The Story of Xormis

Once upon a time, in a land not so far away – there were four aspiring apprentices – Shawn McLean, Derron Brown, Markel Mairs, and Dwayne Samuels, who were all trained and highly skilled in the art of software development. These noble men lived in a time when the world was in a state of despair:

• The people were hungry and impoverished
• Many lacked a proper education
• Gender disparity pervaded many regions
• Children and pregnant mothers were ill and in need of suitable care
• Diseases such as AIDS and Malaria plagued the land
• The environment was at risk
• And Global partnership between nations seemed unattainable

The United Nations and Microsoft therefore sent out a call throughout the entire world, challenging students from around the globe to compete in the Imagine Cup by developing technology solutions to these, the world’s toughest problems.

Undaunted by the mammoth task ahead and the stiff competition they were most certainly to face, this group of technologists stepped up to the challenge. Under the guidance and direction from their Mentor in Chief – Kenrie Hylton, they decided to develop a solution that was not aimed at one, but rather all the problems outlined by the United Nations.

Sir Shawn assumed the role of Chief Software Architect and Lead Application Developer,
Derron served as the Mobile Application Developer and the Algorithm Expert
Markel was charged with key programming tasks and creating pivotal modules
Dwayne took on the responsibility of marketing and being the usability engineer.

Together they called themselves Team Xormis.

Now armed with nothing more than an idea and a thirst for success, this team set out on a quest to fulfill their dreams and conquer in the Imagine Cup competition. What they lacked in resources, they made up for in their passion and proficiency.

Through sleepless nights they toiled, with final exams looming and their social life now shattered and nonexistent. Still they pressed on with their eyes on the prize.

There were many who thought it could not be done, certainly not from the land of wood and water. This is a battle that only the perceived mighty from the U.S., from China or from India can win. But alas, this did not deter this committed team.

With only minutes to spare, the team submitted their entry in an attempt to be one of the very few from around the world to qualify to journey to Poland for the World Finals of this prestigious event. Some members were doubtful, but hopeful. How could they overcome the multitude of challengers from countries such as India, Singapore, Russia, Germany, Finland and Spain? They were up against 90 other teams and as much as 450 individuals from around the world. Could it be done?

The answer came some time later, when the finalists were announced and behold – Team Xormis from Jamaica outclassed the lot and qualified for the world finals of the competition in Poland.

Although this in itself was a remarkable achievement, this was not the end of the book, but merely the beginning of a new chapter. Amidst the celebration, the team still kept focused on the prize.

They were now to travel to a distant land – Poland, to vie for the coveted 1st place prize against giants Brazil and Indonesia.

Battling airport security, airline food, and sleep deprivation along the way, the team survived the long journey across continents. In spite of being afflicted by jetlag, with the help of God, the team prepared for and delivered an outstanding presentation in the final round.

After almost a year of hard work, of trials and setbacks, through intermittent despair and discouragement, Team Xormis was about to receive the results of their labour. Can we place second? Can we beat the mighty Brazil, the perceived favorites? Can we be first place winners? Can we really beat the entire world?

The results answered those questions with a resounding: “YES WE CAN”

In an astounding feat, Team Xormis emerged winners of the coveted Interoperability Award, and in so doing, once again demonstrated that this land we love has among its human resources bright, adept and highly skilled technology experts.

These valiant young men have raised the bar, and have brought positive attention to our embattled country through this truly incredible and well deserved victory.

This story however does not end here, but continues through the lives of those that have been inspired by this amazing accomplishment to go forth and attain even greater success.


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K. Hylton