Let's face it,it's not going to end anytime soon. There is a growing debate on whether the government is doing enough to create jobs for the youth and also for the general public. Another challenge that comes to mind, even though some see it as an excuse by big corporates,is that we are in an economic crisis and instead companies are letting people go than hiring them.</p>
<p>As a young South African I must admit that's its a mission to get a job, even a simple internship and I have seen a lot of my friends get frustrated and close to giving up because there just seems to be no opportunities for them.Take a simple government internship post where they are looking for just 3 people yet over a thousand have applied.</p>
<p>It's easy to sit and blame the government and the huge corporates.Okay maybe they can and should do just a little bit extra but question is what are you the individual doing to better your own life?</p>
<p>I'm a huge admirer of street vendors and those standing on the roads selling things in the blazing heat all day.Yes,maybe that's not the route I would take but I like how they refuse to sit at home and do nothing with their lives while constantly complaining about what they lack.Instead they wake up and go hustle hard</p>
<p><strong>Release your potential</strong></p>
<p>âThis is a time for bold measures. This is the country, and you are the generation.â__ â <a href="http://www.betterworldheroes.com/bono.htm">Bono</a>_</p>
<p>Most of the guys doing IT in tertiary have amazing skills in developing systems,apps and almost anything that is required.Sometimes I wish I had the skills they have.Yet they sit at home and majority will never take the bold step and do something for themselves with their skills because they have a mentality that the only way to make money is to have a boss.What if no boss decides to hire you?</p>
<p><strong>We lack Entrepreneurs</strong></p>
<p><em>"The young do not know enough to be prudent, and therefore they attempt the impossible, and achieve it, generation after generation. "</em>_ â<a href="http://www.betterworldheroes.com/buck.htm">Pearl S. Buck</a></p>
<p>I have taken lots of risk with the little money got my hands on and 6/10 times the risk paid of.I am not yet where I want to be but I believe I have a business mentality and I will keep digging my gold mine.I know the challenges that face one in starting something with financial backing being one of them but that alone shouldn't stop you as long as you believe in your idea</p>
<p>A lot of countries out do us in a lot of areas but one that stands out is in the entrepreneur department. A lot of people,especially young guys are making a killing financially all over the world especially in America and it's not that they have a strong financial muscle but because they are constantly looking for ideas,opportunities and are not afraid of taking the risk.</p>
<p>Lots of names spring to mind when I think of guys who made it from nothing to being filthy rich.One of my favourite local guys is Dj Sbu. Those who know Sbu will tell you he started from nothing but is now making it big as a musician,radio dj and has now ventured into the clothing industry all because he took a risk,believed in himself and worked his pants off</p>
<p>So to those still looking for jobs your time will come if you remain patient and have faith.Just don't sit around doing nothing with your life and becoming a human TV guide while waiting for companies to call you or opportunities dropping from the sky. Go out there and volunteer, develop a new skill, polish your current skill, hustle hard, take a chance and create a need where there is a lack</p>
<p>_âThere is no obstacle in the path of young people who are poor or members of minority groups that hard work and preparation cannot cure.â __ â <a href="http://www.betterworldheroes.com/jordan-barbara.htm">Barbara Jordan</a></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fortune Favours The Brave]]></title><description><![CDATA[
Life will knock you down, tear you apart and drive you insane. Sucking you dry
of all the little motivation and desire left in you to push on. Leaving you
depressed, hopeless and ready to give up. Question is what do you intend to do
about it?
