In a small village in Rwanda’s Northern Province, where access to technology and educational resources was limited, Adeodatus Niyokwiringira’s passion for computers and problem-solving set him apart from an early age. Despite overcrowded classrooms and scarce learning materials, he nurtured a quiet determination to master the digital world.
“Growing up in such an environment was not easy,” he tells Impact AI News. “The lack of proper facilities, reliable electricity, and access to books or technology posed significant barriers to learning.”
In a village where lighting a bulb was a luxury and internet access was more fantasy than reality, young Adeodatus found himself fighting multiple battles: social skepticism, infrastructural neglect, and systemic limitations. But he had one thing working in his favour, a pair of parents who refused to give up on education. “They believed in us,” he says. “No matter what, they reminded us that learning could change everything.” And it did.
Today, at just 27, Adeodatus is a Software Engineer at Codeland and the Zindi Country Ambassador for Rwanda, a role that lets him inspire the next generation of African data scientists.
A Childhood of Obstacles and Opportunity
Adeodatus’s earliest memories are shaped by the realities of rural Rwanda. “The struggle wasn’t just in the environment but also in the tools we lacked: limited textbooks, few or no computers, and crowded classrooms,” he says.
But even as he navigated these constraints, he found inspiration close to home. “From a young age, I was fascinated by computers. I remember watching my older brothers study computer science and being completely intrigued. Even though I didn’t have access to a computer in primary school, the idea of working with technology captured my imagination early on.”
His dreams, at first, were abstract. “I didn’t know what data science was, but I knew I wanted to work in a field that involved computers and problem-solving.” The turning point came in secondary school, when he enrolled in MCE—Mathematics, Computer Science, and Economics. “Though we only had limited access to school computers, sometimes only once a term, it was enough to ignite a strong interest in programming and IT.”
He began representing his school in regional science competitions. “I even placed second among schools in the region,” he says, pride evident in his voice. “These experiences helped solidify my vision and made me believe that a career in tech was not only possible but something I could thrive in.”
Discovering Zindi: A Launchpad for Talent
It was during university that Adeodatus first heard about Zindi, a pan-African platform connecting aspiring data scientists to real-world challenges. “I first heard about Zindi during my university years from a fellow student who was actively participating in online competitions. I was immediately curious and started doing some research about the platform in 2020. Zindi’s mission to connect data scientists across Africa and empower them to solve real-world problems resonated deeply with me.”
At first, he saw it as just another interesting website. But as he delved deeper, he realized Zindi was more than a competition site—it was a launchpad. “I saw how others were learning, growing, and getting recognized through Zindi. It became clear to me that this was more than a competition site—it was a launchpad for anyone willing to learn and put in the work.”
Although his academic workload and a coding bootcamp left little time for full participation, Adeodatus stayed connected with the Zindi community. “I used the resources to grow my knowledge,” he says. Later, he applied and was selected as a Zindi University Ambassador, and, with time, became the Country Ambassador for Rwanda. “This role gave me a broader platform to engage with and inspire the Rwandan data science community, and it deepened my commitment to using Zindi as a tool for growth and impact.”
Learning by Doing
Unlike many who chase competition prizes, Adeodatus saw each Zindi challenge as a learning opportunity. “One memorable challenge was focused on predicting outcomes based on structured datasets, which I found fascinating. Although I couldn’t submit a final solution due to other commitments, the problem allowed me to dive deeper into data preprocessing, model selection, and evaluation techniques.”
He recalls a financial modeling and risk prediction challenge as particularly formative. “What made this competition special was not the outcome but the process. I realized the depth of work that goes into solving real-world data problems and the importance of staying updated with best practices. This experience helped me transition from theory to practical application, which later became invaluable in my career.”
While Adeodatus never won a financial reward through Zindi competitions, he found something even more valuable: visibility and mentorship. “Being part of the Zindi community helped me stand out, even during my time at university. It enhanced my profile and showed potential employers that I was active in the field and always learning.”
He was selected for a Zindi-organized mentorship program, connecting him with industry experts. “That experience gave me personalized guidance on how to navigate my career. These indirect rewards have had a profound impact. Shortly after graduating from university and completing a coding bootcamp with Andela Rwanda, I secured a role as a Software Engineer. Today, I work as both a Software Engineer and AI Engineer—a testament to how platforms like Zindi can open real doors for those who are dedicated.”
Building a Career
Zindi’s influence on Adeodatus’s career trajectory has been profound. “My involvement in the community and participation in mentorship initiatives helped me build confidence and gain industry insights. It positioned me as someone who is actively involved in data science and willing to grow, which is something employers really value.”
He credits the platform’s collaborative spirit as a key driver of his growth. “You’re not just working in isolation; you’re learning from others across Africa and beyond. The sense of collaboration, shared challenges, and encouragement helps you stay motivated. Even if you’re from a remote or under-resourced area, like where I grew up, Zindi makes it possible to connect, learn, and grow alongside others who share your passion.”
For young Africans passionate about STEM but facing limited resources, Adeodatus’s advice is simple: “Start with what you have. Even if you don’t have access to the latest technology or high-speed internet, use the available resources: free online tutorials, government-supported education, and community centers. That’s exactly how I started. I didn’t have a personal computer, but I made the most of the limited school computers and used every opportunity to learn.”
He emphasizes the importance of consistency and community. “Keep learning every day, no matter how small the steps may seem. Surround yourself with a community, either online or offline, that shares your interests and motivates you to improve. Platforms like Zindi exist to support you, so take full advantage of them. Remember: it’s not about where you start, but how determined you are to keep going.”
Moulding Africa’s AI Future
Adeodatus’s long-term vision is clear: to create impactful software and AI products that solve real-world problems in Africa. “I also aspire to give back to the community by mentoring young people and supporting initiatives that promote technology and education. I want to be both a builder and an enabler, someone who not only creates but also uplifts others.”
He sees platforms like Zindi as crucial for Africa’s future in tech. “They democratize access to opportunities, knowledge, and a global network. They give young Africans a stage to showcase their talent and a community to grow with. I see Zindi as a catalyst for a new generation of African data scientists and technologists who will lead the continent into a future driven by innovation and inclusivity.”
Reflecting on his journey, Adeodatus sayst his path into data science has been shaped by resilience, resourcefulness, and a desire to give back. He explains that moving from a rural village in Rwanda to becoming a professional software and AI engineer has been guided by determination and supported by platforms like Zindi, which empower young Africans to dream bigger.
He expresses pride in his roles as Zindi University Ambassador and later as Country Ambassador for Rwanda, noting that these positions have allowed him to inspire and support others on their data science journeys.
Adeodatus hopes that his story can encourage others facing similar challenges to stay focused, embrace learning, and continue building a better future for themselves and their communities. He emphasizes that opportunities are real and that the future is Africa’s to shape.
For him, the journey from a rural Rwandan classroom to the vanguard of Africa’s data science movement is not just a personal triumph, it’s a beacon for a continent brimming with untapped potential. “I want young people in Africa to know that they can achieve anything, no matter where they start,” he says. “With determination, community, and platforms like Zindi, the future is truly ours to build.”
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