Introduction

My name is Lelio de Jesus Alves, and I am from Timor-Leste. I have been using OSM since 2022 and am currently participating in the OMGuru Fellowship 2024. I am excited to share my journey into open-mapping, what I find fascinating about the fellowship, my experiences, the lessons I have learned, and the impact it has had on me.

How I got involved with Open-Mapping

My journey into open-mapping began during my fourth year of university when I stumbled upon OpenStreetMap (OSM). Fascinated by the intersection of technology and geography, I joined an OSM workshop. The idea of contributing to a global, freely accessible map captivated me. I started by mapping my hometown, identifying missing roads, buildings, and other key features. This initial involvement opened doors to various mapping projects and eventually led me to apply for the Guru Fellowship.

Interesting/Fascinating about being the Guru Fellowship

What fascinates me most about the OMGuru Fellowship is the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are equally passionate about mapping and geospatial technology. The fellowship is a unique platform that not only enhances my mapping skills but also connects me with a network of dedicated mappers and developers from around the world. One of the most fascinating aspects is the collaborative nature of the community. Despite geographical distances, we work together to improve the quality and coverage of OSM data. Ensuring data quality in OSM is particularly gratifying, as it enhances the map’s usability and builds user trust. This global collaboration embodies the spirit of open-source and community-driven projects, making it a truly enriching experience. By validating and improving data accuracy, I feel I am making a significant contribution to the global mapping community and supporting projects that rely on precise and dependable geographic information.

Define My experience as a Guru

Being a Guru has been an enriching experience where I’ve had the chance to participate in meaningful projects that have real-world impacts. One significant aspect has been the focus on enhancing technical skills, particularly in utilizing various mapping platforms like Tasking Manager, JOSM, Osmose, MapRoulette, and OSMCha. These tools have allowed me to ensure the accuracy and reliability of data within OpenStreetMap, which is crucial for its usability in various applications. Additionally, being involved in projects such as disaster relief mapping and improving urban infrastructure has provided a sense of fulfillment, knowing that my contributions directly support humanitarian efforts and community development. The supportive community and guidance from the fellowship have been invaluable, facilitating my growth and learning throughout this journey of exploration and mastery.

Biggest lesson or Achievement

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from the fellowship is the importance of persistence and adaptability. Navigating and mastering new platforms like OSMCha and Osmose initially presented challenges, but these experiences have taught me to be resilient and resourceful. Ensuring the quality of data from mappers proved to be quite challenging, yet my biggest achievement lies in successfully overcoming these obstacles and contributing to the overall quality and accuracy of OSM data. Moreover, this journey has provided invaluable hands-on experience, broadening my professional skill set and reinforcing the significance of continuous learning and growth within the mapping community. It’s been a rewarding journey of both personal and professional development, highlighting the transformative power of perseverance and adaptability in achieving our goals.

Conclusion

The Guru Fellowship has been a transformative journey, enriching my understanding of open-mapping and its potential to drive positive change. The skills, connections, and experiences gained will continue to inspire and guide my contributions to the OSM community and beyond.