Team 1: AAMU NextGen
Moyinoluwa Adelowo (Team Captain)
Moyinoluwa Adelowo is a Mechanical Engineering student at Alabama A&M University, where he also minors in Computer Science. With a 4.0 GPA and a drive for innovation, he is passionate about building systems that blend mechanical design, software, and data to solve real-world challenges. From robotics and automation to AI-powered web apps, Moyinoluwa brings an engineer’s precision and a tech entrepreneur’s vision to every project he undertakes.
He is actively involved in several organizations, including NSBE, where he served as the International Chair for his school’s chapter during the 24/25 school session, as well as IEEE, ASME, GDSC, Vex Robotics, and the Special Projects Laboratory. Moyinoluwa was a key team member in competitive design challenges like the NASA Human Rover Exploration Challenge and Formula SAE, contributing to mechanical design, manufacturing, and reporting processes.
As a mechanical engineering student, Moyinoluwa has worked on several hands-on design and prototyping projects. He co-developed a functional hydroponics research module for Project MARS and integrated a real-time sensor monitoring system using Arduino and Python Flask. He also contributed to the IEEE Robotics team by designing the full-scale CAD model of the competition robot, 3D printing game elements, and developing a game in Unity. These experiences strengthened his mechanical intuition and ability to bring concepts to life through simulation, fabrication, and iteration.
In parallel, Moyinoluwa is a full-stack developer with a growing portfolio of AI-enhanced web applications. As part of a team, he built Cat-A-Log. This web app uses AI to analyze and classify cat images based on breed and pattern rarity. He co-developed CTR Predictor, a full-stack web application for Click-Through Rate (CTR) prediction using machine learning on the Avazu dataset. His tech stack includes Python, Next.js, React, JavaScript, TypeScript, Django, Flask, Node, MongoDB, and PostgreSQL, among others. He enjoys applying this skill set to creative tools and real-world data.
Moyinoluwa is a TechWise Fellow, a TMCF Scholar, and a past winner of the xTechHBCU competition. Whether designing robotic systems, optimizing supply chains with AI, or building data dashboards in Power BI, he’s always thinking about how his skills can drive meaningful change. Above all, Moyinoluwa is committed to learning, leading, and lifting others. He hopes to continue blending his engineering foundation with cutting-edge technologies to improve lives through smarter products and more inclusive tech solutions.
Ogheneobukome Ejaife
Junior, Computer Engineering & Electrical Engineering, Alabama A&M University
My name is Ogheneobukome Jefferson Ejaife (Obukome for short). I am from Nigeria and currently a junior majoring in Electrical & Computer Engineering at the illustrious Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University. Growing up, I’ve always been fascinated by how analytical thinking and technology can be used to solve some of society’s most complex problems. Because of this, I have developed a strong passion for exploring fields such as software engineering, hardware engineering, AI & machine learning, and quantitative finance. As a college student, I know how important it is to grow both my technical and soft skills. That’s why I’m always seeking opportunities through projects, internships, and competitions. Since starting college, I’ve completed two internships, with my most recent being at Microsoft this past summer. There, I worked under Azure, building new features across different tools aimed at improving the developer experience on the cloud. During that time, I sharpened my skills in Go, TypeScript, prompt engineering, and cloud technologies. I also enjoy academic research. Recently, I was honored to be selected as one of 30 fellows worldwide for the MIT Summer Geometry Initiative (SGI), a six-week research program. As an SGI fellow, I worked with researchers from across the world on exciting projects in geometry processing, exploring topics like mesh optimization and simulation.
I love participating in competitions and hackathons as well. In 2024, I led a team
that finished 3rd place out of more than 50 HBCUs in the AUC & Mastercard Data Science Challenge. At VandyHacks, my first hackathon, I collaborated with my teammates to design StudyFlex, an AI-powered flashcard generator built in just 24 hours. I’ve also taken part in selective invite-only competitions such as the Harvard Quantitative Trading Invitational and the Traders at Berkeley competition, where I was the only student from my university to attend.
While I value personal growth, I’m equally passionate about helping others grow. On campus, I tutor fellow students through the Tutorial Assistance Network, supporting them in subjects like calculus, C++, and electrical engineering. I also served as Operations Manager for the AAMU IEEE Student Chapter, where I helped organize events and workshops to build up our members professionally. In addition, I’m active in communities like ColorStack and Google Developer Student Clubs, which give me the chance to give back while learning alongside peers.
