January 15, 2024

My Journey into Web Development: From Jalingo to FreeCodeCamp

Growing up in Jalingo, Taraba State, I never imagined I'd become a web developer. But today, I work at Trinidax Excel Limited, build websites for local businesses, and mentor students at Trinidax School of Computer Studies. Here's how it all started.

The Beginning at City Gate Academic

My journey began at City Gate Academic in Jalingo, where I first touched a computer during computer lab sessions. I was fascinated by how these machines worked and knew I wanted to learn more.

Discovering FreeCodeCamp

After completing my secondary education at GDSS Rimi Takum, I enrolled at Trinidax School of Computer Studies. That's where I discovered FreeCodeCamp. The structured curriculum and hands-on projects helped me finally understand HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. I earned my Responsive Web Design certification in 2022, and I haven't stopped learning since.

"The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you." – B.B. King

Today, I'm still learning – currently working through the JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures certification. If you're just starting your tech journey in Taraba State, know that it's possible. Start with FreeCodeCamp, practice daily, and connect with others who share your passion.

February 10, 2024

5 JavaScript Tips for Beginners (From My FreeCodeCamp Experience)

When I started learning JavaScript, I struggled. Now, as someone who tutors web development at Trinidax School of Computer Studies, I see my students facing the same challenges. Here are five tips that helped me.

1. Code Every Day, Even If It's 15 Minutes

Consistency beats intensity. I committed to coding daily during my FreeCodeCamp journey. Some days it was just one algorithm challenge, but it kept the momentum going.

2. Use the Browser Console

The console is your best friend. When debugging JavaScript at Trinidax Excel Limited, I spend half my time in Chrome DevTools. Learn to love console.log().

3. Build Projects That Interest You

After finishing the FreeCodeCamp curriculum, I built a portfolio site for a friend's small business in Jalingo. That real-world project taught me more than any tutorial.

4. Explain Concepts to Others

Teaching at Trinidax School of Computer Studies forced me to truly understand JavaScript. If you can't explain it simply, you haven't understood it well enough.

5. Don't Memorize, Understand

Focus on concepts, not syntax. Google is always there for syntax. Understanding how JavaScript works under the hood will make you a better developer.

Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Keep coding!

March 5, 2024

Tech Opportunities in Taraba State: My Experience at Trinidax Excel

Many people think you need to move to Lagos or Abuja to build a tech career. I'm here to tell you that's not true. I've built my career right here in Jalingo, Taraba State.

Starting at Trinidax Excel Limited

I joined Trinidax Excel Limited in 2022 as an IT staff member. Initially, I handled basic IT support – fixing computers, managing networks, helping staff with technical issues. But I saw an opportunity to do more.

Growing into Development

Using skills from Trinidax School of Computer Studies and FreeCodeCamp, I started helping with the company website. Soon, I was building internal tools and training junior staff. Now, I also teach web development to new students at the school.

Advice for Local Tech Enthusiasts

If you're in Taraba State and interested in tech, here's my advice:

- Start with free resources like FreeCodeCamp.
- Connect with others – we have a growing community here.
- Look for opportunities at local companies like Trinidax Excel.
- Build projects, even small ones. Every project teaches you something.

The tech industry is global, but you can build your career right where you are. I'm proof of that.