Unleashing the potential of talent in Young people: Reflections on the 2023 Malabo International Hackathon By Identic Foundation

It has been almost 3 years since I wrote any type of article that gets published anywhere on the internet. Today sounds like a great day to do so.

The beginning of August 2023 until December 2023 was extremely busy for the team at Identic Foundation. IDENTIC FUNDACIÓN is the first and only foundation that is focused on main streaming technology in Equatorial Guinea through various methods such as capacity building amongst young people. We believe in supporting the nurturing of talent and curiosity amongst young people through the provision of digital skills and availing resources for young people to continue on similar paths. This year, we hosted youth from eleven African countries, facilitating collaboration and creativity in coming up with ideas in areas dear to the Identic Foundation's heart, which is inclusivity.

I'm excited to share insights from an extraordinary journey—the 2023 Malabo International Hackathon—a convergence of minds, ideas, and innovation that unfolded under the stewardship of IDENTIC FUNDACION .

At the helm of Identic Foundation, our aim was clear: to orchestrate a hackathon transcending mere technological feats. We sought to tap into the uncharted territories of "Assistive Technology" and "Fintech," themes emblematic of our commitment to fostering solutions that transcend conventional boundaries. The central theme of the event was the palpable commitment to inclusivity.

Witnessing youth from 11 African countries harness their skills to develop solutions that empower individuals with disabilities was nothing short of awe-inspiring. It underscored the belief that technology, when harnessed creatively, becomes a catalyst for independence and ensures that no one is left behind, a phrase we often use at Identic Foundation.

Simultaneously, our journey into the world of fintech illuminated the transformative potential of technology in reshaping financial landscapes and contributing to the gaps we see in our countries and society in general. From blockchain innovations to digital payment solutions, participants illuminated the path toward a more accessible and efficient financial future for the various communities they come from. It is from these simple steps that we continue creating more young people whose goal is to transform society at large.

Key Insights:

1. Collaborative Synergy: The hackathon became a crucible for diverse talents to meld together, reinforcing the belief that true innovation emerges at the crossroads of varied perspectives.
2. African Innovation Spotlight: This event shone a spotlight on the immense untapped creativity within Africa. It served as evidence that innovative ideas are not geographically bound. We had four different languages spoken on site. English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese exhibit the level of diversity we had, including gender and representation with two participants with disabilities.
3. Tech as a Force for Good: Participants showcased a remarkable commitment to deploying technology for social good, emphasizing the potential of tech as a catalyst for positive societal change.
4. Continuous Evolution: Every hackathon is a journey of growth. The successes and challenges of the Malabo International Hackathon serve as the foundation for even more impactful events in the future.

Looking Ahead

The success of the Malabo International Hackathon is not a conclusion but a commencement. The Identic Foundation is poised to nurture the seeds of innovation we planted. We eagerly anticipate witnessing the projects sprout into solutions that make tangible differences in people's lives.

In conclusion, my deepest appreciation goes to the participants, mentors, sponsors, collaborators, our dedicated volunteers, the esteemed committee that made it possible, and the Identic Foundation team for making this event a resounding success. Together, we've demonstrated the transformative power of technology and innovation.

Stay tuned for the unfolding narrative of the Identic Foundation. The journey continues, with infinite possibilities on the horizon.

To learn more about the 2023 Malabo International Event, please follow this link.

Thanks for reading