Calvin Nel, Game 2016

When and why did you study at the academy?
I studied at the Academy of Digital Arts from 2016 to 2017, where I completed a Higher Certificate in Multimedia and Game Design. I chose to study there because I wanted to build a strong practical foundation in game design, 3D content creation, scripting, and interactive digital production. I want to be a game Developer/designer/creator of all things Game in my future.

Where are you now?
I’m currently working as a Software Developer at ydangle apps in Cape Town from Pretoria, South Africa. My work focuses on back-end and full-stack software development, APIs, AI-powered features, automation, and web-based 3D immersive platform work.

What is the most important thing you took away from studying at the academy?
One of the most valuable things I took away from the academy was the ability to turn ideas into practical, interactive digital work. It also helped me build a strong foundation in problem-solving, prototyping, and learning how design and technical implementation support each other. It helped dissolve the anxiety around starting and getting your hands 'dirty' which drastically reduces the time to start iterating and improving.

What would you recommend to young students?
I’d recommend staying curious, building as much practical work as possible, and not being afraid to experiment across disciplines. The more you create, test, and improve, the faster you develop both your technical ability and your confidence. Don't undersell yourself, stay humble, stay curious.

You’re also welcome to include these links if useful:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/calvin-nel-6a7565131

Showcase:
Chatterly: https://chatterly.io/
Intelliweave: https://intelliweave.ai/
MetaPress: https://metapress.dev/
Vatom: https://support.vatom.com/docs/spaces/welcome