FIRST Global Challenge 2017 : Composition of Team Madagascar

Team Madagascar at the FIRST Global Challenge 2017: A Journey of Passion and Potential

Madagascar, a vibrant island nation, is preparing to make its mark at the World Robotics Competition for high school students. We, a team of six talented Malagasy students aged between 16 and 19, are eagerly anticipating our departure to Washington DC, United States. Our mission? To represent Madagascar in the esteemed FIRST Global Challenge, an international educational robotics competition that brings together young STEM talents from around the world. This year, the theme "H2O Flow" will put the spotlight on finding solutions for global water challenges.

For us, participating in this global competition is a monumental achievement. It marks the first time Madagascar is taking part in such a grand robotics contest. Just six months ago, we stumbled upon the fascinating world of robotics. When the kit arrived on May 20, we eagerly delved into every detail and began tackling the tasks at hand. Each team member brought their unique talents and skills to the table as we embarked on the exhilarating journey of preparation.

To prepare for the competition, we received a kit from the organizers, which served as the foundation for our robot's design and programming. Adhering to the challenge theme, we worked tirelessly to create a robot that could provide innovative solutions to water-related issues. It was an incredible learning experience that pushed us to explore new boundaries and discover the limitless potential of robotics.

We are proud to announce that Orange, a leading telecommunications company, is supporting Team Madagascar for this inaugural edition. Their generous support includes providing communications credits for team members, ensuring that we stay connected during our trip. Additionally, Orange surprised us with exciting goodies that will forever remind us of this incredible experience.

We would also like to express our deepest gratitude to FIRST Global, the organizer of this prestigious competition. Their unwavering support has covered all the expenses related to our trip to Washington DC. Thanks to their generosity, we have been able to dedicate ourselves entirely to preparing for the competition and representing Madagascar to the best of our abilities.

FIRST Global has a profound vision to inspire and nurture future leaders in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics worldwide. By fostering an interest in science and technology, they empower young minds to become catalysts for change and innovation. We are honored to be part of this global movement and to contribute our skills and knowledge towards a brighter future.

Now, let us introduce the remarkable members of Team Madagascar:

1. Holitiana Arisoa Rafidison (18): Holitiana is a second-year Telecommunications student at the Polytechnic School of Antananarivo. With an unyielding passion for programming, this young technophile is set to make a lasting impact.
2. Ny Andrianina Mamy Razafintsialonina (18): Ny Andrianina is a third-year student in Computer Science, Electronics, and Telecommunications at the Regional University Space of the Indian Ocean (Euroi). As a self-proclaimed hardcore gamer, he has channeled his passion into artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
3. Safidinirina Razafiarison (19): Safidinirina, a second-year Telecommunications student at the Polytechnic School of Antananarivo, is an ardent advocate of artificial intelligence, computer security, and new technologies.
4. Tolotra Meddy Raherimandimby (17): Tolotra, currently in 11th grade at Saint François-Xavier College in Fianarantsoa, possesses a deep passion for Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science. He is taking his first steps in programming, eager to explore new horizons.
5. Diamondra Rasoamanana (18): Diamondra is a second-year Telecommunications student at the Polytechnic School of Antananarivo. His love for technology, cybersecurity, and electronics fuels his drive to make a difference. He is also an active member of the Habaka Machine Learning computer community.
6. Mitia Henintsoa Rakotofiringa (16): Mitia, the youngest member of our team, is currently in 11th grade at the French Lycée in Antananarivo. Having already participated in a Coding Dojo training, he fearlessly ventures into the world of programming, eager to leave his mark.

Last but certainly not least, we have our mentor, Sahaza Marline R., a digital professional and the initiator of the CoderDojo and CoderBus programs in Madagascar. Sahaza's guidance, expertise, and unwavering support have played a vital role in shaping our journey.

As Team Madagascar, we are now ready to showcase our talents, our passion and the limitless potential of Malagasy youth on the global robotics stage. Together we will inspire change, innovation and a brighter future for our beloved nation. Stay tuned for updates on our incredible journey to the FIRST Global Challenge 2017!