Hello! I'm Daniel Wanjala.
It's great to connect with you here. I'm a Data Scientist and Machine Learning Engineer originally hailing from the vibrant area near Nairobi, Kenya. My world revolves around finding patterns in the chaos, building systems that learn, and ultimately, using technology to make a tangible difference.
My journey hasn't been a straight line it's been more of an exciting exploration, starting in the dynamic field of IT management and diving headfirst into the fascinating depths of data science. I'm driven by a deep-seated belief that the right data, combined with intelligent algorithms, can unlock solutions to some truly complex real-world challenges.
By the Numbers
Projects Completed
Hours of Mentoring
Certifications
Efficiency Improvement
From IT Foundations to Data Frontiers
My professional path began in the demanding environment of healthcare IT. As the Senior IT Manager at Kingdom Hospital in Webuye, I wasn't just keeping the systems running; I was on the front lines, ensuring that technology reliably supported critical patient care. It was here, managing networks, ensuring data integrity, and leading a team of interns, that I first truly grasped the immense potential hidden within the hospital's operational data.
Seeing the direct impact of efficient systems – like reducing patient wait times through better scheduling or improving billing accuracy with integrated solutions – ignited my curiosity. I started volunteering my time specifically as a Data Scientist within the hospital, driven to explore how we could move beyond just *managing* data to *learning* from it. This led to developing predictive models for patient flow, a project that yielded significant improvements and solidified my passion for data's predictive power.
This hands-on experience naturally led me to formalize my knowledge. Pursuing a Certificate in Data Science & Machine Learning from Moringa School provided an immersive, project-based deep dive. Following that, my BSc in Information Technology from Zetech University gave me the robust technical foundation. Now, I'm furthering my expertise through a Master of Science in Data Science at Cooperative University of Kenya, constantly seeking to refine my skills in machine learning, statistical modeling, and research.
Key Milestones
MSc Data Science
Cooperative University of Kenya
Deepening expertise in advanced ML and research methodologies.
Focusing on advanced machine learning algorithms, deep learning architectures, and research methodologies. Currently working on a thesis about predictive modeling in healthcare systems.
Senior IT Manager & Data Scientist (Vol.)
Kingdom Hospital, Webuye
Led IT operations, championed data-driven decisions, built predictive models.
Implemented data-driven solutions that reduced patient wait times by 25% and improved resource allocation efficiency. Led a team of 5 IT interns and managed critical hospital systems.
Certificate in Data Science & ML
Moringa School, Nairobi
Immersive, project-based learning in core data science concepts.
Completed intensive training in Python, machine learning, and data visualization. Built a financial forecasting model that achieved 85% prediction accuracy.
BSc Information Technology
Zetech University
Built strong foundation in IT infrastructure, software, and systems.
Specialized in database management and system architecture. Graduated with honors and received the Outstanding Student Award for innovative project work.
My Approach: Beyond the Code
Problem-Focused
Technology is a tool, not the goal. I start with understanding the core challenge and work backward to find the most effective, data-informed solution.
Always Learning
Data science evolves rapidly. I'm committed to continuous learning, exploring new techniques, and staying curious about what's possible.
Impact-Oriented
Insights are valuable, but outcomes are paramount. I focus on building systems and delivering analyses that lead to measurable improvements and tangible results.
Core Skill Areas
Programming & SQL
Fluent in Python for data manipulation (Pandas, NumPy) and building models. Proficient in SQL for querying and managing relational databases.
Machine Learning
Experienced in building predictive models (regression, classification), time series forecasting (ARIMA, Prophet), and applying neural networks (TensorFlow/Keras).
Data Visualization
Skilled in using libraries like Matplotlib, Seaborn, and Tableau to create clear, insightful visualizations that communicate complex data stories effectively.
Systems & IT
Strong background in IT management, network maintenance, troubleshooting, and experience with ERP systems like Frappe/ERPNext.
(Hover over a skill to learn more)
Skill Mastery Journey
Achievement Showcase
Outstanding Student Award
Recognized for academic excellence and innovative projects at Zetech University
Data Science Certification
Completed advanced machine learning and data analysis training at Moringa School
Healthcare Innovation Award
Recognized for implementing data-driven solutions at Kingdom Hospital
My Data Science Methodology
Problem Understanding & Context
Every successful data science project begins with a deep understanding of the business context and problem space. I invest significant time in:
- Conducting stakeholder interviews to understand business objectives and constraints
- Analyzing existing processes and identifying pain points
- Defining clear, measurable success metrics aligned with business goals
Data Exploration & Preparation
A thorough understanding of the data is crucial for building effective models. My approach includes:
- Comprehensive data quality assessment and cleaning
- Exploratory data analysis to identify patterns and relationships
- Feature engineering and selection based on domain knowledge
Model Development & Validation
Building robust models requires a systematic approach to development and validation:
- Implementing cross-validation and robust evaluation metrics
- Ensuring model interpretability and explainability
- Addressing bias and ensuring ethical considerations
Deployment & Monitoring
The final phase focuses on bringing models to production and ensuring their continued effectiveness:
- Implementing robust deployment pipelines and versioning
- Setting up comprehensive monitoring and alerting systems
- Establishing feedback loops for continuous improvement
Featured Projects & Impact
InvestWise Predictor
An intelligent investment prediction system leveraging neural networks to forecast market trends and provide personalized investment recommendations.
Capstone-Lazarus
Advanced plant disease detection system using computer vision and deep learning to help farmers identify and treat plant diseases early.
Ad Click Predictor
Machine learning model to predict user click behavior on digital advertisements, optimizing ad placement and targeting.
Kenya GDP Forecast
Time series analysis and forecasting model for Kenya's GDP, incorporating multiple economic indicators and external factors.
When I'm Not Analyzing Data...
While I love diving deep into datasets and algorithms, life exists beyond the screen! Finding balance is key. When I step away from the keyboard, you'll often find me recharging in a couple of ways:
Exploring the Outdoors
There's nothing quite like hiking to clear the mind and gain perspective. Exploring trails around Kenya offers a refreshing contrast to the digital world.
Passion for Rugby
The teamwork, strategy, and physicality of rugby have always resonated with me. It's a great way to stay active and embrace collaborative effort.
I'm also deeply interested in AI Research, contributing to Open-Source projects, staying updated on Cybersecurity trends, and exploring innovations in Cloud Computing & DevOps. Learning never stops!
Let's Build Something Together
Whether you have a specific project in mind, want to discuss the latest in machine learning, or just want to connect with a fellow tech enthusiast, I'd love to hear from you.