During the fellowship, I learned how to validate more effectively, especially by using filters, search functions, and setting up map paint styles. I became better at identifying issues, mapping across different countries, and validating data from other regions. This helped me understand mapping more deeply, including the different shapes of buildings across countries. I also gained a stronger grasp of quality standards and grew more comfortable using JOSM shortcuts. For example, while validating building footprints in Africa and later in Asia like Japan, North and South America, I noticed differences in building construction styles and settlement patterns. By applying filters and map paint styles, I was able to quickly identify inconsistencies such as overlapping polygons or missing tags and correct them. This experience not only improved my technical validation skills but also gave me a broader perspective on how mapping standards can be applied across diverse contexts.

During my validation mapping in Japan, I encountered a task where the same area had been mapped using two different imagery sources of Bing and Esri. This created alignment issues and inconsistencies in the data. Through the fellowship, I learned how to handle imagery offsets, switch between imagery layers and use search tools to trace a particular mapper’s edits. By applying these skills, I was able to identify the discrepancies, adjust the imagery and improve the overall quality of the map. This experience was particularly meaningful because it showed me how technical validation techniques like managing imagery sources and targeting specific edits can directly enhance data accuracy. It was a proud moment to see how my improved skills contributed to cleaner, more reliable mapping outputs.

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The State of the Map (SOTM) conference in Nairobi gave me a great opportunity and motivation. From that experience, I realized that even a small contribution can create a huge impact. Since attending SOTM Nairobi, I have amplified my involvement in mapping contributing More than one million edits before attending SOTM Manila.

After the Nairobi conference, I was deeply inspired to make an even greater difference through mapping. I became more active in Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) projects, trained others to map, and became an advocate for bringing more people onto the OpenStreetMap (OSM) platform. I also participated in several projects in Rwanda, such as tree planting and tree mapping using EveryDoor which is aimed at promoting climate resilience and slope stabilization. Also , I engaged in mapping urban green spaces to support environmental sustainability, Mapping of Health Facilities in Rwanda etc.

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When I finished high school, I joined the Rwanda Red Cross because I have always loved humanitarian work and felt a strong duty to help people in any way I could. Becoming a trainer with Rwanda Red Cross gave me a sense of purpose in humanitarian action. I first encountered Humanitarian OpenStreetMap (OSM) during a disaster response for landslides and flooding in Rwanda, where many lives were lost. As a volunteer with the Rwanda Red Cross, I was part of the response team. After witnessing the destruction of buildings and roads by the floods, I began to wonder how people could be helped to avoid living in areas prone to such disasters. I thought about the potential of maps to identify unsafe places but didn’t know how it could be done.

One day, a friend introduced me to OSM Rwanda after I expressed my curiosity about maps. I joined the community, and on my very first day, I was trained on the importance of mapping for humanitarian response. I learned how to map roads and buildings, and though it wasn’t easy at first, I was deeply motivated. My curiosity had found a solution, and I was determined to continue contributing to mapping.

I started attending more mapping sessions and OSM events, learning and growing my skills. Eventually, I became a trainer in OSM Rwanda, teaching newcomers about mapping. This role allowed me to learn even more, as teaching others exposed me to different aspects of mapping. Over time, I made significant contributions and applied for a scholarship to attend the State of the Map (SOTM) conference in Nairobi. I believed it would be a great opportunity to expand my knowledge, and I was thrilled when my application was accepted.

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