I started using OpenStreetMap in 2020 when I realized the amount of surveillance put upon us by Google and other similar services. I wanted to use software which respects my privacy. In the process, I discovered OpenStreetMap - a map which is privacy-respecting, run by the community, and can be used without restrictions, similar to Wikipedia. When I noticed that some points of my interest were not on the map, I started editing and adding things in 2021. Subsequently, I became an active mapper by mapping regularly over many years. Besides using and mapping, I also advocate and promote the use of OpenStreetMap and raise awareness about it.

At the start of 2024, I enrolled in the Guru Program of Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) and got to know about the OMGuru Mapping Fellowship program in March 2024. The tasks ranged from mapping amenities using mobile applications like Every Door to remote mapping using HOT Tasking Manager, which is a sophisticated mapping management tool.

Before the fellowship, I did not have much experience with remote mapping, especially buildings. This program gave me an opportunity to hone my skills in JOSM, adding one more editor to my mapping arsenal. My friend contrapunctus helped me in catching up with JOSM. Another skill I learnt was validating already mapped tasks, which is done to ensure data quality and provide feedback to mappers on their work. My mentor Honey Grace Fombuena was very patient and accessible throughout the fellowship, making my experience smoother.

I am highly grateful to HOT and APHub for providing me this opportunity.

Credits: contrapunctus and sahilister for proofreading.