Stream: Monaco
Time: 12:00 - 12:45
Becoming an IBM Z Student Ambassador can open the door to learning, networking and leadership, but creating lasting impact requires more than holding a title. Drawing on my experience as an IBM Z Ambassador and a Former BCS Student Chapter Chair, this 45-minute session provides a practical guide to starting and growing an IBM Z or mainframe community. The session will explain how to define a clear purpose for your community, identify its target audience, recruit your first members, organise an accessible first event and collaborate with universities, professional organisations and industry speakers. Attendees will also learn how to use IBM Z learning resources, technical demonstrations, study groups and community partnerships to keep members actively involved. I will share lessons learned from community leadership, including common mistakes such as trying to manage everything alone, focusing too heavily on titles, organising events without understanding members’ needs and failing to maintain engagement after the first event. By the end of the session, attendees will have a practical 90-day roadmap for launching a local, university-based or virtual Z community. No ambassador title, large budget or corporate backing is required only a clear purpose, a small group of committed people and the willingness to begin.
There is currently no attachment for Ctrl + Alt + Community: Starting Your Own IBM Z Group
Aravind Jalajan is a passionate cybersecurity professional and community leader currently pursuing his MSc in Cybersecurity at the University of Hertfordshire. With a background in Computer Science and multiple years of leadership experience, Aravind has served as Chair of the BCS Hertfordshire Branch and led his university's Computer Science Society to win “Best Academic Society” in 2024. He has represented his university at national conferences such as GSE UK, where he explored cybersecurity, AI, and mainframe innovation. As a School Community Organiser and Director of the SPECS Alliance, Aravind advocates for student empowerment, diversity, and sustainable development in tech education. Known for combining technical insight with inclusive leadership, he speaks on topics ranging from cybersecurity innovation and responsible AI to student development and community-driven change.
I am a postgraduate student in Data Science and Analytics at the University of Hertfordshire, with a strong passion for bridging traditional enterprise systems and modern data technologies. I have hands-on experience in Python, R, and Tableau, and have developed projects in data visualization, machine learning, and analytics using real-world datasets, including weather prediction, spam detection, and credit card fraud analysis. As an IBM Z Student Ambassador and dedicated mainframe enthusiast, I actively explore complex enterprise systems, using storytelling and visual insights to make them accessible. I have participated in multiple tech events and workshops, including the IBM Z Xplore learning platform, hackathons at the University of Hertfordshire, and the WAVEZ virtual conference, where I collaborated with peers to solve real-world challenges. Beyond academics, I serve as a student representative for my department, mentoring peers and supporting collaborative projects. I am committed to sharing knowledge, empowering emerging professionals, and inspiring others to embrace data science and enterprise computing.
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