Hi, I'm Derrick
As a skilled software engineer, I deliver innovative, high-performance solutions that elevate user experience and optimize business processes. With extensive experience in both frontend and backend development, I specialize in using modern technologies and frameworks to build scalable, maintainable applications. My deep technical knowledge and commitment to staying ahead of industry trends enable me to consistently deliver reliable, impactful software that addresses the dynamic needs of businesses and users.
About Me
As an experienced software engineer, I specialize in crafting innovative, high-impact solutions that prioritize user experience and streamline business processes. With proficiency in a broad tech stack—JavaScript, TypeScript, Python, React, Next.js, Node.js, Express, Flask, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB—I have the versatility to work across both frontend and backend development, creating seamless, responsive applications.
My expertise lies in leveraging the latest frameworks and tools, including Docker and various CSS frameworks, to build robust, scalable applications that meet modern standards. From designing clean, intuitive user interfaces to architecting efficient backend systems, I am dedicated to delivering software that is both effective and maintainable.
Committed to continuous learning, I stay engaged with industry advancements to ensure I’m always equipped with the best solutions to address evolving business needs. I am driven to not only meet but exceed expectations, delivering reliable, high-quality software that adapts to the changing needs of users.
I am a strong believer in the power of collaboration and thrive in team environments where exchanging ideas and learning from others fuel collective success. Let’s connect and build impactful solutions together that make a difference!
My Skills
FrontEnd Skills
Professional Experience
Software Engineer | HISP Rwanda
Building Full Stack Health Information Systems using ReactJS, NestJS, TypeScript, and NextJS. Developed custom applications and dashboards for DHIS2 (World Health Organization) Health Information System, and managed deployment of web services for DHIS2 custom apps.
Full Stack Software Developer | Andela Rwanda
Focused on backend development with Node.js, implementing CRUD operations, RESTful APIs, and database management with both SQL and NoSQL. Enhanced application security with JWT-based authentication and improved user interfaces using React and Next.js, deploying with CircleCI.
Technical Team Lead | Rwanda Traffic Guide
Led a team of five to develop a comprehensive testing web application with dynamic question sets, image integration, and secure login functionality. Established front-end and back-end components using PHP, MySQL, jQuery, Bootstrap, and Laravel, serving over 20,000 active users.
Co-Founder, Back-End Software Developer | CourseGuild
Co-founded and developed CourseGuild, a platform empowering independent tutors to create and deliver courses. Built the back-end on WordPress API and custom PHP, managed MySQL databases, hosted on VPS with Docker, integrated mobile money payment, and automated email marketing using Mautic with AWS SES.
High-Impact Personal Projects
An educational platform providing up-to-date university information for prospective students in Rwanda. Oversaw the integration of WordPress, MySQL, and custom PHP to create a scalable and user-friendly experience. Implemented server-side optimizations and database management, with over 20,000 website visitors per month on our main website.
Co-Founder, Back-End Software Developer | CourseGuild
Co-founded and developed CourseGuild, a platform empowering independent tutors to create and deliver courses. Built the back-end on WordPress API and custom PHP, managed MySQL databases, hosted on VPS with Docker, integrated mobile money payment, and automated email marketing using Mautic with AWS SES.
Developed a platform to facilitate the recovery and finding of lost items, enhancing user authentication, communication, and transaction capabilities. Integrated Google Sign-In, secure OTP SMS, AWS SES, and AWS S3 for reliable resource management, and deployed efficient CI/CD pipelines with GitHub Actions.
Backend Developer | Rwanda Stock Exchange API
Designed and maintain a REST API offering real-time and historical stock market data for Rwanda. Developed endpoints for stock prices, market indices, and company fundamentals. Integrated advanced technical indicators such as RSI, MACD, and Bollinger Bands to support investment analysis.
Open Source Developer | Rwanda Geo Structure
Developed a JavaScript library to streamline the collection of Rwandan administrative division data, from provinces to villages. This solution simplifies location-based data gathering for web applications, reducing hard-coding effort and enhancing data accuracy.
Founder and Lead Developer | Schools RW
Developed a platform that provides a searchable database of all secondary schools in Rwanda, enabling parents, students, and educators to find information about educational institutions easily and make informed decisions.
Full Stack Developer | Zap Sendify
Built a dynamic email-sending application that allows users to send customized HTML emails through a secure SMTP configuration. Integrated functionalities for secure user management, message encryption, and reliable SMTP settings storage.
Portfolio
EventHQ - Event Management System
A platform for seamless event booking, seat management, CRUD operations, and secure payment processing.
ActiviTen - Quizzing Platform
A platform for creating, managing, and tracking quizzes and educational activities, with real-time analytics. with Personalized Learning Paths and Real-time Analytics
Pregnancy-to-1k Tracker App
A mobile app for tracking pregnancy progress and milestones, built with React Native.
Aora - React Native App
An app to share and add AI-generated images, allowing users to create unique visual content.
Duroo Marketplace
A marketplace platform built with Next.js, facilitating seamless transactions and product management.
HooBank Landing Page
A sleek and responsive landing page designed using React.
My Blog
The Future of Web Development: What to Expect in 2024
Explore the upcoming trends and technologies that will shape web development in the coming year.
Read More
Building Scalable APIs with Node.js and Express
Learn how to create efficient and scalable APIs with Node.js and Express for modern web applications.
Read More
Why Next.js is the Future of React Development
Discover the powerful features of Next.js that are revolutionizing React app development.
Read MoreGet In Touch
I'd love to hear from you. Fill out the form below and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.