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DevCon Philippines announced that they will be adding a new executive director to the team, Haifa Baluyos, in conjunction with their expansion plans to gives more focus on the academe’s. Developers Connect Philippines (DevCon) aims to bridge IT students, professionals, educators and enthusiasts to gather and share thoughts. The team strives hard for people to connect new ideas and learn the tech ways. Everyone is empowered and has the right to know about the IT business. They do such knowledge sharing through hosting free events for those who are interested.

The New Batch of DevCon Officers for 2013

Let us have this interview with Haifa Baluyos of DevCon.

Knowing her closer.

Haifa Baluyos is not the ‘nerdy’ type of iOS developer. She loves to travel and go to different places. She added wall climbing as one of her favorite sports too. Not to mention her book collection of the famous John C. Maxwell. Being the new Executive Directors means on purpose for Haifa Baluyos, she said that: “I believe it is my personal duty to create opportunities for myself and others to grow”. Yes! She believes in that. She also dreamt of creating her own colorful underground house; and Green Pilot G-Tec C4 is her totem.

When and How did Haifa Baluyos start to give her efforts for DevCon?

It started July 2011 when Haifa Baluyos first participated in the first DevCon Mobile Camp. She was just a ‘normal’ working professional by that moment; since it was her 3rd month in that field, all she has to do is work and home. “Somehow, I felt something was lacking”, says her. Engaging with extra-curricular activities makes Haifa Baluyos realized that there is a sense of fulfillment when serving people.

That event enabled her high spirit to embrace DevCon. She found piece of the puzzle! She exclaimed it positively with her words, “I felt this is the organization I belong.” Due to eagerness and dedication, Haifa Baluyos immediately approached Ida, DevCon’s organizer to tell that she wants to volunteer. After those words, it was the start of her unfolding journey with DevCon.

What are Haifa Baluyos’ roles at DevCon and What are we expect to Have?

Currently Haifa Baluyos is DevCon’s Executive Director. “I am super excited with the growing DevCon community!” from a volunteer to an Executive Director – what an accomplishment is that. DevCon spreads its wings throughout the country, aside from DevCon Manila; there are also DevCon Bai (Cebu) and Davao chapters. She saw their enthusiasm and proactivity regarding creating and building an impact in their local communities. The best part of this year is the newest DevCon chapter in Cagayan de Oro – the hometown of Haifa Baluyos and Winston Damarillo, DevCon’s Founder.

Having the most motivated and dedicated teams, “I have high optimism for DevCon this year” says the optimistic Director. She aims to build venues for the IT Pinoys to sync, succeed and support.

Are there any fresh projects and events this year?

Education is one of the basic learning and investment of every youth. Youth nowadays plays the vital role in shaping the IT industry; that is why DevCon gives more focus on the academe. They will conduct Campus DevCon nationwide; more opportunities will lead them to know the network.

Here are some of their awaited events:

  • DevCon Bai’s Hackathon this coming February
  • Series of Code Camps lined per month
  • Rail Girls will unleash on its 2nd year this April
  • DevCon Code Challenge Camp an annual event set on November

Haifa encourages Student Organizations to co-organize with DevCon regarding the Campus DevCon event. Partnerships with companies are also welcome with DevCon; they all want to hear it from you.

She then said add, “For everyone who shares with DevCon the same goal and is willing to offer a hand as a speaker or volunteer feel free to message me.” We can reach her through this e-mail haifa [at] devcon.ph