GUEST
Joel Dean, C.E.O. – Nobi Labs Services Limited
A seasoned software architect and device magician, Joel Dean is Jamaica’s very own tech mogul-in-the-making. At 26 years old, he boasts over 10 years of experience building applications for iPhones, Android phones and computers. Joel has built several tech start-ups and lead Android development efforts, providing solutions even in the most remote areas of the world. He has managed one of the world’s largest data collection platforms, deployed to more than 50 countries, in 40 languages, for more than 1.5 million users. His expertise has impacted Google, Facebook, Apple, Red Cross, and the World Health Organization.
Joel is a proud graduate of the Northern Caribbean University and the May Pen High and Preparatory Schools. His unique story of triumph over adversity, lead to a feature interview on the Jamaican talk show Profile, made popular by the late Ian Boyne.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
- Developed an app, during a competition sponsored by the World Bank and Jamaican Government, called the Pothole Positioning System which allows persons to use their smartphones to detect potholes while they are driving.
- He calls himself the device magician because “I’m able to push these devices we use every day to the limit to do things that just seem magical”.
- Inspired by his father who was always into maintenance and technical tasks.
- Works extensively with several global companies such as GitHub, Google, Facebook and Twitter based on software he has built.
- “Remote work is really changing the landscape of how talent distribution is able to provide skills and services for companies all over the world without worrying about language barriers, time zones and geographical differences.”
- “There are persons in Canada that have offered me jobs, people in Germany that have offered me jobs as well and several others, but it’s just not my time as yet. Jamaica will always be my home even if I leave for a few years.”
- About his initiative, “Code for a Cause” he says “I’m just breaking down how we can convert from consumers to producers.” This initiative helps to expose youth to the opportunities available through using technology creatively.
- He encourages the local market to support local app developers through the provision of funding and using the applications developed.
- About Jamaica and its development, “We have to take technology more seriously because technology has been one of the greatest catalyst for improving the quality of life for major cities across the world.”
RESOURCES
Email: joel@getnobi.com
Site: getnobi.com
Twitter: @sirjoeldean
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-dean-0b624537/
https://github.com/jd-alexander
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