29 October 2024 – The FNB App of the Year has once again made headlines with its recent 72-hour hackathon, which saw an impressive turnout of innovative app concepts from a diverse pool of talented young developers and entrepreneurs across South Africa. With a record-setting 1,130 entries, the event solidified its position as the largest hackathon in the country, featuring 153 competing teams and a vibrant blend of in-person and virtual participation.
Omelele Mmbo, FNB’s Business Development Head, underscored the bank’s unwavering commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent. “FNB is thrilled to support these young innovators, providing financial products to help them bring their ideas to life,” he stated. His words echo the bank’s legacy, having initiated the App of the Year competition in 2012, a journey that now circles back to empower a new generation of creators striving to impact their communities positively.
Among the participants, Freddy Mahhumane, CEO of KasiD—a township-based food delivery app—spoke passionately about the importance of ecosystem-driven solutions tailored for underserved communities. “Developing apps for townships and marginalised markets is about more than just innovation—it is about creating opportunities and promoting self-reliance in these communities,” he explained. His sentiments highlight a critical trend in South Africa’s app development space: the desire to merge technology with community upliftment.
The hackathon provided a unique platform for budding entrepreneurs to engage with past winners of the App of the Year Award, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and inspiration. Among the notable projects showcased were initiatives aimed at tackling pressing societal challenges such as unemployment and educational disparities. One team introduced an app designed to equip job seekers with essential soft skills, effectively bridging the skills gap that exists in various industries. Another duo developed a gamified learning platform, catering to students who thrive in interactive and alternative learning environments, further addressing the educational divide prevalent in South Africa.
The FNB App of the Year hackathon is more than just a competition; it embodies the bank’s ongoing commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs with vital resources, mentorship, and financial support necessary to turn their visions into reality. By showcasing the remarkable potential of youth-driven innovation, FNB is playing a crucial role in shaping the future of South Africa’s digital economy.
Participants who emerged from the intense 72-hour hackathon with a minimum viable product (MVP) have earned a coveted spot in the upcoming App of the Year Awards, scheduled for December 2024. This recognition offers them invaluable visibility and support, positioning them among South Africa’s leading digital innovators.
As the hackathon concluded, FNB extended its heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their hard work, creativity, and dedication. The event not only celebrated technological innovation but also highlighted the profound impact that well-crafted digital solutions can have on communities, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive digital future in South Africa.
