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Michael KankuMK
Looking for a job

Michael Kanku

@michaelkanku

I build full-stack applications, data pipelines, and privacy-respecting AI tools.

South Africa
Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that has room for growth and gaining new experiences, that will also allow for creative problem solving.

Self-taught Software Engineer with a BSc in Biological Sciences (Wits, 2024), bringing a systems-thinking and research-driven approach to software development. Proficient in Python, Java, C++, and Flutter, with hands-on production experience building fullstack web applications, async data pipelines, containerised deployments, and CI/CD workflows. Seeking a Software Engineering role where strong analytical skills and a builder's mindset solve real business problems

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

CE
Current

AI-Powered Study Assistant

Cerebrum

Architected and shipped a full-stack RAG learning assistant end-to-end, designing the document ingestion pipeline, vector store retrieval layer, LLM orchestration, and Flutter UI entirely solo. Built a domain-aware caching and versioning system for retrieval results and analysis outputs, reducing redundant LLM calls and enabling tracking of learner understanding evolution.

WE

Vice Chairperson and Technical Manager

Wits E-Sports

Jan 2024 - Dec 2024 (11 months)

Oversaw technical infrastructure for university-wide events, directed event management and logistics, and led recruitment initiatives expanding club membership by 30%.

WC

Gear and Facilities Officer

Wits Mountaineering Club

Jan 2022 - Dec 2023 (1 year 11 months)

Managed inventory of over 200 pieces of climbing equipment, implemented a tracking system, and trained new members on gear handling and safety protocols.

TI

Solo Project Developer

Timely

Developed a neuroscience-informed time management app using Flutter and Dart, focusing on reducing cognitive load and decision fatigue through structured focus sessions. Designed the app to minimize task-switching and set up the project for open-source contribution with pre-commit hooks, contributing guide, and code of conduct.

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of the Witwatersrand logoUW

University of the Witwatersrand

Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences

BSc in Biological Sciences with majors in Genetics and Physiology, completed in 2024.

RS

Richem Secondary School

National Senior Certificate, General

Completed National Senior Certificate in 2018.

IBM logoIB

IBM

Exploratory Data Analysis for Machine Learning, Data Science

Completed Exploratory Data Analysis for Machine Learning.

IBM logoIB

IBM

Supervised Machine Learning: Classification, Machine Learning

Completed Supervised Machine Learning: Classification.

IBM logoIB

IBM

Supervised Machine Learning: Regression, Machine Learning

Completed Supervised Machine Learning: Regression.

Harvard University logoHU

Harvard University

CS50x: Introduction to Computer Science, Computer Science

Completed CS50x: Introduction to Computer Science.

University of the Witwatersrand logoUW

University of the Witwatersrand

Bachelors of Science, Biology Science

2020 - 2024

Activities and societies: Wits Esports Vice Chair Wits Mountain club gear and facilities manager

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