– participants encouraged to solve real-world problems

“THIS challenge isn’t just about building apps, it’s about discovering what you’re capable of. It’s about giving you the confidence to know that you can make a real difference.”

These powerful words of encouragement came from last year’s Innovation Challenge first-place winner, Maryam Bacchus, as she addressed participants at the launch of the 2025 edition of the competition.

Representing her team Cassini Technologies, Maryam returned to the stage not only as a former champion but also as a symbol of what determination and resilience can achieve.

Hosted by the Industry and Innovation Unit (IIU) under the Office of the Prime Minister, the Innovation Challenge has become a vital platform for young Guyanese to develop technological solutions that address real-world problems.

This year, 11 teams from Regions Three, Four, and Six will compete for top prizes of GY$1.5 million, GY$750,000, and GY$500,000.

During her heartfelt remarks, Maryam urged this year’s participants to seize the opportunity to uncover their potential.

“Each one of you has the ability to solve problems that matter, to create solutions that can change our country,” she said. “Let’s use these next few days to prove that Guyana has world-class talent at home right here.”

Maryam recounted her own journey, which began with uncertainty at her first hackathon in 2020 when she was just 18. She admitted to feeling overwhelmed among seasoned developers and confessed that she had only “crammed a crash course on Flutter two weeks before the Innovation Challenge.” Despite her doubts, she persevered and successfully built her first mobile app, even without a proper backend.

Now employed at the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), Maryam credits the Innovation Challenge for transforming her life and career path.

“With every participation, I discovered a new thing about myself, leading me to become more confident and capable in my field.”

She reminded participants that the road to innovation is often riddled with obstacles — buggy code, mental fatigue, and unsolved problems — but that these hurdles are essential to growth.

“You’re going to be exhausted, your code is going to break, and you’ll have bugs everywhere,” she said. “But it’s not about the bugs or the problems, it’s about how you push through them. That’s what builds your character. Don’t just focus on winning, focus on learning.”

As the 2025 Innovation Challenge gets underway, Maryam’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration. Her story illustrates that success in ‘tech’ isn’t limited to those with years of experience or perfect skills — but belongs to those willing to learn, to try, and to never give up.

The Innovation Challenge continues to affirm the immense potential of Guyana’s youth and serves as a reminder that world-class innovation can emerge from local ambition, passion, and perseverance.