Papanii Okai’s Post

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EVP of Product Engineering Technologist, Innovator, Problem Solver, Mentor

As I've journeyed through the tech world, one vital lesson has stayed with me: the importance of giving back. It's a phase in our careers that truly shapes who we are and what we can contribute to the future, to the world. Flashback to my final college years - a time filled with uncertainty and daunting prospects about the future. As a young, aspiring professional, the path wasn't clear, especially as a black individual in the tech industry. It was a world where role models who looked like me were scarce. Then came a pivotal moment - a brief, but life-changing conversation with Alfred Chuang. Though it might have been just 10 minutes, it planted a seed of hope in a landscape of uncertainty. I'm excited to announce that I'll be revisiting these memories and more in a fireside chat with none other than Chris Brooks, my favorite professor from my alma mater, USF. We'll dive into my journey, explore the evolving landscape of technology, and share insights on leadership that I've gleaned over the years. #USF #TechLeadership #Inspiration #FiresideChat #GivingBack #DiversityInTech

View profile for Chris Brooks, graphic

Professor at University of San Francisco

I'm so very excited to get the opportunity to sit down with Papanii Okai, USF CS alum and CTO/VP of Engineering for Venmo, for a Fireside Chat this Thursday, February 8th from 4:30-5:30pm in McLaren 252! USF community members are invited to join us to hear about Papanii's journey through the tech world and his insights about where we are and what's coming next! You can RSVP here: https://bit.ly/USFCS

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Payton Bieker

Enterprise Level Detective Core BTS || Custom Software || Coach || #GirlDad

8mo

Giving back is what its all about man. Keep going. Such an inspiration to many I am sure of it.

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Brian Kim

10 plus years recruiting experience coming from Spotify, Venmo, Paypal, MLB, Zulily, Amazon and Microsoft

9mo

really appreciate your post and can't wait to hear about your journey. I agree with you so much about giving back and the importance of it.

Jarrod Baker

Chief Customer Officer at Tiimely | Ex Meta | Ex PayPal | Ex Telstra

9mo

Congratulations mate! Still crushing it….hope you’re well

Dr. Damaris-Lois Y Lang

Former Dean: AU School of STEMS | Executive Director: P-CoC Inc | Board of Trustee: H.o.H Union Free School District | Full Professor of Biology

9mo

Kudos Cuz!

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