16 January 2025

My Italian 🇮🇹 Business Trip with CodeHills in Collaboration with CodeLand

How It All Began. The journey to Italy started with an unexpected and exciting moment that would change everything. At the CodeHills Summit held at the ONOMO Hotel in Kigali, I was honored with the title of “Most Distinguished CodeHills Developer of 2023.” But this wasn’t just a trophy—it was a gateway to an incredible adventure: a fully sponsored two-week business trip to Milan, Italy, to collaborate with the amazing team at CodeLand. From navigating visa applications to the surreal moment of receiving my Schengen Visa approval, every step made this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity feel more real. As this was my first trip to Europe, I couldn’t help but be filled with anticipation and excitement for what was to come.

Arrival in Italy. The adventure truly began when I boarded my RwandAir flight for a 12-hour journey from Kigali to Milan, with a layover in Qatar. Arriving at Malpensa Airport, the warmth of the welcome I received from Stefano Scotti made me feel instantly at home. From there, we ventured into Milan, where I was introduced to the city’s vibrant atmosphere, its stunning beauty, and, of course, its world-renowned cuisine. Andrea Berger, a talented DevOps professional and amazing tour guide, joined us for my first Italian dinner—pizza paired with a Chinotto drink. It was the perfect introduction to Italy!

Work and Collaboration with CodeLand, What followed was a whirlwind of work and collaboration. At CodeLand’s headquarters, I had the privilege of connecting with a talented team of professionals who are not only experts in their fields but also passionate about innovation and communication. Their approach to prioritizing tasks and working together was truly inspiring. One of the most exciting parts of my trip was attending the Adobe Experience Makers Forum in Milan. Here, I got to witness firsthand how CodeLand showcased cutting-edge tools like the Community Framework and Visual Search—game-changing products that enhance Adobe Experience Manager. Representing CodeHills and our products in such a prestigious setting was both humbling and enlightening. The event opened doors to potential clients and industry leaders, strengthening the bond between CodeHills and CodeLand.

Exploring Italy. Although the trip was focused on work, I made sure to explore the beauty of Italy. Milan, a bustling metropolis, offered a unique blend of history, commerce, and culture. It’s a city that truly inspired me, with its commercial energy and opportunities for growth. I also ventured beyond Milan, taking the fast train to Rome, where every corner seemed to tell a story. From the iconic Colosseum to the awe-inspiring Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome is a living testament to Italy’s rich historical and cultural legacy. The sunny weather and culinary delights, curated by Ignazio Locatelli, only added to the magic of the Eternal City.
 My travels also took me to Gallarate, Stefano’s tranquil hometown. It was a refreshing contrast to Milan’s bustling streets, offering peace and serenity. A trip to Stresa, where we explored a stunning island and the majestic surrounding mountains, was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the experiences.

Wrapping Up. As my unforgettable time in Italy came to a close, I shared a warm farewell dinner with Stefano’s family before heading back to Malpensa Airport to catch my flight home. This trip wasn’t just about work—it was about growth, collaboration, and cultural exchange. I am incredibly grateful to both CodeHills and CodeLand for making this experience possible. The lessons learned and connections made will undoubtedly shape my future journey. To my fellow CodeHills colleagues, I encourage you to embrace opportunities like this one. By strengthening our global partnerships and expanding our horizons, we continue to build a stronger, more connected future.

 

Alain Niyonema
AEM TechLeader