Depressing I know, thatâs the reality many are facing, including myself. Itâs
not the best of feelings because we humans donât like feeling useless and
hopeless. Yet most of us feel that way which affects our productivity, our
health and relationships w]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/fortune-favours-the-brave/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582ea</guid><category><![CDATA[Life]]></category><category><![CDATA[Success]]></category><category><![CDATA[Youth]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:05:00 GMT</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/04/fortune-favors-the-brave-print-lg-2.jpg" alt=""/></p>
<p>Life will knock you down, tear you apart and drive you insane. Sucking you dry of all the little motivation and desire left in you to push on. Leaving you depressed, hopeless and ready to give up. Question is what do you intend to do about it?</p>
<p>Depressing I know, thatâs the reality many are facing, including myself. Itâs not the best of feelings because we humans donât like feeling useless and hopeless. Yet most of us feel that way which affects our productivity, our health and relationships with family, friends, etc. If you are reading this and can relate to it, I have news for you. Itâs a war zone out there and giving up is just not an option if you really want something badly</p>
<p><em>âDifficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.â</em><br>
â <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4918776.Seneca">Seneca</a></br></p>
<p>Having massive dreams, ambitions and goals sucks big time when something seems to stand in the way of realizing them. Life deals you a horrible hand every time you make a bold step forward which is a dreadful feeling because you have invested so much in it, inevitably resulting with one crushing their own dreams and ambitions because they have lost hope. However how difficult it gets, life without hope isnât worth living. Itâs just like a floating balloon with no direction. It will eventually land at a wrong place and burst.</p>
<p>_"The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain." _<em>- Dolly Parton</em></p>
<p>As I type this I have a heavy heart for those giving up on life and their dreams, hoping that someone will read this and get a boost to carry on fighting. <em>Aluta Continua</em>! I donât believe we are on this earth just to eat, sleep, chat, dream, wish, waste air, eat and sleep. We should refuse to believe that! People out there are making it, they are hustling and are reaching their goals. They become so successful that once a specific goal is achieved it gives birth to another goal. Itâs not that they are better itâs just that their will to fight is stronger. Though we admire them we shouldnât define our success according to others. Do you and do you as best as possible.</p>
<p><em>âBeing challenged in life is inevitable, being defeated is optional.â</em>_ â <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/443146.Roger_Crawford">Roger Crawford</a>_</p>
<p>Doors will close on you; you will be faced with endless rejections and will fail on plenty of accusations. I know I have. Just laugh it off, pick yourself up, dust your failures off and carry on pursuing your dreams whatever they may be. Eventually life will reward you for your effects. Fortune and success really favours the brave. It rewards them for their efforts. It admires their characters. Work hard, play hard. Enjoy life to the fullest, embrace its challenges.</p>
<p><em>âDon't give up! It's not over. The universe is balanced. Every set-back bears with it the seeds of a come-back.â __ â <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4491185.Steve_Maraboli">Steve Maraboli</a></em></p>
<!--kg-card-end: markdown--><!--kg-card-end: markdown-->]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Geekulcha EXPLAINED!!!]]></title><description><![CDATA[
Geekulcha this! Geekulcha that! I come across a lot of people who want to know
about this Geekulcha [https://www.facebook.com/Geekulcha] thing. They usually
want to know what it is. What does it do? Where is it based? How can they become
part of it? How different is it from INNOvatorz.IT
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/innovatorz/]? Let me break it down
Geekulcha is a vibrant young tech company which I founded and itâs incubated at
mLab. We had to go through a re-branding phase from INNOvato]]></description><link>http://blog.geekulcha.com/geekulcha-explained/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">Ghost__Post__59e237da0e16b116f65582e9</guid><category><![CDATA[Students]]></category><category><![CDATA[Online Communities]]></category><category><![CDATA[Startup Weekend]]></category><category><![CDATA[Mobile]]></category><category><![CDATA[Innovation]]></category><category><![CDATA[Information technology]]></category><category><![CDATA[Girls in Tech]]></category><category><![CDATA[Africa tech]]></category><dc:creator><![CDATA[Geekulcha]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 19 Mar 2013 13:50:00 GMT</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><!--kg-card-begin: markdown--><p><img src="http://blog.geekulcha.com/content/images/2015/04/geekulcha_explained-1.jpg" alt=""/></p>
