Introducing Taledo Talent: Omar Essam

Why did you join Taledo?

I wanted to move to Berlin and had a good feeling about Taledo, so I seized the opportunity.

What were you doing before you moved to Berlin?

I was a student at the German University in Cairo. I was in my Bachelor’s Degree studying Computer Science and Computer Engineering, and was simultaneously working part time in a software house, called Mitch Designs.  At Mitch Designs I was an intern, then worked as Backend Developer, as Full Stack Developer, and finally as Development Operations Manager, where I managed the architecture of applications. The most fun was working on architecture because it was new to me and therefore more challenging than the previous roles I held.

Why did you choose programming?

It’s fun. I always knew I wanted to be an engineer. It’s interesting to code and to know how websites and everyday services that we all use are built and implemented. Knowing makes it all feel real to me.

What does programming have the power to do?

Everything.

What do you like the most about our company culture?

The startup feel. I like that I know everyone, and they’re all friendly. It isn’t corporate. People don’t come to the office wearing suits. We have a nap room, a chill room. These things distinguish us from conventional workplaces, and that makes all the difference.

What does the typical day of a Backend Developer look like?

First thing in the morning, I open JIRA to check our tickets, see if there any new bugs that need to be fixed, or if any new features need to be added. These are our primary focuses and we immediately get started on them. We also have a stand up each morning to discuss everyone’s tasks for the day. Since I don’t always know what my colleagues are doing, we are brought up to pace with each other and find out where we may have chances to synergize.

What do you think is the future of programming?

Right now everything is moving towards machine learning and artificial intelligence. Gathering data has become much easier and enables the two fields to move at even faster paces. Currently big players like Google and Amazon are championing such technologies, leading users now to have greater expectations from apps because they are so intuitive and even more user friendly than what we previously were accustomed to.At the moment, these trends don’t change how we work, but it gives us a glimpse of the future and how we should progress although not necessarily right now.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

“I have always dreamt of going to Canada and living there for some reason. Right now, I see myself staying here.”

‍My ultimate dream, as a programmer, has always been to work in a startup and help develop that startup into a successful corporate through my contributions. I want to work for a company that I can grow with.

Tell us something in tech-speak no muggle will understand.

“Oct. 31 and Dec. 25 are the same.”

What is your superpower?

“I don’t sleep. I hate sleeping.”I don’t like sleeping because it’s a waste time. I would rather spend that time doing something useful. I usually go to sleep at 3 or 4am and wake up at 7am. I spend my time learning something new, or I waste time watching YouTube videos.

What is your favorite book? Favorite song?

Favorite book: ALL of the Harry Potter books

No favorite song. Maybe “Titanium” by David Guetta.

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