Beerkathon, a tech initiative aimed at encouraging inclusion in the tech industry produced three winners at an awards ceremony organised by BeerTech Africa, the tech arm of International Breweries Plc, a member of AB InBev, a global beer maker.
A statement said the event took place in Lagos at a gathering of tech enthusiasts and other stakeholders in the Nigerian innovation and technology sector.
The initiative targeted females 18 years and above in technology and innovation, tasking them with business-specific problems to proffer creative solutions to.
In his welcome address, People Director, International Breweries Plc, Michael Odutayo, explained that as a leading technology-driven brewery, IBPLC recognised the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry.
According to him, “Beerkathon is dedicated to recognising the brilliant minds and innovative spirits of women in technology, and we are honoured to be able to provide a platform for them to showcase their skills.
We believe that supporting and empowering women in technology is the right thing to do and makes good business sense. We recognise that our company’s success depends on the talent and diversity of our workforce, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.”
According to the statement, all seven teams consisting of SheCodesAJ; Yellow-Box; Smart-Hats; Tech-Bots; Team Epic; Innovate Her, and Tech Titans all made it to the final stage of the keenly contested competition.
It stated that, “The challenge ran for over two weeks during which participants attempted to solve business problems with a prototype before coming up with the actual solution. The teams then presented their ideas to a panel of judges who selected the winners after carefully reviewing their work.
“Team Epic clinched the top spot, a feat that earned them the grand price of $3,000. SheCodesAJ emerged second runner up and was presented with a cheque for $1,000 while Tech-Bots was the first runner up and went home with $2,000.”