Star Contributor of the Month – Denila Philip
We’re recognizing Denila Philip, from New Jersey, as our Star Contributor for January 2017. Denila only joined our community in October 2016 but in the short time she’s been here she’s made a huge impact and given generously of her time and skill. Product management is an invaluable contribution that volunteers can make and Denila has been no different. Her work in drafting detailed user stories along with wire frames has greatly accelerated the development efforts for the Android self-service app. Grounded in human-centered design, her plans for the self-service app have given great clarity and a foundation for mobile wallets and other innovation.
Denila Philip – New Jersey, USA
Brief Bio (in the words of Denila):
I’m currently working as a UX product manager for an NYC based company that specializes in building enterprise application software across multiple industries. Prior to this, I worked as a management consultant for two different consulting firms, focused on product management and process improvement. During my business school days, I interned as a financial manager with a startup that designed custom-made shoes for women. And prior to that, I worked as a software engineer in India and the US.
Relevant Skills & Experience: Product Management and Strategy, Competitive Analysis, Agile Developmen, Product Training and Operations
Denila’s Impact:
Discovering Mifos:
I had been on the lookout for open-source projects specifically in Fintech and microfinance areas where I could volunteer my product management skills. During my online search, I came across Mifos, and was very interested to learn about the Fineract open technology platform and Mifos X, and Mifos’ impact across the globe in making financial services accessible to unbanked communities.
Contributions Made to Date:
I’ve been helping build out user stories and UX designs for a Mifos self-service Android banking app.
Current Projects: I’m currently working on the Android self-service banking app project, and look forward to contributing toward a mobile wallet app that will build upon the self-service app.
Impact on the Poor: I hope that my contributions to the self-service app, and eventually to the mobile wallet app, will help financially empower the users of these products by improving their experience in working with financial institutions, make them more aware of various financial products at their disposal for various needs, help them make better economic choices, and manage their finances in a way that improves all facets of their lives.
What’s Rewarding about Working on Mifos:
What I love about working on the Mifos project is being part of a global volunteer community that consists of extremely bright individuals that are also socially aware. I have learnt a lot from my team, and from being part of the community, and it gives me a sense of purpose for the work I do.
Top Piece of Advice for Others in the Mifos Community: Be proud of what we are doing!
Fun Facts about Denila
Favorite Food: Chocolate ice cream
Favorite Open Source Project: So far I have only worked with Mifos, so right now it’s my favorite.
If Denila Could Travel to One Place in the World: Norway to watch the Northern Lights
Interesting fact/tidbit about yourself you’d like to share: In my past life, I used to code emission control modules for diesel engines.
You can find out more about Denila at:
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denilaphilip/