Mauyon Wusu
Junior, Electrical Engineering, Alabama A&M University
Mauyon Divine Wusu is a junior Electrical Engineering student at Alabama A&M University, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA while earning recognition as both a Dean’s List scholar and Honors Scholar. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Mauyon brings a unique perspective to software and app development, driven by a passion for using technology to solve real-world problems through consumer-centered solutions. Mauyon has technical expertise in multiple programming languages including C++, Python, HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, C#, and Swift, with proven experience in game development using Unity Game Engine, mobile development frameworks, and machine learning libraries like PyTorch. Her consumer-focused mindset demonstrates her ability to create impactful solutions, from developing “Anne’s Story,” a stealth-survival game that led her software team to success in the IEEE SoutheastCon Competition, to building “CuraPal,” a wellness support app for the elderly using Swift programming language. Her competitive record speaks to her exceptional ability to rapidly prototype and develop solutions and applications under pressure. Her notable achievements include 5th place out of 60 teams in the AmazonNext Challenge where she and her team ideated and prototyped “Nativa Foods” to bridge cultural cuisine access gaps, 1st Place Team in the FICO Data Analytics Challenge for credit card fraud detection, finalist for I3 Social Business Model Competition, and Auburn Alabama Innovate Hacks. Her versatility shines through projects ranging from app development, game development, AI/ML, and hardware. During her previous Activision + HBCU in LA Games internship, Mauyon enhanced game user experiences by 25% through improved UI/UX design and interactive game development.
Furthermore, Mauyon recently concluded her summer research at Johns Hopkins, where she successfully built an image classification machine learning model with 94% accuracy, showcasing her ability to translate complex algorithms into practical applications. What sets Mauyon apart is her proven track record of turning innovative ideas into functional consumer applications, her collaborative leadership in teams, and her commitment to creating technology solutions that make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
Ruvarashe Nyabando
Junior, Electrical Engineering, Alabama A&M University
My name is Ruvarashe Nyabando, and I am currently a junior at Alabama A&M University studying Electrical Engineering with a 3.95 GPA and part of the Honors Program. I’ve always had a strong interest in problem-solving, data science and machine learning, particularly how technology can be used to improve everyday life, which naturally led me toward engineering.
Internships have played a huge role in shaping my growth. This past summer, I worked as an Analytics Science Intern at FICO in San Diego, where I gained hands-on experience with machine learning and data science by developing pipelines for synthetic data and training models to classify banking conversations. In addition, during the internship I participated in an intern hackathon where I led a team to develop an intern onboarding dashboard. I particularly focused on building the database and the backend. The year before, I completed a research internship at Fermilab, analyzing particle data and learning what it means to collaborate on large-scale scientific research. Each experience has reinforced my interest in innovative problem solving using collaboration.
At AAMU, I have had the opportunity to take courses such as Engineering Computing in C++, Linear Circuit Analysis, Analog Circuits, and Applied Differential Equations. Each of these classes has challenged me while also strengthening my confidence in applying complex concepts to real-world projects. I’ve also enjoyed working on technical projects outside the classroom, like designing schematics and printed circuit boards in KiCad and participating in student-led innovation challenges. Outside of academics and internships, I love giving back. I work as a tutor and writing consultant on campus, which allows me to help my peers succeed in subjects that might otherwise feel intimidating. I am also involved in organizations such as IEEE, the Google Student Developer Group, and the Society of Women Engineers, where I’ve found a supportive community and leadership opportunities. Looking ahead, I hope to combine my interests in engineering, data science, and innovation to the BE SMART Hackathon and learn from my team members.
Osamwengumwenro Oni-Ojo
Junior, Computer Science, Alabama A&M University
Osamwengumwenro “Gwen” Oni-Ojo is a junior Computer Science major at Alabama A&M University. Originally from Edo, Nigeria, Gwen moved to the United States to pursue her studies and explore her passion for technology and problem-solving. Her interest in computer science grew out of a lifelong curiosity about how technology works and how it can be used to improve everyday life. In her academic journey, Gwen has studied programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++, and she has applied this knowledge across research, coursework, and personal projects. She participated in the GENE-AI program, where she used machine learning methods to analyze genomic data and explore how high nighttime temperatures affect rice yields. She also contributed to her university’s radiation research group, conducting experiments for radiation detection. These opportunities strengthened her technical foundation and taught her how to collaborate across disciplines.
Outside research, Gwen enjoys building creative projects that merge technology with design. She has worked on small games and mobile applications that focus on usability, problem-solving, and user experience. These personal projects reflect her curiosity and drive to create tools that are both innovative and practical. Gwen has also been part of initiatives like the Headstarter Fellowship and the Global Developers Student Club (GDSC), which helped her develop leadership, teamwork, and project management skills. She is especially skilled at team coordination, idea generation, and keeping projects user-focused and organized.
