JP Morgan Chase Code for Good Africa Hackathon 2023
This is a part of the October edition of The Computer Newsletter focused on Animations, Cartoons & Computer Vision.
Welcome to the October 2023 edition of The Computer Newsletter. This edition is focused on Animations, Cartoons & Computer Vision.
This is the fourth article in the edition written by Arafat Olayiwola.
Enjoy!
Together with my co-participant, Awelewa Sanmi, our journey to the JP Morgan Chase Code for Good Africa Hackathon 2023 was a remarkable experience that began with the application process on the JP Morgan Chase careers website.
It was an exciting moment for us as we anticipated the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. We were eager to test our skills, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and make a positive impact through technology.
The first hurdle in this journey was the HackerRank online assessment, a challenging test of our coding skills and algorithmic knowledge. We were presented with two intricate data structures and algorithm questions to solve within a strict time limit of 60 minutes.
The pressure was intense, but we stayed focused and showcased our problem-solving abilities. The satisfaction of receiving the invitation to the virtual hackathon was indescribable.
To prepare us for the challenges ahead, JP Morgan Chase organized two pre-hackathon workshops: GetGit and TechStack. These invaluable workshops provided us with essential skills and tools to excel in the upcoming hackathon.
GetGit taught us the fundamentals of version control and collaboration using Git, while TechStack introduced us to cutting-edge technologies and development stacks.
The hackathon itself was a collaboration between JP Morgan Chase and a non-profit organization called KosiAfrica, based in Kenya.
The overarching goal was to develop innovative software solutions to address real-world problems in Africa. This was a unique opportunity to use our technical skills for social good, and we were excited to contribute to meaningful change on the continent.
On the day of the hackathon, 40 talented students from various African universities gathered as seven selected teams, each consisting of 5 to 6 individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise. The room buzzed with energy and creativity as we formed our teams and embarked on this exciting journey.
The hackathon spanned an intense 12-hour period during which we faced numerous challenges and hurdles. The adrenaline rush was palpable as we worked tirelessly to develop our solutions.
I served as the backend developer for the winning team, while Sanmi played a pivotal role as one of the front-end developers for one of the outstanding teams. Our collaboration and determination paid off, and we were thrilled when our team was declared the winner.
The winning team comprises two males and three females from different parts of African countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. Arafat was from Obafemi Awolowo University, Dorcas and Oluwatobi from the University of Lagos, Munye from a Kenyan University, and Abigail from a Ghanaian university.
JP Morgan Chase recognized achievement with a generous offer - consideration for a summer onsite internship in the United Kingdom from past hackathons. This opportunity would be a dream come true if offered the chance to gain invaluable industry experience and expand my horizons. We would be deeply grateful for the recognition and the doors it would open for our future careers.
The success we achieved at the JP Morgan Chase Code for Good Africa Hackathon 2023 would not have been possible without the support of our university, CSE O.A.U, and the unwavering dedication of our fellow participants.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the event organizers, JP Morgan Chase and KosiAfrica, for creating a platform that fosters innovation and encourages social impact through technology.
Special thanks go to the head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Obafemi Awolowo University, for his unwavering support. He has been the listening ear to the students' participants and has consistently shown interest in sharing opportunities with students, nurturing talent, and promoting a culture of excellence in the field of computer science.
In conclusion, the JP Morgan Chase Code for Good Africa Hackathon 2023 was a transformative experience that pushed us beyond our limits and allowed us to showcase the power of technology in addressing real-world challenges.
We are eager to continue our journey in the tech world for social good and are immensely grateful for the opportunities this hackathon has brought us.
Congratulations boss. More wins and successes to be celebrated insha Allah