How to file a joint project for a coder and a system administrator for practice?

Question

Python

Situation:
there is a semi-PHP/half-Java coder who wants to learn Python,
there is a sysadmin who wants to re-profil into Linux-based DevOps,
there is an AWS account.
What joint project can be done for practice and how to organize the work?
The goal is to test DevOps tools in the home sandbox as close as possible to combat conditions in order to get a base sufficient for interviews.

Answer 1

For example, write a simple messenger / chat with load balancing, backups, application server / database, scaling and all the necessary services and goodies.
UPD: And I'll add this option: join some OpenSource project.

Answer 2

Try something like this .