Beyond academics, Gwen enjoys singing, playing games, and reading. Her love for gaming has been a strong influence on her interest in technology, inspiring her to think about how interactivity and design can shape user experiences. She also values creativity and storytelling, qualities that she often brings into her work. Her long-term goal is to use her knowledge and passion for technology to design impactful solutions that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and communities.
Team 2: AAMU JetSetters
Thabo Traore (Team Captain)
Junior, Computer Science, Alabama A&M University
My name is Thabo Ibrahim Traoré, and I am a rising junior at Alabama A&M University, where I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. I was born and raised in Zambia, and my journey to study in the United States has been shaped by resilience, determination, and a commitment to using technology as a tool for positive change. As an international student, I have embraced the challenges and opportunities of adapting to new environments while staying true to my passion for innovation and community impact. Academically and professionally, I have been fortunate to gain experiences that connect the classroom with real-world applications.
I served as a Software Engineering Intern at Microsoft, where I built deployment validation systems in Azure to improve rollout safety, and at Meta, where I contributed to backend optimization for large-scale infrastructure. These internships strengthened my technical skills in programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, and TypeScript, while also reinforcing the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and problem-solving under pressure. I have also pursued undergraduate research in natural language processing, presenting award-winning work on sentiment analysis of AI-related media narratives at AAMU’s STEM Day. Through these experiences, I have learned that technology must not only advance systems, but also serve communities responsibly. Beyond internships and research, I am actively involved in leadership and service.
I have worked as a Teaching Assistant for Python programming courses, where I
supported new learners in gaining confidence with coding fundamentals.
I also serve in student organizations including the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and Google Developer Student Clubs (GDSC), where I have contributed to workshops, peer mentorship, and inclusive technical events. Additionally, I participate in national competitions and hackathons—earning 1st place at the HBCU Smart Cities Challenge for building an AI-powered water safety solution, and 2nd place at both the FICO Educational Analytics Challenge and Innovate Alabama Hackathon with innovative, socially driven projects. These opportunities have shaped me as both a builder and a collaborator, teaching me how to balance technical expertise with communication, teamwork, and vision. Outside of academics, I enjoy mentoring peers, exploring advancements in artificial intelligence, and creating spaces for underrepresented students to thrive. I also find balance in staying active, traveling, and connecting with diverse communities. Ultimately, I aspire to use my education and experiences to continue developing solutions that are impactful, inclusive, and lasting.
My story is still being written, but each chapter reflects a commitment to growth, service, and innovation.
Asia Harris
Junior, Computer Science, Alabama A&M University
I’m a junior Computer Science major who loves exploring how technology can be used to make life smarter, easier, and more connected. My main interests are artificial intelligence and software development—two areas where I enjoy asking big questions and finding creative ways to uncover patterns or build tools that help people. Outside of classes, I’m active in communities like Girls Who Code and the Association of Computing Machinery. I enjoy being surrounded by others who are just as curious and excited about tech as I am, and these groups have given me the chance to collaborate on projects, share knowledge, and grow both as a coder and as a teammate. Hackathons are especially exciting to me because they bring together everything I enjoy: brainstorming ideas, rapidly prototyping, and working with others who bring different skills and perspectives. I like the challenge of taking an idea and turning it into a real solution in a short amount of time. When I’m not coding, you’ll usually find me brainstorming new project ideas, helping peers with their coding questions, or diving into new tools and frameworks to expand my skill set. I see technology as a space for endless creativity, and I’m eager to keep learning, building, and making an impact—one project at a time.
Solomon Agyire
Junior, Computer Science, Alabama A&M University
Education Solomon Agyire is a driven Computer Science undergraduate at Alabama A&M University (AAMU), set to graduate in May 2027. His academic journey is defined by a strong foundation in programming, web development, and machine learning. Solomon has a keen interest in blending software engineering, artificial intelligence, and real-world problem-solving to create impactful solutions.
Throughout his college career, Solomon has engaged deeply with both technical and leadership roles. As a Software Engineering Intern at Meta during the summer of 2025, he built a full-stack roadmap generator that transforms project ideas into structured, actionable plans. By implementing adaptive milestone reordering algorithms and optimizing backend performance through API tuning and database query refinement, Solomon significantly improved the tool’s productivity and scalability. His experience managing large-scale database cleanups at Meta honed his attention to detail and understanding of accessibility standards.
