• GirlCode is set to host its annual Hackthon this weekend on 5th and 6th August.
• The theme of the upcoming Hackathon is AI for Women.
• This year’s event will take place via several hubs situated in SA’s three largest cities – Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.

A fixture on the South African hackathon scene in recent years, non-profit organisation GirlCode is set to host its latest annual Hackathon this weekend on 5th and 6th August.

The theme for the 2023 edition is focused on the one thing that everyone has been talking about this year – artificial intelligence – but in usual GirlCode fashion, will be placing into the female-focused context of AI for Women.

“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,” noted Zandile Mkwanazi, GirlCode CEO, of the upcoming event.

This year’s competition sees Takealot come onboard as the main prize sponsor, although the precise nature of the prize has not been detailed at the time of writing. There are also numerous partners involved with the event, which spans three specific hubs in SA’s largest cities – Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.

One of the main partners, and has been working with GirlCode for some time now, is Vumatel.

“This is another opportunity in 2023 in bridging the digital literacy gap for young South Africans by creating a space for women in STEM fields,” added Lianne Williams, marketing director at Vuma in a press release sent to Hypertext.

As for the format of the Hackathon, with participants forming teams of two to a maximum of four individuals, working to develop solutions that leverage AI to address pressing issues faced by women.

“On Sunday, all 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,” highlighted GirlCode.

At the time of writing, tickets for the Johannesburg event are sold out, but Cape Town and Durban (~R50 each) still have availability.

If you or others are interested in getting tickets for the other events, found out how to do so here.