Innovation Challenge 2024

Driving Innovation, Building Skills, and Creating Opportunities

The BabesGotBytes Tech Innovation Challenge 2024.  A movement of creativity, learning, and collaboration. Over an exciting 48 hours, participants explored the power of AI, LangChain, and TYPO3, developing innovative digital solutions while gaining real-world experience and industry exposure.

Hosted at Deloitte Cape Town from November 15-16, 2024, the event brought together 56 beginner and intermediate developers, supported by 13 dedicated mentors and coaches from across the tech industry.

Our event partners and sponsors made this milestone possible:
Platinum Sponsor: TYPO3, Deloitte
Gold Sponsors: Zoho, 
Partner: Entelect

Hackathon Overview

Over two days, teams collaborated to learn and apply emerging technologies, including AI-powered automation and LangChain-driven content generation, as well as TYPO3’s robust CMS solutions. The challenge was designed to help participants turn their ideas into working prototypes that could drive real social and digital impact.

Key Achievements

1. Skills Development

Participants gained hands-on experience in integrating AI into web development. Training sessions covered:

• AI and automation fundamentals
• LangChain for intelligent content generation
• TYPO3 CMS for building scalable, modern web platforms

2. Community Engagement

The event created a vibrant space for connection and collaboration between students, young professionals, and experienced mentors.

• 80% of attendees joined their first-ever hackathon.
• Participants formed meaningful relationships that extended beyond the event.

3. Innovative Projects

Teams produced five standout projects, each solving real-world problems using AI and TYPO3:

• FutureMinds: A smart chatbot powered by LangChain to help students debug code and find learning resources.
• ByteBuilders: An automated TYPO3 content tool for non-technical users to easily create and manage websites.
• TechForGood: A transparent donation system powered by AI to connect donors with grassroots nonprofit initiatives.
• AI-Pioneers: An AI-driven career guidance platform helping students explore jobs and entrepreneurship.
• CodeConnect: A mentorship-matching system using AI to connect learners with experienced developers.

Each project reflected innovation, teamwork, and a vision for using technology to create meaningful impact.

Real Impact: Bridging the Gap in Tech

The outcomes of the challenge extended far beyond the event:

• 70% of participants reported greater confidence in AI and web development.
• 5 participants received internship offers from sponsoring companies.
• 56+ learners gained hands-on AI experience.
• Eighty-five % of participants were women, highlighting the importance of inclusion and representation in tech.

“I never thought I’d learn a tool and use it to build a product in just two days! This hackathon showed me what’s possible.”
— Thando M., Participant

“The innovation and passion in this hackathon were inspiring. Seeing beginners tackle AI so confidently was amazing!”
— Lihle B., Judge

 

Lessons Learned & Future Improvements

The feedback and experiences shared during the event have shaped our next steps:

• More AI Workshops: Focus on practical deployment and model fine-tuning.
• Expansion to More Cities: Taking the Tech Innovation Challenge nationwide.
• Long-Term Mentorship: Connecting participants with ongoing career support.
• Improved Time Management: Introducing structured sprints and clearer milestones.
• Health & Wellness: Promoting balance with breaks, ergonomic setups, and team activities.

 

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond

Building on the momentum of 2024, BabesGotBytes is gearing up for an even more impactful 2025 edition. Our focus will include:

• Advanced AI & Cybersecurity Tracks to align with emerging industry demands.
• Stronger Corporate Partnerships to bridge training and employment opportunities.
• Continental Expansion — bringing the Tech Innovation Challenge to more African countries.

Want to be part of this movement? Stay connected for updates on the next BabesGotBytes Tech Innovation Challenge!

 

A Huge Thank You to Our Sponsors & Partners

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors and partners for believing in our mission. Your support not only fuels innovation but also helps shape the next generation of African tech leaders and problem-solvers.

Together, we’re proving that with the right opportunities, anyone can innovate, create, and lead.