Greetings, tech aficionados! Reporting live from the heart of innovation at 22 on Sloane. Today, Maglazana Tech Media had the pleasure of sitting down with Thapelo Marotholi, the Team Lead and Digital Specialist at African Bank, to delve into the electrifying atmosphere of the Global Entrepreneurial Week (GEW) hackathon.
Celebrating Innovation with Purpose
Kicking off the discussion, Thapelo underscored the hackathon’s significance in honoring the entrepreneurial spirit during Global Entrepreneurial Week. Hosted at the dynamic 22 on Sloane, this event goes beyond coding; it symbolizes African Bank’s dedication to collaboration with communities and the creation of impactful solutions.
Reflecting on their previous collaboration with 22 On Sloane, Thapelo highlighted a Web 3.0 IT Hackathon in October, setting the stage for the current GEW hackathon. The enthusiasm generated in previous events created a thriving ecosystem of tech enthusiasts.
The Tech Fast Lane: Challenges and Solutions
Discussing the challenges posed to participants, Thapelo shed light on the dynamic nature of technology. Recognizing rapid advancements in AI and generative models, African Bank strategically crafted challenges aimed at stretching participants and pushing them to explore new tech territories.
“We need to catch a ride on this fast-moving train,” Thapelo explained, emphasizing the importance of staying ahead in a tech landscape that evolves at breakneck speed. The challenges weren’t just technical; they were a call to the community to collaborate on solutions that transcend mere coding.
A Bank for the People: Excelerate25 Initiative
Shifting gears, Thapelo shared African Bank’s vision of being more than just a financial institution. With the Excelerate25 initiative, the focus is on becoming a bank for the people, acknowledging the role they play in society. Thapelo highlighted the shift from viewing customers as transactions to seeing them as part of a community, a mindset that influences their approach to technology and innovation.
Hackathon Impact Beyond Winning: Nurturing Financial Literacy and Collaborative Growth
Addressing the burning question of what the judges are looking for, Thapelo emphasized both short-term and long-term goals, particularly in the context of African Bank’s commitment to financial literacy and societal growth during the GEW hackathon. While the prize money is undeniably enticing (a whopping 200,000 Rand up for grabs), the real victory lies in forming lasting partnerships with startups.
To those who may not clinch the top prizes, Thapelo extended an encouraging message. Beyond the tangible rewards, the GEW hackathon is an opportunity for participants to learn, network, and contribute to the community, fostering collaborative growth. Every effort invested in solving the challenges carries inherent value, irrespective of one’s placement on the winner’s podium.
In Conclusion: A Tech Journey Fueled by Collaboration
As the GEW hackathon unfolds at 22 on Sloane, it’s not just about coding lines; it’s about weaving a tapestry of innovation, community, and societal impact. African Bank’s presence in this tech odyssey during GEW showcases a commitment to embracing change, fostering growth, and building bridges between technology and the community.
