Development of Social Networking App compatible on both iOS and Android

We are looking for an experienced app developer to create a social networking app that will be compatible on both iOS and Android. The main aim of this application is to connect users and provide them with a unique, safe and engaging platform using real time/private messaging as well as being able to form group chats. This is a project that our team has been working on and we currently have a 7 screen prototype. We would like to expand on this and turn it into a fully functional mobile app. Please discuss for more details. Key Features: - Messaging and chat: Users should be able to communicate with each other through instant messaging and chat features including group messaging. - Photo and video sharing: The app should allow users to share photos and videos with their connections. - Event creation and management: Users should be able to create and manage events within the application, inviting their connections to participate. - Accessing educational content: Users should be able to access and consume educational content within the application from reputable resources we have partners with. - Discussion forums: Forums and discussion posts where users can engage with other members to communicate about particular topics. - Must include data analytics for administrators/moderators. - Must also include security features to ensure user data and privacy is protected. Ideal Skills and Experience: - Extensive experience in developing social networking apps for both iOS and Android platforms. - Proficiency in integrating messaging and chat features, photo and video sharing, event creation and management, and educational content within apps. - Must understand the platforms to host the data associated with the app and features. - Strong understanding of user interface design and user experience principles. - Prior experience in building scalable and secure applications. - Excellent communication and problem-solving skills. - Ability to work collaboratively with a team. Project Milestone Scope: - Stage 1: Initial Project Discussion to find suitable candidate. Will discuss features and plans - Stage 2: Entire UX/UI Wireframe Design, expanding on the current wireframe designs we have - Stage 3: App development and coding, including moderator/administration access - Stage 4: Alpha and Beta testing/Revision and update of bugs and issues with app - Stage 5: Upload app to iOS and Android app stores - Stage 6: Continued support for updates and bug fixes, including further development The project has been split into these stages but some of the stages can be combined to create better work flow or more progressive updates to the development process. A reasonable time-frame for this is 16-20 weeks but are flexible if needing additional time to complete the project.