I am thrilled to share my heartfelt testimonial for Riya, an exceptional software engineer whose dedication and passion for leveraging technology for social good truly set her apart. Having had the pleasure of knowing Riya for several years, I have witnessed her incredible journey at Wave Mobile Money and her commitment to making a positive impact through her work.
Riya's impressive 4-year tenure at Wave Mobile Money speaks volumes about her technical prowess and leadership capabilities. Starting as a Software Engineer, she quickly climbed the ranks, transitioning into the role of Tech Lead, and eventually becoming a Senior Software Engineer. Her journey showcases her unwavering commitment to personal growth and innovation within the industry.
Riya's current role involves developing software to support Wave Mobile Money's agent network, a critical initiative aimed at creating financial infrastructure for the unbanked population in Sub-Saharan Africa. Her dedication to this noble cause is truly inspiring, as she actively contributes to building a more inclusive and equitable financial ecosystem.
Her journey began during her academic years at the University of Alberta, where she completed her Bachelor's in Computer Software Engineering. Riya's commitment to excellence was evident even then, as she engaged in various extracurricular activities, from hackathons to volunteer work, showcasing her well-rounded skill set and a desire to make a difference.
Riya's impact goes beyond her professional accomplishments. Her volunteer experiences as VP of Student Life and Associate Vice President of Events at the Engineering Students' Society highlight her exceptional leadership abilities and commitment to fostering a sense of community. Creating opportunities for fellow students to engage in charity work and volunteer experiences demonstrates her passion for giving back.
What truly stands out about Riya is her ability to blend technical expertise with a deep sense of social responsibility. Her work at Wave Mobile Money, particularly in developing solutions for the unbanked population, showcases her commitment to utilizing her skills for the betterment of society. Riya's journey is a testament to her dedication, innovation, and unwavering belief in the power of technology to drive positive change. She is not just a software engineer; she is a trailblazer on a mission to make the world a better place through her work. I am confident that her journey is only the beginning of an incredible legacy of impact and inspiration. In fact, I can recall a specific time when Riya's resounding belief in technology was made evident, when she thought she could lock our front door by saying "Okay Google, lock".
Riya is not only a remarkable professional but also a genuinely good person. Her great wit and quick thinking bring joy to those around her, and while she may not be as fast as me, her determination and drive are truly commendable. It's also fascinating to know that she enjoys clothes made out of neoprene, showcasing her unique style and interests. Additionally, Riya boasts a bottomless pit of a stomach and an undeniable love for food, which adds to her delightful and multifaceted personality.
Yours truly,
Luke Kysow
Principal Engineer at HashiCorp
Author of Consul Up & Running
Co-creator of Atlantis
Ex-manager at Hootsuite
Ex-team lead at EA
Brother-in-law of Riya