Earlier, as an AI Intern at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beam in East Lansing, Michigan, Solomon worked on signal reconstruction and anomaly detection using autoencoders and PyTorch, achieving 99.7% model accuracy in binary classification tasks. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, he ensured the smooth integration of features and contributed to research projects that advanced experimental beam pulse data analysis. Projects Solomon has also undertaken innovative personal and team projects that showcase his technical versatility. He developed BrowseCap, a Chrome extension for saving and organizing websites with a responsive UI and persistent local storage. In another project, he applied natural language processing techniques like BERT to analyze social media data in real time for disaster response, achieving high classification accuracy and F1 scores.
Leadership Beyond technical skills, Solomon has demonstrated strong leadership in student organizations. As President of GDG-AAMU, he has led workshops, hackathons, and community initiatives that foster collaboration and skill development. His leadership is rooted in understanding team strengths, balancing workloads, and ensuring projects meet deadlines without compromising quality.
Achievements Solomon’s dedication and achievements have been recognized through numerous awards, including the AAMU Presidential Scholarship, two AAMU Presidential Medallions, and top placements in competitions such as the Mastercard Data Challenge and Innovate Alabama 2025. He continues to pursue opportunities where he can combine software engineering, AI, and leadership to solve meaningful problems, mentor others, be mentored, and contribute to technological innovation.
Sunday Ochigbo
Junior, Computer Science, Alabama A&M University
Sunday Ochigbo is an ambitious electrical and computer engineering student with a passion for technology, entrepreneurship, and creating impactful solutions. Originally from Nigeria, he has navigated the journey of being a first-generation international student with resilience, leveraging his unique background to fuel creativity and problem-solving.
He has built innovative projects spanning hardware and software, including a smart Home Flood Detection System with C++, Arduino, and IoT sensors, a Voice-Controlled Personal Digital Assistant with speech recognition and verbal Tic-Tac-Toe gameplay, and a Raspberry Pi-controlled robot with Python-based object recognition for IEEE competitions. These experiences highlight his ability to integrate hardware and software for real-world applications.
Sunday recently completed a Software Engineering and Program Management internship at Microsoft, where he improved the user experience of a confidential web tool for game developers and scoped a new gaming project aligned with business and customer goals. This strengthened his technical, organizational, and leadership skills.
Passionate about entrepreneurship, Sunday is advancing NextUp through the Builders and Backers Accelerator to improve access to internships and opportunities for HBCU students. He also led his team to first place in the HP HBCU Innovation Challenge with a career companion chatbot. His participation in case competitions, hackathons, and AI-driven data challenges reflects his ability to design and execute impactful solutions.
Dedicated to mentorship and community impact, Sunday has guided high school students in STEM research, trained peers in programming, and contributed to initiatives promoting inclusivity in technology and data-driven decision-making. With a blend of technical expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and leadership, he is a forward-thinking innovator prepared to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change.
Zizwe Mtonga
Junior, Computer Science, Alabama A&M University
Zizwe Mtonga is a junior Honors Scholar at Alabama A&M University, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science with a 3.95 GPA. Throughout his academic career, Zizwe has consistently excelled, earning recognition on the Dean’s List, Honor Roll, and receiving the President’s Medallion twice for academic achievement. His coursework spans a strong foundation in programming, algorithms, discrete mathematics, and digital logic design, giving him the tools to approach problem-solving with both creativity and precision.
Beyond the classroom, Zizwe has actively sought opportunities to apply his learning in professional and research settings. In the summer of 2025, he joined Oracle as a Software Engineering Intern, contributing to projects in Fusion Applications Development, where he gained firsthand experience with large-scale distributed systems. Previously, he interned with the Entertainment Industry College Outreach Program (EICOP) as a Game Design Intern, where he focused on increasing representation in gaming by redesigning titles from the Black Games Archive and developing inclusive characters using the Unity engine. Zizwe’s interests also extend to impactful research and practical applications of technology. He has worked on a “Smart Learning Path” project, designing a web application that tailors learning experiences to individual student needs, and more recently, he built “Roommate Harmony,” a full-stack web platform that integrates artificial intelligence to help students manage shared living responsibilities more effectively. He is also a Stanford AI4ALL Ignite Fellow, receiving mentorship and training in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
In addition to his academic and technical pursuits, Zizwe serves as Operations Manager for the Google Developer Student Club at Alabama A&M, where he helps coordinate events and foster collaboration among peers. He is also involved with organizations such as NSBE, and ColorStack, further strengthening his commitment to professional growth and community. Overall, Zizwe’s educational journey reflects a blend of academic excellence, technical innovation, and leadership. His goal is to leverage technology to solve real-world problems, contribute to inclusive innovation, and continue growing as a leader in the tech industry.