My journey as an OpenStreetMap contributor began in 2022, with a humble yet impactful project: mapping roads in Mugu, Humla, and Jumla—three of Nepal’s most remote and mountainous districts. Since then, I’ve grown into an active mapper, dedicated validator, and proud member of the global OSM community. In 2023, I was recognized as an OSM Guru and listed among the top contributors, a reflection of my deep passion and consistency in open geodata contribution.

Areas of Focus My primary interest lies in mapping buildings and roadways, especially in critical and under-mapped areas. I’ve also actively contributed to tools like MapRoulette and MapSwipe, which help bring micro-edits and mobile contributions to the mapping ecosystem.

Highlighted Contributions “Map Roads, Make Your Way” Project Recognized as a top-quality mapper, I contributed significantly to this project—led by HOT, Open Asia Pacific Hub, KIRDARC, and OSM Nepal—focusing on mapping roads in Humla, Jumla, and Dolpa. This initiative was a pivotal moment for me, helping improve accessibility in some of the most remote regions of Nepal.

Digital and Spatial Technologies for Anticipatory Action Volunteered in this 5-day event organized by NAXA Nepal, where we mapped roads, waterways, buildings, and land use across six municipalities. Using ESRI imagery on the HOT Tasking Manager, we enhanced maps to support community resilience and disaster preparedness. We focused on: Mapping open spaces critical for evacuation and aid Digitizing health posts, schools, power lines Improving road networks and land use classifications

Global Solidarity Through Mapping Solidarity Mapathon for Myanmar (HOT) Climate Change Challenge with HOT, TOMTOM, Open Asia Hub Participated in multiple Kathmandu University mapathons—both as a mapper and organizer, including events under NEPGEOM

Building the OSM Community Beyond mapping, I’m passionate about bringing new faces to OSM. As part of Kathmandu University, I’ve helped organize several mapping events to inspire students and introduce them to open mapping tools, showing them the power of maps in building resilient, informed communities.

Final Thoughts OpenStreetMap has empowered me to merge my technical skills with real-world impact—from mountain trails to urban resilience. Whether through tracing rooftops in Nepal or roadways in Papua New Guinea, I see mapping as a meaningful act of solidarity and service. Thank you to everyone in the OSM and HOT communities for your support, collaboration, and inspiration. I’m looking forward to more shared efforts in making the world a better-mapped place. Happy Mapping! — siwangi02