Empowering Africa's Youth through Blockchain Technology: My Journey at the Absa Bank and MEST Africa Hackathon

From October 25th to October 27th, I had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a three-day hackathon organized by Absa Group Bank (Ghana) in collaboration with MEST Africa . This event brought together young talents from 19 different African countries with the aim of exploring the untapped potential of blockchain technology in addressing real-world business challenges. Prior to this hackathon, I, like many, associated blockchain predominantly with cryptocurrency, and I harbored concerns about the prevalence of scams in the space. However, the experience I gained during those three intense days has significantly broadened my perspective and demonstrated the multifaceted applications of blockchain technology.

The Collaborative Journey

One of the most unique aspects of this hackathon was the formation of teams. Instead of allowing participants to select their own teammates, Absa and MEST took the initiative to create diverse teams, underscoring the value of collaboration and diversity in problem-solving. I found myself alongside Tumisang from Botswana, Kossi from Togo, Richard and Princess from Ghana. We named our Team, "TAPEK Chain". Yeah, I know; it's a funny name, we just came up with the idea of merging our initials. Our team's diverse backgrounds, skills, and experiences would prove to be a significant asset as we tackled the challenges presented during the hackathon.

The Hackathon Structure

The hackathon was thoughtfully structured into four key milestones, each designed to push the boundaries of our skills and knowledge.

• Day 1 - Problem and Solution Statement: On the first day, we were tasked with delivering a comprehensive problem statement and a well-thought-out solution statement. This exercise compelled us to identify a real-world problem that could be effectively addressed using blockchain technology and outline a feasible solution.
• Day 2 - Blockchain Smart Contract Development: The second milestone was a pivotal moment. We had to roll up our sleeves and develop a blockchain smart contract based on the solution we had proposed. The pressure was palpable as we had to submit our work by Thursday morning at 9 AM, which pushed us to our limits.
• Day 3 - Smart Contract and Frontend Integration: The third milestone was equally challenging. We had to submit a working system that seamlessly integrated our smart contract with a user-friendly frontend. Time was of the essence, but our commitment and determination carried us through.
• Pitching to Judges: The ultimate test was the pitch to a panel of judges comprised of industry experts from MEST and Absa. The stakes were exceptionally high, with $10,000 in prizes at stake. The rewards were divided into categories including the best business ideas, the best software, and the most prestigious, the overall "best of the best," which came with a substantial $5,000 prize.

The Learning Curve

While our team did not secure the top prize, the experience was invaluable. The hackathon had effectively transformed my perception of blockchain technology from a limited association with cryptocurrency to an appreciation of its transformative potential across various industries. We had successfully delivered a functional system, and I felt a sense of pride in our achievements. The knowledge and skills I acquired during those three intense days were immeasurable.

The Real Takeaway

Beyond the technical aspects of blockchain, this hackathon underscored the importance of cultivating a growth mindset, nurturing critical thinking skills, fostering effective networking, improving communication abilities, and honing problem-solving capabilities. These skills are not only relevant in the tech sphere but also have wide-ranging applicability in various aspects of life. I left the event feeling profoundly empowered and inspired, with a newfound belief in my capacity to tackle any business problem, regardless of the technology involved.

The Absa Bank and MEST Africa Hackathon was an experience that not only expanded my understanding of blockchain technology but also enriched my personal and professional growth. Collaborating with a diverse team, managing tight deadlines, and presenting our solution to industry experts provided me with a holistic learning experience. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and look forward to embracing future challenges in the ever-evolving landscape of technology.