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

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