Today’s Locals to Know feature is sponsored by MDC Tech— a new initiative that unifies all of MDC’s tech programs into a streamlined, accessible curriculum for locals seeking degrees, dual enrollments, or just looking to expand their skill set. Visit the MDC Tech website to see how they are preparing Miami’s tech talent for the jobs of the future.
Tell us about your work — your job and/or any volunteer work.
I work as the Founder of Hactopia.com, a Learning Management System (LMS) that specializes in AWS Cloud Certifications course offerings. The platform is designed to provide a better learning experience to help grow the next generation of technology cloud leaders and developers in underserved communities.
I am also the Founder and Executive Director of Women For Crypto, a 501(c)(3) organization that works to arm women with the knowledge of the blockchain while serving as an ecosystem for freedom of financial mobility and stability. The organization is best known for its technical group talks, blockchain technology education, career development, and speaking events featuring influential technology industry experts and investors.
I’ve also contributed to multiple organizations within the school such as MDC Student Government Association, MDC Women in Cybersecurity, MDC Cybersecurity Club, MDC Tech Society Club (where I served as President), and on the Executive Council Board of MDC Mission North Star.
What’s your favorite Miami memory?
My favorite Miami memory is celebrating with one of my mentors, Erika King, who received the Key to the City of Miami in 2017. This was significant to me because it was very inspiring working so closely with her and our late art manager Cash McMahon on the NBA Legends of Basketball “We Made This Game” Collection.
Pick a favorite local outdoor experience. What is it? What’re we doing? Who’s going with ya?
My favorite local outdoor experience is going to national and local parks with my family as I have small children that enjoy being outside. Stargazing at Bill Sadowski Parkis always a vibe. On Saturday nights, individuals are welcome to bring their telescopes and share their observations of the night views with others. We like Zoo Miami, and amusement parks and museums also top our list. Some of our favorite local spots include the Vizcaya Museum, Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, and the annual Miami-Dade County Fair.
What’s a project you’re working on (big or small) and how can our readers help you with it?
As mentioned above, I’m currently working on Women for Crypto (WFC), a platform for inspiring women through blockchain technology and education. This is important for many women who have no knowledge about the blockchain and products that are constantly utilizing it. We are in the middle of a paradigm shift where more women will be aware through our “Inspire 10,000 Women NFT ” project, a Proof Of Attendance Protocol (POAP) NFT for participating or attending in WFC special events. Check out https://womenforcrypto.org for more information.
I’m also working on MDC DAO, a governance community where students can receive opportunities/resources/rewards when they complete a community service project. MDC DAO is developing a digital participation platform for students to power the next generation of community leaders. Others can join our community by subscribing to our MDC Info-Tech Discord channel.
What are you looking forward to this year?
I’m excited for Hactopia, a new contemporary course I founded that teaches anyone how to code. This year, we’ll be introducing content and products into the metaverse and offer peripherals designed to provide the next generation learning experiences while utilizing modern technologies.
Know someone who ought to be featured or would like to be featured yourself? Reach out by sending an email to [email protected] with the subject line “TNT Locals to Know 2022.” If chosen, you might just see yourself or a friend in a future newsletter.