I didn’t start my career with JavaScript.

I began as a PHP developer, building custom WordPress themes and plugins, editing templates, and even exploring Laravel deeply. I enjoyed the ecosystem, and I was good at it. But curiosity and a desire to do more led me to explore different parts of tech.

Between then and now, I have dabbled in:

  • Embedded Systems/IoT – I loved it then, but could not afford the tools.
  • Mobile Development – I tried Android with Java but I didn't enjoy it.
  • AI/ML – Fell in love with the possibilities, but lacked access to good resources and job opportunities back then.
  • Web Development – Where I found long-term focus and fulfillment.

Initially, I wanted to be a Backend Engineer, but I had to learn Frontend so my projects would look presentable. That necessity ended up making me more well-rounded and I have grown in both over time.

The Shift to JavaScript

In 2020, I noticed the growing demand for JavaScript developers, React and Node.js were everywhere. I made the switch, started learning, and soon landed my first job at a Nigerian company. My blend of coding skill and project management training got me appointed as the Team Lead/Project Manager.

I remember being the only one who could confidently answer a client's questions about the project plan, timelines, and goals. I created Gantt charts, roadmaps, and delivered more than code, I delivered clarity.

After that, I spent nearly 3 years working remotely for a startup as a Fullstack Developer. I worked across teams, shaped products from both ends, and learned how startups move, build, and grow.

Life Happened

I became a mother in 2023 and in October 2024, we decided to relocate to a more developed city. What I thought would take days took weeks. Searching for an apartment, balancing work and stress, it all piled up. I was eventually let go.

I could have pleaded, but I knew the distraction would continue until my family was fully settled. So, I accepted the decision with peace. Instead of rushing back in, I took a two-month break, no coding, just rest and research.

Reigniting My Passion for AI

During that break, I started researching the massive growth happening in AI and LLMs, and I felt the same excitement I had years ago. But now, the tools, communities, and opportunities were all in place.

That break helped me realign. Now, I have decided to go deep into what truly excites me:

  • Backend Engineering
  • AI Integration into Web Apps
  • Building and Consuming AI APIs
  • Open Source Contributions and Mentorship

Not Starting Over, But Going Deeper

Sometimes it feels like I should already be a “Senior” by title, and maybe that’s true. But what I have gained over the years ranging from WordPress to Laravel, from IoT to Android, from PHP to JavaScript, and now to AI.

I am not starting over.

I am going deeper, with clarity, maturity, and more intentionality than ever. It is a pivot into depth, backed by real experience and a sharpened sense of direction.

What I Am Focused On Now

  • Building AI-powered web apps using JavaScript/Node.js
  • Expanding my understanding of data flow in fullstack systems
  • Learning how to build, fine-tune, and serve AI models
  • Creating developer tools and contributing to the open-source ecosystem

Embracing AI, Not as a Shortcut, But as a Power Tool

Vibe coding is becoming a thing. Developers today are increasingly relying on AI tools to power their workflows—and while I believe in building from scratch to understand deeply, I also know that AI isn’t something to be ignored. It is a companion in my developer journey, not a crutch.

Here’s how I currently leverage AI:

  • Boosting Productivity
    I use tools like GitHub Copilot and Cursor (which I plan to explore soon) to autocomplete boilerplate code, write helper functions, or suggest improvements, not to replace thinking, but to accelerate it.

  • Debugging & Testing
    I use AI tools to help identify bugs, explain errors clearly, and even auto-generate unit tests.

  • Improved Documentation
    Whether it's writing READMEs, docstrings, or inline comments, AI tools save me time and boosts consistency.

  • Code Reviews and Refactoring
    I use AI for a second pair of eyes—suggesting improvements and highlighting areas I might miss in PRs.

  • Quick Technical Research
    Instead of spending 30+ minutes on StackOverflow, I use ChatGPT and similar tools to explore APIs, generate snippets, or deepen understanding, instantly.

To You

This journey hasn’t been a straight line and that is okay.

What matters is that I have learned, adapted, and grown. I have gone wide, and now, I am going deep.

I bring experience across tech stacks, real-world leadership, and a strong foundation in problem-solving.

If you are building something meaningful, especially in the AI + Web space, I am all in.

Thank you for reading.