Hello, Codeforces community!

I hope you’re all doing well. Today, I’d like to share a bit about a challenge I’ve faced as a young programmer. As someone who’s just 15 years old, I’m passionate about coding and problem-solving. I’ve been fortunate to immerse myself in various projects, including competitive programming, open-source contributions, and even a personal operating system project. However, I’ve hit a roadblock when it comes to building my professional presence online.

Many platforms, such as LinkedIn, require users to be at least 16 years old to create an account. While this policy makes sense for ensuring user safety and compliance with laws, it’s a bit frustrating for young enthusiasts like me who want to connect with like-minded individuals and showcase their work in a professional setting. LinkedIn is a great place to find mentors, share accomplishments, and gain visibility, but for now, I’ll have to wait.

This age restriction feels outdated in a world where technology empowers young minds to achieve incredible things. I believe platforms should explore more nuanced solutions, such as parental consent or a youth-friendly version, to allow younger individuals to participate responsibly. By enabling passionate teens like me to join these networks, we could foster a more inclusive environment for innovation and collaboration across generations.

In the meantime, I’m focusing on other ways to share my journey. I’ve been actively working on my GitHub profile, where I regularly update my projects. If you’re curious about what I’ve been up to, feel free to check it out. Additionally, I’m working on a Crypto and Blockchain Cybersecurity website (a second account, still a work in progress) where I aim to explore and address security challenges in these exciting fields.

I’m always open to feedback, collaborations, or even just a friendly chat about programming. If you’re interested in discussing competitive programming strategies, sharing tips, or brainstorming new ideas, feel free to reach out to me here on Codeforces or through my GitHub profile.

Thanks for taking the time to read this! Let’s keep coding and inspiring each other.

Best regards, Mihnea

Happy Coding!