My name is Antony Murimi, a young professional in Geo-informatics field. I am passionate about using Creative Solutions to address real-world Spatial and Communication challenges. As I look forward to a fulfilling career, I am committed to making a meaningful difference by contributing my skills and innovative thinking to projects that positively impact and improve Earth as a home of man.

Documentation

During my attachment, I had the opportunity to understand documentation, a crucial aspect of effective communication in any professional setting. I actively contributed to four document proposals, each presenting a unique challenge. The “Kaya Connect Strategies” proposal required a strategic approach, outlining plans for effective communication and collaboration. Read more on Kaya Connect Project in https://geopsyresearch.org/blogs/2023/04/04/geopsy-research-partners-with-botanical-gardens-conservation-international-bgci-to-support-the-kaya-connect-project/. In the “Nile Basin Proposal,” I learnt about the intricacies of Composing a Proposal for GIS Projects that complies to terms of references, ensuring clarity for stakeholders. The process of creating these documents sharpened my skills in articulating ideas coherently and ensuring that the essence of each proposal was communicated with clarity. Learning to tailor documentation to different contexts and purposes was a valuable lesson that I will carry forward in my professional journey.

Geospatial Projects

A significant portion of my attachment was dedicated to Geospatial projects, where I encountered new spatial challenges, such as brainstorming a solution for an alternative less destructive process of computing Above Ground Biomass in Carbon Estimation. My Earth Observation Analysis was also expanded through tasks assigned in the day-to-day routine such as working with Lidar Data in R and Global Mapper and plotting transects in Google Earth Engine. Explore the work and output on this Google Earth Engine Script https://code.earthengine.google.com/0ce8d1ce2a49a2ffc981141d99120450/. More possibilities in Geospatial Domain such as Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) in image Classification and Spatial Deep Learning Techniques that can open new doors to more spatial projects were introduced, while resource links and courses provided for exploration of these possibilities.

Spatial Tools Development

The pinnacle of this chapter was the creation of “WonderMap Kids,” a mapping tool designed to be not just functional but engaging, especially for young users. The process involved going beyond traditional leaflet mapping tools, incorporating presets that made spatial mapping child’s play. This chapter reinforced the idea that technology, when wielded creatively, has the power to make complex concepts accessible to diverse audiences, even the little ones.

Geo-Visualization

GeoVisualization added a magical touch to my attachment. I learned the art of geocoding and seamlessly integrating GeoJSON files into webmaps using simple JavaScript functions. This skill transformed raw geographical data into visually compelling representations, enhancing the impact and accessibility of spatial information. I discovered that the ability to convey information visually is a powerful tool in making complex data more understandable and relatable. This chapter was a journey into turning numbers and coordinates into meaningful stories on a map.

Conclusion

Though the project was a tight and challenging, the journey was worth it. The skills and mentorship and resources acquired were of immeasurable, and will forever be grateful for the chance. I would like to appreciate the team at GeoPsy Research, led by Dr Francis Oloo for the support and guidance through this stage. I am happy that I have a few added skillsets which I can apply in my Geoinformatics career.