Codehack Covid-19 Edition
The journey into the world of technology often begins with a spark—a moment that sets everything in motion. For me, that spark was the CodeHack COVID-19 Edition, a transformative program by Pwani Teknowgalz aimed at equipping young women from marginalized communities with critical coding and digital skills. This program, which came at a time when the world was grappling with the challenges of the pandemic, became the foundation for my career in tech and shaped my perspective on problem-solving through technology.
What is CodeHack?
CodeHack is a flagship initiative by Pwani Teknowgalz that empowers young women with skills in website development, mobile development, and digital marketing. The COVID-19 Edition focused on leveraging technology to address pandemic-related challenges while aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education, Good Health, and Gender Equality.
Participants were trained in mobile app development using tools like Kodular, alongside digital marketing strategies. The program culminated in a competition where participants presented innovative solutions to societal challenges brought on by the pandemic. Winners received mentorship and opportunities to further develop their ideas. The initiative highlighted the importance of women not only as consumers of technology but as creators of impactful digital solutions.
My Journey: Creating ElimuHub
During the program, I developed ElimuHub, a mobile platform designed to ensure Kenyan students could continue accessing the Kenyan syllabus online during the pandemic. At a time when schools were closed, and access to structured education was scarce, ElimuHub provided a curated space for students to engage with the curriculum.
The idea for ElimuHub came from observing the challenges many students faced—lack of access to physical learning materials and a digital gap that left many behind. With ElimuHub, I aimed to bridge this gap by offering resources aligned with the syllabus, ensuring that students could continue their education despite the disruptions caused by COVID-19.
Building the app was both challenging and rewarding as a beginner. I learned how to use tools like MIT-App Inventor to develop the platform and applied principles of user-centred design to make it accessible and intuitive. With guidance from mentors and the Pwani Teknowgalz team, I refined the platform, ensuring it met the needs of its users effectively.
The Impact of CodeHack
CodeHack COVID-19 Edition wasn’t just about acquiring technical skills—it was about learning to see challenges as opportunities for innovation. Through the program, I gained invaluable skills in development and digital strategy. More importantly, I discovered the joy of creating solutions that have the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives.
Winning recognition for ElimuHub during the competition was a proud moment. It affirmed the value of the solution and gave me the confidence to pursue a career in technology. This experience taught me resilience, the importance of collaboration, and the transformative power of technology when applied with purpose. More about this on Pwani Teknowgalz page.
Why Programs Like CodeHack Matter
Initiatives like CodeHack are crucial for fostering inclusivity in the tech world. By equipping young women with the skills to innovate and lead, these programs create opportunities for underrepresented groups to contribute to the growing digital economy. They also demonstrate that with the right support and resources, anyone can rise to the challenge of solving real-world problems.