There’s an ancient Chinese proverb that goes something like this: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”

That wisdom hit home last April 18th, the day I turned 29 years old. I sat down and scribbled a list of all the things I wanted to change, to improve, to transform before I turn 30.

Number 7 on that list was something that had been simmering in the back of my mind for ages: “Learn How to Code.”

Why, you ask?

Well, without it I feel limited.

It’s like having a world of ideas locked inside your head, and you’ve lost the key. It’s like having immense power but no way to harness it. It’s like standing at the edge of a brave new world but not knowing how to take that first step.

Recently, learning how to code has transformed from a want to a need.

The world is evolving faster than ever, and coding has become the language of progress. It’s the key to shaping the future.

Advancements in fields like AI, Blockchain, and the Internet of Things are rewriting the rules of our world.

I want to be a part of the change instead of observing from the sidelines.

I often daydream about leveraging these emerging technologies to transform kids’ education, creative industries, and marginalized communities.

I want to build things so ambitious people think I’m crazy.

So, I put the energy out into the world, and the Law of Attraction worked in my favor.

After a rigorous application process, I’m thrilled to announce that Google and the “Black Genius Academy” are investing $30,000 in me to learn how to code over the next six months (woot! woot!).

Now, I know it won’t be a walk in the park. It will be tough, challenging, and sometimes downright frustrating. But here’s the thing…

It’s now or never. My tree might not have been planted 20 years ago, but it’s going in the ground right now.

I start learning today and end in March, and I’m going to take all of you along my journey, sharing abstract insights about this new world.

So, my friends, I want to ask you this: What’s that thing you’ve always wanted to learn? What’s that dream you’ve been putting off?

You never know who is watching and willing to invest in your dreams.

I dare you to step out of your comfort zone. Put yourself out there. Share your ambitions with the world. Throw yourself into the fire and challenge your limits.

Plant your tree today.

Let’s grow together.

Stay creative,

Dwayne Walker