GirlCode’s annual hackathon

August 2023 News

GirlCode, a leading organisation empowering women in technology, is holding its annual GirlCode Hackathon in August. This year, the hackathon will focus on the theme ‘AI for Women’, highlighting the crucial role of artificial intelligence in promoting gender equality and inclusivity in the tech industry.

Building on the success of previous events, GirlCode has partnered with prominent sponsors to ensure an exceptional experience for participants. Included in the list of sponsors are Takealot, Vumatel, Mint Group, Chenosis, NinetyOne and Royal HaskoningDHV. The hackathon will take place at three venue sponsors: Riversands Ihub, Workshop 17, and Ikhokha, ensuring excellent facilities and environments conducive to collaboration and innovation. Participants will form teams of two to four individuals, working together to develop solutions that leverage AI, to address pressing issues faced by women.

Thereafter participating teams will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a distinguished panel of judges comprising industry experts and thought leaders. The winning concept will be carefully selected, based on its innovative approach, technical implementation, and potential impact on the lives of women.

"Coding and digital skills are crucial to the engineering industry and in shaping the solutions we design for the future,” said Pat van Wyk, head of People, Culture and Communications at Royal HaskoningDHV. “Women are under-represented in the engineering field, locally and globally. By supporting this event, we aim to encourage and empower more talented women to join us, ensuring a diverse pool of minds to create innovative solutions that will shape a better world together."

Zandile Mkwanazi, CEO of GirlCode added: "We believe in the power of diversity and innovation. This year's all-women hackathon under the theme ‘AI for Women’ aims to empower talented minds to create a future where technology knows no gender boundaries. Together with our sponsors, we are shaping an inclusive AI landscape that drives positive change. GirlCodeHack is all about code, inspiring each other, and forging a path of endless possibilities."

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