Jasiri Wa-Kyendo
Third-year Honours Computer Science
Tell us a bit about yourself and your current role in Mac Eng:
I’m currently in my third year studying Computer Science at McMaster University, where my passion for solving real-world problems through technology drives me every day. In addition to my academic work, I’m deeply involved in McMaster’s extracurricular activities. I served as the Hunt Coordinator for National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) McMaster for The HUNT 2024, where I worked alongside an amazing team of Black Engineers to scale the event, raising $10,000 more than the previous year and provide invaluable opportunities for Black students in tech. I also serve as co-president for the East African Students Association, stay active in McMaster’s intramural football leagues, engage in Bible study and relax with chess at the Black Student Success Centre (BSSC).
This passion for leadership and community-building also extends to my technical work. I’ve applied my problem-solving skills to a data-driven project for Galaxy Inn, a hotel and conference centre, where I developed a machine learning-powered dashboard using Python to help the business overcome a plateau in sales. The dashboard empowered the management team to identify high-quality customers, understand their purchasing behaviours and create targeted marketing strategies, driving business growth.
To expand my career outside of my studies, I’ve built Full-Stack Web Applications through multiple internships, including a 4-month international co-op at Safaricom PLC. I also enjoy experimenting with new JavaScript frameworks, continuously adding to my collection of unfinished GitHub projects.
What advice do you have for Black Students thinking of pursuing engineering?
My advice to every student entering university is to believe in yourself — don’t think you can’t do great things. Always keep the mindset that whatever you set out to achieve, you can achieve it. Chris Williamson once said, “True hell is when the person you are meets the person you could have been.” However, in order to achieve things no one else has achieved before, you will have to do and sacrifice things no else has done or sacrificed before. Remember these things, keep your faith and the sky is the limit!
Can you share an experience where you felt particularly supported or included within the McMaster community?
The support I’ve felt has been immense, particularly through my involvement in NSBE McMaster. As the Hunt Coordinator for The HUNT 2024, I witnessed firsthand how the McMaster community comes together to support Black students pursuing careers in tech. From raising significant funds for the event to building meaningful connections with industry professionals, I felt both supported and empowered. Working with a dedicated team and the ever-available guidance of McMaster professionals like Jodi-Anne Buckley to create such a successful event was an incredible experience; the relationships I’ve built through it will undoubtedly shape my career.
Why does representation matter in engineering and at McMaster?
Representation in engineering is essential because it ensures diverse perspectives are part of the innovation process. At McMaster, we are encouraged to bring our unique experiences to the table, which helps create more inclusive and effective solutions. Seeing more Black students in leadership roles, like my work with NSBE McMaster, demonstrates that it’s possible to thrive in engineering while bringing your full self into the field.
What initiatives or resources at McMaster have you found helpful in supporting your journey?
McMaster has been instrumental in supporting my journey, particularly through NSBE and the numerous mentorship opportunities available to students. The success of The HUNT 2024 and the invaluable connections it facilitated with top companies have been huge milestones. Additionally, McMaster’s commitment to diversity in engineering, the co-op program, and academic resources like tutoring and peer support have all played a vital role in my personal and professional growth.