<p>Geekulcha this! Geekulcha that! I come across a lot of people who want to know about this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Geekulcha" title="Geekulcha facebook page">Geekulcha</a> thing. They usually want to know what it is. What does it do? Where is it based? How can they become part of it? How different is it from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/innovatorz/" title="INNOvatorz.IT">INNOvatorz.IT</a>? Let me break it down</p>
<p>Geekulcha is a vibrant young tech company which I founded and itâs incubated at mLab. We had to go through a re-branding phase from INNOvatorz.IT to Geekulcha. The re-branding has been an interesting learning curve which I will share some other time. Geekulcha has two main models which are the Business model and the community for IT students. I will be explaining the IT community for students because I feel itâs the core and heartbeat of Geekulcha</p>
<p><strong>The name Geekulcha</strong></p>
<p>Geekulcha is a fusion of Geek and Culture. The word culture was changed to Kulcha and we decide to combine the last K from geeK with the first K from Kulcha. The end result of that is a cool name called Geekulcha</p>
<p><strong>The Community</strong></p>
<p>Geekulcha brings together IT students, young IT professionals and anyone who has an interest in IT and technology so they can share ideas, collaborate on projects, learn more about the IT industry and the latest trends and technologies. Through the Geekulcha platform the tech community gets to interact, have discussions, debate on IT related subjects and share their knowledge with each other.</p>
<p>Our aim is to create a culture of innovation, creativity, development and entrepreneurship amongst our fellow youth, especially those doing IT.</p>
<p>Currently most of our activities are done in and around Gauteng but there has been a huge from other students in other provinces to bring the activities to them. We are putting plans together to take some of the activities nationally so expect Geekulcha at a campus near you</p>
<p><strong>Creative Space</strong></p>
<p>School is a great place to learn about the IT world but at Geekulcha we believe that you need to put what you learned to work. Itâs not just about studying, passing then hoping to get a job. You need to put your skills to work while you are still studying. You need to constantly polish your skills. This will help you standout when searching for a job and might even lead you to creating something innovative. That is The Geekulcha way</p>
<p>So through Geekulcha our community gets to attend tech events and take part in competitions that happen all over the country. This creates a platform for them to express themselves and put their skills to work. We have seen in the past students who have created some really cool things and some have even gone to won competitions like Microsoftâs WOWZAPP hackathon, Info Devs m2Work and Startup Weekend</p>
<p><strong>Connecting with the IT industry</strong></p>
<p>We have a very strong network of industry leaders and tech companies and are looking at building more relationships with the tech industry. This helps us to take some of our community members to varies companies so they can get a bit of industry exposure and have a better understanding of what their potential employers do and what kind of people they recruit</p>
<p><strong>Platform for Growth</strong></p>
<p>The main core of Geekulcha is to see our fellow members develop their skills which the IT industry desperately needs. To help them grow their skills we create workshops for them throughout industry networks. They either go to the companies or we bring the companies to the different academic institutions. Most of our workshops and training have been around mobile apps development but we will be expanding beyond mobile development so we can cover as many IT fields as possible.</p>
<p><strong>What else?</strong></p>
<p><strong>GeekStarz</strong></p>
<p>We have spotted so many talented young techs that are doing some really cool and interesting things and we want to give them a platform to shine and showcase their work. So get creative, get coding, work on those innovative ideas and develop that app</p>
<p><strong>Girls in tech</strong></p>
<p>There will be a section within Geekulcha that will focus strictly on girls. It will also be run and branded by them. We canât allow our sisters to sit back and shy away for IT</p>
<p><strong>Grooming young Talent</strong></p>
<p>Our Brainstorming team has decided that we filter back to Primary and high schools so we can start grooming the young ones while they are still fresh.</p>
<p>How to connect with us?</p>
<p>We are busy developing our website and mobile apps which will be made public once completed. In the meantime you can use the following ways to connect with us and see what we get up to</p>
<p><strong>Twitter:</strong> <a href="https://twitter.com/geekulcha">@Geekulcha</a></p>
<p><strong>Facebook Page:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Geekulcha">https://www.facebook.com/Geekulcha</a></p>
<p><strong>Facebook group</strong> for lots of discussions: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/innovatorz/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/innovatorz/</a></p>
<p><strong>Geekulcha Youtube channel</strong> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/Geekulcha">http://www.youtube.com/Geekulcha</a></p>
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